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DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE

SECTION: BCS-1B

ASSIGNMENT – 1 (Introduction To ICT)

➢ PREPARED BY:
• FAHAD HASSAN
• FA22-BCS-078

➢ SUBMITTED TO:
• MAAM FAIZA QAZI

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Table of Contents
QUESTION: 1(a) ..................................................................................................................................................... 4
Computers on the Basis of Size and Capacity ....................................................................................................... 5
1. Supercomputer ............................................................................................................................................. 5
2. Mainframe Computer ................................................................................................................................... 6
3. Minicomputer ............................................................................................................................................... 7
4. Micro Computer............................................................................................................................................ 8
Computers on the Basis Purpose .......................................................................................................................... 9
1. General Purpose ........................................................................................................................................... 9
2. Special Purpose ............................................................................................................................................. 9
Computers based on Hardware Design and Data Handling. .............................................................................. 10

1. Analog Computer ........................................................................................................................................ 10

2. Digital Computer ......................................................................................................................................... 11
3. Hybrid Computer ........................................................................................................................................ 12
QUESTION #1(b) .................................................................................................................................................. 13
Classification of generations of computers ........................................................................................................ 13

First Generation of Computers ....................................................................................................................... 13

Second Generation of Computers .................................................................................................................. 14
The main characteristics of second generation of computers (1950s-1960s) ........................... 14

• ...................................................................................................................................................................... 14
Third Generation of Computers ...................................................................................................................... 15
The main characteristics of third generation of computers (1960s-1970s) ................................ 15
Fourth Generation of Computers ................................................................................................................... 16

The main characteristics of fourth generation of computers (1970s-present) .......................... 16

Fifth Generation of Computers ....................................................................................................................... 17
The main characteristics of fifth generation of computers (the present and the future)........ 17
Reference: ........................................................................................................................................................... 18

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Table of Figures
Figure 1: Classification of Computers ................................................................................................................... 4
Figure 2: Supercomputers..................................................................................................................................... 5
Figure 3: Mainframe computers ........................................................................................................................... 6
Figure 4: Microcomputers .................................................................................................................................... 7
Figure 5: Types of Microcomputers ...................................................................................................................... 8
Figure 6: Analog Computers ............................................................................................................................... 11
Figure 7: Digital Computer .................................................................................................................................. 12
Figure 8: Vacuum Tube ....................................................................................................................................... 14
Figure 9: IBM 701 ................................................................................................................................................ 14
Figure 10: Transistor ........................................................................................................................................... 15
Figure 11: UNIVAC 1107...................................................................................................................................... 15
Figure 12: ICs....................................................................................................................................................... 15
Figure 13: minicomputers ................................................................................................................................... 16
Figure 14: Printer ................................................................................................................................................ 16
Figure 15: VLSI..................................................................................................................................................... 16
Figure 16: RAM ................................................................................................................................................... 17
Figure 17: ULSI .................................................................................................................................................... 17

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ASSIGNMENT #1
CLASS: BCS-1B SUBJECT: Introduction to ICT

INSRUCTOR: FAIZA QAZI

QUESTION: 1(a)
• Classify the computer according to their size and computing power?

ANSWER:

According to size and computing power compute are classified onto three categories:

Classifications of Computers System: -

1) Based on Size and Capacity, [Supercomputer, Mainframe, Mini, and Micro Computer].
2) Based on Purposes, [General and Special Purpose].
3) Based on Hardware Design and Type [Analog, Digital, and Hybrid Computer].

Figure 1: Classification of Computers

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Computers on the Basis of Size and Capacity

1. Supercomputer
A Supercomputer is the very fastest and powerful, and expensive type of computer for
processing data. Supercomputers’ size and storage capacity are also huge (can occupy huge
premises) designed to process vast amounts of data in a short time with high productivity.

These are specially made to perform multi-specific tasks. Therefore, many CPUs work in parallel
order on these supercomputers. This function of a Supercomputer is called Multiprocessing or
Parallel Processing.

Figure 2: Supercomputers

Applications: The uses of supercomputers are dedicated to –

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In research and study of energy and nuclear weapons and designing the aircraft, airplanes,
and flight simulators.

Climate research and Weather Forecasting and Prediction of Natural Disasters.

Spaceship and Satellite Launching.

Used in scientific research laboratories.

Used in Chemical and Biological research and for highly calculation complex tasks.

Examples: IBM Roadburner, IBM Blue Gene, Intel ASI Red. PARAM-1000, and CRAY-XMP-14.

2. Mainframe Computer
Mainframe computers are multi-programming, high-performance computers, and multi-
user, which means they can handle the workload of more than 100 users at a time on the
computer.

The storage capacity of the mainframe is enormous, with a high-speed data process as well.
As well as handling hundreds of input and output devices at a time.

