History of Computers
USB PORT
A USB port is a rectangular-shaped connector found on computers, laptops, and other electronic devices. It typically has a small, rectangular opening with four metal contacts inside, arranged in a specific pattern. These ports are used for connecting various peripherals such as keyboards, mice, external storage devices, and smartphones to the device for data transfer, charging, or communication purposes. They are often labeled with the USB symbol—a trident-like shape with a trapezoidal arrowhead—and are available in different versions, including USB-A, USB-B, USB-C, and micro-USB, each with varying shapes and sizes.
PARALLEL PORT
A parallel port is a type of port on a computer used for connecting peripherals, such as printers, scanners, and external drives. It typically has a rectangular shape with multiple pins or sockets arranged in parallel, hence the name "parallel port." These ports were commonly found on older computers but have largely been replaced by USB ports in modern systems. They were often labeled with a symbol resembling a set of parallel lines or the word "Parallel" next to the port.
VGA PORT
Appearance: Look for a trapezoid-shaped port with 15 holes arranged in three rows. It's typically blue, though sometimes black or white, depending on the device. Labeling: Often labeled "VGA" or "RGB", standing for "Video Graphics Array" or "Red Green Blue", respectively. Analog Signal: VGA ports transmit analog video signals, distinguishing them from digital ports like HDMI or DisplayPort. Commonly Found: VGA ports are commonly found on older computers, monitors, projectors, and some TVs.
Connection: VGA cables have a male connector on each end, and the port itself on the device will have a female socket for connection.
SERIAL PORT
Physical Connector: Typically a 9-pin or 25-pin connector on a computer or device. Data Transmission: Sends data sequentially, one bit at a time, over a single wire or pair of wires. Communication Standard: Uses protocols like RS-232, RS-422, or RS-485 for serial communication. Common Uses: Used for connecting peripherals such as mice, keyboards, printers, and modems to a computer. Legacy Interface: Older technology, being gradually replaced by USB and other faster interfaces. Configuration: Can be configured for various baud rates, data bits, parity, and stop bits for communication settings. Speed: Slower data transfer speeds compared to modern interfaces like USB, but still used in certain applications where compatibility or specific requirements are necessary.
RJ45 PORT
Appearance: The RJ45 port typically looks like a rectangular socket with eight metal pins arranged in a row. Size: It's slightly wider than a telephone jack and often has a plastic tab on one side. Common Usage: RJ45 ports are commonly used for Ethernet connections in networking devices such as computers, routers, switches, and modems.
Cable Compatibility: They are compatible with Ethernet cables, which have eight wires inside and often have a clip on the end to secure them in the port. Color: The port itself is usually colored black or beige, but the cable plugged into it might be a different color. Location: You can find RJ45 ports on the back or side of devices, often labeled with an "Ethernet" or "LAN" symbol.
Fifth Generation Computer
Time Period: Emerged in the mid-1980s and continues to evolve. Focus on AI: Characterized by a focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and parallel processing. Parallel Processing: Utilizes parallel processing for faster computation by performing multiple tasks simultaneously. Knowledge Base Systems: Incorporates knowledge-based systems for advanced problem-solving using extensive databases and expert systems. Natural Language Processing (NLP): Capable of understanding and processing human languages for improved human-computer interaction.
High-Level Languages: Emphasizes the use of high-level programming languages and software development tools for easier and more efficient programming.
Massive Storage and Processing Power: Features significant advancements in storage capacity and processing power, allowing for handling vast amounts of data and complex computations.
Integration of Hardware and Software: Integrates hardware and software components more seamlessly, enhancing overall system efficiency and performance. Applications in Various Fields: Finds applications in diverse fields such as healthcare, finance, robotics, and autonomous systems due to its advanced AI capabilities.
Second Generation Computer
Transistors: Second-generation computers replaced vacuum tubes with transistors, which were smaller, more reliable, and more energy-efficient. Size Reduction: With the use of transistors, computers became smaller and more compact compared to first-generation computers. Increased Reliability: Transistors were more reliable than vacuum tubes, leading to improved computer reliability and reduced maintenance requirements. Magnetic Core Memory: Second-generation computers introduced magnetic core memory, which provided faster and more reliable storage compared to earlier technologies. Assembly Language Programming: Programming languages like assembly language became more common, making programming more efficient than using machine language directly. High-Level Programming Languages: Second-generation computers saw the development and use of high-level programming languages like FORTRAN and COBOL, which made programming more accessible to non-specialists. Commercialization: Second-generation computers were more commercially available and began to be used by businesses for tasks such as payroll, inventory management, and accounting. . Advancements: Second-generation computers marked significant advancements in computing technology, laying the groundwork for further developments in subsequent generations.
