NAME: MUSTAPHA ABUBAKAR NURA
REG NUMBER: P21EVGS8005
COURSE CODE: GTEC 805
COURSE TITLE: ICT in Silicate Technology
QUESTION
Find out the development of computer from first generation to date, its trends, uses and the
possible future projection.
The development of computers can be broadly categorized into generations, each marked by
significant technological advancements and innovations.
The first generation of computers (1940s-1950s) was characterized by the use of vacuum tubes
and magnetic drum storage. These computers were large and expensive and used primarily for
scientific and military applications.
The second generation of computers (1950s-1960s) saw the introduction of transistors, which
replaced vacuum tubes, making computers smaller, faster, and more reliable. This era also saw
the development of computer programming languages, such as COBOL and FORTRAN, which
made it easier to program computers.
The third generation of computers (1960s-1970s) was marked by the use of integrated circuits,
which further miniaturized computers and made them more accessible to a wider range of users.
This era also saw the development of the first personal computers (PCs).
The fourth generation of computers (1970s-1980s) was characterized by the development of the
microprocessor, which made it possible to pack more computing power into smaller and more
affordable devices. This era also saw the introduction of the first mass-market personal
computers, such as the Apple Macintosh and IBM PC.
The fifth generation of computers (1980s-Present) since the turn of the 21st century, which is
characterized by the rise of mobile computing, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things
(IoT). These technologies have made computing more accessible and have brought about a new
era of innovation and digital transformation.
Current trends in computing include the development of artificial intelligence and machine
learning, the increasing use of cloud computing and edge computing, and the rise of the Internet
of Things (IoT) and connected devices .For example self-driving cars, foldable smartphones, and
wearable technology.
Future Projections
Looking ahead, the future of computing is expected to involve continued advancements in
artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT). These technologies
will enable more sophisticated and efficient computing systems, and will likely lead to new and
innovative applications and services that are not yet imaginable. For example, smart homes, and
personalized medicine are just a few of the potential applications of these technologies.
In conclusion, the development of computers has come a long way from the first generation, and
will continue to evolve and shape the world in ways that are yet to be fully realized.
Uses of computer
Computers are now used in a wide range of industries and applications, from scientific research
and military applications, to business and personal use. They are also used for communication,
entertainment, education, and healthcare.
1. Business: Computers are used in businesses for tasks such as data storage and retrieval,
financial transactions, and record keeping.
2. Education: Computers are used in education for research, writing papers, and accessing
online learning resources.
3. Communication: Computers are used for email, instant messaging, video conferencing,
and social networking.
4. Entertainment: Computers are used for gaming, watching movies, and listening to music.
5. Medical: Computers are used in the medical field for tasks such as medical imaging,
patient monitoring, and record keeping.
6. Science and Research: Computers are used for simulations, data analysis, and scientific
visualization.
7. Design and Art: Computers are used in design and art for tasks such as digital modeling,
animation, and graphic design.
8. Government: Computers are used in government for tasks such as record keeping, voting,
and national security.
Some disadvantages of computer
1. Health problems: Prolonged computer use can lead to eye strain, headaches, neck and
back pain, and other physical problems.
2. Addiction: Some people can become addicted to using computers, leading to a negative
impact on their personal and professional lives.
3. Cybercrime: Computers can be used for malicious purposes, such as hacking, identity
theft, and spreading malware.
4. Job loss: The automation of certain jobs through computers can lead to job loss and
unemployment for certain workers.
5. Social isolation: Spending too much time on computers can lead to a lack of face-to-face
communication and social interaction, potentially leading to feelings of loneliness and
depression.
6. Dependence: Society has become dependent on computers, making it vulnerable to
failures or malfunctions that could have significant impacts on individuals and
organizations.
7. Environmental impact: The manufacture, use, and disposal of computers can have a
negative impact on the environment, due to the production of electronic waste and the use
of energy and resources.
8. Inequity: Access to computers and the internet is not equal, leading to a digital divide
between those who have access and those who do not.
Here is a list of some of the key individuals and companies associated with the development
of computers in each generation:
1st Generation (1946-1959):
John Mauchly and J. Presper Eckert - developed the ENIAC computer
The UNIVAC (UNIVersal Automatic Computer) - first commercial computer
2nd Generation (1959-1964):
IBM - introduced the IBM 7090 and IBM 1401 computers.
3rd Generation (1964-1971):
IBM - introduced System/360 mainframe computer with an integrated circuit
An early computer architecture that used transistor technology.
4th Generation (1971-1980):
Intel - introduced the microprocessor led by Intel and its co-founder Robert Noyce.
Xerox Corporation - developed the Alto computer, which introduced the graphical user
interface (GUI)
5th Generation (1980-Present):
Apple Computer Inc. - introduced the Macintosh computer with a GUI
Microsoft Corporation - introduced Windows operating system
Apple Inc. - introduced the iPad tablet computer
Google Inc. - developed the Android operating system for mobile devices
Contributions from Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Bill Gates.
REFRENCES
First Generation (1940-1956) -
"A History of Modern Computing" by Paul E. Ceruzzi (2003)
"The First Computers: History and Architectures" by Jean Bacon (2000)
Second Generation (1956-1963) -
"IBM's Early Computers" by Charles J. Bashe, Lyle R. Johnson, John H. Palmer, Emerson W.
Pugh (1986)
"Transistor Computers: The Second Generation" by John C. Slater (1972)
Third Generation (1964-1971) -
"Integrated Circuit Technology: Development and Progress" by IEEE (1977)
"A Guide to the Development of On-Line System" by Thomas Haigh (2002)
Fourth Generation (1971-Present) -
"The Microprocessor: A Biography" by Michael S. Malone (2013)
"The Personal Computer Revolution: A Historical Perspective" by Alan R. Korreck (2011)
Fifth Generation (Present and Beyond) -
"Artificial Intelligence: A Modern Approach" by Stuart Russell and Peter Norvig (2010)
"The Singularity is Near: When Humans Transcend Biology" by Ray Kurzweil (2005)
Uses of computer
“Computational Science: An Introduction" by Sten F. Andler (2007)
"High Performance Computing in Science and Engineering '05" edited by Wolfgang E. Nagel et
al. (2006)
Disadvantage of computer
"The Internet and Mental Health: A Handbook and Guide" edited by John A. Bargh and K. S.
McKennan (2010)
"Technology Addiction: Clinical and Public Health Perspectives" edited by Kimberly Young and
David N. Greenfield (2016)
