Peripheral devices include input devices (keyboards, mice, joystick, etc.), output devices (monitor screens, printers, etc.), and input/output devices that perform both functions (e.g., the 2000s-era touchscreen). The processing element carries out arithmetic and logical operations, and a sequencing and control unit can change the order of operations in response to stored information. The speed, power and versatility of computers have been increasing dramatically ever since then, with transistor counts increasing at a rapid pace ( Moore's law noted that counts doubled every two years), leading to the Digital Revolution during the late 20th to early 21st centuries.Ĭonventionally, a modern computer consists of at least one processing element, typically a central processing unit (CPU) in the form of a microprocessor, together with some type of computer memory, typically semiconductor memory chips. The first semiconductor transistors in the late 1940s were followed by the silicon-based MOSFET (MOS transistor) and monolithic integrated circuit chip technologies in the late 1950s, leading to the microprocessor and the microcomputer revolution in the 1970s. The first digital electronic calculating machines were developed during World War II, both electromechanical and using thermionic valves. More sophisticated electrical machines did specialized analog calculations in the early 20th century. Early in the Industrial Revolution, some mechanical devices were built to automate long, tedious tasks, such as guiding patterns for looms. Simple manual instruments like the abacus have aided people in doing calculations since ancient times. Computers power the Internet, which links billions of computers and users.Įarly computers were meant to be used only for calculations. Simple special-purpose devices like microwave ovens and remote controls are included, as are factory devices like industrial robots and computer-aided design, as well as general-purpose devices such as personal computers and mobile devices such as smartphones. The term computer system may refer to a nominally complete computer that includes the hardware, operating system, software, and peripheral equipment needed and used for full operation or to a group of computers that are linked and function together, such as a computer network or computer cluster.Ī broad range of industrial and consumer products use computers as control systems. These programs enable computers to perform a wide range of tasks. Modern digital electronic computers can perform generic sets of operations known as programs. Desktop computer (IBM ThinkCentre S50 with monitor)Ī computer is a machine that can be programmed to carry out sequences of arithmetic or logical operations ( computation) automatically.
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