Generations of Computers
Delhi Police Exam
1. What Does "Generation of Computers" Mean?
The term computer generation refers to the evolution of computers based on their technology, components, processing speed, size, and language used. Each generation marks a major improvement in hardware and software.
Five Major Generations
Technology Evolution
Hardware & Software Improvements
Vacuum Tubes to AI
There are five generations of computers — from vacuum tubes to artificial intelligence.
2. Generations Explained
First Generation (1940–1956) – Vacuum Tubes
Technology Used: Vacuum tubes
Programming Language: Machine language (binary – 0s & 1s)
Memory Device: Magnetic drums
Speed: Slow
Size: Very large (room-sized)
Input/Output: Punch cards
Examples:
ENIAC
UNIVAC
EDVAC
IBM 701
Disadvantages: Produced heat, high electricity consumption, short lifespan
Second Generation (1956–1963) – Transistors
Technology Used: Transistors replaced vacuum tubes
Programming Language: Assembly language
Memory Device: Magnetic cores and tapes
Speed: Faster and more reliable
Size: Smaller
Examples:
IBM 1401
IBM 7090
CDC 1604
Advantage: Less heat, smaller size, more efficiency
Third Generation (1964–1971) – Integrated Circuits (ICs)
Technology Used: Integrated Circuits (IC chips)
Programming Language: FORTRAN, COBOL, BASIC
Speed: Faster and more reliable
Size: Smaller than earlier generations
Features: Multiprogramming introduced
Examples:
IBM 360
ICL 1900
PDP-11
Fourth Generation (1971–1985) – Microprocessors
Technology Used: Microprocessors (single chip containing CPU)
Programming Language: C, C++, Pascal
Speed: Very high
Size: Compact and portable
Features: GUI, keyboards, and monitors introduced
Examples:
IBM PC
Apple Macintosh
Fifth Generation (1985–Present) – Artificial Intelligence
Technology Used: AI, Machine Learning, Robotics, Quantum Computing
Programming Language: Python, R, Prolog
Speed: Extremely fast and efficient
Size: Ultra-compact
Features: Voice recognition, self-learning, automation
Examples:
AI Robots
PARAM
Quantum Computers
3. Comparison Chart
| Generation | Technology Used | Speed | Language | Examples | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | Vacuum Tubes | Slow | Machine | ENIAC, UNIVAC | 1940–1956 |
| 2nd | Transistors | Faster | Assembly | IBM 1401 | 1956–1963 |
| 3rd | Integrated Circuits | High | FORTRAN, COBOL | IBM 360 | 1964–1971 |
| 4th | Microprocessors | Very High | C, C++ | IBM PC, Apple | 1971–1985 |
| 5th | AI, Robotics | Ultra High | Python, Prolog | PARAM, AI Systems | 1985–Present |
4. Important Exam Tips
Key Technology → Generation Mapping:
Vacuum Tube → First Generation
Transistor → Second Generation
Integrated Circuit → Third Generation
Microprocessor → Fourth Generation
Artificial Intelligence → Fifth Generation
Shortcut Trick:
Very Talented Indian Made AI
V – Vacuum (1st Gen)
T – Transistor (2nd Gen)
I – IC (3rd Gen)
M – Microprocessor (4th Gen)
A – AI (5th Gen)
5. Quick Recap
Vacuum Tubes
ENIAC
Transistors
IBM 1401
ICs
IBM 360
Microprocessors
IBM PC
AI
PARAM
You've completed Generations of Computers!
Courage Tip: Remember the shortcut "Very Talented Indian Made AI" for quick recall. Focus on technology transitions and key examples for Delhi Police exam success.
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