1.

Explain the Generations of Computers in detail?

Answer»

1.  First-generation computers:

The first computers used vacuum tubes for electronic circuitry and magnetic drums for memory. They were very expensive to operate and the power consumption was high, generated a lot of heat, which was often the cause of malfunctions.

PeriodComponent usedAccess TimeCost
1949 - 1959Vacuum Tubein Milli secondsVery expensive

2.  Second-generation computers:

In the second generation computers, symbolic or assembly languages were used. High-level programming languages were also in use at this time, such as early versions of COBOL and FORTRAN. Their memory consisted of magnetic core technology. 

PeriodComponent usedAccess TimeCost
1959 - 1965Transistorin Micro secondsLess than I gen.computers
 

3. Third-generation computers:
The development of the integrated circuit was made use of the third generation computers. Transistors were miniaturized and were placed on silicon chips, called semiconductors.
 
  • The processing speed and efficiency of computers increased. 
  • Keyboards and monitors were used as input and output devices.
  • Computer system had an operating system and helped to run multiple applications simultaneously.
PeriodComponent usedAccess TimeCost
1965 - 1970(Mini computer was introduced)Integrated Circuits(IC's)in Nano secondsMuch less than II gen.computers.

4.  Fourth-generation computers:
The microprocessor was used in the fourth generation computers, as thousands of integrated _ circuits were built onto a single silicon chip. The Intel 4004 chip, developed in 1971, located all the components of the computer – from the central processing unit and memory to input/output controls – on a single chip. 
PeriodComponent usedAccess TimeCost
1970 - 1985LSIC,VLSICin Nano/Pico secondsVery low cost


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