Basic Fundamental
Basic Fundamental
Computer is an advanced electronic device that takes raw data as input from the user and
processes these data under the control of set of instructions (called program) and gives the result
(output) and saves output for the future use. It can process both numerical and non-numerical
(arithmetic and logical) calculations.
--- An electronic device designated to manipulate useful information
- An electronic device that stores, retrieves and processes data.
- It can’t think or reason.
- It can only carry out instructions given to it.
- A set of instructions that directs its action is called a program.
Based on Capacity Computer Systems can be divided into four major categories:
Micro Computer.
Mini Computer.
Main frame Computer.
Super Computer.
Micro Computer :
- Micro Computer (also known as personal- PCS) is microprocessor based small laptop or
desktop or note book systems.
- A microprocessor or is an integrated circuit which generally contains million at transistor
arranged onto a tiny chip of silicon.
- These ae also known as personal computers (PCs). They are small in sizes and relatively
inexpensive. They are highly flexible and designed for small scale personal use and
business application. these are based on microprocessor technology, a silicon chip
containing the important circuitry to perform operations. IBM, Dell, Sony, HP and Apple
are the manufactures of microcomputers. Nowadays they have come more advance and
powerful in technology.
- The business community uses personal computer for word processing, desktop
publication, inventory and accounting software like QuickBooks and spreadsheets. At
home users perform surfing internet and playing games.
Examples of Minicomputers
[Link] System/3
[Link] 200
[Link]-990
Mainframe Computer :
- Some of these are greater processing speed, greater storage capacity, and a large variety
of input/output devices.
- Multiprogramming and time sharing.
- Mainframe computers can store huge amount of data. They are large in size and memory,
power and expensive. These machines are capable to different operating system on the
same time and support time sharing and virtual memory. Universities, banking
institutions, stock exchanges, insurance companies are some examples of using
mainframe servers for maintaining students’ data, ATM transactions, financial
transactions, clients and employees’ records.
- The main difference between supercomputer and mainframes is that supercomputer has a
speed of calculations and mostly used for space scientific and engineering related
problems i.e. data crunching while mainframe servers are used for transaction process.
-
Example : DEC, ICL and IBM 300 Series
IBM = International Business Machine.
Modern mainframes Computers
[Link] zSeries
[Link] z9
[Link] z10 servers
Super Computer :
- A very large and very powerful mainframe computer is called a super computer.
- The Cray X-mp is an example of a super computer.
- Application to the solutions of very complex and sophisticated scientific problems.
The term “super computer” is considered the most powerful computers in performance and
processing. Supercomputers are capable to solve immense mathematical calculations, scientific
problems and hence it is called number crunchers. They are difficult to design and need
teamwork research and development.
Example: Titan, Roadrunner, Sequoia etc
Characteristics of Computer :
1. Accuracy : Computer ensure high degree of accuracy and their consistency is reliable.
2. Repetitiveness : Once a Computer is programmed. It goes on automatically performing the
task as many times as required.
Limitation:
No IQ : Computer cannot think. Computer can not do anything without human instructions.
No Feeling : Computer can not make any adjustment as human being can do.
Dependence on prepared instructions
▪ Inability to derive meanings from objects
▪ Inability to generate information
▪ It cannot correct wrong instructions
Data Processing Cycle :
- The first step of solving a problem by a computer is to develop a computer program and
then store it in memory.
- Then the computer executes the instructions in the program and then output the result.
Hardware : Hardware refers to machines or physical equipment that performs the basic
functions of the data.
Software : A Program is a sequence of instructions which direct a computer to perform certain
function. Programs are referred to as software.
Human ware : Human ware refers to the persons who design program and operate a computer.
Data : Data is turned into information.
History of Computer :
- An ancient calculating device is the abacus, a mechanical calculating device first used
around 2500 BC to add and subtract.
- A young English, mathematician named Charles Babbage of Cambridge university is the
father of modern computer.
The first electronic computers, the ABC (Atansoff Berry computer) and the ENIAC
(Electronic numerical Integrator and calculator) were built in USA in the early 1940.
- The ABC , built by atansoff and Berry
- The ENIAC built by Eckert and Manuel
- Commercial computer UNIVAC built for Bureau of census at USA was the first
commercially available computer.
