UNIT -1

Introduction to
COMPUTER
and INFORMATION
TECHNOLOGY

TOPICS
Introduction to computers – definition, characteristics,
capabilities and limitations, classification of computers,
generation of computers.
Definition of computer:
A computer is an electronic device that can process and store
information. It can perform calculations, manipulate data, and execute
instructions to accomplish specific tasks. The word computer comes
from Greek word “compute” “which means to calculate.

Characteristics of computer:
Speed: Computers execute calculations and tasks faster and more
accurately than humans, processing millions of instructions per
second. Operations are performed in micro and nano seconds, saving
significant time.
Diligence: Computers never tire, conducting millions of
calculations per second with complete precision and without resting.
They work consistently without weariness or loss of concentration.
Reliability: Computers are reliable and produce consistent results
for similar data inputs. The output remains the same unless the input
varies.
Automation: Computers can perform tasks automatically based on
programmed instructions, replacing thousands of workers by
executing jobs automatically.
Versatility: Computers can perform different types of tasks with
the same accuracy and efficiency simultaneously, such as listening to
music while working on a project or designing a website.
Memory: Computers can store millions of records with precision.
Memory storage capacity is measured in Bytes, Kilobytes (KB),
Megabytes (MB), Gigabytes (GB), and Terabytes (TB). They have
built-in primary memory.
Accuracy: Computers perform operations and calculations with
low chances of errors, typically caused by incorrect data input by
humans. They complete tasks fast and accurately.
Capabilities of computer(Advantages of Computer):
Multitasking: Computers can perform multiple tasks and
operations simultaneously, solving numerical problems in seconds.
Speed: Computers' incredible speed helps humans complete tasks
quickly, playing a vital role in daily life.
Cost-Effective Storage: Centralized databases enable affordable
data storage, reducing the need for physical storage.
Accuracy: Computers execute computations precisely, with most
errors caused by incorrect user inputs.
Data Security: Security measures protect computers from
malicious programs and threats, ensuring data safety.
Increased Productivity: Fast task execution by computers
increases productivity, allowing more tasks to be completed quickly.
Limitations of Computer (Disadvantages of Computer):
Virus and Hacking Attacks: Unauthorized access and viruses can
spread through email attachments, infected website advertisements,
and removable devices like USBs.
Online Cyber Crimes: Computers and networks can be used to
commit crimes, including cyberstalking and fraud.
Reduction in Employment Opportunities: The previous
generation, which may lack computer knowledge, faced significant
challenges when computers became prevalent.
High Cost: Computers are expensive, and even the most
affordable ones can be costly for many people.
Distractions/Disruptions: Computers can be highly distracting
due to their entertainment value, leading to prolonged browsing or
watching videos.
Health Problems: Extended computer use can cause various
health issues such as eye strain, dry eyes, neck, and back problems.
Classification of Computers:
There are different types of computers based on different parameters.
Following are different categories.
1. Types of Computers Based on Size:
Microcomputers: Intended for individual use; small and compact.
Examples include smartphones and desktops.
Minicomputers: Used by mid-sized businesses; more powerful
than microcomputers. An example is servers.
Mainframe Computers: Utilized by large organizations to
process bulk data.
Supercomputers: Extremely powerful for carrying out complex
calculations; primarily used for research purposes and not for personal
use.
2. Types of Computers Based on Processing Power:
Personal Computers (PCs): Commonly used for personal tasks;
include desktops, laptops, and tablets.
Servers: Manage and distribute resources and data to multiple
users or devices; used in businesses and organizations.
Mainframes: Large, powerful machines for handling massive
amounts of data and complex operations; used in large corporations or
government agencies.
Supercomputers: Extremely powerful computers for processing
data at high speeds; used in scientific research and specialized apps.
Embedded Systems: Small computers built into other devices
(e.g., appliances, cars, medical devices) to perform specific functions
without human intervention.
Wearable Computers: Portable devices worn on the body (e.g.,
smartwatches, fitness trackers) to track data and provide information
on the go.
3.Types of Computers Based on Functionality:

• Analog Computers: Store data using continuous physical

quantities. Example: Mechanical integrator.
• Digital Computers: Process data using discrete values.
Example: Smartphone.
• Hybrid Computers: Combine both analog and digital features.
Example: Complex medical equipment.
First Generation Computers:
First-generation computers used vacuum tubes for technology, making
them large, heavy, and unreliable. They were mainly
used for calculations, storage, and control. Programming
was challenging due to low-level languages and no
operating systems. These computers needed an entire
room and consumed a lot of electricity. They used punch
cards and magnetic cards for data storage, and machine
and assembly languages were developed.
Notable examples include:
• ENIAC: A general-purpose computer with 18,000 vacuum
tubes.
• EDVAC: Designed by von Neumann, it enhanced speed by
storing data and instructions.
• UNIVAC: Developed in 1952, it was another significant
computer of this era.
Second-generation computers:
Second-generation computers replaced vacuum tubes with transistors,
improving performance, reducing size, cost, and heat generation. Core
storage was another key feature. Developed at Bell Labs, transistors
enabled faster processing. This era saw advancements in CPU,
memory, input/output units, and programming languages.
Programming became easier as languages evolved from high-level to
more structured forms, with notable languages including FORTRAN
(1956), ALGOL (1958), and COBOL (1959).

TRANSISTORS
Third-generation computers:
Third-generation computers replaced transistors with integrated
circuits (ICs) made of silicon, improving speed, reliability, and
efficiency. These ICs contained multiple transistors, registers, and
capacitors on a single chip, reducing size and cost while increasing
memory and processing power. Operating systems enabled
multitasking, and higher-level programming languages like BASIC
were introduced. Minicomputers also emerged during this period.

INTEGRATED CIRCUIT
Fourth-generation computers:
Fourth-generation computers, introduced in 1971, utilized
microprocessors with LSI and later VLSI circuits, significantly
reducing size while increasing capacity. The Intel 4004 chip
integrated the CPU, memory, and input/output controls onto a single
chip. VLSI technology placed hundreds of thousands of transistors on
a microprocessor, enhancing speed and efficiency. Features like
multiprocessing, multiprogramming, time-sharing, and virtual
memory improved usability. This era marked the rise of personal
computers and computer networks.
Fifth-generation computers:
Fifth-generation computers focus on Artificial
Intelligence (AI), enabling human-like behavior
in applications such as voice recognition,
medicine, and gaming. These computers offer
the highest speed, smallest size, and expanded
functionality. While full AI has yet to be
achieved, advancements suggest it will become a reality. Overall,
computer generations have seen improvements in speed, accuracy,
reliability, and reduced size and cost.