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Computer
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A computer is a programmable machine that receives input, stores and automatically manipulates data, and provides output in a useful format.
The first electronic computers were developed in the mid-20th century (1940–1945). Originally, they were the size of a large room, consuming as much power as several hundred modern personal computers (PCs).[1]
Modern computers based on integrated circuits are millions to billions of times more capable than the early machines, and occupy a fraction of the space.[2]Simple computers are small enough to fit into mobile devices, and can be powered by a small battery. Personal computers in their various forms are iconsof the Information Age and are what most people think of as "computers". However, the embedded computers found in many devices from MP3 players to fighter aircraft and from toys to industrial robots are the most numerous.
History of computing
History of computing hardware
The first use of the word "computer" was recorded in 1613, referring to a person who carried out calculations, or computations, and the word continued with the same meaning until the middle of the 20th century. From the end of the 19th century onwards, the word began to take on its more familiar meaning, describing a machine that carries out computations.[3]
Limited-function ancient computers
The Jacquard loom, on display at the Museum of Science and Industry in Manchester, England, was one of the first programmable devices.
The history of the modern computer begins with two separate technologies—automated calculation and programmability—but no single device can be identified as the earliest computer, partly because of the inconsistent application of that term. Examples of early mechanical calculating devices include the abacus, the slide rule and arguably the astrolabe and the Antikythera mechanism, an ancient astronomical computer built by the Greeks around 80 BC.[4]The Greek mathematician Hero of Alexandria (c.
[pic]
A computer is a programmable machine that receives input, stores and automatically manipulates data, and provides output in a useful format.
The first electronic computers were developed in the mid-20th century (1940–1945). Originally, they were the size of a large room, consuming as much power as several hundred modern personal computers (PCs).[1]
Modern computers based on integrated circuits are millions to billions of times more capable than the early machines, and occupy a fraction of the space.[2]Simple computers are small enough to fit into mobile devices, and can be powered by a small battery. Personal computers in their various forms are iconsof the Information Age and are what most people think of as "computers". However, the embedded computers found in many devices from MP3 players to fighter aircraft and from toys to industrial robots are the most numerous.
History of computing
History of computing hardware
The first use of the word "computer" was recorded in 1613, referring to a person who carried out calculations, or computations, and the word continued with the same meaning until the middle of the 20th century. From the end of the 19th century onwards, the word began to take on its more familiar meaning, describing a machine that carries out computations.[3]
Limited-function ancient computers
The Jacquard loom, on display at the Museum of Science and Industry in Manchester, England, was one of the first programmable devices.
The history of the modern computer begins with two separate technologies—automated calculation and programmability—but no single device can be identified as the earliest computer, partly because of the inconsistent application of that term. Examples of early mechanical calculating devices include the abacus, the slide rule and arguably the astrolabe and the Antikythera mechanism, an ancient astronomical computer built by the Greeks around 80 BC.[4]The Greek mathematician Hero of Alexandria (c.