The Evolution of the Computer Age

The Five Generations of Computers

To Infinity and Beyond!

First Generation 1951-1957

During this generation, computers were built with vacuum tubes. These electronic tubes were made of glass and were about the size of a light bulb.

The Vacuum Tube Age

1951-1953 IBM sells over 1,000 IBM 650 systems. 1952 Dr. Grace Hopper introduces the A6 Compiler, which is the first example of software that converts high-level language symbols into instructions that a computer can execute.

Fun Facts

Second Generation 1958-1963

This generation begins with the first computers built with transistorssmall devices that transfer electronic signals across a resistor. Because transistors are much smaller, use less power, and create less heat than vacuum tubes, the new computers were faster, smaller, and more reliable than the first-generation machines were.

The Transistor Age

1959Introduction of the removable disk pack, providing users with fast access to stored data. 1963--ASCII (American Standard Code for Information Interchange) introduced which enables computers to exchange information.

Fun Facts

Third Generation 1964-1969

In 1964, computer manufacturers began replacing transistors with integrated circuits. An integrated circuit (IC) is a complete electronic circuit on a small chip made of silicon. These computers were more reliable and compact than computers made with transistors, and they cost cost less to manufacture.

The Integrated Circuit Age

1965Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC) introduces the first minicomputer. 1969Introduction of ARPANET and the beginning of the Internet.

Fun Facts

Fourth Generation 1970-1990

There are many key advancements that were made during this generation, the most significant of which was the use of the microprocessora specialized chip developed for computer memory and logic. This revolutionized the computer industry by making it possible to use a single chip to create a smaller personal computer (as well as digital watches, pocket calculators, copy machines, and so on).

The Microprocessor Age

1977Apple Computer Inc. Founded. 1981Introduction of the IBM PC, which contains an Intel microprocessor chip and Microsofts MSDOS operation system. 1990Microsoft releases Windows 3.0 with the ability to run multiple applications.

Fun Facts

Fifth Generation 1991-2000 & beyond

Our current generation has been referred to as the Connected Generation because of the industrys massive effort to increase the connectivity of computers. The rapidly expanding Internet, World Wide Web, and intranets have created an information superhighway that has enabled both computer professionals and home computer users to communicate with others across the globe.

The Age of Connectivity

1993-2000Intel and Microsoft lead the way in computer upgrades. 1997--# of Internet and WWW users estimated at 50 million. By 2004A private InternetInternet2 expected to be completed w/ higher speed, limited access, & tighter security is in the works. Expected to include advanced virtual reality interfaces called nanomanipulators.

Fun Facts

The End Clap or Ill beat you up!