A computer is basically a programmable machine capable to perform arithmetic and logical operations automatically and sequentially. It is also known as a data processor, as it can store, process, and retrieve data as per the wish of the user.
Data processing involves the following three activities −
- Input of data
- Manipulation/processing of data
- Giving output (i.e. management of output result)
- In computer system, data is arranged orderly and systematically.
The term “computer” is derived from a Latin term “compute,” which means ‘to calculate.’ Initially, the computer system had been designed to calculate; it was intended to be a computing device. However, over a period of time, this device technically advanced; at present, it can perform a wide range of desirable works apart from data processing.
Major Functions of Computer System
Following are the core functions of a computer system −
· A computer accepts the command and/or data as input given by the user.
· A computer follows the instructions and stores the data given by the user.
· A computer processes the data as per the instructions given by the user.
· A computer gives the desirable results in the form of output.
Salient Features of Computer System
Following are the salient features of a Computer System −
· Automation − The operating system of a computer system is automatic, as no human intervention is required; simply you need to give the command and then it will do the work automatically.
· Speed − Depending upon the power of the computer, it can perform, it can take Millions of instructions per second.
· Storage − A computer system can store enormous quantity of data in different format. The storage capacity of a computer system is normally expressed in terms of Kilobytes (KB), Megabytes (MB), Gigabytes (GB), or Terabytes (TB).
· Accuracy − The accuracy of a computer system is very high.
· Versatility − A computer system is capable of performing a wide range of tasks.
· Diligence − A computer neither get tired nor lose concentration.
· Reliability − As a computer system always gives accurate result; therefore, its reliability is very high.
· Vast memory − A computer system can have a wide range of memory which can recall the desired data at any point of time.
Evolution of Computer System
The present Computer System has evolved after centuries of efforts from different intellectuals who contributed their works during different periods of time.
Abacus is (most likely) considered as the earlier counting device.
Let us now read about the innovators who contributed immensely in the development of a computer system.
John Napier
Napier was a Scottish mathematician who invented logarithms.
Further, Napier also invented a computing device, which consisted of sticks with numbers imprinted on them. Napier named sticks ‘bones,’ as they were made up of bones.
Blaise Pascal
Pascal was a French mathematician who invented a machine based on gear wheels, which helped greatly in calculation.
Charles Babbage
Babbage was an English Polymath, Mathematician, Mechanical Engineer, Philosopher, and Inventor. In 1822, he developed a machine capable to calculate the successive difference of expression and prepared a table which helped him in his calculations.
Lady Ada Lovelace
Lovelace was an English mathematician, who researched on Babbage’s work. She has given the concept that ‘computers can be programmed’. Her work helped a great deal in the advancement of computer system.
John Atanstoff
With the assistance of Berry, John Atanstoff developed the Atanstoff Berry Computer (more popular as ABC) in 1937. It marked the beginning of the development of electronic digital computer.
John Mauchly and Eckart
In 1947, John Mauchly and Eckart developed the first large scale Electronic Digital Computer. It was called the Electronic Numerical Integrator and Calculator (ENIAC).
Maurice V. Wilkes
In 1949, Wilkes (at Cambridge University) designed Electronic Delay Storage Automatic Calculator (EDSAC). It was the first computer that started its operating system on the stored program concept.
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