DAVID GACHOKA

DIGITAL LITERACY
Introduction
 Computer - Is an electronic device for storing and processing data, typically in binary form,
according to instructions given to it in a variable program
 Information and communication technologies (ICT) - is a diverse set of technological
tools and resources and resources used to transmit, store, create, share or exchange information
 Software - is a set of instructions, data or programs used to operate computers and execute
specific tasks (intangible parts)
 Hardware - refers to the external and internal devices and equipment that enable you to perform
major functions such as input, output, storage, communication, processing and more
 Digital literacy - is an individual’s ability to find, evaluate, and communicate information by
utilizing typing or digital media platforms. It is a combination of both technical and cognitive
abilities in using information and communication technologies to create, evaluate, and share
information.

PARTS OF A COMPUTER
Hardware
 Refers to the tangible parts of a computer. eg
Monitor- is an output device that displays information in pictorial or textual form
Memories

 Random access memory (RAM)

 Read only memory (ROM)

Control unit
 Is a component of a computer’s central processing unit that directs the operation of then
processor. CU typically uses binary decoder to convert coded instructions into timing and control
signals that direct the operation of the other units

Storage devices

It is typically used to store, transfer, and extract data files. It is an essential component
of a computer, and one of its manifestations is the hard drive. A computer storage
device allows its owner to save and securely access data and applications stored on the
computer.

 Hard disk

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A hard drive or hard disk drive (HDD) is a type of data storage device that is
used in laptops and desktop computers

 Floppy disk
Floppy Disk is a type of disk storage composed of a disk of thin and flexible magnetic
storage medium. It is used for backup purpose. It is a type of secondary storage.

 Ram
RAM is a common computing acronym that stands for random-access memory. Sometimes
it's called PC memory or just memory. In essence, RAM is your computer or laptop's short-
term memory. It's where the data is stored that your computer processor needs to run your
applications and open your files.

 Optical disk

An optical disk is an electronic data storage medium that can be

written to and read from using a low-powered laser beam.

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 Magnetic tapes
Magnetic tape is a medium for magnetic storage made of a thin,
magnetizable coating on a long, narrow strip of plastic film. It
was developed in Germany in 1928, based on the earlier
magnetic wire recording from Denmark.

 Flash disks
: a data storage device that uses flash memory. specifically a small rectangular device
that is designed to be plugged directly into a USB port on a computer and is often used
for transferring files from one computer to another. called also thumb drive.

 Compact disk
A compact disc is a portable storage medium that can record, store and play back
audio, video and other data in digital form.

 Rom

ROM (read-only memory) is a non-volatile memory type. This means it receives

data and permanently writes it on a chip, and it lasts even after you turn off your

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computer. The data is coded to not be overwritten, so it's used for things like your
printer software or your startup programs.

 USB Cable

Mostly, USB cables are connected to computer units directly to peripheral

devices like mobile phones, cameras, camcorders and printers/scanners. The
main objective of these cables is to effectively, quickly and properly gather or
transfer data from one device to another.

ALU– Explaining the definition or meaning and giving useful information of similar terms
In computing, an arithmetic logic unit (ALU) is a combinational digital circuit that performs
arithmetic and bitwise operations on integer binary numbers.

 Instruction-level parallelism – is the parallel or simultaneous execution of a sequence of

instructions in a computer program; they include;
 Monitor
A computer monitor is an output device that displays information in pictorial or textual form.
A discrete monitor comprises a visual display, support electronics, power
supply, housing, electrical connectors, and external user controls.

 Keyboard

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A computer keyboard is an input device used to enter characters and functions into
the computer system by pressing buttons, or keys. It is the primary device used to enter
text. A keyboard typically contains keys for individual letters, numbers and special
characters, as well as keys for specific functions. A keyboard is connected to a computer
system using a cable or a wireless connection.

 Mouse
A mouse is a small hardware input device used by hand. It controls the movement of
the cursor on the computer screen and allows users to move and select folders, text,
files, and icons on a computer. It is an object, which needs to put on a hard-flat surface
to use.

 Scanner
A scanner is a device that captures images from photographic prints, posters, magazine
pages and similar sources for computer editing and display. Scanners work by
converting the image on the document into digital information that can be stored on a
computer through optical character recognition (OCR).

