Generation of Computer

The development of computer took place in different distinct stages, which is known as generation of computer. With every new generation speed, storage, size, reliability of circuit in computer advanced. Technology used in different generation computers are:
First Generation (1946-1958):
• Vacuum tubes are developed.
• Speed of operation is measured in milliseconds.
• Include the use of punched cards to input and store data.
• Machine language aslo known as 1Gl was used to program computers. • They were very large and required a lot of space for installation.
• The examples of first generation computer are ENIAC, EDVAC, UNIVAC, etc.

Second Generation (1959-1964):
• The second generation computers used transistors for circuitry.
• These computers are smaller, faster, and cheaper than first generation computers.
• They used magnetic disk and magnetic tape for storage.
• Assembly language was used to program computers. • Some examples of second generation computers are-IBM 1401, IBM 700, ATLAS, etc.

Third Generation (1965-1974):
• Third generations computers used Integrated Circuit for circuitry.
• They are slower and less powerful computer than fourth generation computers.
• High level proframming language like COBOL, PASCAL, BASIC etc was used. • They do not use GUI operating system.
• Speed of operation is measured in nanoseconds.
• Monitors and keyboards are used.
• For Examples, IBM systems/360, Altair, etc.

Fourth Generation (1975-1990):
• Fourth generation computers used microprocessor for circuitry.
• They are more powerful and fast than the third generation computers.
• They use GUI operating system.
• Used Large Scale Integration (LSI) and Very Large-Scale Integration (VLSI) technologies.
• High level programming language like C, C++, DBASE etc was used. • Magnetic disk is used as external storage.
• For Example, IBM-pc.

Fifth Generation:
• Used Ultra Large-Scale Integration (ULSI) technology.
• Using of intelligent programming.
• Have faster and larger primary and secondary storage.