Overview
This lecture introduces the basics of computing, focusing on the history and evolution of computers from early devices to modern technology and the digital revolution.
Uses and Importance of Computers
- Computers are present in homes, schools, businesses, and virtually everywhere.
- Devices such as PCs, laptops, tablets, and smartphones are all types of computers.
- Computers are used by diverse groups, including students, teachers, business owners, military, and medical professionals.
- Common uses include creating documents, communication, entertainment, scheduling, navigation, and even weather prediction.
Early History of Computing
- Computers were originally designed for large-scale computation.
- The abacus was the first computing tool, aiding in mathematical calculations.
- The history of computers is divided into the Mechanical Era (1450-1840) and Electronic Era (1940-present).
Generations of Modern Computers
- First Generation (1946–1959): Used vacuum tubes for memory and CPU; large, expensive, and required significant power; data stored using punch cards, paper tape, and magnetic tape.
- Second Generation (1959–1965): Used transistors, making computers smaller, cheaper, and more energy-efficient.
- Third Generation (1965–1971): Introduced integrated circuits, further reducing size and cost.
- Fourth Generation (1971–present): Utilized Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI); rise of personal computers with increased power and affordability.
- Fifth Generation (present): Uses Ultra Large Scale Integration (ULSI); features modern, compact devices with advanced technology.
The Digital Revolution
- The digital revolution is driven by social, political, and economic changes enabled by digital technologies.
- Without digital electronics, computers would still be large and inefficient.
Four Phases of the Digital Revolution
- Data Processing (1940s–1970s): Large computers performed tasks using input, processing, and output cycles.
- Personal Computing: Standalone computers running software installed locally, with no networking.
- Network Computing: Computers connected to share data and resources; led to internet availability for public use.
- Cloud Computing: Provides access to information and storage over the internet, enabling synchronization across devices.
Emerging Technologies
- Current and future revolutions in computing include Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT).
Key Terms & Definitions
- Abacus — An early manual tool used for mathematical calculations.
- Mechanical Era — Period of computing history before electronic computers (1450–1840).
- Electronic Era — Period from 1940 onward, marked by electronic computers.
- Vacuum Tube — Electronic component used in first-generation computers for processing and memory.
- Transistor — Semiconductor device that replaced vacuum tubes in computing.
- Integrated Circuit — Miniaturized electronic circuit, foundational for third-generation computers.
- VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration) — Technology that allowed hundreds of thousands of transistors on a single chip.
- ULSI (Ultra Large Scale Integration) — Technology that allows millions of transistors on a chip, used in modern computers.
- Data Processing — Cycle of inputting, processing, and outputting data.
- Personal Computing — Use of standalone computers by individuals.
- Network Computing — Connecting computers to share resources.
- Cloud Computing — Using internet-based resources for storage and applications.
- AI (Artificial Intelligence) — Computer systems that perform tasks typically requiring human intelligence.
- IoT (Internet of Things) — Interconnected devices that communicate over the internet.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the history and generations of computers.
- Understand the four phases of the digital revolution.
- Prepare for discussion on AI and IoT in the next sessions.