 Cameras

A webcam is a common video camera that lets users record both

videos and still photographs once connected to a personal computer.
You can use it for video conferencing with programs such as Zoom,
Google Meet, Skype, and other applications.

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 Joysticks
A pointing device used to move an object on screen in any direction. It employs a
vertical rod mounted on a base with one or two buttons. Joysticks are used extensively
in video arcade games, and they were the primary game controller on home computers
during the 1980s and 90s.

 Printers
A printer is a device that accepts text and graphic output from a computer and transfers
the information to paper, usually to standard-size, 8.5" by 11" sheets of paper. Printers
vary in size, speed, sophistication and cost.

SOFTWARE
1. OPERATING SYSTEM(OS)
- Is the program that, after being initially loaded in to a computer by a boot program manages all of
the other application

FUNCTIONS

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1. Job scheduling - is the process where different tasks get executed at pre-determined time or
when the right event happens. A job scheduler is a system that can be integrated with other
software systems for the purpose of executing or notifying other software components when a
pre-determined, scheduled time arrives.
2. Resource control and allocation - is the process of allocating a system's resources in a
controlled fashion. The Solaris OS resource control features enable bandwidth to be shared
among the VNICs on a system's virtual network.
3. Input/output handling memory - transfer information between computer main memory and
the outside world. An I/O system is composed of I/O devices (peripherals), I/O control units, and
software to carry out the I/O transaction(s) through a sequence of I/O operations.
4. Magnet error handling input -the systematic process or systematic approach for Detecting,
Managing, and properly responding to the errors that actually occurred by some failures, like Transient
failures or permanent failures. Error handling in an operating system consists of some mechanisms or
some solutions to handle these types of failures or exceptions or some unexpected scenarios. By ensuring
that system can continue its operation or continue its desired action, although if any error is been
occurred, the main aim of this error handling in the operating system is to basically handle the errors
which have occurred in runtime or in compile time in an efficient and stable manner. Error handling
consists of some of the strategies, like exception handling, error codes, and messages, retry mechanisms,
Logging and debugging, etc. Using all these mechanisms, we can easily detect and manage the failures
which are been occurred in the operating system.

Examples:

 Microsoft windows
 Linux
 Mac
 Language transmitters

2. APPLICATION OF SOFTWARES – it enables the user to perform and archives what they
want.
USER APPLICATION
APPLICATION PACKAGES -word processor , spreadsheet, database, presentation accounting
packages, graphic designs.
3.MALWARE
I. VIRUS -Simplify the programme, they spread to other computer file hence deleting a file.
II. Worms- they transmit themselves in a network directly.
III. Trojan host-they appear inform of game and when you try to download it come up into virus .
IV. Hardware -financially supported.-they mostly highjack into someone profit.
Skyway-collect information about the user of computer
Zombie - collect information about computer.

Functions of ICT

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i. Data capture - is the process of extracting information from any type

of structured or unstructured document (paper or electronic) to
transform it into a machine-readable digital format. Technological
advancements in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) have taken
data capture to new heights.
ii. Data processing - manipulation of data by a computer. It
includes the conversion of raw data to machine-readable
form, flow of data through the CPU and memory to output
devices, and formatting or transformation of output. Any
use of computers to perform defined operations on data
can be included under data processing.
iii. Data generation - refers to creating or producing new data. This
can be done through various means, such as collecting
data from sources, conducting surveys, performing
experiments, or generating data through algorithms and
simulations.
iv. Storage of information -Component of an accounting system that keeps data in
a form accessible to information processors. Information storage is usually
thought of in digital for but it can still be in paper format. Information storage can
be on the cloud or off the cloud.
v. Retrieval/transfer of information - is the process of obtaining information
system resources that are relevant to an information need from a collection of those
resources. Searches can be based on full-text or other content-based indexing.
Information retrieval is the science[1] of searching for information in a document,
searching for documents themselves, and also searching for the metadata that
describes data, and for databases of texts, images or sounds.
vi. Communication -is the exchange of information between two or more things,
such as people, devices, governments, organizations, or businesses. In digital
communication, data is exchanged between two or more computing devices.

