Computer Element &

Generation

Ahmad Raza
Visiting Lecturer
ahmadraza@[Link]
 Computer Elements or Components
Computer elements, or components, include both the physical
hardware (like the CPU, motherboard, memory, and storage) and the
non-physical software (such as operating systems and applications),
along with data, people who use the system, and the procedures or
instructions for its use and maintenance. Modern computers also have
a system interconnection or bus to connect these core components:
the processor (CPU), memory, and input/output (I/O) devices.
 Input Unit
The input unit consists of input devices that are attached to the
computer. These devices take input and convert it into binary language
that the computer understands. Some of the common input devices
are keyboard, mouse, joystick, scanner etc.
The Input Unit is formed by attaching one or more input devices to a
computer.
A user input data and instructions through input devices such as a
keyboard, mouse, etc.
The input unit is used to provide data to the processor for further
processing.
 Central Processing Unit
The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the brain of the computer because
it controls everything the computer does. When you enter information
using an input device, the CPU processes it. First, it fetches instructions
from memory, then decodes them to understand what needs to be
done. If needed, it retrieves data from memory or an input device.
After that, the CPU executes the task and either stores the result or
displays it on an output device. The CPU has three main parts: the
Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU), which handles calculations and logic; the
Control Unit (CU), which directs operations; and Memory Registers,
which store temporary data.
 Output Unit
The output unit consists of output devices that are attached to the
computer. It converts the binary data coming from the CPU to human
understandable form. The common output devices are monitor, printer,
plotter, etc.

The output unit displays or prints the processed data in a user-friendly

format.
The output unit is formed by attaching the output devices of a
computer.
The output unit accepts the information from the CPU and displays it in
a user-readable form.
 Motherboard
The motherboard is like the backbone of a computer, connecting all the
important parts such as the CPU, memory, and storage. It also helps
distribute power, transfer information, and connect devices like a
mouse, keyboard, or monitor. If there is a problem with the
motherboard, a computer technician may open the PC to check for any
loose or damaged connections, such as corrosion. They may also
inspect the power supply to ensure the computer is receiving electricity
properly.
 Random Access Memory (RAM)
RAM is the computer's short-term memory, where data is stored
temporarily while programs are running. For example, when you open
an app, it loads into RAM so the computer can access it quickly. A
technician knows how to check what type of RAM a computer has,
replace it if it's faulty, and fix issues with moving data in memory. They
also understand different types of RAM and common problems that
can affect it. Before repairing RAM, a technician might back up
important files to prevent losing any important programs or
documents.
 Power Supply Unit (PSU)
The Power Supply Unit (PSU) gives electricity to all the parts of a
computer. It usually connects the PC to a wall socket using a power
cord. If there’s a problem, a technician may check by turning off the
computer, unplugging the power cord, or trying a different cord or
outlet to see if the issue is with the power supply.
 GPU - Graphics Processing Unit
GPU stands for Graphics Processing Unit. It is a specialized electronic
circuit designed to rapidly manipulate and alter memory to accelerate
the creation of images and video. GPUs are used in computers, game
consoles, and mobile devices to handle tasks like graphics rendering,
video editing, artificial intelligence, and other data-intensive
operations.
Unlike a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU is built to perform a large
number of calculations simultaneously, a process called parallel
processing.
GPUs were originally developed to process graphical data and display
images and videos on a screen.
 Characteristics of a Computer
Speed: Computers can perform millions of calculations per second. The
computation speed is extremely fast.
Accuracy: Because computers operate on pre-programmed software,
there is no space for human error.
Diligence: They can perform complex and long calculations at the same
time and with the same accuracy.
Versatile: Computers are designed to be versatile. They can carry out
multiple operations at the same time.
Storage: Computers can store a large amount of data/ instructions in its
memory, which can be retrieved at any point of time.
 Computer Generations
Computers are categorized into five main generations based on major
technological advancements in their hardware. The First Generation
(1940s-1950s) used vacuum tubes, the Second Generation (1950s-
1960s) used transistors, the Third Generation (1960s-1970s) introduced
integrated circuits, the Fourth Generation (1970s-present) features
microprocessors, and the Fifth Generation (1980s and beyond) focuses
on artificial intelligence and emerging technologies like quantum
computing.
 Basic Terms Related to Computers…
Vacuum Tube: Vacuum tubes have the functionality of controlling the
flow of electrons in a vacuum. Generally, it is used in switches,
amplifiers, radio, televisions, etc.
Transistor: A transistor helps in controlling the flow of electricity in
devices, it works as an amplifier or a switch.
Integrated Circuit (IC): Integrated circuits are silicon chips that contain
their circuit elements like transistors, resistors, etc.
Microprocessors: Microprocessors are the components that contain
the CPU and its circuits and are present in the Integrated Circuit.
 Basic Terms Related to Computers
Central Processing Unit (CPU): The CPU is called the brain of the
computer. CPU performs processing and operations work.
Magnetic Drum: Magnetic Drum is like a cylinder that stores data and
cylinder.
Magnetic Core: Magnetic cores are used to store information. These
are arrays of small rings.
Machine Language: The binary language that a computer accepts; also
known as a low-level programming language.
Memory: Used to store data, information, and programs.
Artificial Intelligence: Deals with creating intelligent machines and
behaviours.
 Phases of Computer Generations
First Generation
1940s - 1950s Vacuum Tube Based
Second Generation
1950s - 1960s Transistor Based
Third Generation
1960s - 1970s Integrated Circuit Based
Fourth Generation
1970s – Present Microprocessor Based
Fifth Generation
Present – Future Artificial Intelligence Based
Thanks
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