Generations of computer | How many generation of computer are there

Q: When was the first computer invented?

The first functional digital computer, the Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer (ENIAC), was completed in 1945. However, the concept of a programmable digital computer was developed by Charles Babbage in the 19th century.

by Yogi P - December 25, 2022

How many generation of computer are there ?

Computers can generally be categorized into five generations, each representing a significant advancement in technology and capabilities. These generations are characterized by improvements in hardware, software, and overall computing performance.

Five Generation of Computer

The history of computers can be divided into several generations, each characterized by significant technological developments and advancements.

First Generation Computers (Vacuum Based) 1942 to 1959

The first generation of computer, which spanned from the 1940s to the late 1950s, was marked by the use of vacuum tubes as the main electronic component.

These computers were large, expensive, and slow, and they were primarily used by governments and large corporations for scientific and military purposes.

Characteristics of first generation of computer

Vacuum based technology.
It supported only machine language.
It was costly and unreliable.
Portability issues due to bigger size.
It has heat generation issues.
Input / output devices were slow.
First Generation Computers.

Second Generation of Computers (Transistor Based) 1959 to 1965

The second generation of computers, which lasted from the late 1950s to the mid-1960s, saw the development of the first transistor-based computers.

Transistors were smaller, more reliable, and more efficient than vacuum tubes, and they allowed for the creation of smaller and faster computers.

Characteristics of second generation of computer

More reliable than 1st generation computers
Used assembly languages
Improved accuracy
Data calculated in microseconds
Costly
Air Condition needed
Maintenance required
Heating issues existed
2nd Generation Computers

Third Generation of Computers (Integrated Circuit) 1965 to 1970

The third generation of computers, which lasted from the mid-1960s to the early 1970s, saw the development of the first integrated circuits.

These tiny chips contained multiple transistors and other electronic components, and they allowed for even smaller and faster computers.

Characteristics of third generation of computer

Integrated circuits were used
Reliable and smaller in size
Increased commercial production
Costly
Lesser electricity and maintenance
A.C needed
High level languages
Used for general purpose
Mouse and Keywords were used as Input devices
4th Generation Computers

Fourth Generation Computers (VLSI Microprocessor) 1970 – 1980

The fourth generation of computers, which lasted from the early 1970s to the early 1980s, saw the development of the first microprocessors.

These tiny chips contained all the electronic components of a computer on a single chip, and they paved the way for the development of the personal computer.

Characteristics of fourth generation of computer

VLSI technology were used
Very Cheap, reliable and portable
Virtual memory
Distributed operating system
Revolution of Personal Computers
Compact design
Internet concept introduced
No Air condition needed
Development in computer networks
Easily available to general public
High level languages used DBASE, C and C++ etc.

Fifth Generation of Computers (ULSI Microprocessor) 1980-Onward

The fifth generation of computers, which began in the early 1980s and continues to this day, is marked by the development of the internet and the widespread use of personal computers. These computers are smaller, faster, and more powerful than ever before, and they have become an integral part of daily life for many people.

Characteristics of fifth generation of computer

ULSI Circuits
Based on parallel processing
Based on Artificial Intelligence (IA)
Based on Neutral Language Processing
User friendly interface
More compact design
Cheaper Rates and availability to General Public
High Level Languages being used in 5th generation are using like Java, C++ etc.

Each generation of computer has brought significant advancements and improvements, and it is exciting to think about what the future holds for this rapidly-evolving technology. It is likely that the next generation of computers will continue to shrink in size and increase in power, leading to even more incredible and exciting developments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What defines a generation of computer?

A generation of computers is characterized by significant technological advancements and changes in hardware, software, and computing capabilities. These advancements often result in improved performance, efficiency, and new functionalities.

When was the first computer invented?

The concept of a programmable digital computer was developed by Charles Babbage in the 19th century. However, the first functional digital computer, the Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer (ENIAC), was completed in 1945.

Why are vacuum tubes significant in the history of computing?

Vacuum tubes were crucial components in the first generation of computers. They acted as electronic switches and amplifiers, enabling the manipulation of electronic signals and the execution of logical operations.

What replaced vacuum tubes in computers?

Transistors replaced vacuum tubes in the second generation of computers. Transistors are smaller, more reliable, and consume less power, leading to more compact and efficient computers.

What is the role of integrated circuits in computing?

Integrated circuits (ICs) revolutionized computing by enabling multiple electronic components to be integrated onto a single chip. This advancement led to smaller and faster computers and paved the way for microprocessors.

When were microprocessors introduced?

Microprocessors were introduced in the fourth generation of computers during the 1970s. They are complete central processing units (CPUs) on a single chip and are the heart of modern computers.

What is the significance of the fifth generation of computers?

The fifth generation of computers saw the development of advanced microprocessor technology, AI, and expert systems. It brought about powerful personal computers, laptops, smartphones, and cloud computing.

What are some examples of fifth-generation computers?

Examples of fifth-generation computers include modern laptops, desktop computers, smartphones, tablets, and other computing devices that utilize advanced microprocessor technology and benefit from developments in AI and software.

How have programming languages evolved across generations?

Programming languages have evolved from low-level assembly languages in early generations to higher-level languages with more abstraction and ease of use. This evolution has made software development more accessible and efficient.