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Who Invented Computer?

Last Updated : 09 Feb, 2024
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Answer: Computer was invented by Charles Babbage in the early 19th century.

What is Computer?

A computer is an electronic device that is capable of carrying out a variety of tasks, such as storing, retrieving, and processing data. Additionally, it may be trained to carry out difficult tasks like decision-making, speech and picture recognition, and more. Desktop, laptop, tablet, and smartphone PCs are the most popular models. Every computer has a central processing unit (CPU), which serves as the “brain” and executes instructions, and memory, which stores data.  

A computer is made up of several hardware components, each with a specific function. Some of the most important parts of a computer include:

  1. CPU: The CPU, often known as the processor, is the “brain” of the computer. It is in charge of carrying out calculations and carrying out orders. On the motherboard is a tiny, square chip that serves as the CPU.
  2. Memory (RAM): The computer’s short-term memory is called Random Access Memory (RAM). It keeps the information that the CPU needs to operate. A computer can store more data and perform tasks more quickly the more RAM it has.
  3. Storage (HDD/SSD): Data is permanently kept in a computer’s storage (HDD or SSD). The two most popular types of computer storage are hard disc drives (HDD) and solid-state drives (SSD). SSD is faster and more expensive, while HDD is slower but less expensive. 
  4. Motherboard: The main circuit board in a computer is called the motherboard. Along with other components, it houses the CPU and RAM. Additionally, it links the various components of the computer together so they may communicate with one another.
  5. Graphics Card: A graphics card, often known as a graphics processing unit (GPU), is a specialized processor that is used to render images and videos. Additionally, it is utilized for professional tasks like video editing and 3D rendering as well as gaming. 
  6. Input/Output Devices: A keyboard and mouse are examples of input devices that let users interact with computers. The computer can show or print data via output devices like a monitor or printer.
  7. Network interface card (NIC): A computer can connect to a network via a network interface card (NIC), whether it’s a wide area network (WAN) like the internet or a local area network (LAN). 

Who Invented the Computer? 

The first mechanical computer was invented by Charles Babbage in the early 19th century. He designed the “Difference Engine,” which was intended to perform mathematical calculations automatically. However, the machine was never built during his lifetime. 

History of Computer 

The earliest known civilizations utilized simple counting instruments like the abacus to make mathematical calculations, which can be used to trace the origins of computers. However, through a series of technological developments, the modern idea of a computer has changed through time into a device that can carry out a wide range of tasks, including storing, retrieving, and processing data.

Charles Babbage created the “Difference Engine” in the 19th century with the goal of creating a mechanical computer that could carry out calculations automatically. The device, however, was never created while he was alive. Alan Turing created the idea of the “universal machine” in the 1930s, which served as the basis for contemporary computers.  The UNIVAC I, the first commercial computer, was utilized for business applications in the 1950s. Computers continued to develop and get smaller, quicker, and more potent during the 1950s and 1960s.

The first personal computers, such as the Altair 8800 and the Apple I, were released in the 1970s and increased accessibility to computers for the general population. The personal computer revolution and the widespread use of computers in offices and households were sparked by Intel Corporation’s creation of the microprocessor in the 1970s. This led to the development of smaller, more cost-effective, and more powerful computers.

The personal computer industry boomed in the 1980s and 1990s, and computers became increasingly powerful and accessible. During this time, the World Wide Web was created, making it simple for anyone to access and exchange information online. The internet also started to emerge as a significant force. The invention of smartphones and tablets has increased the portability and accessibility of computers in the twenty-first century, and cloud computing has made it feasible for users to access their data and programs from any location. Almost every area of modern life depends on computers nowadays, and they are always evolving and getting better thanks to new technologies. 

Achievements of Computer 

Computers have achieved a wide range of milestones and advancements over the years. Some of the most notable achievements include: 

  1. The development of the first electronic computer: The Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer (ENIAC), which was created in the 1940s, was the first electronic computer. This development ushered in the current era of computing.
  2. The creation of the first computer program: Ada Lovelace, a mathematician, and author who is regarded as the world’s first computer programmer, wrote the first computer program in the middle of the 19th century.
  3. The invention of the first computer mouse: Douglas Engelbart created the first computer mouse in 1963, which was a significant milestone in the creation of graphical user interfaces that are easy to use.
  4. The development of the first personal computer:  The development of the Altair 8800, the first personal computer, in 1975 signaled the start of the personal computer revolution. 
  5. The creation of the first computer virus: The era of cyber security began in 1971 with the development of the Creeper computer virus.
  6. The launch of the first website: Tim Berners-Lee, one of the creators of the World Wide Web, established the first website, which was merely a text page, in 1991.
  7. The development of the first search engine:  In 1990, Archie, the first search engine, was created. It opened the path for the creation of more advanced search engines like Google and Bing.
  8. The development of the first robot: The robot age began with the creation of the first robot, UNIMATE, in the early 1960s.

Advantages of Computer 

  1. Speed: Computers are suitable for jobs like data analysis, image and video processing, and simulations because they can process massive volumes of data rapidly and effectively.
  2. Storage: Computers can hold a lot of data, including papers, music, and films, thanks to their high storage capacities.
  3. Accuracy: Compared to manual techniques, computers are highly accurate when performing complex computations and operations, which lowers the margin of error.
  4. Connectivity: Users can communicate, share information, and access a wide range of online resources and services by connecting their computers to the internet. 
  5. Automation: By automating routine operations, computers give up time for more involved and innovative work.
  6. Multitasking: Computers have the ability to run numerous programs at once, enabling users to multitask and boost productivity.
  7. Access to Information: Through the internet, computers have easy access to a wealth of knowledge that can be used for a variety of tasks, including learning and research.
  8. Amusement: Playing games, viewing movies, and listening to music are all forms of entertainment you can enjoy on a computer.

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