computer history

 Lab Work 2(Computer history & generations)

Computer History

A computer is a programmable machine designed to sequentially and automatically carry out a sequence of arithmetic or logical operations. The particular sequence of operations can be changed readily, allowing the computer to solve more than one kind of problem. An important class of computer operations on some computing platforms is the accepting of input from human operators and the output of results formatted for human consumption. The interface between the computer and the human operator is known as the user interface.The first use of the word "computer" was recorded in 1613, referring to a person who carried out calculations, or computations, and the word continued with the same meaning until the middle of the 20th century. From the end of the 19th century the word began to take on its more familiar meaning, a machine that carries out computations.

Generations 

First generations - 1940-1956(vacuum tubes)

• very expensive
• need big space
• only could solve one problem at a time
• relied on machine language

Second generations - 1956-1963(transistors)

• made computer more faster,cheaper.
• high level programming language
• save more energy

Third generations - 1964-1971(integrated circuits)

• increased speed and efficiency.
• can run many program at one time
• small and cheaper

Fourth generations - 1971-Present(microprosessors)

• can fit in palm hand
• more powerful
• can link to make network

Fifth generations - Present and Beyond(artificial intelligence)

develop devices that respond to natural language input

• capable of learning
• self organizations