The history of computer

It is difficult to identify who the device as the earliest computer, partly because the term "computer" is subject to different interpretations over time. Originally, the term "computer" referred to the person who performed numerical calculations (a human computer), often with the help of a mechanical calculating device.

History of the modern computer begins with two separate technologies - that of automated calculation and that of programmability.

Examples of early mechanical calculating devices included the abacus is a slide rule and arguably the astrolabe and the Antikythera mechanism (which dates from around 150-100 BC). Hero of Alexandria (10-70 century AD) built a mechanical theater which performed a game lasting 10 minutes and was operated by a complex system of ropes and drums that can be considered as a means of deciding which parts of the mechanism that performs the action, and when. This is the essence of programmability.

What is Computer

The first devices that resemble modern computers date to the mid 20th century (1940-1945), although the computer concept and various machines similar to computers existed earlier. Early electronic computers were the size of a large room, consuming as much power as several hundred modern personal computers (PC). Modern computers are based on small integrated circuits and are millions to billions of times more capable while a fraction of the space.

Today, simple computers may be made small enough for a wristwatch and be powered from a watch battery. Personal computers, in various forms are icons of the Information Age and are what most people think as a "computer", but the most common form of computer in use today is the embedded computer. Embedded computers are small, simple devices that are used for other devices - for example, they can be found in machines ranging from fighter aircraft to industrial robots, digital cameras and toys.