4 GENERATIONS OF COMPUTER Each generation increases in reliability, speed, efficiency and ease of use and decreases in cost &

size. The first Generation (1945 - 1955) - Very large computers made up of vacuum tubes and often programmed using wiring plugboards - Programmed using machine language - Mostly used for numerical calculations as working out mathematical tables - No OS The Second Generation (1955 - 1965) - Mainframes made up of transistors - Mainframes made up of transistors - At first punch cards were used to provide input, then tapes were used (for bat ch processing) - Used Assemblers and FORTRAN compilers for program writing -Simple batch processing was used with input files, programs and output on tape - Smaller computers (e.g. IBM 1401) was used to read programs and data on punch cards on to input tapes and for offline printing - Used mainly for scientific and engineering applications - FMS (Fortran Monitor System) and IBM IBSYS as OSs for handling jobs (e.g. to r ead a job and to run it) The Third Generation (1965 - 1980) -Mainframes based on small scale ICs were used. - Capable of multiprogramming (running several jobs at the same time) - Fixed disks were used and new jobs on cards to be executed could be read on to the disk while executing other jobs (spooling) - Though the first models used multiprogrammed batch processing, to cater to inc reased response time, timesharing was introduced later (Time-sharing Systems) - Complex OSs as OS/360 were used. - Used for various applications including scientific and business applications - Mini computers also appeared on the market which were used by small department s etc. and became the platform for UNIX. The Fourth Generation (1980 . . . ) - Mainframes, Minicomputers, Workstations, Personal Computers (Desktop and porta ble) based on VLSI components - Network operating systems that facilitate file sharing, remote logging etc. an d Client Server computing. - Distributed OSs that make use of multiple machines and processors to run appli cations. - GUI based OS interfaces and applications. - Virtual Machines and Network Computers (NCs) Main Frame and Super Computers: They consist of terminals. they have time sharing facilities. Super computer are high performance Computers. Micro Computer: They are called desktop computers. They are use for intensive calculations e.g. laptop computers, note book, hand-held computer, Palm top computer. Dedicated or Special Purpose Computers: They are called embedded (use for consumer good areas). They are used in industr y for controlling robots. In these Computers, there are programs stored on a chi p/micro chips, that can t be changed. They are called firm base. Computer Connections: (Network revolutions) In the network configurations main frame computers are used, using time sharing facilities e.g. personal computes, using land or local area network. Computers commonly used today Micro Computers: Used by one person at a time. They are also called work station. All high and de sktop computer, are use for intensive computation. Other examples are laptop com puters, note book, hand held (Palm top) computers. Examples of Palm top computer s are personal digital assistance, personal communicator.

Dedicated or Special Purpose Computers: These are called embeded computers e.g. they are used in enhanced consumers area s (super market) for calculating amount or for space inventory control. They are used in industry for controlling robots and computer numerical. Controlling Manufacturing Machine: In this, a program is stored on a micro chip which cannot be changed and it is c alled firm ware which mean a combination of hard ward and software.