The Evolution of The Evolution of ComputersComputers

By: Daniel O’RourkeBy: Daniel O’Rourke

First Generation

The Vacuum Tube Age

Important Facts

(1951-1957). In 1951, Dr. John. W.

Maunchly and J. Presper Eckert Jr. introduce the first electronic digital computer—the Univac.

The Univac was actually built with Vacuum Tubes.

Between 1951-1953 IBM sold over 1,000 Computers.

Second Generation

The Transistor Age

Important Facts

(1958-1963). Computers in this generation

were built with transistors—small devices that transfer electronic signals across a resistor.

In 1959, General Electric Corporation introduced ERMA—the first technology that can read special characters, such as digitized information.

In 1962, Steve Russell & MIT create the first Computer Game ever.

Third Generation

The Integrated Circuit Age

Important Facts

(1964-1969). Manufactures began

replacing transistors with integrated circuits.

Computers with integrated circuits were much more reliable than computers with transistors.

In 1965, Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC) introduces the first Minicomputer.

In 1969, The introduction ARPANET and the beginning of the Internet.

Fourth Generation

The Microprocessor Age

Important Facts

(1970- 1990). Most significant advance was

the Intel 4004 Microprocessor—a specialized chip developed for Computer memory and logic.

The Microprocessor revolutionized the Computer Industry.

In 1981, the introduction of the IBM PC, which contained an Intel Microprocessor Chip and Microsoft’s MS-DOS operating system.

Cont’d

In 1984, Apple introduces the Macintosh Computer, with a unique, easy-to-use graphical user interface.

In 1990, Microsoft releases Windows 3.0, with an enhanced graphical user interface and the ability to run multiple application.

Fifth Generation

The Age of Connectivity

Important Facts

(1991-2005) and Beyond. Most connected generation. Advanced to Internet and

World Wide Web. In 1993, Introduction of the

Mosaic Graphical Web Browser, which led to organization of Netscape.

Cont’d

In 1995, Microsoft releases Windows 95, a major upgrade to its Windows Operating System.

In 1997, The number of Internet and World Wide Web users estimated at 50 million.

Closing Statement

The possibilities are endless where we can go with computers; I’m just glad I will get to witness new generations of the computer evolution.