Introduction of computer

 1.1 Introduction of Computer

What is Computer :

Computer is an electronic device which is used to store the data, as per given instructions it 

gives results quickly and accurately.

• Data: Data is a raw material of information

• Information: Proper collection of the data is called information

Characteristics Of Computer

• SPEED : Computer is very fast calculating device. It can execute basic operations 

like subtraction, addition, multiplication and division at a few microseconds. It can 

move and copy data at a speed in the order of billion instruction per second.

• ACCURACY : Computer always gives accurate results. The accuracy of Computer 

does not go down when they are used continuously for hours together.

It always gives accurate results.

• STORAGE CAPACITY : Computers have a very large storage capacity. A large 

volume of information can be stored in the memory of computer and information can 

be retrieved correctly when desired.

• VERSATILITY : The working of computer with different types of data is known as 

versatility. That means computer can perform different types of job efficiently. 

Computer can works with different type of data and information such as visuals, text, 

graphics & video etc. So, versatility is a most important characteristic of computer.

• Diligence : A Computer can work for long hours with the same accuracy and 

speed because it is free from problems of boredom or lack of concentration.

• POWER OF REMEMBERING: It can remember data for us.

• NO IQ : Computer does not work without instruction.

• NO THOUGHTS : Computers have no thoughts because they are machine and they 

have no feelings. Since, computers have no thoughts and feelings so they can't make 

judgement based on thoughts and feelings.


History Of Computers

The history of the computer dates back to several years. There are five prominent 

generations of computers. Each generation has witnessed several technological advances 

which change the functionality of the computers. This results in more compact, powerful, 

robust systems which are less expensive. The brief history of computers is discussed below:

First Generation (1940-1956)

The first generation computers had the following features and components −

Hardware

The hardware used in the first generation of computers was: Vacuum Tubes and Punch 

Cards.

Features

Following are the features of first generation computers −

• It supported machine language.

• It had slow performance

• It occupied large size due to the use of vacuum tubes.

• It had a poor storage capacity.

• It consumed a lot of electricity and generated a lot of heat.

Memory

The memory was of 4000 bits.

Data Input

The input was only provided through hard-wired programs in the computer, mostly through punched cards and paper tapes.

Examples

The examples of first generation computers are −

• ENIAC

• UNIVACTBM 701


Second generation of computer 

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