ICT ASSIGNMENT NUMBER :1

NAME : USAMA SALEEM

BSSE-GIU-F24-040
SOFTWARE ENGINEERING
TOPIC : BASICS OF GENERATION
SUBMITTED TO : AMNA ISHTIAQ
GREEN INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY

OCTOBER 23, 2024

 Generations of Computers

Definition
Computers have evolved through several generations, each marked by significant technological
advancements. A generation refers to a period during which a particular technology is prevalent,
characterized by changes in hardware and software capabilities.

Introduction
The history of computers is often divided into five distinct generations, each showcasing
advancements in technology, speed, size, and application. Understanding these generations helps
us appreciate how far computing has come and how it has impacted various fields.

Definition and Introduction of First Generation Computers (1940-

1956)

Definition
The first generation of computers refers to the earliest period in the history of computing, which
lasted from 1940 to 1956. This generation is characterized by the use of vacuum tubes for
circuitry and magnetic drums for memory. First-generation computers were massive in size and
primarily used for complex calculations and data processing.

Introduction
The advent of the first generation of computers marked a significant milestone in technological
development. Before this era, calculations were performed manually or with the aid of
mechanical devices. The introduction of electronic computers revolutionized data processing,
allowing for much faster computations and the ability to handle large volumes of data. Notable
examples of first-generation computers include the ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and
Computer) and the UNIVAC (Universal Automatic Computer). Despite their advantages, these
early machines were limited by their size, high energy consumption, and the use of machine
language for programming, which made them difficult to operate for the average person. The
innovations of the first generation laid the foundation for the subsequent evolution of computer
technology, leading to more advanced generations.
Function

 Used vacuum tubes for circuitry and magnetic drums for memory.
 Mainly designed for complex calculations and processing large data sets.

Advantages

 Introduced electronic computation, speeding up calculations.

 Enabled the development of early programming languages.

Disadvantages

 Large size and excessive heat generation.

 High energy consumption and maintenance costs.

PICTURE OF FIRST GENERATION COMPUTER

Definition and Introduction of Second Generation Computers (1956-
1963)
Definition

The second generation of computers refers to the period from 1956 to 1963, characterized by the
transition from vacuum tubes to transistors as the primary technology for circuitry. This shift led
to significant improvements in speed, efficiency, and reliability while reducing the overall size of
computers.

Introduction

The second generation of computers represented a major advancement in computing technology,

building upon the foundations laid by the first generation. Transistors, which replaced the bulky
vacuum tubes, allowed for smaller, faster, and more reliable machines. These computers were
able to perform calculations at a much higher speed and with greater efficiency. Popular
examples of second-generation computers include the IBM 1401 and the CDC 1604.

With the introduction of high-level programming languages such as COBOL and FORTRAN,
programming became more accessible, enabling users to write code more easily than in the
previous generation's machine language. Despite their advancements, second-generation
computers still required specialized knowledge to operate and were relatively expensive, limiting
their use primarily to businesses and research institutions. Overall, this generation laid the
groundwork for the development of the third generation and the eventual rise of personal
computing.

Function

 Replaced vacuum tubes with transistors.

 Improved speed and efficiency while reducing size.

Advantages

 More reliable and energy-efficient than first-generation computers.

 Smaller in size, which made them more accessible for businesses.

Disadvantages

 Still expensive and required specialized knowledge to operate.

 Limited programming languages and capabilities.
SECOND GENERATION COMPUTER PICTURE
 Definition and Introduction of Third Generation Computers
(1964-1971)

Definition
The third generation of computers refers to the period from 1964 to 1971, characterized by the
use of integrated circuits (ICs) instead of individual transistors or vacuum tubes. This
technological advancement allowed for the miniaturization of components, leading to more
powerful and efficient computers.

Introduction
The introduction of integrated circuits marked a revolutionary change in computer technology
during the third generation. ICs enabled the combination of multiple transistors onto a single
chip, significantly enhancing the speed and performance of computers while reducing their size
and cost. Notable examples of third-generation computers include the IBM System/360 and the
PDP-8.

This generation also saw the development of more sophisticated operating systems and
programming languages, making computers more user-friendly and accessible to a wider
audience. High-level programming languages, such as Pascal and C, became prevalent, allowing
programmers to write more complex applications with greater ease.

