Describe fourth generation of computer in terms of
Year of development
The technology
The speed of operation
Storage capacity
The fourth generation of computers was developed during the years 1971 to 1981. This generation was characterized by the use of microprocessors, which are integrated circuits that contain all the components of a central processing unit (CPU) on a single chip. This technology allowed for the miniaturization of computer systems and made computers more affordable and accessible.
In terms of speed of operation, fourth-generation computers were significantly faster compared to their predecessors. They could perform calculations and execute instructions at a much higher speed, thanks to the advancements in microprocessor technology. The Intel 4004, released in 1971, was the first commercially available microprocessor, operating at a speed of 740kHz. By the end of the fourth generation, microprocessors such as the Intel 8086 and Motorola 68000 were operating in the range of 5-10MHz.
In terms of storage capacity, fourth-generation computers offered significant improvements. The introduction of magnetic disk storage systems and floppy disks allowed for larger amounts of data to be stored and accessed more efficiently. Hard disks became more common in this generation, providing higher storage capacity compared to earlier technologies like punched cards and magnetic tape. Additionally, the development of compact cassette tapes and floppy disks as portable storage mediums allowed users to easily transfer and store data. The storage capacity of hard disks during this era ranged from a few megabytes to tens of megabytes.