History, Feature of Computer

Author: Ravi Poswal

The term "computer" is derived from the verb "compute," meaning "to calculate." A computer is a type of electronic device that can quickly conduct mathematical tasks. The process of utilizing a computer to process data is known as data processing.

Characteristics of Computer 

  1. Accuracy
  2. Speed
  3. Automatic
  4. Diligence
  5. Power of Remembering 
  6. No Feeling
  7. Storage Capability
  8. No I.Q.
  9. No Feelings

The hardware and software components of a computer operate together. The hierarchy of software and hardware represents the layered structure that shows how computer hardware and software interact with each other.

Generation Period Main Technology Features
First Generation                1946–1959                Vacuum Tubes                         Very large, slow, expensive, generated much heat
Second Generation 1959–1965 Transistors Smaller, faster, more reliable
Third Generation 1965–1971 Integrated Circuits (ICs) Faster, cheaper, more efficient
Fourth Generation 1971–Present Microprocessors Personal computers, laptops, smartphones
Fifth Generation Present & Future Artificial Intelligence (AI) Machine learning, robotics, natural language processing

FAQs

The term "computer" is derived from the verb "compute," meaning "to calculate." A computer is a type of electronic device that can quickly conduct mathematical tasks. The process of utilizing a computer to process data is known as data processing.

1. Input
2. Processing
3. Output
4. Storage
5. Control

Charles Babbage is known as the father of the computer because he designed the Analytical Engine, the first mechanical computer concept.

1. Input unit
2. Processing
3. output unit
4. storage unit

CPU stands for Central Processing Unit

1. Control Unit (CU)
2. Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
3. Registers

ALU stands for Arithmetic Logic Unit.

Information is processed and relevant data, whereas data is just raw facts and numbers.

Software is a set of instructions or programs that tell the computer what to do.

1. Supercomputer
2. Mainframe Computer
3. Mini Computer
4. Microcomputer

1. Primary Memory (RAM, ROM)
2. Secondary Memory (Hard Disk, SSD, Pen Drive)

RAM (Random Access Memory) is temporary memory used while the computer is running.

ROM (Read Only Memory) is permanent memory that stores important instructions.

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