How computers have changed | Computing for Year 1 PDF Download

Computers Today

• We interact with computers daily, relying on them for various tasks.
• Computers come in diverse forms, such as:
  • Smartphones 
  • Desktop computers 
  • Games console 
  • Tablets 
  • Calculator 
  • Laptops

Computer Creators

• Let's introduce three significant figures pivotal in shaping computer usage.

Charles Babbage

• Charles Babbage, a British mathematician and inventor, envisioned the Analytical Engine in 1833.
• The Analytical Engine, his brainchild, would have been the world's first computer if constructed.
• Interesting Fact: The Analytical Engine's function involved steam-powered calculations with various number sets.

Ada Lovelace

• Ada Lovelace, another British mathematician with a passion for problem-solving, examined Charles Babbage's concepts for the Analytical Engine.
• She penned notes on its potential applications, marking the inception of the first computer program.
• Interesting Fact: A programming language, Ada, was named after Ada Lovelace in the 1990s.

Alan Turing and His Contributions

• Fascinating Fact: In the 1990s, Ada Lovelace, an important figure in the history of computing, collaborated with Alan Turing, a British mathematician renowned for his work during World War Two.
• Alan Turing's Achievements: Alan Turing, known for his significant role as a mathematician during World War Two, devised a groundbreaking machine capable of decrypting secret coded messages, ultimately saving numerous lives.
• Alan Turing's portrait is featured on the English £50 note.

The Evolution of Early Computers

• The first computers constructed in the early days were enormous, often requiring entire rooms for their installation. Initially, their primary function was limited to numerical calculations.
• During this era, the sheer size and weight of these early computers posed logistical challenges, making it difficult to relocate them to different locations easily. 

Overview of Modern Computers

• Evolution of Computers: Modern computers are significantly smaller and more versatile than their predecessors.
• Multitasking Abilities: Contemporary computers can perform numerous tasks simultaneously, enhancing efficiency.
• Portability: Portable computing devices like laptops, tablets, and smartphones allow for easy mobility and usage in various settings.
  • Laptops: Laptops provide the convenience of computing on the go, enabling work or entertainment virtually anywhere.
  • Tablets: Tablets offer a blend of mobility and functionality, ideal for tasks like browsing, reading, and note-taking.
  • Smartphones: Smartphones serve as compact, all-in-one devices for communication, entertainment, and productivity.
• Battery-Powered Operation: Portable computers are equipped with batteries, enabling usage in diverse locations, such as cafes, trains, or even beaches.

Glossary of Key Terms

• Computer: A device capable of executing instructions stored in its memory, facilitating various tasks.
• Digital Device: A machine housing a computer component, enabling digital operations and functionalities.