Lecture 2
First Generation (1951-1959)
⦿
• Started with UNIVAC I
• Computers in this generation used vacuum
tubes
• Programs were written in binary code (0s and
1s)
• In 1952, Dr. Grace Hopper from Univ. Of
Pennsylvania developed the first program
translators
Second Generation (1959-1965) • High level
⦿
programming languages such as FORTRAN
(Formula Translator) in 1957 and COBOL (Common
Business Oriented Language) • Operating systems
and compilers were developed.
• Used transistors
• Started using magnetic tape and disk for data
storage
Third Generation (1965 – 1970) • Started
⦿
with the introduction of IBM 360 (mainframe)
• Marked the start of use of integrated circuits
which reduced the size of computers
• Significant improvements in computer
development took place
Fourth Generation (1970 – ????) • Started
⦿
with the use of large scale integration (LSI) and
development of microprocessors and
microcomputers.
• Software development vastly improved as more
high level languages were introduced.
• Notable improvements in data communications,
OS, compilers and utility programs