CLASSIFICATION OF COMPUTERS
 Size
a) Super computers.
Unlike traditional computers, supercomputers use more than one
central processing unit (CPU). These CPUs are grouped into compute

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nodes, comprising a processor or a group of processors—symmetric

multiprocessing (SMP)—and a memory block. At scale, a
supercomputer can contain tens of thousands of nodes.
EXAMPLES OF SUPERCOMPUTERS.

Fujitsu Fugaku 442 PFLOPS

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2018 IBM Summit 148.6 PFLOPS

2018 IBM Sierra 94.6 PFLOPS

2016 Sunway TaihuLight 93.01 PFLOPS

b) Mainframe computers
At their core, mainframes are high-performance computers with large
amounts of memory and data processors that process billions of
simple calculations and transactions in real time.
EXAMPLES OF MAINFRAME COMPUTERS.
 IBM Z. IBM refers to all of its z/Architecture mainframe machines as IBM Z. ...
 FUJITSU Server GS21. FUJITSU Server GS21 is ideal for mission-critical
corporate and social infrastructure systems that must operate 24×7. ...
 UNIVAC 9400.

c) Mini-micro computers.
Minicomputers are mainly used for administrative tasks, word
processing, process control, etc. Microcomputers are mainly used for
managing databases, graphics, word processing ,etc. 9.
Microcomputers are less powerful.
EXAMPLES OF MINI-MICRO COMPUTERS.
 CII Mitra 15.
 Control Data's CDC 160A and CDC 1700.
 DEC PDP and VAX series.
 Data General Nova.
 Hewlett-Packard HP 3000 series and HP 2100 series.
 Honeywell-Bull DPS 6/DPS 6000 series.

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 IBM midrange computers.

 Interdata 7/32 and 8/32.

d) Microcomputer.
A microcomputer is a complete computer on a small scale, designed
for use by one person at a time. An antiquated term, a microcomputer
is now primarily called a personal computer (PC), or a device based
on a single-chip microprocessor. Common microcomputers include
laptops and desktops.
EXAMPLES OF MICROCOMPUTERS.
laptops and desktops.
 Functionality
a) Servers - is a computer or system that provides resources, data,
services, or programs to other computers, known as clients, over
a network.
b) Workstations - are computers that are specifically configured to
meet the most demanding technical computing requirements. To
be considered a workstation, systems must include key
capabilities related to performance, reliability, data integrity,
scalability, and expandability.
c) Information appliances - is an appliance that is designed to easily
perform a specific electronic function such as playing music,
photography, or editing text.
d) Embedded computers - is a dedicated computer system that forms
an integral part of a larger machine or system. In contrast to an
ordinary desktop computer, an embedded computer is generally
designed or purposed for a single purpose.

1. ANALOG COMPUTERS

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Is a type of computer that uses physical rather than digital

variables to solve problems. They can be made up of
entirely mechanical or electrical components, and are used
for things like calculating differential equations, simulating
physical systems, and performing signal-processing tasks.

2. DIGITAL COMPUTERS.

Any of a class of devices capable of solving problems by

processing information in discrete form. It operates on data,
including magnitudes, letters, and symbols, that are
expressed in binary code—i.e., using only the two digits 0
and 1.

3. HYBRID COMPUTERS.

Are computers that exhibit features of analog computers

and digital computers. The digital component normally
serves as the controller and provides logical and numerical
operations, while the analog component often serves as a
solver of differential equations and other mathematically
complex problems.

4. ELECTRONIC COMPUTERS.
A digital electronic computer is a computer machine which is both an electronic
computer and a digital computer.

FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN SELECTING A

COMPUTER.
1. BUDGET
 Of course, your budget is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a PC.
There is a wide range of prices for different computers, so it’s important to set a budget and
find the best machine within that budget.

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 You’ll also want to remember that you don’t necessarily have to buy the most expensive
machine to get a good one. Consider finding refurbished Desktops which can often offer
excellent value for your money. There are plenty of great PCs that are very affordable. It’s all
about finding the right balance of features and price.

