Web: History of Computing

Generation of computers powered by levers and gears.

• Pre-gen. (ie: Difference Engine)

• First Gen. (ie the Eniac)

• Second Gen. (ie the IBM 1090)

What is MACHINE language?

• A series of zeroes and ones

• Letters & numbers

What is a COMPILER?

• Translator between languages

• A device that converts electrical impulses to code

• A series of switches and levers

What is ASSEMBLY language?

• A series of zeroes and ones

• Letters & numbers

What innovation did 1st Gen computers use?

• Vacuum tubes

• Memex

• Transistors

What does a TRANSISTOR do?

• Translates computer languages

• Amplifies and switches electronic signals

• controls electricity between electrodes in a vacuum

What does a VACUUM TUBE do?

• Translates computer languages

• Amplifies and switches electronic signals

• controls electricity between electrodes in a vacuum

What is packet-switching?

• Sending bits of data across a network

• Feeding punch cards into a computer

• Regulating the flow of electricity

What is an INTEGRATED CIRCUIT?

• A transistor on a semi-conductor chip

• A system of vacuum tubes

• A translation device

Which generation was the first to have monitors and keyboards?

• Third Gen.

• Second Gen.

• Fourth Gen.