Generations of Computer

Computers are classified into five generations depending upon the development of technology...

First Generation of Computer (1940-1956)

1. The first generation of computers is started with using vacuum tubes as the basic components.
2. The speed of these computers was very slow, storage capacity was very less and these computers are large in size.
3. This generation computers operated only on machine language.
4. Input was based on punched card, paper tapes an output was obtained as printout.

Second Generation of Computer (1956-1963)

1. In this generation transistors were used in place of vacuum tubes.
2. These machines were much faster, more reliable than their earlier machines.
3. It generates less heat and consumed less electricity as compared to first generation computers.
4. Second Generation computers used punched cards for input and printout for output.
5. This computer moved from the use of machine language to assembly languages.
6. The computer stored their instructions in their memory, which moved from magnetic drum to magnetic core technology.

Third Generation of Computer (1964-1971)

1. In the third generation of computer Integrated Circuits (IC's) were used in place of transistors.
2. In this generation, Keyboard and monitors were used instead of punched cards and printout.
3. These IC’s were increased the speed of processing and storage capacity.
4. These computers were more reliable, smaller in size and faster.
5. Maintenance cost was low comparing to the previous generation and consumed less electricity.

Fourth Generation of Computer (1971-1980)

1. In the fourth generation of computer, microprocessors were used in place of Integrated Circuits.
2. The fourth generation of computers is marked by the use of Very Large Scale Integrated circuits.
3. This made computers smaller in size became more powerful, they could bi linked to form network.

Fifth Generation of Computer (1980-    )

1. Fifth generation computer involves the concept of Artificial Intelligence which made the computer think like human beings.
2. This generation uses VLSI and Ultra Large Scale Integration technology.
3. These computers are more intelligent and faster comparing to other generation computers.