Examples;- IBM 1401 IBM 7090 UNIVAC 1107
First Generation Computer
Vacuum Tubes: These computers used large, fragile glass tubes for their circuitry, acting as switches or amplifiers in the CPU. Size and Weight: They were huge, filling entire rooms and floors of buildings, requiring extensive cooling due to the heat generated by vacuum tubes. Limited Memory and Power: Despite their size, they had very limited memory and processing power, measured in kilobytes or less. Input/Output: Data input and output were done using punch cards and paper tape, with results often printed on paper.
Batch Processing: Jobs were processed in batches to maximize resource utilization. Programming Complexity: Programming was difficult and required knowledge of machine or assembly language. Reliability Issues: Vacuum tubes were prone to failure, leading to frequent breakdowns and maintenance problems. High Cost: These computers were expensive to build and maintain, mainly used by governments, large corporations, and research institutions. Limited Availability: They were not widely available due to their cost and complexity, primarily used for scientific and military purposes.
Third Generation Computer
Transistors: Third-generation computers replaced vacuum tubes with transistors, smaller and more reliable semiconductor devices. Integrated Circuits: Integrated circuits (ICs) were introduced, allowing multiple transistors and other components to be integrated onto a single silicon chip. Miniaturization: With the use of transistors and ICs, computers became much smaller, more powerful, and more reliable than previous generations. Increased Processing Power: Third-generation computers had significantly increased processing power and memory capacity compared to earlier generations. Operating Systems: The development of operating systems such as Unix and DOS facilitated easier management of computer resources and provided more user-friendly interfaces. High-level Languages: High-level programming languages like COBOL, Fortran, and BASIC became more prevalent, making programming more accessible to non-experts. Time-sharing: Time-sharing systems allowed multiple users to access a computer simultaneously, improving resource utilization and increasing productivity.
Advancements in Input/Output: Input/output devices improved, with the introduction of devices like keyboards, monitors, and printers, making interaction with computers more intuitive.
HDMI PORT (High Definition Multimedia Interface)
Shape: Look for a small rectangular port, usually wider than it is tall, with a slightly tapered bottom edge. Number of Pins: HDMI ports typically have 19 pins arranged in rows.
Location: HDMI ports are commonly found on electronic devices such as TVs, monitors, laptops, gaming consoles, and DVD/Blu-ray players. They're often located on the back or side of the device. Color: HDMI ports are usually black but can sometimes be other colors depending on the device's design.
Fourth Generation Computer
Microprocessors: Fourth-generation computers are characterized by the use of microprocessors, which integrate the CPU on a single chip. Advancements in Integrated Circuits: These computers saw significant advancements in integrated circuit technology, allowing for more powerful and compact components. Increased Processing Power: They exhibited vastly improved processing power and efficiency compared to previous generations. Graphical User Interface (GUI): GUIs became more prevalent in fourth-generation computers, enhancing user interaction and making computing more intuitive. Networking and Connectivity: Fourth-generation computers facilitated widespread networking and connectivity, enabling communication and data sharing between multiple systems. Operating Systems: They saw the development of more sophisticated operating systems like MS-DOS, UNIX, and eventually Microsoft Windows. Storage Solutions: Fourth-generation computers introduced floppy disks, hard drives, and later CD-ROMs as primary storage solutions, offering greater capacity and convenience. Software Development: Software development became more streamlined and accessible, leading to a proliferation of applications and software tools.
Personal Computers (PCs): Fourth-generation computers brought about the rise of personal computers, making computing accessible to individuals and small businesses.