2. PROCESSOR
 An important factor to consider when buying any PC is the processor. This is the heart of the
machine, and it determines how fast your computer will be. The most important thing to look
for in a processor is its clock speed, measured in GHz. The higher the clock speed, the faster
your computer will be. You’ll also want to pay attention to the processor’s number of cores.
 A dual-core processor is a minimum these days, but a quad-core or even an octa-core
processor will give you even more speed. You’ll also want to pay attention to the processor’s
number of threads. This measures how many tasks the processor can handle simultaneously,
which is important for multitasking.

3. MEMORY
 When choosing a PC, memory is just as important as the processor. RAM, or random access
memory, is what your computer uses to store data temporarily. The more RAM your
computer has, the more things it can keep in memory at once, making it run faster.
 Most computers these days come with at least 4GB of RAM, but 8GB or 16GB is even better.
If you plan on doing a lot of multitasking or gaming, you’ll want even more RAM. Another
thing to remember is that not all RAM is created equal. DDR4 RAM is newer and faster than
DDR3 RAM, so if you can afford it, go for DDR4.

4. GRAPHICS CARD
 The graphics card is another important component of the PC. This part of the computer
handles graphics processing, and it’s especially important for gaming and multimedia
activities. When choosing a graphics card, you’ll want to consider the number of cores it has
and its clock speed and bandwidth.

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 The number of cores is important because it determines how many tasks the card can handle
simultaneously. The higher the clock speed and bandwidth, the faster the card will be. You’ll
also want to ensure that the card is compatible with the monitor or displays you’ll be using.

5. STORAGE
 Storage is another vital part of choosing a PC. This is where all your data is stored, including
your operating system, programs, and files. There are two main types of storage: HDD
and SSD.
 HDD, or hard disk drive, is the traditional type of storage. It’s slower than SSD, but it’s more
affordable. SSD, solid state drive, is newer and faster but more expensive. If you can afford it,
SSD is the way to go. But HDD is still a good option if you’re on a budget.

6. OPERATING SYSTEM
 The operating system is the software that runs your computer. The two most popular
operating systems are Windows and macOS. Windows is more popular for PC gaming, while
macOS is preferred for creative activities like video editing and graphic design.
 You’ll also want to consider which operating system version you want. The latest version of
Windows is 10, while the latest version of macOS is Mojave. If you’re unsure which one to
choose, it’s worth researching to see which one will be best for your needs.

7. WARRANTIES AND RETURNS

 Finally, when choosing a PC, it’s important to consider warranties and return policies. Most
computers come with at least a one-year warranty, but some companies offer longer
warranties for an additional cost. It’s worth checking out the warranty before buying to see
what’s covered and how long.
 You should also be aware of the company’s return policy. Some companies allow you to
return the computer for a full refund within a certain period, while others have more
restrictions. It’s important to know what the policy is so that you can be sure you’re making a
purchase you’re happy with.

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 When buying a new PC, remember these factors to ensure you choose the best option for your
needs. With so many great options available, there’s sure to be a perfect PC for you. If you
take your time and research, you’re sure to find the perfect machine for your needs.

HISTORY AND CLASSIFICATION OF COMPUTERS

1st GENERATION ;VACUUM TUBES (1940 -1956).
The first computer systems used vacuum tubes for circuitry and magnetic drums for main memory, and they
were often enormous, taking up entire rooms. These computers were very expensive to operate, and in addition
to using a great deal of electricity, the first computers generated a lot of heat, which was often the cause of
malfunctions. The maximum internal storage capacity was 20,000 characters.

First-generation computers relied on machine language, the lowest-level programming language understood by
computers, to perform operations, and they could only solve one problem at a time. It would take operators
days or even weeks to set up a new problem. Input was based on punched cards and paper tape, and output was
displayed .It was in this generation that the Von Neumann architecture was introduced, which displays the
design architecture of an electronic digital computer. Later, the UNIVAC and ENIAC computers, invented by
J. Presper Eckert, became examples of first-generation computer technology. The UNIVAC was the first
commercial computer delivered to a business client, the U.S. Census Bureau in 1951.

CHARACTERISTICS

 Main electronic component – vacuum tube

 Main memory – magnetic drums and magnetic tapes
 Programming language – machine language
 Power – consume a lot of electricity and generate a lot of heat.
 Speed and size – very slow and very large in size (often taking up entire room).
 Input/output devices – punched cards and paper tape.
 Examples – ENIAC, UNIVAC1, IBM 650, IBM 701, etc.
 Quantity – there were about 100 different vacuum tube computers produced between
1942 and1963.