The mainframe is a highly efficient computer capable of simultaneously solving complex

calculations and continuously for a long time. These computers have several microprocessors
that have the ability to function the data at too high performance and speed.

Figure 3: Mainframe computers

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Applications: Uses of Mainframe Computer –

Mainframe computers are mainly used by departmental and commercial organizations like Banks,
Companies, Scientific research centers, and governmental departments like railways. These computers can
work for 24 hours. Hundreds of users can work on these computations simultaneously.

Using the mainframe completes the tasks, Such as keeping details of payments, research centres, advertising,
sending bills and notices, paying employees, ticket booking, maintaining details of purchases by users,
keeping detailed tax details, etc.

Examples: IBM Es000 series, ICL39 Series, and CDC 6600

3. Minicomputer
Minicomputer is a digital and multi-user computer system with the connection of more than
one CPU. Thus, many people can work on these computers simultaneously instead of a
single person. Also, it can process with other accessories like a printer, plotter, etc.

Minicomputers are the medium type of computers that have more functionality power and
are expensive than microcomputers. On the other hand, the size, storage, and speed of
minicomputers are large but less than the mainframe and supercomputers.

Figure 4: Microcomputers

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Examples: PDP 11 and IBM (8000 Series).

4. Micro Computer
Today we are using many computers at home is also the most common microcomputer. With
this invention of the microprocessors in the year 1970, it became possible to use computers for
people personally at a low cost and reasonable price known as Digital Personal Computer.

The design of microcomputers is minimal in size and storage capacity. These computers consist
of many parts like Input and Output devices, Software, operating systems, networks, and
Servers all these need to connect to form a complete Personal Digital Computer.

There is not only a PC or laptop are examples of microcomputers. Other examples of the
microcomputer are smartphone, Tablet, Palmtap.

Figure 5: Types of Microcomputers

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Examples: Desktops, tablets, smartphones, and Laptops.

Computers on the Basis Purpose

1. General Purpose
General computers can do various everyday tasks such as writing a word processing letter,
Document preparation, recording, financial analysis, Printing documents, creating databases,
and calculations with accuracy and consistency.

The size, storage capacity, and cost of such computers are mainly less. The ability of these
computers is limited in performing specialized tasks. Still, it has versatility and useful for serving
people’s basic needs at home or in the workplace in the environment.

Examples:

Desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets are used on daily basis for general purposes.

2. Special Purpose
These computers are designed to perform a particular or specialized task. The size, storage
capacity, and cost of such computers mainly depend on the nature and size of the work.

The function of these computers is consistent with any particular task.

The special computer needs specific and input and devices as well as a compatible
motherboard with the processor to conduct work efficiently.

These computers are used for special purposes in weather forecasting, space research,
agriculture, engineering, meteorology, satellite operation, traffic control, and research in
chemical sciences.

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Examples:

Automatic teller machines (ATM),

Washing machines,

Surveillance equipment,

Weather-forecasting simulators,

Traffic-control computers,

Defense-oriented applications,

Oil-exploration systems,

Military planes controlling computers.

Computers based on Hardware Design and Data

Handling.
1. Analog Computer
An analog computer performs tasks using continuous data (the physical amount that changes
continuously). Analog computers are used primarily to measure physical units like the voltage,
pressure, electric current, temperature, and convert them into digits.

It is also used to measure and perform arithmetic calculations of numbers, the length of an
object, or the amount of voltage that passes through a point in an electrical circuit. Analog
computers obtain all their data from some measurement way.

Analog computers are mainly used in the fields of science and engineering. Analog computers
are slow and equipped to measure things rather than countable or check.

Examples:

An analog computer installed on a petrol pump measures the amount of petrol coming out of
the pump and appears in liters. And calculates its value. These quantities vary continuously
while measuring the amount, such as the temperature of a human body changes consistently.

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A simple clock, the vehicle’s speedometer, Voltmeter, etc.

Figure 6: Analog Computers

2. Digital Computer
As its name suggests, a digital computer represents the digital computer’s letters, numerical
values, or any other special symbols. This computer is the computer that calculates the number
for processing the data.

They run on electronic signs, and the binary numeral method Binary System 0 or 1 is used for
calculation. Their speed is fast.

It can perform arithmetic operations such as addition, occurrence, subtraction, multiplication,

or division and all types of logical(mathematical) operations. Today, most of the computers
available in the market are digital computers.

The desktop or Laptop at our home is one the common and best example of a digital computer.

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Figure 7: Digital Computer

Other Examples of Digital Computers

• Personal Desktop Computers,

• Calculators,
• Laptops, Smartphones, and Tablets,
• Chromebooks,
• Digital watch,
• Accounting machines,
• Workstations,
• Digital clock, etc.