History of computer & Computer Ports
Tharushi Sandaleka
Created on March 13, 2024
Start designing with a free template
Discover more than 1500 professional designs like these:
View
The Power of Roadmap
View
Simulation: How to Act Against Bullying
View
Artificial Intelligence in Corporate Environments
View
Internal Guidelines for Artificial Intelligence Use
View
Interactive Onboarding Guide
View
Word Search
View
Sorting Cards
Explore all templates
Transcript
History of Computers
USB PORT
A USB port is a rectangular-shaped connector found on computers, laptops, and other electronic devices. It typically has a small, rectangular opening with four metal contacts inside, arranged in a specific pattern. These ports are used for connecting various peripherals such as keyboards, mice, external storage devices, and smartphones to the device for data transfer, charging, or communication purposes. They are often labeled with the USB symbol—a trident-like shape with a trapezoidal arrowhead—and are available in different versions, including USB-A, USB-B, USB-C, and micro-USB, each with varying shapes and sizes.
PARALLEL PORT
A parallel port is a type of port on a computer used for connecting peripherals, such as printers, scanners, and external drives. It typically has a rectangular shape with multiple pins or sockets arranged in parallel, hence the name "parallel port." These ports were commonly found on older computers but have largely been replaced by USB ports in modern systems. They were often labeled with a symbol resembling a set of parallel lines or the word "Parallel" next to the port.
VGA PORT
Appearance: Look for a trapezoid-shaped port with 15 holes arranged in three rows. It's typically blue, though sometimes black or white, depending on the device. Labeling: Often labeled "VGA" or "RGB", standing for "Video Graphics Array" or "Red Green Blue", respectively. Analog Signal: VGA ports transmit analog video signals, distinguishing them from digital ports like HDMI or DisplayPort. Commonly Found: VGA ports are commonly found on older computers, monitors, projectors, and some TVs.
Connection: VGA cables have a male connector on each end, and the port itself on the device will have a female socket for connection.
SERIAL PORT
Physical Connector: Typically a 9-pin or 25-pin connector on a computer or device. Data Transmission: Sends data sequentially, one bit at a time, over a single wire or pair of wires. Communication Standard: Uses protocols like RS-232, RS-422, or RS-485 for serial communication. Common Uses: Used for connecting peripherals such as mice, keyboards, printers, and modems to a computer. Legacy Interface: Older technology, being gradually replaced by USB and other faster interfaces. Configuration: Can be configured for various baud rates, data bits, parity, and stop bits for communication settings. Speed: Slower data transfer speeds compared to modern interfaces like USB, but still used in certain applications where compatibility or specific requirements are necessary.
RJ45 PORT
Appearance: The RJ45 port typically looks like a rectangular socket with eight metal pins arranged in a row. Size: It's slightly wider than a telephone jack and often has a plastic tab on one side. Common Usage: RJ45 ports are commonly used for Ethernet connections in networking devices such as computers, routers, switches, and modems.
Cable Compatibility: They are compatible with Ethernet cables, which have eight wires inside and often have a clip on the end to secure them in the port. Color: The port itself is usually colored black or beige, but the cable plugged into it might be a different color. Location: You can find RJ45 ports on the back or side of devices, often labeled with an "Ethernet" or "LAN" symbol.
Fifth Generation Computer
Time Period: Emerged in the mid-1980s and continues to evolve. Focus on AI: Characterized by a focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and parallel processing. Parallel Processing: Utilizes parallel processing for faster computation by performing multiple tasks simultaneously. Knowledge Base Systems: Incorporates knowledge-based systems for advanced problem-solving using extensive databases and expert systems. Natural Language Processing (NLP): Capable of understanding and processing human languages for improved human-computer interaction.
High-Level Languages: Emphasizes the use of high-level programming languages and software development tools for easier and more efficient programming.
Massive Storage and Processing Power: Features significant advancements in storage capacity and processing power, allowing for handling vast amounts of data and complex computations. Integration of Hardware and Software: Integrates hardware and software components more seamlessly, enhancing overall system efficiency and performance. Applications in Various Fields: Finds applications in diverse fields such as healthcare, finance, robotics, and autonomous systems due to its advanced AI capabilities.
