Computer Technology Day 3 Operating Systems Computer Technology Day 3

Development of computers

1st Generation computers Used vacuum tubes. Vacuum tubes are electronic devices that control the flow of electrons. Had no operating systems. Used custom application programs, which were made for the specific task that the computer was to perform. Instructions were necessary for every aspect of the computing job.

2nd Generation computers Used transistors. Transistors performed functions similar to vacuum tubes, but they were smaller, cheaper, less power-hungry, and more reliable. Ran programming language compilers. Used English like commands rather than binary numbers. Made it possible to develop software.

3rd Generation computers Used integrated circuits. Minicomputers were introduced. Smaller and less powerful than 1st and 2nd generation computers, but had the ability to run multiple programs for multiple users simultaneously.

4th Generation computers Used general-purpose microprocessors. Computer systems were smaller, faster, and less expensive than 3rd generation computers.

Operating System Software Master controller for all activities that take place within a computer; primary purpose is to help the computer system monitor itself in order to function efficiently. Interacts with application software, device drivers, and hardware to manage a computer’s resources. Ensures that input and output proceed in an orderly manner.

Platform Underlying hardware and software of the computer system. Two popular platforms PC Mac

Multitasking Running more than one program at a time. Making sure that the instructions and data from one area of memory don’t interfere with memory allocated for other programs.

GUI (Graphical User Interface) A type of user interface that features on-screen objects, such as menus and icons, manipulated by a mouse. Abbreviation is pronounced “gooey”.

Definitions Program Application Software Set of detailed, step-by-step instructions that tell a computer how to solve a problem or carry out a task. Application Software Set of computer programs that help a person carry out a task.

Basic definitions Drive Folder File A location on a network that is set aside for the collection of data. Folder The subdirectory or subdivision, of a drive that can contain files or other folders. File A named collection of data that exists on a storage medium.

Resources Parsons, June Jamrich, and Dan Oja. Computer Concepts. Boston: Course Technology - Thompson Learning, 2002.