3. Hybrid Computer
A hybrid computer is a combined complex computer unit built using both analog and digital
properties and united by a single control system. The purpose of designing hybrid computers is
to provide functions and features that can be found on both analog and digital devices.

The aim behind creating a hybrid computer is to create a kind of work unit that offers the best
of both types of computers. Hybrid computers are extremely fast when driving equations, even
when those calculations are incredibly complex.

Examples:

Auto Gasoline pump is the example of a hybrid computer, this device is installed on a petrol
pump do not only to measure the amount of petrol but also to calculates its value, in this way It
is capable of both functions i.e hybrid function.

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QUESTION #1(b)
• Describe computer generation elaborating the technology used in each generation.

ANSWER:

Classification of generations of computers

The evolution of computer technology is often divided into five generations.

Five Generations of Computers

Generations of computers Generations timeline Evolving hardware

First generation 1940s-1950s Vacuum tube based

Second generation 1950s-1960s Transistor based

Third generation 1960s-1970s Integrated circuit based

Fourth generation 1970s-present Microprocessor based

Fifth generation The present and the future Artificial intelligence based

First Generation of Computers

The main characteristics of first generation of computers (1940s-1950s)

• Main electronic component – vacuum tube

• Main memory – magnetic drums and magnetic tapes

• Programming language – machine language

• Power – consume a lot of electricity and generate a lot of heat.

• Speed and size – very slow and very large in size (often taking up entire room).

• Input/output devices – punched cards and paper tape.

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• Examples – ENIAC, UNIVAC1, IBM 650, IBM 701, etc.

• Quantity – there were about 100 different vacuum tube computers produced between 1942
and1963.

Figure 8: Vacuum Tube

Figure 9: IBM 701

Second Generation of Computers

The main characteristics of second generation of computers (1950s-1960s)

Main electronic component – transistor

• Memory – magnetic core and magnetic tape / disk
• Programming language – assembly language
• Power and size – low power consumption, generated less heat, and smaller in size (in
comparison with the first generation computers).
• Speed – improvement of speed and reliability (in comparison with the first generation
computers).
• Input/output devices – punched cards and magnetic tape.
• Examples – IBM 1401, IBM 7090 and 7094, UNIVAC 1107, etc.

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Figure 10: Transistor

Figure 11: UNIVAC 1107

Third Generation of Computers

The main characteristics of third generation of computers (1960s-1970s)

• Main electronic component – integrated circuits (ICs)

• Memory – large magnetic core, magnetic tape / disk
• Programming language – high level language (FORTRAN, BASIC, Pascal, COBOL, C,
etc.)
• Size – smaller, cheaper, and more efficient than second generation computers (they were
called minicomputers).
• Speed – improvement of speed and reliability (in comparison with the second generation
computers).
• Input / output devices – magnetic tape, keyboard, monitor, printer, etc.
• Examples – IBM 360, IBM 370, PDP-11, UNIVAC 1108, etc.

Figure 12: ICs

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Figure 13: minicomputers

Figure 14: Printer

Fourth Generation of Computers

The main characteristics of fourth generation of computers (1970s-present)

• Main electronic component – very large-scale integration (VLSI) and microprocessor.

• VLSI– thousands of transistors on a single microchip.
• Memory – semiconductor memory (such as RAM, ROM, etc.)
o RAM (random-access memory) – a type of data storage (memory element) used
in computers that temporary stores of programs and data (volatile: its contents are
lost when the computer is turned off).
o ROM (read-only memory) – a type of data storage used in computers that
permanently stores data and programs (non-volatile: its contents are retained even
when the computer is turned off).
• Programming language – high level language (Python, C#, Java, JavaScript, Rust, Kotlin,
etc.).

Figure 15: VLSI

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Figure 16: RAM

Examples – IBM PC, STAR 1000, APPLE II, Apple Macintosh, etc.

Fifth Generation of Computers

The main characteristics of fifth generation of computers (the present and the
future)

• Main electronic component: based on artificial intelligence, uses the Ultra Large-Scale
Integration (ULSI) technology and parallel processing method.
o ULSI – millions of transistors on a single microchip
o Parallel processing method – use two or more microprocessors to run tasks
simultaneously.
• Language – understand natural language (human language).
• Power – consume less power and generate less heat.
• Speed – remarkable improvement of speed, accuracy and reliability (in comparison with
the fourth generation computers).
• Size – portable and small in size, and have a huge storage capacity.
• Example – desktops, laptops, tablets, smartphones, etc.

Figure 17: ULSI

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Reference:

• https://opentextbc.ca/computerstudies/chapter/classification-of-generations-of-computers/
• https://digitalworld839.com/

________________________________________________________________________________

FAHAD HASSAN
FA22-BCS-078

07 October 2022