- Computer Latin Ward ‘Computare , it means “To Calculate”
- •A computer is an electronic device that manipulation information or data according to set of instruction call programs.
- •It can stores retrieve and process data.
FUNCTIONS OF COMPUTER
•Information or data which is entered into a computer is called input, and it sends data and instructions to the Central processing Unit (CPU).
•The sequence of actions taken on data to convert it into meaningful information to the user is called processing, i.e., calculation, comparisons or any decisions.
•Then processed data, means desired result available to the user as Output.
•Then stores data and programs permanently.
Why Computer
- It can process data very fast at the rate of millions of instruction per second.
2. It gives a high degree of accuracy.
3. It can store huge amount of data (depending on HDD).
4. It can do different types of work simultaneously and also multiple tasks at a time.
5. Computer is free from monotony, tiredness, lack of concentration etc., and without any errors.
6. It can be protected by password from leakage of information.
7. Computer has the ability to automatically configure a new hardware and software components.
Generation of Computer
First Generation- 1942-1959
Second Generation– 1959-1965
Third Generation– 1965-1975
Fourth Generation- 1975-1988
Fifth Generation – 1988- Present
•A generation means the state of improvement in the development system.
•Each generation of computer is characterised by a major technological development which fundamentally changed the way, computer operate.
Classification of Compute
•Micro Computer – Desktop Computer, Laptop, Palmtop Computer, Workstation.
•Mini Computer – These are smaller in size, faster and cost lower than mainframe Computers.
•Mainframe Computer – Having large internal memory storage and comprehensive range of software. It allows a large number of people to work at the same time and considered as the heart of a network of computers.
. •Super Computer – Faster (high processing speed) and most expensive computers and also large in size and memory. It is mostly used in highly calculation intensive tasks such weather forecasting, nuclear research, military agencies and scientific research laboratories.
•Analog Computer – Do arithmetic and logical operations, i.e. mathematical operations by manipulating and processing of data simultaneously.
•Digital Computer – Works on binary digits.
•Hybrid Computer – Combination of analog and digital computers, Example – ECG AND DIALYSIS machine.
•General purpose –> Changing the program or instruction it can solve variety of problems, e.g. small database, calculations, accounting etc.
•Special purpose –> It is used to solve a single and dedicated type of problem, e.g. Automatic aircraft landing, multimedia computer, etc.
