Evolution of Computers Flashcards
When was the first generation of computers?
Mid-1940s through late 1950s.
When was second generation of computers?
1959 through 1965
When was the third generation of computers?
1965-early 1970s
When was the fourth generation of computers?
Early 1970s until now.
What was the first digital, general purpose programmable computer? First Generation
ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer). It was general purpose, not special purpose, and could execute any program written for it. Made known to public in February 1946.
What made second generation computers different?
Used transistors (low heat) vs. vacuum tubes; magnetic core memory;
What made third generation computers different?
Silicon chips, known as printed circuits or integrated circuits (ICs) allowed for multiple transistors to be etched on the surface, conducting electricity from one location to another on the circuit.
What did ICs replace?
Both transistors and magnetic core memories. ICs took less space so current flow was reduced.
Aside from company computers, what else came out during the third generation?
Mini computers - scaled down mainframe computers as well as families of computers. This gave birth to software development (code could be written for the entire family of computers). Also computer terminals to access larger mainframes were released, leading to network capability.
What happened in 1974?
IBM produced a single chip computer called a microcomputer, using a microprocessor. Apple 1 and Mark 8 came out. Biggest word now…miniaturization.
What is the greatest reason for purchasing a new computer?
Obsolescence. (New computers are better)
What is Moore’s Law?
That # of transistors on a chip would double every year.
What were the earliest computers programmed in?
Machine language made up of 1s and 0s.
Why do we call errors computer bugs?
A moth got into a relay switch and would not let current pass. It was called a bug.