Computer Generations:
SSI = Large scale Integration [Integrated chip contains only about ten to twenty
components]
LSI = Large scale integration [Contains 30000 components]
VLSI = Very large scale integration [Contains million components].
MSI = Medium scale integration [contains hundred components].
Fifth generation :
- Fifth generation of computers is yet to come.
- They will be capable of reasoning, learning, making inference and behaving in ways,
usually considered exclusive of humans.
- “Talking machines” will common place, voice recognition; the ability for a machine to
understand and obey spoken words will be developed.
- Industrial & Personal robots will roll and walk.
- Robotics Neural networks Game Playing Development of expert systems to
make decisions in real life situations. Natural language understanding and generation
th
6 Generation of computer – semiconductors
The sixth generation of computers represents the pinnacle of
computer development. In terms of size, speed, and the jobs it can
complete, it differs from previous generations of computer.
Period of invention
The 6th generation processors were invented between the periods of
late 1990s till early 2000s. The periods vary depending on the
advancement made on each processor.
Speed
There was a substantial boost in the processing capacity of 6th-
generation computers. Using advanced integrated circuits, these
computers could perform calculations and execute tasks at
significantly faster rates compared to previous generations. The
clock speeds of central processing units (CPUs) increased, up to 3.8
GHz leading to improved overall performance.
Key features
The following are the notable features of the 6th generations of
computer, and how to identify them.
Microprocessors: The introduction of microprocessors revolutionized
the 6th generation computers. These computers have a key feature
called Ultra-reliable Extremely Low Quiescence Dispatches (URLLC)
that makes data transport faster and more effective. Integrated
circuits combined multiple electronic components onto a single chip,
enabling faster processing and reduced power consumption.
Increased memory capacity: The memory capacity of computers in the
sixth generation has increased. Larger amounts of data can now be
stored and retrieved because of the increased capacity of storage
devices like solid-state drives and hard disk drives.
Semiconductors: The sixth generation of CPUs make use of
semiconductors. The latest 3D transistor technology and other
improvements that boost performance and efficiency were
incorporated into the 6th Gen Intel Core and Intel Xeon processors
from the ground up. High clock speeds, improved instruction sets,
cutting-edge semiconductor technology, and expanded multimedia
capabilities are some of its features.
Graphical User Interface (GUI): GUI became more common in computers
of the sixth generation, improving user-interface interaction. GUIs
made use of windows, menus, and icons to improve user experience
and make navigating easier.
Networking capabilities: Users were able to link their computers to local
area networks (LANs) and eventually the internet; thanks to the 6th
generation PCs’ broad use of networking. Communication, data
sharing, and access to internet resources have all been changed by
connection.
Notable examples include the IBM ThinkPad, Dell Dimension, and
Apple iMac G3.
Period of invention
The seventh generation of computers first appeared in the late
2010s and has since developed and improved. The development of
these potent computing systems has been aided by improvements
in essential technologies and the introduction of new architectures.
Size
Depending on their use and application, computers of the seventh
generation can have a wide range of sizes. They range from small,
lightweight gadgets like high-performance laptops and tablets to
bigger, more complex systems like server clusters and
supercomputers. These computers’ sizes are frequently designed to
strike a compromise between performance and usability.
Speed
The high processing speed of 7th-generation computers is well
known. They include cutting-edge multi-core processors, fast
memory, and effective data transfer technologies. They can handle
large datasets and intricate calculations in real time because to these
technologies. These computers process billions or even trillions of
calculations per second, or gigaflops or teraflops, respectively.
Key features
Advanced processors: 7th generation computers use potent processors
built on cutting-edge architectures, like multi-core CPUs and GPUs
(Graphics Processing Units). These processors are capable of parallel
processing, which enables them to carry out several tasks at once
and boost system performance.
Large amounts of high-speed memory, such as DDR3L or DDR4 RAM
(Random Access Memory), are present in these systems. These
memory units allow for rapid data retrieval and manipulation. For
effective data access, they may also include quick solid-state drives
(SSDs) or incredibly quick NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express)
storage.
Connectivity: To enable smooth data transfer and networking, 7th
generation PCs come with cutting-edge connectivity choices. They
often support wireless technologies like Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E in
addition to high-speed wired connections like Ethernet and
Thunderbolt, enabling quick and dependable communication
between devices.
