WEEK 1

Introduction to Computers
Definition and Basic Understanding of a Computer
Definition:
A computer is an electronic device that can receive data (input), process it, and produces
output (information).
Basic Understanding:
1. Input:
The computer receives data through input devices like a keyboard, mouse, scanner, or
microphone.
2. Processing:
The Central Processing Unit (CPU) processes the input data based on instructions. It
is often referred to as the "brain" of the computer.
3. Storage:
Data and instructions can be stored temporarily (RAM) or permanently (hard drive,
SSD).
4. Output:
After processing, the result is given through output devices like monitors, printers, or
speakers.
5. Control Unit:
It directs the flow of data and instructions within the computer.
Generations of Computers
Computers have evolved over time in terms of technology, size, speed, and cost. This
evolution is categorized into five generations of computers:
1.First Generation Computers (1940s – 1956)
The period of first generation was from 1940-1956. The computers of first generation used
vacuum tubes as the basic components for memory and circuitry for CPU (Central
Processing Unit). These tubes, like electric bulbs, produced a lot of heat and the installations
used to fuse frequently. Therefore, they were very expensive and only large organizations
were able to afford it.
Punch cards, paper tape, and magnetic tape was used as input and output devices. The
computers in this generation used machine code as the programming language.
The main features of the first generation are:
• Vacuum tube technology
• Unreliable
• Supported machine language only
• Very costly
• Generates lot of heat
• Slow input and output devices
• Huge size
• Need of AC
• Non-portable
• Consumes lot of electricity
Some computers of this generation were: • ENIAC • EDVAC • UNIVAC • IBM-701 • IBM-
750

2.Second Generation Computers

The period of second generation was from 1956-1965. In this generation, transistors were
used that were cheaper, consumed less power, more compact in size, more reliable and faster
than the first-generation machines made of vacuum tubes. In this generation, magnetic cores
were used as the primary memory and magnetic tape and magnetic disks as secondary
storage devices.
In this generation, assembly language and high-level programming languages like
FORTRAN, COBOL were used.
The main features of second generation are:
• Use of transistors
• Reliable in comparison to first generation computers
• Smaller size as compared to first generation computers
• Generates less heat as compared to first generation computers
• Consumed less electricity as compared to first generation computers
• Faster than first generation computers
• Still very costly
• AC required
• Supported machine and assembly languages

3.Third Generation Computers

The period of third generation was from 1965-1971. The computers of third generation used
Integrated Circuits (ICs) in place of transistors. A single IC has many transistors, resistors,
and capacitors along with the associated circuitry. The IC was invented by Jack Kilby. This
development made computers smaller in size, reliable, and efficient.
The main features of third generation are:
• IC used
• More reliable in comparison to previous two generations
• Smaller size
• Generated less heat
• Faster
• Lesser maintenance
• Costly
• AC required
• Consumed lesser electricity
• Supported high-level language
Some computers of this generation were: • IBM-360 series • Honeywell-6000 series • PDP
(Personal Data Processor) • IBM-370/168 • TDC-316

4.Fourth Generation Computers

The period of fourth generation was from 1971-1980. Computers of fourth generation used
Very Large Scale Integrated (VLSI) circuits. VLSI circuits having about 5000 transistors and
other circuit elements with their associated circuits on a single chip made it possible to have
microcomputers of fourth generation.
Fourth generation computers became more powerful, compact, reliable, and affordable. As a
result, it gave rise to Personal Computer (PC) revolution.
The main features of fourth generation are:
• VLSI technology used
• Very cheap
• Portable and reliable
• Use of PCs
• Very small size
• Pipeline processing
• No AC required
• Concept of internet was introduced
• Great developments in the fields of networks
• Computers became easily available
Some computers of this generation were: • DEC 10 • STAR 1000 • PDP 11 • CRAY-1(Super
Computer) • CRAY-X-MP(Super Computer)

