Page 11 - ICT_for_JHS_1_Classical

Third Generation (1965-1971)
The computers of third generation used Integrated Circuits (IC's) in place of
transistors. This development made computers smaller in size, reliable and
efficient.

Fourth Generation (1971-1980)
The computers of fourth generation used Very Large Scale Integrated (VLSI)
circuits. This made computers more powerful, compact, reliable and affordable.

As a result, it gave rise to Personal Computer (PC) revolution. E.g. Desktop
computers, laptop, notebook, etc.

Fifth Generation (1980-till date)

In the fifth generation, computers use microprocessor chips and AI (Artificial
Intelligence) software.

NB: AI is an emerging branch in computer science, which interprets means
and method of making computers think like human beings. E.g. Robots, game
consoles.

Classification by Types
Analog computers
Digital computers

Hybrid computers

Analog computers

Analog computers are single purpose computers that operate data in the form of
physical quantity such as temperature, speed, voltage, weight, pressure, distance
and light. Examples of analog computers are:

Speedometer: for the measuring of speed of moving objects such as
cars, bikes, aeroplanes, etc.
Thermometer: for the measuring of temperature.
Rain Gauge: for the measuring of rainfall intensity.
Hygrometer: for the measuring of atmospheric pressure.

Others are:

Hydrometer, stenometer, manometer, voltmeter, etc.

Digital Computers