Page 24 - DCAP101_BASIC_COMPUTER_SKILLS

Unit 1: Computer Fundamentals

Notes
A 108-word buffer channel on the magnetic drum allowed input-output to proceed
simultaneously with computation.
Word size was 29 bits, allowing single-
precision numbers of seven decimal digits
plus sign during input-output and twenty
nine binary digits internally, and double-
precision numbers of fourteen decimal digits
plus sign during input-output, fifty eight
binary digits internally.
Each machine language instruction specified
the address of the operand and the address
of the next instruction. Double-length
arithmetic registers permitted the
programming of double-precision operations
with the same ease as single-precision ones.
An interpreter called Intercom 1000 and a
compiler called Algo provided simpler
alternatives to machine language
programming. Algo followed the principles
set forth in the international algorithmic
language, Algol, and permitted the
programmer to state a problem in algebraic
form. The Bendix Corporation claimed to be
the first manufacturer to introduce a
programming system patterned on Algol.
The basic computation times, in
milliseconds, were as follows (including the
time required for the computer to read the
command prior to its execution). The time
range for multiplication and division
represents the range between single decimal digit precision and maximum precision.
External Storage was provided on searchable paper tape (2,500 words per magazine) and,
optionally, on one to four, magnetic tape units with 300,000 words per tape unit reel.
Questions:

1. What is the purpose of developing the first generation computer?
2. What is its basic computation times?

1.5 Summary

• The word computer comes from the word “compute”, which means, “to calculate”.
• Then characteristics of computer discuss which include Automatic Machine, Speed,
Accuracy, Diligence, Versatility, Power of Remembering.
• Computer generation like First Generation (1942-1955), Second Generation (1955-1964),
Third Generation (1964-1975), Fourth Generation (1975-1989) and Fifth Generation
(1989-Present).
• Block Diagram of Computer means sub part of computer like input, output and
memory devices.
• The control processing unit is combination of ALO and Au.

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