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ADVANTAGES

1. Pioneering technology – First generation computers

were the first of their kind, ushering in a new era of
technology and paving the way for future
advancements.
2. Large-scale calculations – First generation computers
were able to perform large-scale calculations and
complex mathematical operations, which made them
useful for scientific and military applications.
3. Improved data storage – First generation computers
had improved data storage capabilities compared to
manual methods, allowing for more efficient
information management.
4. Specialized applications – First generation computers
were designed for specific tasks and applications, such
as code-breaking and missile guidance, which made
them more efficient in their designated roles.
5. Reliability – First generation computers were built with
vacuum tubes, which were highly reliable and had a
long lifespan, which made them more durable than
other technology of the time.

DISADVANTAGES

1. Large size – First generation computers were very large in size,

which made them difficult to transport or install in small spaces.
2. High cost – First generation computers were very expensive, which
made them less accessible to individuals and businesses.
3. Limited speed – First generation computers had limited processing
speed, which made them slower than modern computers.
4. Limited memory – First generation computers had limited
memory capacity compared to modern computers, which made it
difficult to store large amounts of data or software.

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5. High maintenance – First generation computers required regular

maintenance and repair, which was costly and time-consuming.

2nd GENERATION ;TRANSISTORS (1956 – 1963)

The world would see transistors replace vacuum tubes in the second generation of computers. The transistor
was invented at Bell Labs in 1947 but did not see widespread use in computers until the late 1950s. This
generation of computers also included hardware advances like magnetic core memory, magnetic tape, and the
magnetic disk .The transistor was far superior to the vacuum tube, allowing computers to become smaller,
faster, cheaper, more energy-efficient, and more reliable than their first-generation predecessors. Though the
transistor still generated a great deal of heat that subjected the computer to damage, it was a vast improvement
over the vacuum tube. A second-generation computer still relied on punched cards for input and printouts
for out-put.

When Did Computers Start Using Assembly Languages?

Second-generation computers moved from cryptic binary language to symbolic or assembly, languages, which
allowed programmers to specify instructions in words. High-level programming languages were also being
developed at this time, such as early versions of COBOL and FORTRAN. These were also the first computers
that stored their instructions in their memory, which moved from a magnetic drum to magnetic core
technology. The first computers of this generation were developed for the atomic energy industry.

CHARACTERISTICS

Main electronic component – transistor

 Memory – magnetic core and magnetic tape / disk
 Programming language – assembly language
 Power and size – low power consumption, generated less heat, and smaller in size (in
comparison with the first generation computers).
 Speed – improvement of speed and reliability (in comparison with the first generation
computers).
 Input/output devices – punched cards and magnetic tape.

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 Examples – IBM 1401, IBM 7090 and 7094, UNIVAC 1107, etc.

ADVANTAGES
1) Smaller in size as compared to the first generation computer.
2) The second generation computers were more reliable.
3) Used less energy and were not heated as much as first generation
computer.
4) Wider commercial use.
5) Better portability as compared to the first generation computers.
6) Better speed and could calculate data in microseconds.
7) Used faster peripherals like tape drives, magnetic disk etc.
8) Used assembly language as well as machine language.
9) Accuracy improved.
DISADVANTAGES
1. Cooling system was required.
2. Constant maintenance was require.
3. Commercial production was difficult.
4. Only used for specific purposes.
5. Costly and not versatile.
6. Punch cards were used for input.

3rd GENERATION ; INTEGRATED CIRCUITS (1964 – 1971)

The development of the integrated circuit was the hallmark of the third generation of computers. Transistors
were miniaturized and placed on silicon chips, called semiconductors, which drastically increased the speed
and efficiency of computers.

Instead of punched cards and printouts, users would interact with a third-generation computer
through keyboards, monitors, and interfaces with an operating system, which allowed the device to run many
different applications at one time with a central program that monitored the memory. Computers, for the first
time, became accessible to a mass audience because they were smaller and cheaper than their predecessors.