5.Fifth Generation Computers

The period of fifth generation is 1980-till date. In the fifth generation, VLSI technology
became ULSI (Ultra LargeScale Integration) technology, resulting in the production of
microprocessor chips having ten million electronic components. This generation is based on
parallel processing hardware and AI (Artificial Intelligence) software. AI is an emerging
branch in computer science, which interprets the means and method of making computers
think like human beings.
The main features of fifth generation are:
• ULSI technology
• Development of true artificial intelligence
• Development of Natural language processing
• Advancement in Parallel Processing
• Advancement in Superconductor technology
• More user-friendly interfaces with multimedia features
• Availability of very powerful and compact computers at cheaper rates
Some computer types of this generation are: • Desktop • Laptop • Notebook • Ultrabook •
Chromebook
Classification of computer based on their size, purpose, and functionality

1. Based on Size
Type Description
Most powerful, used for complex scientific calculations (e.g., climate
Supercomputer
modeling, nuclear simulations).
Mainframe Large-scale systems for bulk data processing in banks, governments, and
Computer airlines.
Mid-sized computers used in small to medium enterprises for tasks like
Minicomputer
database management.
Also known as personal computers (PCs); used for general-purpose tasks
Microcomputer
at home and offices.
Embedded Built into other devices (e.g., washing machines, cars, medical devices)
Computer for specific control tasks.

2. Based on Purpose
Type Description
General-Purpose
Designed to perform a wide range of tasks (e.g., PCs, laptops).
Computer
Special-Purpose Built for a specific task (e.g., ATM machines, industrial robots,
Computer GPS devices).
3. Based on Functionality
Type Description
Analog Processes data in continuous form (used in engineering and scientific
Computer applications).
Digital Processes data in binary form (most modern computers fall under this
Computer category).
Hybrid Combines features of analog and digital computers (used in hospitals for
Computer monitoring devices).

Functional Block
Diagram of a Digital
Computer

Input Devices
 Devices like keyboard, mouse, scanner.
 Used to send data and instructions to the computer.
 Converts user input into binary form.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

 The "brain" of the computer.
 Consists of two main components:
o Control Unit (CU):
 Directs operations of the processor.
pro
 Manages and coordinates input, processing, and output.
o Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU):
 Performs arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, etc.).
 Performs logical operations (comparisons, true/false decisions).
Memory Unit
 Temporary and permanent storage of data and instructions.
 Includes:
o Primary Memory (RAM, ROM)
o Cache Memory
 Stores data currently being processed.
Output Devices
 Devices like monitor, printer, speaker.
 Converts binary results into human-readable form.
Memory Systems: Types of Memory and Their Usage:

Memory in a computer system is essential for storing data, instructions, and results.
1. Primary Memory (Main Memory)
Used directly by the CPU for processing tasks.
Type Description & Usage
- Temporary memory, volatile (data lost on shutdown).
RAM (Random Access Memory) - Stores data/instructions currently in use.
- Usage: Running applications and OS.

- Non-volatile, permanent storage.

ROM (Read-Only Memory) - Pre-programmed with startup instructions (e.g., BIOS).
- Usage: Booting process, firmware.

2. Secondary Memory (Storage Devices)

Used for long-term storage of data and programs.
Type Description & Usage
- Magnetic storage, large capacity.
HDD (Hard Disk Drive)
- Usage: Storing OS, applications, files.
- Faster than HDD, no moving parts.
SSD (Solid State Drive)
- Usage: High-speed system performance.
- Use lasers to read/write data.
Optical Disks (CD/DVD)
- Usage: Media distribution, backups.
- Portable flash memory.
Flash Drives / USBs
- Usage: File transfer and backups.
Software: System software vs. application software
Software is a set of instructions that tells the hardware what to do.
It is broadly classified into two major categories:
System Software:
System software acts as an intermediary between the computer's hardware and application
software. It manages the computer's resources and provides a basic environment for other
software to operate.
 Examples:
Operating systems (like Windows, macOS, Linux), device drivers, and utilities (like disk
defragmenters) are examples of system software.
Application Software:
Application software, also known as end-user software, is designed to perform specific tasks
for the user.
 Examples:
Word processors (like Microsoft Word), web browsers (like Chrome or Firefox), games, and
spreadsheets (like Excel) are all examples of application software.