As technology grows, development gets better with more advantages, reducing
the disadvantages to the maximum extent. The fourth generation of computers
was a progressive version of the third generation of computers. This
eventually added more benefits to computer technology.
This article discusses about the fourth generation of computers, its history,
examples, features, advantages, and disadvantages, etc. Let's understand this:
What You Will Learn
What is the fourth generation of Computer?
The fourth generation of computers began with the use of
microprocessors in computer
systems. The invention of the microprocessor revolutionized computers because
hundreds to thousands of integrated circuits could be assembled on a single
silicon chip. This ultimately enabled manufacturers to develop computers in a
very compact size that could easily fit on the desk as well.
Microprocessors were typically developed using
LSI (large scale integration) and
VLSI (very large scale
integration) techniques. The VLSI circuits helped to combine about 5000
transistors and many other circuit components on a single chip, called a
microprocessor. Due to microprocessors, fourth-generation computers were
minimized, leading to the development of microcomputers.
Note: The microprocessor refers to a controlling unit widely used in
microcomputers, built on a small chip that can perform arithmetic-logical
operations and help to communicate with other connected devices. In 1971, it
was jointly developed by Federico Faggin, Marcian (Ted) Hoff, Stanley Mazor,
and Masatoshi Shima.
Microprocessors were widely used as a key component in computers from 1971 to
1980. Although they are still in use for computers today, they are no longer
considered the main technology. Therefore, the period of the fourth generation
of computers is considered from
1971 to 1980.
The following image shows the structural view of the microprocessor:
Apart from the small size, fourth-generation computers were also more
powerful, reliable, and inexpensive. This eventually led to the widespread use
of personal computers (PCs). This means that computer systems became
accessible to mass audiences due to their portability. Besides, time-sharing,
time networking based, distributed operating systems were used in computers.
In terms of languages, fourth-generation computers used high-level programming
languages such as C, C ++, DBASE, and more.
Examples of Fourth Generation Computers
Fourth-generation computers used thousands of integrated circuits assembled on
a single chip, making these computers relatively different from computers
developed in the third generation. Due to such a single chip, microprocessor,
computers became very small but extremely powerful. A microprocessor helped in
performing arithmetic and logical functions for programs.
Micral, IBM 5100, and Altair 8800 are great
examples of fourth-generation computers. Besides, Micral is said to be the
first personal computer based on a microprocessor. It was developed in 1973
and used the Intel 8008 microprocessor.
The first processor was developed by Intel in 1971 and was called
Intel 4004. It was built using about 2,300 transistors on a silicon chip. Furthermore,
from memory to input/output control, all components, including a
microprocessor (commonly called a central processing unit), were included on a
single board.
In addition to many benefits, fourth-generation computers also introduced the
technology of connecting computers. This means that the computer could be
liked simultaneously to form a computer network. It also helped in the concept
of developing the internet. Overall, this generation is considered a major
achievement that introduced major developments in the field of networking.
Furthermore, fourth-generation computers also widely used GUI (graphical user
interface), mouse, keyboard, and many other handheld devices.
Some other examples of the fourth generation computers are listed below:
• IBM 4341
• PDP 11
• DEC 10
• STAR 1000
• CRAY-1 (Super Computer)
• Cray-X-MP (Super Computer)
Characteristics of Fourth Generation Computers
Some essential characteristics or features of the fourth generation computers
are as follows:
• Use of microprocessors based on VLSI technology
• Use of high-level programming languages such as C, C ++, DBASE, etc.
• Use of graphical user interface technology to add simplicity and
comfort
• Use of pipeline processing
• Use of large programs due to increased storage capacity
• Use of data communication and networking
• Use of a single board consisting of a single-chip processor and other
circuits
Advantages of Fourth Generation Computers
Some of the advantages of the fourth generation of computers are listed below:
• Fourth-generation computers were faster and reliable than their
predecessors.
• Computers were compact in size and could easily fit on a desk.
• Fourth-generation computers were somewhat cheaper than previous
generations' computers. This led to the widespread use of these computers.
• Fourth-generation computers were more energy-efficient than
third-generation computers, and the heat produced was almost negligible.
• In this generation, the air conditioning system for the computer was
not very much needed.
• Fourth-generation computers required almost no maintenance and this
greatly helps in reducing maintenance costs.
• Due to better portability, the production of fourth-generation
computers for commercial as well as personal use was easier and cheaper.
• Fourth-generation computers were mainly used for general purposes.
• Fourth-generation computers had a larger storage capacity than
third-generation computers.
• Almost all high-level programming languages were supported in
fourth-generation computers.
Disadvantages of Fourth Generation Computers
Some of the disadvantages of the fourth generation of computers are listed
below:
• The construction of VLSI circuits required highly sophisticated
technology.
• Even after generating very little heat, fourth-generation computers
require fans to cool the internal components. During high usage of the
computer, the fan generated disturbing noises.
• The development of microprocessors was complex and required high
technical skills.
• The design and construction of the microprocessor were complex.
• Computers were highly sophisticated in the fourth generation.
• Fourth-generation computers still used integrated circuits and hence
advance technology was needed to make them.
Summary
The fourth-generation period began in 1971 and ended in 1980. The
fourth-generation computers used microprocessors as the core component. This
generation of computers gave a new rise to the generation of computers, parts
of which continue to the present generation (fifth generation).
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