CHARACTERISTICS

 Memory – large magnetic core, magnetic tape / disk

 Programming language – high level language (FORTRAN, BASIC, Pascal, COBOL, C,
etc.)
 Size – smaller, cheaper, and more efficient than second generation computers (they were
called minicomputers).
 Speed – improvement of speed and reliability (in comparison with the second generation
computers).

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 Input / output devices – magnetic tape, keyboard, monitor, printer, etc.

 Examples – IBM 360, IBM 370, PDP-11, UNIVAC 1108, etc.

ADVANTAGES

1. Increased processing power – Third generation computers were

equipped with more advanced and powerful processors, which
allowed them to perform complex calculations and process large
amounts of data at much faster speeds than their predecessors.
2. Improved memory – Third generation computers also featured
larger and more efficient memory systems, which allowed them to
store and retrieve data more quickly and effectively.
3. Advanced input and output devices – Third generation
computers were equipped with a variety of input and output
devices, such as keyboards, mouse and monitors, which made them
more user-friendly and easier to interact with.
4. Operating systems – Third generation computers were able to run
more advanced operating systems, which allowed for better
organization and management of the computer’s resources and
improved the overall user experience.
5. Multitasking – Third generation computers were capable of
running multiple programs at the same time, which increased
productivity and efficiency.

DISADVANTAGES

1. Expensive – Third generation computers were relatively expensive

and not affordable for many individuals and businesses.
2. Large size – Third generation computers were quite large in size,
making them difficult to transport or install in small spaces.
3. Limited storage capacity – Third generation computers had
limited storage capacity compared to modern computers, which
made it difficult to store large amounts of data or software.

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4. Power consumption – Third generation computers consumed a

lot of power, which led to increased energy costs and made them
less environmentally friendly.
5. Limited connectivity – Third generation computers were not as
connected as today’s computers, and had limited options for
connectivity, such as wired connections and no wireless options.

4TH GENERATION ; MICROPROCESSORS(1971 – PRESENT)

The microprocessor ushered in the fourth generation of computers, as thousands of integrated circuits were
built onto a single silicon chip. The technology in the first generation that filled an entire room could now fit in
the palm of the hand. The Intel 4004 chip, developed in 1971, integrated all the components of the computer,
from the central processing unit and memory to input/output controls, on a single chip.

In 1981, IBM introduced its first personal computer for the home user, and in 1984 Apple introduced the
Macintosh. Microprocessors also moved out of the realm of desktop computers and into many areas of life as
more and more everyday products began to use the microprocessor chip.

As these small computers became more powerful, they could be linked together to form networks, which
eventually led to the development of the Internet. Each fourth-generation computer also saw the computer
development of GUIs, the mouse, and handheld technology.

CHARACTERISTICS

 Main electronic component – very large-scale integration (VLSI) and microprocessor.

 VLSI– thousands of transistors on a single microchip.
 Memory – semiconductor memory (such as RAM, ROM, etc.)
o RAM (random-access memory) – a type of data storage (memory element) used
in computers that temporary stores of programs and data (volatile: its contents are
lost when the computer is turned off).
o ROM (read-only memory) – a type of data storage used in computers that
permanently stores data and programs (non-volatile: its contents are retained even
when the computer is turned off).
 Programming language – high level language (Python, C#, Java, JavaScript, Rust, Kotlin,
etc.). A mix of both third- and fourth-generation languages
 Size – smaller, cheaper and more efficient than third generation computers.
 Speed – improvement of speed, accuracy, and reliability (in comparison with the third
generation computers).
 Input / output devices – keyboard, pointing devices, optical scanning, monitor, printer,
etc.

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 Network – a group of two or more computer systems linked together.

 Examples – IBM PC, STAR 1000, APPLE II, Apple Macintosh, etc.

ADVANTAGES

1. Microprocessors – Fourth generation computers were equipped

with microprocessors, which made them smaller in size and more
powerful than their predecessors.
2. Increased storage capacity – Fourth generation computers had
larger storage capacity, which allowed them to store more data,
programs and software.
3. Improved user interface – Fourth generation computers had more
advanced user interfaces, such as graphical user interface (GUI)
which made them more user-friendly and easier to navigate.
4. Greater connectivity – Fourth generation computers had more
connectivity options, such as wireless and internet connectivity,
which allowed them to connect to other devices and networks
more easily.
5. Multi-tasking – Fourth generation computers were capable of
running multiple programs at the same time, which increased
productivity and efficiency.

