Unit 1: Introduction to Computer Systems
31
• Computer memory operates at speeds of nano seconds (billionths of a
second) with large computers capable of adding 15 million numbers per
second.
E
Fifth generation
The fifth generation computer development is still in progress. An architecture, which makes
use of the changes in technology and allows a simple and natural
methodology for solving
problems, is being sought. These computers will have intelligent processors i.e., processors
which can draw inferences. Users will also be able to interact with them in natural languages
such as in plain English or a particular language of choice.
Activity
Conclusion
The task of entering and altering programs for the ENIAC was extremely tedious. The
limitations of early days computers were successfully addressed through the Von Neumann
architecture which you will learn in the next unit. Computers evolution is grouped into four
generations with each generation characterised by the dominant
electronic component used,
the type of programming language as well as the type of operating systems used.
Assessment: Reflective Activities
a. What was the type of electronic component used in the second generation of
computers?
b. What type of operating system was used in the first generation of computers?
c. The type of operating system used in the third generation
was a time sharing
one, what does time sharing mean?
Answers
a. Vacuum tube
b. There was no notion of operating system then,
it was programmer who also
assumes the role of operating system by connecting or disconnecting wires
c. Time sharing operating systems are systems that enables program share the
computer resources including the CPU based on a scheduled time.