Second Generation Computer
Transistors: Second-generation computers replaced vacuum tubes with transistors, which were smaller, more reliable, and more energy-efficient. Size Reduction: With the use of transistors, computers became smaller and more compact compared to first-generation computers. Increased Reliability: Transistors were more reliable than vacuum tubes, leading to improved computer reliability and reduced maintenance requirements. Magnetic Core Memory: Second-generation computers introduced magnetic core memory, which provided faster and more reliable storage compared to earlier technologies. Assembly Language Programming: Programming languages like assembly language became more common, making programming more efficient than using machine language directly. High-Level Programming Languages: Second-generation computers saw the development and use of high-level programming languages like FORTRAN and COBOL, which made programming more accessible to non-specialists. Commercialization: Second-generation computers were more commercially available and began to be used by businesses for tasks such as payroll, inventory management, and accounting. . Advancements: Second-generation computers marked significant advancements in computing technology, laying the groundwork for further developments in subsequent generations.
Examples;- IBM 1401 IBM 7090 UNIVAC 1107
First Generation Computer
Vacuum Tubes: These computers used large, fragile glass tubes for their circuitry, acting as switches or amplifiers in the CPU. Size and Weight: They were huge, filling entire rooms and floors of buildings, requiring extensive cooling due to the heat generated by vacuum tubes. Limited Memory and Power: Despite their size, they had very limited memory and processing power, measured in kilobytes or less. Input/Output: Data input and output were done using punch cards and paper tape, with results often printed on paper. Batch Processing: Jobs were processed in batches to maximize resource utilization. Programming Complexity: Programming was difficult and required knowledge of machine or assembly language. Reliability Issues: Vacuum tubes were prone to failure, leading to frequent breakdowns and maintenance problems. High Cost: These computers were expensive to build and maintain, mainly used by governments, large corporations, and research institutions. Limited Availability: They were not widely available due to their cost and complexity, primarily used for scientific and military purposes.
Third Generation Computer
Transistors: Third-generation computers replaced vacuum tubes with transistors, smaller and more reliable semiconductor devices. Integrated Circuits: Integrated circuits (ICs) were introduced, allowing multiple transistors and other components to be integrated onto a single silicon chip. Miniaturization: With the use of transistors and ICs, computers became much smaller, more powerful, and more reliable than previous generations. Increased Processing Power: Third-generation computers had significantly increased processing power and memory capacity compared to earlier generations. Operating Systems: The development of operating systems such as Unix and DOS facilitated easier management of computer resources and provided more user-friendly interfaces. High-level Languages: High-level programming languages like COBOL, Fortran, and BASIC became more prevalent, making programming more accessible to non-experts. Time-sharing: Time-sharing systems allowed multiple users to access a computer simultaneously, improving resource utilization and increasing productivity.
Advancements in Input/Output: Input/output devices improved, with the introduction of devices like keyboards, monitors, and printers, making interaction with computers more intuitive.
HDMI PORT (High Definition Multimedia Interface)
Shape: Look for a small rectangular port, usually wider than it is tall, with a slightly tapered bottom edge. Number of Pins: HDMI ports typically have 19 pins arranged in rows.
Location: HDMI ports are commonly found on electronic devices such as TVs, monitors, laptops, gaming consoles, and DVD/Blu-ray players. They're often located on the back or side of the device. Color: HDMI ports are usually black but can sometimes be other colors depending on the device's design.
Fourth Generation Computer
Microprocessors: Fourth-generation computers are characterized by the use of microprocessors, which integrate the CPU on a single chip. Advancements in Integrated Circuits: These computers saw significant advancements in integrated circuit technology, allowing for more powerful and compact components. Increased Processing Power: They exhibited vastly improved processing power and efficiency compared to previous generations. Graphical User Interface (GUI): GUIs became more prevalent in fourth-generation computers, enhancing user interaction and making computing more intuitive. Networking and Connectivity: Fourth-generation computers facilitated widespread networking and connectivity, enabling communication and data sharing between multiple systems. Operating Systems: They saw the development of more sophisticated operating systems like MS-DOS, UNIX, and eventually Microsoft Windows. Storage Solutions: Fourth-generation computers introduced floppy disks, hard drives, and later CD-ROMs as primary storage solutions, offering greater capacity and convenience. Software Development: Software development became more streamlined and accessible, leading to a proliferation of applications and software tools.
Personal Computers (PCs): Fourth-generation computers brought about the rise of personal computers, making computing accessible to individuals and small businesses.