What is a Computer?
The straightforward meaning of a computer is a machine that can calculate.
However, modern computers are not just a calculating device anymore. They can
perform a variety of tasks. In simple terms, a computer is a programmable
electronic machine used to store, retrieve, and process data.
According to the definition, "A computer is a programmable electronic device
that takes data, perform instructed arithmetic and logical operations, and
gives the output."
Whatever is given to the computer as input is called 'data', while the output
received after processing is called 'information'.
A Brief History of Computer
The term 'Computer' was first introduced in 1640 and referred to as 'one who
calculates'. It was derived from the Latin word 'computare', which meant 'to
calculate'. In 1897, it was known as the 'calculating machine'. Later in 1945, the
term 'computer' was introduced as 'programmable digital electronic computer,
which is now called a 'computer'.
When the computers were introduced, they were large and could fill an entire
room. Some computers were operated using large-sized vacuum tubes. In
1833, Charles Babbage (known as the father of the computer) invented an early
calculator, which was named as the 'difference engine'. Later in 1837, he
introduced the first mechanical, general-purpose computer 'Analytical Engine'.
Over time, computers became powerful in performance and small in size.
Generations of Computer
There are five generations of the computer, which can be classified as below:
First Generation (1946 - 1959): During the first generation, computers were
based on electronic valves (Vacuum Tubes). Some popular computers of first-
generation are ENIAC, EDVAC, UNIVAC, etc.
Second Generation (1959 - 1965): During the second generation, computers were
based on Transistors. Some popular computers of second-generation are IBM
1400, IBM 1620, IBM 7000 series, etc.
Third Generation (1965 - 1971): During the third generation, computers were
based on Integrated Circuits (ICs). Some popular computers of the third
generation are IBM 360, IBM 370, PDP, etc.
Fourth Generation (1971 - 1980): During the fourth generation, computers were
based on very large scale integrated (VLSI) circuits. Some popular computers of
fourth-generation are STAR 1000, CRAY-1, CRAY-X-MP, DEC 10, etc.
Fifth Generation (1980 - Present): The fifth generation is still ongoing. The
computers are based on multiple technologies, such as ultra large scale
integration (ULSI), artificial intelligence (AI), and parallel processing hardware.
The fifth generation of computers includes Desktop, Laptop, NoteBook, etc.
Computer Software and Hardware
Software
Computer software is a group of instructions or programs that instructs the
computer system to work accordingly. There are mainly two types of software:
System Software: System software help establish communication between
hardware components so that the user can interact with the computer. These types
of software are necessary for the computer to operate correctly. They provide an
interface to run additional third party programs or utility tools. Operating systems,
drivers, utility software, and firmware are typical examples of the system
software.
Application Software: Application software is designed to help users to perform
specific tasks, such as online surfing, setting the alarm, listening to music, playing
videos, photo designing, editing, etc. This type of software mostly runs in the
frontend and allows end-users to work on. Web browsers, Photoshop software,
multimedia software and word processors are the example of the application
software.
Hardware
The physical parts attached to a computer that form a whole computer are
called hardware or hardware components. There can be different types of
hardware, depending on the structure. Some most common hardware
are mouse, keyboard, monitor, printer, etc. These are the parts that can be seen and
touched by humans.
Basic Parts of Computer
The essential components of the computer can be defined as follows:
Input Unit: Input Units or devices are used to input the data or instructions into
the computers. Some most common input devices are mouse and keyword.
Output Unit: Output Units or devices are used to provide output to the user in the
desired format. The most popular examples of output devices are the monitor and
the printer.
Control Unit: As its name states, this unit is primarily used to control all the
computer functions and functionalities. All the components or devices attached to
a computer interact with each other through the control unit. In short, the control
unit is referred to as 'CU'.
Arithmetic Logic Unit: The arithmetic logic unit helps perform all the computer
system's arithmetic and logical operations. In short, the arithmetic logic unit is
referred to as 'ALU'.
Memory: Memory is used to store all the input data, instructions, and output data.
Memory usually has two types: Primary Memory and Secondary Memory. The
memory found inside the CPU is called the primary memory, whereas the memory
that is not the integral part of the CPU is called secondary memory.
Functions of Computer
Input: Whatever is given to a computer is called the input. The input data is given
to the computer using the input devices. The computer only takes data in a binary
form (raw format). The input devices help convert the entered data in the binary
form to be understandable by the computer. Data can be inputted in various forms,
such as letters, numbers, images, etc.
Processing: Processing is the primary function of the computer. CPU helps to
process the data according to the instructions entered into the computer system.
The processing of data is an internal process of the computer system, and the data
is executed in a queue. After the processing has been completed, the data is further
transferred as the output. The processor (CPU) is the computer's brain, and it is a
microchip. The processor's speed varies in different computers because it depends
on several factors, such as the type of CPU, memory, and motherboard.
