Introduction to Computers CSC 1401: Introduction to Programming with Java Lecture 1 Wanda M. Kunkle

2 The Invention of the Computer Who invented the computer?

3 The Invention of the Computer Who invented the computer? –There is no simple answer to this question. –Many inventors contributed to the development of the computer. Important milestones in computer history include …

4 The Invention of the Computer In 1936, Konrad Zuse invented the first freely programmable computer.

5 The Invention of the Computer In 1946, John Mauchly and J. Presper Eckert developed the ENIAC I (Electrical Numerical Integrator And Calculator) at the University of Pennsylvania.

6 The Invention of the Computer In 1951, John Mauchly and J. Presper Eckert built the UNIVAC (Universal Automatic Computer), the first commercial computer, for Remington Rand.

7 The Invention of the Computer In 1953, IBM (International Business Machines) developed the 701 EDPM, the first commercially successful general-purpose computer (according to IBM, anyway).

8 The Invention of the Computer In 1974, the first personal computers (PCs) appeared. – : Scelbi, Mark-8, Altair, IBM 5100 – : Apple I, Apple II, Commodore PET, and TRS-80

9 The Invention of the Computer In 1981, IBM released the IBM PC. In 1983, Apple released the Apple Lisa, the first home computer with a GUI (graphical user interface). In 1984, Apple released the Apple Macintosh, a more affordable home computer with a GUI.

10 The Invention of the Computer To learn more about the invention of the computer, visit: –The History of Computers – Computer History TimelineThe History of Computers – Computer History Timeline

11 Definition of a Computer A computer is an electronic device that can input, process, output, and store data.

12 Different Types of Computers There are four basic types of computers: –Supercomputers –Mainframe computers –Minicomputers –Microcomputers

13 Different Types of Computers Supercomputers –Large, powerful computers used to perform specialized tasks Perform complex mathematical calculations Track weather patterns Monitor satellites –Fastest and most expensive

14 Different Types of Computers Mainframe computers –Large computers frequently found in businesses and colleges –Intended for use by large numbers of people –Capable of multitasking, i.e., performing more than one task at a time –Capable of storing vast quantities of data –Originally took up entire rooms, but now are much smaller

15 Different Types of Computers Minicomputers –Used in medium-sized businesses –Have less storage capacity than mainframes –Desktop computers than can be placed on your desktop, floor, or other flat surface

16 Different Types of Computers Microcomputers –Used by most people –Smallest of the four categories of computers –Include: Desktop computers Notebook computers (also called laptops) Tablet computers Personal digital assistants (PDAs) or handheld computers

17 Different Types of Computers