Generation of computer talk is a step in technology. It provides a framework for the growth of the computer industry. Originally the term generation was used to distinguish between varying hardware technologies. But now a day, it has been extended to include both the hardware and the software which tighter makeup an entire computer system.
· First generation (1942-1955):
i. The first generation computers usually used vacuum tubes as CPU components.
ii. Electromagnetic relay memory.
iii. Punched cards secondary storage.
iv. Some examples are EDVAC (Electronic Discrete Variable Automatic Computer), UINVAC, IBM 701
· Second generation (1955-1964):
i. The second generation emerged with transistors being the brain of the computer.
ii. Magnetic cores memory.
iii. Magnetic tapes.
iv. Disks for secondary storage.
v. Examples are IBM 7090, Honeywell 400, and CDC 1604.
· Third generation (1964-1975):
i. The third generation computers used IC’s (SSI & MSI) for CPU components.
ii. Standardize for high-level programming.
iii. Example IBM/370/360, CDC 6600 series.
· Forth generation (1975-1989):
i. The forth generation computers use VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration) chips for CPU, memory and supporting chips.
ii. They use microprocessors as CPU.
iii. Examples of latest microprocessors are Pentium I, Pentium II, and Pentium III.
- · Fifth generation (1989-present):
The fifth generation computers are under development stage. Japan and USA have
undertaken projects to design and develop such computers. These computers will use
VLSI chips. VLSI chips contain millions of components into a single IC.
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