Generations of Computers
Learn about the 5 computer generations
Introduction
In this leaflet you will read about the five generations of computers.
1st Generation
Colossus (1946-1959)
The 1st generation of computers were huge in size and needed many people to operate it. The Colossus machine was invented by Tommy Flowers, a British engineer.
The main features of the first generation are:
- Use of vacuum tubes (like a valve)
- Big and clumsy
- High electricity consumption which cause the computers to not function
- Programming in Mechanical language
- Very large A.C. needed
- Lots of electricity failure occured
2nd Generation
Transistors (1959-1965)
The 1st generation of computers were developed and made into a new kind of computer called the 'Transistor'. This machine allowed 2 people to used and was more smaller in size.
The main features of the second generation are:
- More reliable
- Smaller size
- Generated less heat
- Programming in assembly language
- A.C. needed
- Cheaper
- Consumed less energy
- Faster than 1st generation computers
- Added keyboards
3rd Generation
Integrated Circuits (1965-1971)
The 3rd generation of computers were called 'Integrated Circuits'. They are little chips which are put into a computer to store memory. At that time, computers were not as modern as today and used a 'Monochrome' monitor which only uses one colour (normally green).
The main features of the third generation are:
- Power consumption was low
- SSI (Small Scale Integration) was used
Small in size
Low cost
Low weight
Generates less heat
4th Generation
Microprocessors (1971-1980)
The computer you are using to read this page uses a microprocessor to do its work. The microprocessor is the heart of any normal computer.
The main features of the fourth generation are:
- Small in size
- Holds more memory
- Can be programmed to do what you want it to do
- Low weight
5th Generation
Artificial Intelligence (1980-onwards)
'Siri' is an intelligent personal assistant that is in 'Apple' devices. If you ask Siri something, it will answer back to you.