DISADVANTAGES.

1. Cost – Fourth generation computers were more expensive than

previous generations, making them less accessible to some
individuals and businesses.
2. Complexity – Fourth generation computers were more complex
and difficult to repair or upgrade than previous generations,
requiring specialized knowledge or professional help.
3. Dependence on electricity – Fourth generation computers were
dependent on electricity, which could be a problem in areas with
unreliable power supply.

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4. Limited battery life – Fourth generation computers had limited

battery life, which meant they needed to be plugged in to work for
extended periods of time, making them less portable.
5. Software compatibility – Fourth generation computers required
software that was specifically designed for them, which could be a
problem if older software or programs were needed.

5th GENERATION ; ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE( PRESENT

AND BEYOND)
Fifth-generation computer technology, based on artificial intelligence, is still in development, though there are
some applications, such as voice recognition, that are being used today. The use of parallel processing and
superconductors is helping to make artificial intelligence a reality. This is also so far the prime generation for
packing a large amount of storage into a compact and portable device.

Quantum computation and molecular and nanotechnology will radically change the face of computers in years
to come. The goal of fifth-generation computing is to develop devices that will respond to natural
language input and are capable of learning and self-organization.

CHARACTERISTICS

 Main electronic component: based on artificial intelligence, uses the Ultra Large-Scale
Integration (ULSI) technology and parallel processing method.
o ULSI – millions of transistors on a single microchip
o Parallel processing method – use two or more microprocessors to run tasks
simultaneously.
 Language – understand natural language (human language).
 Power – consume less power and generate less heat.
 Speed – remarkable improvement of speed, accuracy and reliability (in comparison with
the fourth generation computers).
 Size – portable and small in size, and have a huge storage capacity.
 Input / output device – keyboard, monitor, mouse, trackpad (or touchpad), touchscreen,
pen, speech input (recognise voice / speech), light scanner, printer, etc.
 Example – desktops, laptops, tablets, smartphones, etc.

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ADVANTAGES

1. Artificial Intelligence – Fifth generation computers are designed

to use artificial intelligence and machine learning to solve complex
problems. This means that they can learn from data and make
decisions based on that data, which can lead to faster and more
accurate results.
2. Speed – Fifth generation computers are incredibly fast, with the
ability to process data at incredible speeds. This means that they
can perform complex calculations and simulations in real-time,
which is especially useful in fields like finance and engineering.
3. Power Efficiency – Fifth generation computers are also more
power-efficient than previous generations. This means that they
can perform complex tasks while consuming less energy, which is
better for the environment and can also help save money on
energy costs.
4. Multitasking – Fifth generation computers are designed to be able
to perform multiple tasks simultaneously. This means that they can
handle multiple applications and processes at once, which is useful
for things like video editing or scientific simulations.
5. Natural Language Processing – Fifth generation computers can
also process and understand human language, making them more
useful in fields like customer service and natural language
processing. This means that they can be used to develop chatbots
and other tools that can communicate with humans in a more
natural way.

DISADVANTAGES.

1. Cost – Fifth generation computers can be expensive to develop,

purchase, and maintain. This is because they use advanced
technology and require specialized expertise to design and
operate.

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2. Complexity – Fifth generation computers can also be more

complex than previous generations, with more advanced hardware
and software components. This means that they may require more
technical knowledge and skill to operate and maintain.
3. Dependence on Artificial Intelligence – Fifth generation
computers are designed to use artificial intelligence to solve
complex problems. This means that they may be more dependent
on this technology than previous generations, which could be a
problem if there are issues with the AI or if it’s not trained properly.
4. Security Risks – Fifth generation computers can also be more
vulnerable to security threats than previous generations. This is
because they have more advanced software and hardware
components that may be more difficult to secure against
cyberattacks.
5. Ethical Concerns – Finally, fifth generation computers raise
important ethical concerns around the use of artificial intelligence
and machine learning. This includes issues like bias, privacy, and
the impact of automation on jobs and society.

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