More About Computers – Notes
1. Introduction
A computer is one of the greatest inventions of mankind. It helps us do many tasks such as calculations, writing documents, playing games and searching information on the internet.
Earlier computers were very large and occupied a whole room, but today computers are small, fast and portable.
2. Early Calculating Devices
1. Abacus
- It is the earliest counting device.
- It has rods and sliding beads.
- It is used for addition and subtraction.
2. Napier's Bones
- Invented by John Napier in 1616.
- It uses numbered sticks (bones).
- It helps in multiplication and division.
3. Pascaline Calculator
- Invented by Blaise Pascal in 1642.
- It was one of the first mechanical calculators.
- It worked using toothed wheels.
4. Difference Engine
- Designed by Charles Babbage in the 1800s.
- It could perform complex mathematical calculations.
5. Analytical Engine
- Also designed by Charles Babbage in 1833.
- It could store numbers and perform many calculations.
- It is considered the first concept of a modern computer.
3. Generations of Computers
First Generation (1940–1950)
- Used Vacuum Tubes
- Very large in size
- slow speed
- Programming language: Machine Language
- Example: ENIAC, UNIVAC
Second Generation (1950–1960)
- Used Transistors
- Smaller and faster
- Less heat and power consumption
- Programming language: Assembly Language
Third Generation (1960–1970)
- Used Integrated Circuits (IC)
- More reliable and faster
- High level languages like BASIC, COBOL
Fourth Generation (1970–1980)
- Used Microprocessors
- Technology: VLSI
- Smaller computers like Personal Computers
- Languages like Java, Python, C#
Fifth Generation (1982–1994)
- Based on Artificial Intelligence
- Very fast and portable
- Used in laptops, tablets, smartphones
Sixth Generation (2000–Present)
- Uses Artificial Intelligence and Neural Networks
- Includes advanced technologies like Quantum Computing
- Computers are very powerful and intelligent
4. Characteristics of a Computer
Speed
Computers perform calculations very fast.
Accuracy
Computers give correct results if the input is correct.
Diligence
Computers do not get tired and can work continuously.
High Storage
Computers can store large amounts of data.
Versatility
Computers can perform many types of tasks.
Connectivity
Computers are connected through the Internet.
5. Latest Technological Developments
Wearable Technology
- Devices that can be worn on the body.
- Fitness Trackers
- Count steps and calories
- Monitor heart rate
- Example: Fitbit
Smart Watches
- Connect with smartphones
- Show messages, calls and notifications
- Can play music and read news
Exercise Solutions
A. Tick (✓) the correct answer
1. Name the component used in the second generation of computers.
✓ (c) Transistors
2. In which generation were Integrated Circuits used for the first time?
✓ (a) Third
3. In which early calculating device were sticks used to get product and quotient easily?
✓ (d) Napier's Bones
B. Fill in the blanks
(VLSI, UNIVAC, Abacus, Artificial Intelligence)
1. UNIVAC is an example of the first generation of computers.
2. Abacus was the earliest counting device.
3. Microprocessors were developed using VLSI technology.
4. Artificial Intelligence is the branch of computer science that makes computers think like humans.
C. Write T (True) or F (False)
1. The first generation of computers used vacuum tubes. T
2. Wearable gadgets can only be worn on hand. F
3. The third generation of computers used microprocessors. F
4. Computers can be connected to form a global network called internet. T
5. The fifth generation of computers have the power of human intelligence. T
D. Name the following
1. First automatic calculating engine developed by Charles Babbage
Difference Engine
2. Technology used in the first generation of computers
Vacuum Tubes
3. Device invented by John Napier
Napier's Bones
4. Example of a voice-based assistant
Siri / Alexa / Google Assistant
5. Global network of computers
Internet
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