Introduction to Fourth Generation Computers
The fourth generation of computers, spanning from 1971 to 1989, marked a transformative era in computing with the advent of microprocessors and very large-scale integration (VLSI) technology. These advancements led to the development of personal computers (PCs), making computing accessible to individuals and sparking the "computer revolution." Microprocessors, compact and powerful integrated circuits, enabled smaller, more affordable, and efficient systems, fundamentally changing industries, homes, and society. This chapter explores the characteristics, history, inventions, key inventors, notable machines, advantages, disadvantages, and lasting impact of fourth-generation computers.
Characteristics of Fourth Generation Computers
Fourth-generation computers were defined by their use of microprocessors and VLSI technology, offering significant improvements over previous generations.
- Microprocessor Technology: Utilized VLSI chips containing thousands of electronic components.
- Compact Size: Significantly smaller, fitting on desktops or even laps.
- Affordability: Much less expensive, accessible to individuals and small businesses.
- Portability: More portable than earlier systems, enabling home and mobile use.
- Power and Reliability: Faster processing with greater reliability compared to previous generations.
- Low Power Consumption: Required less energy, eliminating the need for extensive cooling.
- User-Friendly Interfaces: Introduced graphical user interfaces (GUIs) and computer mice.
- High-Level Languages: Supported languages like BASIC, C, and others for diverse applications.
- Commercial Production: Mass-produced for widespread consumer and industrial use.
History of Fourth Generation Computers
The fourth generation began in 1971 with the development of the microprocessor, catalyzing the rise of personal computing. Key milestones include:
- 1971: Intel introduced the 4004 microprocessor, the first "computer on a chip."
- 1975: The Altair 8800, the first personal computer, was released by MITS, running Microsoft’s Altair BASIC.
- 1976: Steve Wozniak and Steve Jobs founded Apple, launching the Apple I, followed by the successful Apple II in 1977.
- 1980: Apple released the Apple III, which faced challenges due to overheating issues.
- 1981: IBM introduced the IBM PC, standardizing personal computing with an open architecture.
- 1984: Apple launched the Macintosh, popularizing GUIs and desktop publishing.
This era, often called the "software generation," saw the proliferation of diverse software, games, and applications, cementing computers as essential tools.
Size of Fourth Generation Computers
Fourth-generation computers were dramatically smaller than their predecessors due to VLSI and ultra large-scale integration (ULSI) technologies. These allowed millions of components to be integrated into a single chip, reducing computer size from room-filling mainframes to desktop and portable systems. The Intel 4004 microprocessor, for example, consolidated CPU, memory, and I/O controls onto a tiny chip, enhancing power, efficiency, and reliability while lowering costs.
Inventions of Fourth Generation Computers
The microprocessor and VLSI technology were pivotal inventions, transforming computing:
- Microprocessor: A single chip integrating CPU functions, introduced by Intel’s 4004 in 1971.
- VLSI/ULSI Technology: Enabled thousands to millions of components on a chip, enhancing performance and reducing size.
- Graphical User Interface (GUI): Popularized by the Macintosh, making computers more intuitive.
- Floppy Disk Drive: Developed by Steve Wozniak for the Apple II, improving data storage.
- Personal Computer: Systems like the Altair 8800 and Apple II brought computing to homes.
These innovations laid the foundation for modern computing devices.
Inventors of Fourth Generation Computers
- Ted Hoff (b. 1937): Invented the Intel 4004 microprocessor in 1971, the first single-chip CPU.
- Steve Wozniak (b. 1950): Co-founder of Apple, designed the Apple I and Apple II, pivotal personal computers.
- Steve Jobs (1955–2011): Co-founder of Apple, instrumental in marketing the Apple II and launching the Macintosh, shaping the computer revolution.
- Bill Gates (b. 1955): Co-founder of Microsoft, developed Altair BASIC and Microsoft Windows, dominating PC software.
- Paul Allen (1953–2018): Co-founder of Microsoft, collaborated with Gates on early software development.
- Ed Roberts (1941–2010): Designed the Altair 8800, the first personal computer, at MITS.
Featured Fourth Generation Computers
- Altair 8800 (1975): The first personal computer, using an Intel 8080 CPU. It ran Altair BASIC by Microsoft, influencing the PC market.
- Apple I (1976): Designed by Steve Wozniak, a single-board computer sold by Apple, marking their entry into computing.
- Apple II (1977): A highly successful home computer with color graphics and floppy disk support, selling about 5 million units.
- IBM PC (1981): Standardized personal computing with an open architecture, becoming the progenitor of PC-compatible systems.
- Macintosh (1984): Introduced a GUI and mouse, revolutionizing user interaction despite initial commercial challenges.
- Apple III (1980): An unsuccessful model due to overheating issues, highlighting design challenges.
Advantages of Fourth Generation Computers
- Significantly smaller size, enabling desktop and home use.
- Faster computation, outperforming previous generations.
- Negligible heat generation, reducing maintenance needs.
- Supported high-level languages like BASIC and C, enhancing versatility.
- More affordable, democratizing access to computing.
- Introduced user-friendly GUIs and input devices like mice and keyboards.
- High reliability and low power consumption.
Disadvantages of Fourth Generation Computers
- Complex microprocessor design and fabrication processes.
- Occasional need for air conditioning due to IC heat in some systems.
- Required advanced technology for IC production, increasing initial development costs.
Impact and Legacy of Fourth Generation Computers
Fourth-generation computers ignited the personal computer revolution, making computing accessible to individuals and transforming society. The Altair 8800 and Apple II established the home computing market, while the IBM PC set standards for compatibility. Microsoft’s software, particularly Windows, dominated the PC ecosystem. Apple’s Macintosh introduced GUIs, influencing modern operating systems. Microprocessors and VLSI technology became the backbone of all electronic devices, from PCs to smartphones. This era’s innovations in software and hardware laid the foundation for the digital age, enabling advancements in communication, entertainment, and industry.
Questions
Note: The provided content did not include explicit questions for this unit. The following questions are derived from the context to align with the format of previous chapters.
- What are fourth generation computers?
- What are the characteristics of fourth generation computers?
- What are the advantages of fourth generation computers?
- What are the disadvantages of fourth generation computers?
- Who were the key inventors of fourth generation computers?
- What are some notable fourth generation computers?
- How did fourth generation computers impact the development of modern computing?
- What role did microprocessors play in fourth generation computers?
- What advancements in software and interfaces were introduced in fourth generation computers?