Generations — Set 1
Computers · पीढ़ियां · Questions 1–10 of 70
Which electronic component was primarily used in first-generation computers?
Correct Answer: A. Vacuum Tubes
Vacuum tubes were the core switching technology for first-generation computers. These machines were very large in size and consumed a lot of electricity. ENIAC and UNIVAC are famous examples of this era.
The transition from vacuum tubes to which component marked the start of the second generation?
Correct Answer: D. Transistors
Transistors replaced vacuum tubes because they were smaller, faster, and more reliable. This change allowed computers to become more compact and energy-efficient. Magnetic core memory was also introduced during this period.
What major technological advancement defined third-generation computers?
Correct Answer: A. Integrated Circuits
Integrated Circuits (ICs) combined many transistors onto a single silicon chip. This invention significantly increased the speed and efficiency of computer systems. The IBM 360 series is a prominent example of this generation.
Which generation of computers introduced the use of microprocessors with VLSI technology?
Correct Answer: D. Fourth Generation
Fourth-generation computers utilized Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI) to put thousands of components on one chip. This led to the development of Personal Computers (PCs) we use today. This era saw the rise of graphical user interfaces and the mouse.
Fifth-generation computers are characterized by which emerging technology?
Correct Answer: A. Parallel Processing and AI
Fifth-generation systems focus on Artificial Intelligence and Ultra Large Scale Integration (ULSI). These computers aim to process natural language and exhibit human-like reasoning. Voice recognition and quantum computing are key research areas in this phase.
In which generation did computers first begin to use high-level programming languages like COBOL and FORTRAN?
Correct Answer: D. Second
Second-generation computers moved away from cryptic machine code to high-level symbolic languages. FORTRAN and COBOL made programming more accessible to human users. This helped in the growth of commercial applications for computers.
Which was the first commercially available electronic computer from the first generation?
Correct Answer: B. UNIVAC I
UNIVAC I was the first commercial computer produced in the United States. It was delivered to the Census Bureau in 1951. This machine demonstrated that computers could be used for data processing beyond military research.
The term 'Operating System' first became significant during which computer generation?
Correct Answer: A. Third
Third-generation computers used operating systems to manage memory and hardware resources efficiently. This allowed multiple applications to run simultaneously, known as multiprogramming. Remote processing and time-sharing also emerged in this timeframe.
Which generation is associated with the period 1940 to 1956 in many history textbooks?
Correct Answer: A. First
The first generation of computers relied on vacuum tubes for circuitry and magnetic drums for memory. These machines were so large that they often occupied entire rooms. They were programmed primarily in machine language using punch cards.
Which of the following is a characteristic of fourth-generation computers?
Correct Answer: D. Distributed Operating Systems
Fourth-generation systems popularized distributed operating systems and high-speed networks. The concept of the 'Internet' began to take shape during this technological era. Portable computers like laptops also became possible in this generation.