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A computer is an programmable machine designed to read and execute sequentially a list of instructions that make it perform arithmetical and logical operations on binary numbers. Conventionally a computer consists of some form of short or long term memory for data storage and a central processing unit, which functions as a control unit and contains the arithmetic logic unit. Peripherals (for example keyboard, mouse or graphics card) can be connected to allow a the computer to receive outside input and display output.
A computers processing unit executes series of instructions that make it read, manipulate and then store data. Test and jump instructions allow to move within the program space and therefore to execute different instructions as a function of the current state of the machine or its environment.
The computer can also respond to interrupts that make it execute specific sets of instructions and then return and continue what it was doing before the interruption.
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).
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. 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 icons of 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.
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A computers processing unit executes series of instructions that make it read, manipulate and then store data. Test and jump instructions allow to move within the program space and therefore to execute different instructions as a function of the current state of the machine or its environment.
The computer can also respond to interrupts that make it execute specific sets of instructions and then return and continue what it was doing before the interruption.
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).
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. 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 icons of 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.
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