Generation of Computers

The first generation of computers emerged in the late 1940s and early 1950s. These early machines used vacuum tubes for circuitry, which made them large and bulky. Additionally, they required a significant amount of power and produced a lot of heat. Despite these limitations, the first-gen computers marked a significant leap in technology. Furthermore, they utilized punched cards for input and magnetic drums for memory. Transitioning from mechanical calculators, these computers performed calculations much faster. As a result, they paved the way for future advancements in computing technology. First-gen computers worked on Machine Language or Assembly Language. Overall, the first gen laid the foundation for the evolution of more efficient and powerful computers. First Generation computer speed was measured in Milliseconds (10^-3 or 1/1000 of a Second) Examples: EDVAC, EDSAC, ENIAC, UNIVAC, IBM 650, IBM 701, etc.

The second generation of computers emerged in the late 1950s and early 1960s. During this time, transistors replaced vacuum tubes, which made the computers smaller, more efficient, and more reliable. Consequently, these computers consumed less power and generated less heat. Additionally, they used magnetic core memory, which increased storage capacity. As a result, programming languages like COBOL and FORTRAN were developed to make them more versatile. With these advancements, second-gen computers could perform tasks more quickly and accurately. Batch Operating System was used in second-gen computers. Overall, these improvements paved the way for the further evolution of computer technology. Speed of 2nd Gen computers speed was measured in microseconds (10^-6). Examples: CDC1604, IBM 1401, IBM 360, UNIVAC LARC, etc.

The third generation of computers emerged in the mid-1960s and lasted until the early 1970s. This period introduced integrated circuits, which significantly improved performance and efficiency. Consequently, computers became even smaller, faster, and more reliable. Additionally, these computers used semiconductor memory, which further increased storage capacity. The development of time-sharing operating systems allowed for better multitasking and resource management. As a result, third-gen computers could handle more complex tasks and were more user-friendly. Overall, these advancements paved the way for the development of personal computers and the modern computing era. Speed measure in nanoseconds (10^-9)—examples: CDC600, IBM 360, IBM 370, PDP-11, UNIVAC1108, etc.

The fourth generation of computers began in the early 1970s. This era introduced microprocessors, which significantly improved performance and efficiency. Consequently, computers became even smaller, more powerful, and more affordable. Very Large Scale Integrated circuits are used in this generation. Additionally, this generation saw the development of personal computers, making technology accessible to individuals. Operating systems (Unix, Windows) became more advanced, enhancing user experience. As a result, fourth-generation computers could perform a wide range of tasks, from basic word processing to complex scientific calculations.

The fifth generation of computers, based on Artificial Intelligence, is still in development. However, some applications, such as voice recognition, are already in use today. This generation uses Ultra Large Scale Integration (ULSI) technology and parallel processing methods. Consequently, their speed is measured in Floating Point Operations Per Second (FLOPS). Additionally, these computers can understand natural language, making them highly versatile. Examples of fifth-generation devices include supercomputers, robots, desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Overall, these advancements signify a significant leap in computing technology and promise a future of even greater innovations.