The evolution of computers has been a rapid and ongoing process, with significant advancements made in the last century. The first computers, known as mechanical calculators, were invented in the 1800s and were primarily used for simple mathematical calculations. These early machines were large and bulky, and their capabilities were limited.
In the 1930s and 1940s, electronic computers were developed, which greatly increased the speed and capabilities of computers. These early electronic computers, such as the ENIAC and UNIVAC, were still quite large and expensive, and were primarily used by government and scientific organizations. The following two decades saw the development of the first smaller and more affordable computers, known as mainframe computers. While these computers were still quite expensive, they allowed more organizations and businesses to access the power of computing.
The 70s and 80s was the onset of the personal computer (PC). The first personal computers, such as the Apple I and the IBM PC, still weren’t very affordable for the middle-class, however they allowed individuals to have access to a computer for personal use. This was a significant step in the evolution of computers, as it led to the widespread use of computers in homes and offices.
The rise of the personal computer as a household item came with the development and popularization of the internet at the turn of the century. The internet allowed for the easy sharing of information and the development of new technologies such as e-commerce and online communication. As personal computers became more and more powerful and affordable, they also became more prevalent in everyday life.
Today, computers are an integral part of our daily lives, with advances in technology allowing for the development of smaller and more powerful devices, such as smartphones and tablets. With the advent of cloud computing and artificial intelligence, it is likely that computers will continue to evolve and play an even more prominent role in our daily lives in the future.
In summary, the evolution of computers has been a rapid process, with significant advancements made in the last century. From large mechanical calculators to small portable devices, computers have become an integral part of our daily lives, and their capabilities continue to expand with new technologies such as AI and cloud computing.
Comprehension
1) What were the first computers called, and what were their capabilities?
2) How did the development of smaller, more affordable computers in the 1960s and 1970s impact the accessibility of computing power?
3) What technological developments in the 21st century have further expanded the capabilities and prevalence of computers in our daily lives?
Vocabulary
Match the words to the definition:
1) bulky
2) the onset
3) widespread
4) integral
5) advent
6) prominent
a) heavy, inconvenient size
b) the beginning
c) important
d) to be an important part
e) found over a large area or number of people
f) arrival
Grammar Highlights
Use participle clauses for a more formal, advanced sound to writings
The first computers, known as mechanical calculators, were invented in the 1800s…”
Use more noun forms to sound more formal
“…the development and popularization of the internet…”