Fourth Generation of Computers (1971-1980)

The history of computers is divided into different generations, each of which saw significant advancements in technology. The fourth generation of computers is one such milestone in the evolution of computing. Starting in the 1970s, this generation brought major improvements in speed, size, and efficiency over previous generations. The 4th generation of computer is known for the use of microprocessors, making computers more powerful, compact, and accessible to common people. In this article, we will explore the key features and impact of the fourth generation of computers.

Table of Contents

What Are fourth generation of computers?

The Fourth Generation of Computers started in the 1970s and is known for using microprocessors, small chips that work as the computer’s brain. These computers were smaller, faster, cheaper, and more reliable than earlier generations. They introduced personal computers (PCs) like the IBM PC and Apple Macintosh, making computers available for home, school, and business use. This generation also saw improved memory and operating systems, making computers easier to use and more efficient. It marked the beginning of modern computing, with technology becoming accessible to everyday users.

Generations of Computer	Time-Period	Evolving Hardware
First Generation Of Computer	1940 – 1950	Vacuum Tube Based
Second Generation Of Computer	1950 – 1960	Transistor Based
Third Generation Of Computers	1960 – 1970	Integrated Circuit Based
Fourth Generation	1970 – 1980	Microprocessor Based
Fifth Generation Of Computer	Present – Future	Artificial Intelligence Based

Features of 4th generation of computer

4th generation of computer, which emerged in the 1970s, had several important features that made them faster, smaller, and more powerful than earlier generations.

Microprocessor Technology: The most significant feature was the microprocessor, a small chip that combined the CPU on a single circuit, allowing computers to become smaller and more affordable.

Compact Size: Computers became significantly smaller compared to earlier generations. The integration of components into a single chip eliminated the need for large vacuum tubes or transistors.

Increased Speed: The processing power of 4 Generation of computer was exponentially faster than previous generations. Microprocessors could execute millions of instructions per second.

Graphical User Interface (GUI): Fourth-generation computers introduced GUIs, making computers easier to use for non-technical individuals. This replaced the need for complex command-line instructions.

Mass Storage: Storage devices such as floppy disks, hard drives, and optical disks became widely used. This provided users with the ability to save and retrieve large amounts of data.

Connectivity and Networking: The development of local area networks (LANs) and early internet technologies allowed computers to communicate with one another. This paved the way for email and file sharing.

Cost Efficiency: The mass production of microprocessors significantly reduced the cost of computers, making them accessible to homes, schools, and businesses.

popular computers from the 4th generation of computer

Here is a list of popular computers from the fourth generation (1970s to the early 1990s), which used microprocessors and led to the rise of personal computing.

IBM Personal Computer (IBM PC) (1981)
Apple Macintosh (1984)
Commodore 64 (1982)
Atari 2600 (1977)
NEC PC-8801 (1981)
Sinclair ZX Spectrum (1982)
Tandy TRS-80 (1977)
MSX (1983)
Macintosh Portable (1989)
Amiga 1000 (1985)

History of Fourth Generation Computers

The history of 4th generation of computer began in the 1970s with the invention of the microprocessor, a small chip that combined the CPU onto a single circuit. This innovation made computers faster, smaller, and cheaper. Personal computers (PCs), like the IBM PC and Apple Macintosh, were introduced, making computing accessible to homes, schools, and small businesses. Advanced semiconductor memory replaced older storage methods, increasing speed and reliability. Operating systems and graphical user interfaces (GUIs) became more user-friendly. 4th generation of computer revolutionized computing, paving the way for modern personal computers, smartphones, and other everyday devices.

Use of Fourth Generation Computers

Personal Computing: The development of personal computers (PCs) like the IBM PC, Apple Macintosh and Microsoft made computers accessible for individual use in homes, schools, and small businesses.

Business and Office Work: Fourth-generation computers were widely used in businesses for tasks like word processing, accounting, data management, and spreadsheet applications.

Education: With the rise of personal computers, schools and universities began using computers for teaching, research, and administrative tasks.

Banking and Financial Applications: Computers in this generation were used for handling ATMs and online banking services, managing accounts, and processing financial data.

Gaming: With their improved graphics and processing power, fourth-generation computers paved the way for video gaming, both in arcades and on personal computers.

Scientific Research: Computers were used in scientific research for complex calculations, data analysis, and simulations.

Telecommunications: Computers were integrated into telecommunications for improving data transmission, signal processing, and network management, enabling faster and more reliable communication systems.

Software Development: The improved computing power and storage made it easier to develop more sophisticated software, including operating systems, business applications, and games.

Advantages of Fourth Generation Computers

Fourth Generation Computers, which began in the 1970s, brought many advantages over previous generations. Some key advantages include:

Smaller Size: Fourth-generation computers are much smaller compared to earlier generations. They use microprocessors, which allowed computers to shrink in size while becoming more powerful.

Fast processing speed: These computers are very fast due to the development of integrated circuits (ICs) and microprocessors. This allows them to perform calculations and process data quickly.

Increased Storage Capacity: Fourth-generation computers can store a large amount of data on smaller devices, like hard drives, compared to earlier computers that had limited storage.

More reliable: With fewer mechanical parts and the use of solid-state technology (such as ICs), these computers are more reliable and require less maintenance.

Low Power Consumption: Fourth-generation computers consume less electricity than previous generations, making them more energy-efficient.

User-Friendly: With the development of personal computers (PCs) and improved operating systems, fourth-generation computers became easier for people to use, even without specialized technical knowledge.

Network Capabilities: These computers enabled the development of computer networks, allowing users to connect and share information more easily.

Disadvantage Of 4 generation of computer

Limited Storage: Although they had better memory than earlier computers, the storage capacity of Fourth Generation Computers was still limited compared to modern computers.
High Power Consumption: These computers still required significant power, especially in larger systems, which could lead to high electricity costs.
Expensive for Large Businesses: While personal computers became affordable, large-scale systems for businesses and organizations were still costly.
Lack of Advanced Connectivity: In this generation, networking and internet technologies were still in their early stages, so the ability to connect computers was limited.
Software Limitations: While software improved, it was still not as advanced or user-friendly as modern applications.

Conclusion

The fourth generation of computers marked a transformative period in computing history. From the invention of microprocessors to the rise of personal computers, this era made technology faster, smaller, and more affordable than ever before. It democratized access to computing, paving the way for advancements in every sphere of life. Understanding the fourth generation helps us appreciate the journey of technology and its profound impact on the world.

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