Computer history

THE ABACUS:The ‘first’ computer

In 1642 Blaise Pascal invented the first calculating machine.

Early in the 19th century, a French weaver, Joseph Jacquard invented a

weaving loom that could be programmed using punch cards.

Punch cards were later adapted for use with computers.

In the early 1800’s, Charles Babbage designed the first

modern computer: The Analytical Engine.

The Univac

The Univac was the first computer sold to a business. This was in 1951.

The First Generation ~ 1950’s

Computers in the 1st generation used vacuum tubes for energy, entered data with punch cards, and stored

information on magnetic tape.

The 2nd Generation ~ Late 1950’s – Early 1960’s

These computers used transistors instead of vacuum tubes.

The 3rd Generation ~

Early 1960’s – Mid 1970’s

This generation was the first to use integrated circuits. These circuits, called

“chips” are made of silicon.

The 4th Generation ~ Mid 1970’s – Present

This was the first generation to use a “microprocessor”. A microprocessor can

hold up to a million transistors!

What does the future hold?

Some believe that the 5th generation of computers will have AI. AI stands for Artificial Intelligence. This would give

computers the ability to think and reason on their own.