Cutting-edge graphics: Thanks to dedicated GPUs or integrated graphics
processors, these PCs frequently have cutting-edge graphics
capabilities. Because of this, they can easily perform graphically
demanding jobs like gaming, multimedia editing, and virtual reality
applications.
Examples of computers
High-end desktop workstations, gaming PCs, supercomputers, server
clusters, and even some mobile devices like potent laptops or tablets
are some examples. The Dell Precision line, HP Z Workstations, Apple
iMac Pro, and NVIDIA DGX computers are a few famous examples.
Invention
The 8th generation processor emerged in August 2017 and
continues to evolve and expand as technology progresses. The exact
years of the invention can vary depending on specific advancements
and breakthroughs within the generation.
Speed
The remarkable processing speed of computers from the
8th generation microprocessors is one of their defining
characteristics. These computers use cutting-edge processors that
give blazingly fast processing performance by employing multi-core
designs and high clock speeds.
They can be used for gaming, entertainment, or general-purpose
computing wherever your life takes you—beginning from the jaw-
dropping performance of the 8th-line Intel Core i7-8700K processor
with six cores to the practical capabilities of the 8th Generation Intel
Core i3-8100 processor.
No matter your desire as a performance-hungry professional, an
extraordinary enthusiast, or a user, there’s a processor designed for
you.
Size
The 8th Generation Intel Core CPU family includes a variety of
processors designed for desktop PCs and mobiles. From high-
performance gaming towers to slick, attractive, and thin models,
depending on your preference for form factor.
The 8th generation of computers shows a tendency toward shrinking
and compactness in terms of size. Due to improvements in
semiconductor technology and the creation of smaller, more
effective components, they are substantially smaller than previous
generations. From desktop-sized systems to mobile gadgets and
even wearable computing devices, the 8th generation of computers
is found.
Microprocessors
This generation of processors includes up to six cores for increased
processing power. Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 to raise the
maximum turbo frequency up to 4.7 GHz, and up to 12 MB of cache
memory.
Practical applications
The 8th generation computers find applications in various domains,
including:
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: The advanced AI integration in
8th generation computers facilitates breakthroughs in natural
language processing, image recognition, autonomous vehicles,
personalized recommendations, and healthcare diagnostics.
Scientific Research and Simulations: High-performance computing systems
of the 8th generation are instrumental in solving complex scientific
problems, simulating weather patterns, optimizing energy
production, predicting drug interactions, and analyzing vast datasets.
Virtual and Augmented Reality: The computational power and high-
resolution graphics of 8th generation computers enhance immersive
experiences in VR gaming, architectural visualization, virtual training
simulations, and medical procedures.
Data analysis and big data: 8th generation computers’ processing power
and storage capabilities allow for real-time data analysis, predictive
analytics, and massively parallel processing of data in industries
including banking, marketing, logistics, and cybersecurity.
Personal Productivity and Entertainment: Users can take advantage of the
faster processing speeds and enhanced functionality of 8th
generation computers for online gaming, video editing, 3D modeling,
high-quality multimedia streaming, and seamless multitasking.
With eight cores and sixteen threads, the Intel Core i9-9900K quickly
rose to the top of the list for high-end gaming and business
workstations. The performance of the 9th generation processors
significantly improved, particularly for activities requiring high
processing power.
Invention
In 2018/ 2019, Intel’s 9th generation of CPUs was made available to
the public. Coffee Lake CPUs surpass the four cores per CPU ceiling.
Up to 8 cores per CPU can now be supported by the latest CPUs.
Speed
The performance of desktop PCs is significantly improved with the
9th Gen Intel Core chip. The new Core i9-9900K is at the top of the
stack. The Core i9-9900K boosts its maximum turbo frequency to a
blistering 5.0 GHz made possible by Intel Turbo Boost 2.0
technology.
Examples of computers
Supercomputers: Systems with the power of 9th generation technology,
such IBM’s Summit and Fujitsu’s Fugaku, are utilized for a variety of
scientific research, climate modeling, and sophisticated simulations.
High-End Workstations:
Workstations with modern processors, lots of
RAM, and potent GPUs are the best examples of what 9th generation
computers are capable of. Systems from companies like Dell, HP,
and Lenovo are a few examples.
