What is Third Generation Computer?

 

Third Generation Computers: Integrated Circuits. (1964-1971)

During the third generation, technology envisaged a shift from huge transistors to integrated circuits, also referred to as IC. The most feature of this era’s computer was the speed and reliability. IC was made from silicon and also called silicon chips.

A single IC, has many transistors, registers, and capacitors built on one thin slice of silicon. The value size was reduced and memory space and dealing efficiency were increased during this generation. Programming was now wiped out Higher level languages like BASIC (Beginners All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code). Minicomputers find their shape during this era.

Main characteristics of third generation computers are:

·        Main electronic component - Integrated circuits (ICs)

·        Programming language - High-level language

·        Memory - Large magnetic core, magnetic tape/disk

·        Input / output devices - Magnetic tape, monitor, keyboard, printer, etc.

·        Examples of third generation - IBM 360, IBM 370, PDP-11, NCR 395, B6500, UNIVAC 1108, etc.