Typically, the following operations are performed on the data during the
processing:
o Arithmetic Operations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication,
differentials, square root, etc.
o Logical Operations, such as equal to, not equal to, greater than, less than,
opposite, etc.
Output: Anything that comes out from the computer is called the output. It is the
human-readable data and displayed on the computer screen (monitor). Output can
be stored in the storage devices if desired. The output devices help convert the
processed data of the CPU into the human-understandable form.
Storage: The device used to store the data of a computer system is called the
storage. Storage devices help to store digital data. They can store the data while
the computer is operating and after processing. There are volatile and non-volatile
storage options. The volatile storage can store the data as long as the power source
is connected, whereas non-volatile can store the data permanently even after the
power source is disconnected.
Characteristics of Computer
The essential characteristics of the computer make it such an important part of
human lives. Let's understand the basic characteristics of computers:
Speed: Computers are a high-speed electronic machine. They can carry around 3-
4 million instruction per second. Even advanced computers can handle trillions of
instructions per second, cutting down the time to perform any digital tasks.
Accuracy: Computers are also known for their accurate performance. They can
complete the given jobs at almost 100% accuracy. Although errors may occur in
computers, they are usually caused by incorrect input, incorrect instructions, or
bugs in chips. All of these are human errors.
Storage Capacity: Computers can easily store a massive size of data. Modern
computers come inbuilt with high storage features compared to older days.
Additional data can be stored on secondary devices like external hard disks, or
flash memory, etc. Due to incredible speed, data can be retrieved from storage in
no time.
Reliability: Computers are reliable and consistent; they can process the same tasks
any number of times without throwing any error. Computers don't get tired like
humans, so they are superior to perform rule-based, repetitive tasks.
Versatility: The variety of tasks that a computer can perform are almost infinite.
That means computers can perform different tasks back to back without making
errors; they are no longer just a computing machine. For one moment, a computer
can be used to perform data entry tasks or ticket booking, and the very next
moment, it can be used for complex mathematical calculations or continuous
astronomical observations, etc.
Classification of Computer
According to physical size, computers are classified into the following types:
Supercomputer: Supercomputers are the fastest and the most expensive type of
computer. They are large and require more space for installation. These types of
computers are mainly designed to perform massive data-based and complex tasks.
Supercomputers are capable enough to handle trillions of instructions at the same
time.
Mainframe Computer: Mainframe computers are comparatively smaller in size
as compared to supercomputers. However, they are not much small. These types
of computers are designed to perform hundreds or thousands of jobs at a time
simultaneously. These computers can handle heavy tasks, including complex
calculations and can store vast amounts of data. They are best suited for big
organizations such as banking, telecom, and educational sectors.
Microcomputer: Microcomputers are cheap in price and support multi-user
platform. These are the general-purpose computers designed to handle all the
necessary tasks of individual needs. Since they are comparatively slower than
mainframe computers, thereby are suitable for small organizations. They are best
suited for internet café, schools, universities, offices, etc. A microcomputer is also
referred to as the 'Personal Computer (PC)' in general life. Laptop and desktop are
examples of microcomputers.
Minicomputer: Minicomputers are also referred to as Miniframe computers.
These are the midsize multiprocessing computer designed purposely for easy
carry. These types of computers are light-weight and can fit in a small space. They
are suitable for billing, accounting, education, and business purposes. Since these
minicomputers are easy to carry, they are the best option for those who need a
computer while traveling. Tablet PC, Notebooks, and cell phones are examples of
minicomputers.
Workstation: Workstation is a powerful, single-user computer. A workstation is a
personal computer with a faster microprocessor, a massive amount of RAM,
higher-quality monitors, high graphic memory, etc. This is best suited for
performing any specific type of task professionally. According to the type of tasks,
a workstation can be referred to as a music workstation, graphic workstation, or
engineering design workstation. Most businesses and professionals use
workstations for performing tasks like animation, music creation, video editing,
poster designs, data analysis and more.
Advantages of Using Computer
o Computers can perform given tasks at incredible speed.
o Computers can perform the same task multiple times with the same
accuracy.
o Computers allow doing several tasks simultaneously as they are best suited
for multitasking.
o Computers keep the stored data secure and inaccessible from unauthorized
users.
o Computers can automatically perform routine tasks with automation, making
humans available for more intelligent tasks.
Disadvantages of Using Computer
o Computers cannot work on their own. They need instructions from humans
to complete tasks. Moreover, computers follow the given instructions blindly
without thinking about the outcomes.
o Computers need a power supply to work. Without a power supply, they are
just useless.
o Working on a computer continuously for a long period can cause several
health issues.
o Wastage of computers and their parts leave a negative impact on the
environment.
o Computers are taking human jobs in many sectors. They are replacing
human work and thus increasing unemployment.