Gaming PCs: Gaming computers built with 9th generation components
offer exceptional performance and graphics capabilities, enabling
gamers to experience immersive gameplay and run resource-
intensive games smoothly.
Practical applications
Healthcare: 9th generation computers find applications in medical
research, genomics, and drug discovery. They enable rapid analysis
of massive genomic datasets, simulation of drug interactions, and
development of personalized medicine.
Autonomous Vehicles: The advanced processing power and AI
capabilities of 9th generation computers support autonomous
driving systems. Real-time sensor data processing by these
computers enables vehicles to recognize their environment, make
choices, and travel safely.
Financial Modeling: Financial institutions use 9th generation computers
for complicated financial modeling, high-frequency trading, and risk
analysis. These computers’ processing speed and power enable real-
time analysis of enormous volumes of financial data.
Weather Forecasting: Meteorological organizations leverage 9th
generation computers to run sophisticated weather models,
enabling accurate and timely weather predictions. This is essential
for the agriculture, aviation, and disaster preparedness industries.
Performance metrics:
Benchmark tests demonstrated significant performance gains over
previous generations. The processors excelled in tasks such as:
Practical applications:
Gaming
The 10th-generation processors found applications in gaming
laptops and desktops. For instance, a gaming enthusiast using an
Intel Core i7-10700K processor experienced smooth gameplay at
high settings in graphically demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077
and Battlefield V.
Content creation
A video editor utilizing an Intel Core i9-10900K saw a significant
reduction in rendering times when editing 4K footage in Adobe
Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve.
Data science
In data-intensive tasks like training machine learning models, the
high core count and hyper-threading capabilities of Intel’s 10th gen
processors expedited the process. For instance, training an image
recognition model on a Core i7-10700H laptop was notably faster
compared to previous-generation chips.
Business and productivity
In the corporate environment, employees benefited from enhanced
productivity with smoother multitasking capabilities. For example, an
analyst running complex financial models on an Intel Core i5-10600
experienced reduced processing times, enabling quicker decision-
making.
Willow cove architecture: the 11th gen processors feature the willow
cove architecture, which brings improvements to instruction
execution, cache hierarchy, and performance per clock cycle. This
enables better single-threaded performance and multitasking
capabilities.
Xe Graphics: The integrated Intel Xe Graphics is a noteworthy
improvement that significantly improves graphical performance.
Both content producers and gamers will benefit from the hardware-
accelerated video decoding and encoding capabilities of the Xe
Graphics architecture.
AI Integration: Intel introduced the Intel DL Boost technology, which
includes new instructions for deep learning workloads. This enables
faster AI inference and supports applications in image and speech
recognition, natural language processing, and more.
Thunderbolt 4: Intel’s 11th gen processors natively support
Thunderbolt 4, offering blazing-fast data transfer speeds and
versatile connectivity options for external devices like monitors,
storage, and peripherals.
Wi-Fi 6 and Intel Evo Platform: The processors support Wi-Fi 6, ensuring
faster and more reliable wireless connections. Additionally, Intel Evo
certification guarantees a superior computing experience with
features like instant wake, fast charging, and extended battery life
for laptops.
Practical applications:
Control
Unit
• Solid lines are used to indicate the flow of instruction & data.
• The dotted lines represent the control exercised by the control unit.
Input Unit :
- It accepts (or reads) the list of instructions and data from the outside word.
- It converts these instructions and data in computer acceptable form.
- It supplies for further processing.
Output Unit :
- It accepts the results produced by the computer which are in coded form and hence can’t
be easily understood by us.
- It converts these coded results to human acceptable (readable) form.
- It supplies the converted results to the outside work.
Storage Unit :
- All data to be processed and instructions required for processing (received from input
device).
- Intermediate results of processing.
- Final results of processing before these results are released to an output device.
Arithmetic logic Unit (ALU) :
- The arithmetic logic Unit or ALU is the data Processing Unit of microprocessor.
- Functions of ALU:
Arithmetic operation (addition, Subtraction, multiplication and division).
Logical operations (OR,AND, NOT).
Decision making.
- ALU is the computers calculator.
Control Unit :
- Determines the instructions to be executed .
- Determines the operation to be performed.
- Determines what data are needed and where they are stored.
- Determines where results its necessary data are to be stored.