Despite the advances in technology, third-generation computers still required a certain level of
technical expertise to operate effectively. However, they set the stage for the personal computing
revolution and laid the foundation for modern computing systems, influencing the design and
functionality of subsequent generations.

Function

 Introduced integrated circuits (ICs), which combined multiple transistors on a single chip.
 Enhanced processing power and speed.

Advantages

 Significantly reduced size and cost of computers.

 Allowed for more sophisticated programming languages and operating systems.
Disadvantages

 Still required specialized training to operate.

 Hardware and software compatibility issues arose.

PICTURE OF THIRD GENERATION OF COMPUTER

 Definition and Introduction of Fourth Generation Computers
(1971-Present)

Definition
The fourth generation of computers refers to the period from 1971 to the present, characterized
by the development of microprocessors and the rise of personal computers (PCs). This
generation utilizes highly integrated circuits, allowing for increased performance and decreased
physical size.

Introduction
The fourth generation of computers marked a significant leap forward in technology, primarily
due to the invention of the microprocessor. This innovation enabled the integration of thousands
of transistors onto a single chip, leading to powerful and compact computing devices. The
emergence of personal computers, such as the Apple II and IBM PC, made computing accessible
to individuals and small businesses for the first time.

During this period, user-friendly interfaces, such as graphical user interfaces (GUIs), were
developed, making computers easier to use for the general public. The introduction of software
applications for various purposes, including word processing, spreadsheets, and databases,
transformed the way people worked and communicated.

The fourth generation also witnessed the growth of networking and the internet, further
expanding the capabilities and applications of computers. Despite their advancements, challenges
such as software compatibility and security vulnerabilities began to emerge, but overall, this
generation revolutionized the computing landscape, laying the groundwork for modern
technologies that continue to evolve today.

Function

 Based on microprocessors, leading to the development of personal computers (PCs).

 Enhanced user interfaces and graphics capabilities.

Advantages

 Compact size and reduced costs made computers widely available.

 Advanced user-friendly interfaces, allowing non-specialists to use computers.
Disadvantages

 Rapid technological advancements lead to frequent obsolescence.

 Increasing reliance on software can lead to vulnerabilities

FOURTH GENERATION COMPUTER PICTURE

 Definition and Introduction of Fifth Generation Computers
(Present and Beyond)

Definition
The fifth generation of computers refers to the current era of computing, which began in the
1980s and continues to the present day. This generation is characterized by advancements in
artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and quantum computing, focusing on developing
systems that can perform complex tasks autonomously.

Introduction
The fifth generation of computers represents a paradigm shift in the capabilities and applications
of computing technology. Unlike previous generations, which primarily focused on speed and
processing power, the fifth generation emphasizes intelligent systems capable of learning and
making decisions. This includes advancements in natural language processing, robotics, and
neural networks.

Key innovations in this generation include the use of AI algorithms to analyze vast amounts of
data, enabling applications in various fields such as healthcare, finance, and autonomous
systems. Quantum computing, although still in its infancy, promises to solve problems beyond
the capabilities of traditional computers by leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics.

While the fifth generation has brought about transformative changes in technology and society, it
also raises important ethical and security concerns regarding the use of AI and the potential
impact on employment and privacy. As this generation continues to evolve, it is poised to
redefine how we interact with machines and the world around us, paving the way for future
advancements in computing.

Function

 Focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning.

 Use of quantum computing and advanced algorithms.

Advantages

 Potential for solving complex problems faster than ever.

 Continuous learning capabilities and automation of tasks.
Disadvantages

 Ethical concerns regarding AI and job displacement.

 Requires high-level expertise to develop and maintain.

FIFTH GENERATION COMPUTER PICTURE

Similarities Across Generations
 All generations aimed to improve processing speed and efficiency.
 Each generation has made computers more accessible to the general public.
 Advancements in one generation laid the groundwork for the next.

This overview provides a structured approach to understanding the evolution of computer

technology through its generations. For images, consider adding diagrams showing each
generation's components or significant inventions, like vacuum tubes, transistors, integrated

COMPARISON TABLE OF ALL GENERATION OF

COMPUTERS