In this article, we will learn the Advantages and Disadvantages of Fourth Generations of Computer | Benefits and Drawbacks of Fourth Generations of Computer with examples, features, characteristics, and images.
With the invention and advancement in microprocessor | CPU that made a huge impact on the IT industry.
The microprocessor significantly reduced the size of the computer system due to its compact shape and size.
The 4th generation computer dramatically changed the overall performance and functionality of computer systems.
Microprocessors used and utilized in modern computer systems are integrated circuits embedded on a single chip for enhanced and powerful processing and computing power.
The microprocessor eventually increased reliability and efficiency, as they were smaller than previous computer generations.
Modern technology giants such as IBM, Intel and Apple played a significant role in developing fourth-generation computers that helped make this system available for commercial use.
4th generation computers used powerful software such as operating systems embedded with GUI [Graphical User Interface], which was a stepping stone in making computers popular globally.
This generation of computers is excellent at communicating with other computers and devices with the help of computer networking for data and information sharing.
These computer generation have amazing storage capacities. For Example computer hard disk drive can store gigantic data and information permanently.
What are the Fourth Generations of Computers?
The timeline of the fourth generation of computers is from [1971 - 1985].
They used microprocessors instead of integrated circuits [IC], making them more powerful in processing and handling multiple tasks and operations with incredible speed and almost 100% accuracy.
These generations of the computer used high-level technology like VLSI [Very Large Scale Integration].
Using microprocessors, microcomputers were developed, which were later termed “Personal Computers”.
They are highly portable and can be easily carried from one location to another; due to their compact shape and size, they can be installed on a table called a “Computer Table”.
These 4th generations of computers were more reliable and user-friendly than other generations of computers.
The first personal computer was designed and developed by IBM Company in 1974.
They also used high-level programming languages like C, C++, Visual Basic, Python, and SQL Servers.
In 1984 APPLE designed and developed a computer named Macintosh and an operating system for better usability.
They also used input and output devices like mouse, printers, and keyboards for better performance.
They can also perform arithmetic and logical operation with high speed and incredible accuracy.
Computer 4th generations used object-oriented programming, and these techniques are used and utilized in JAVA, PHP, PYTHON, .NET, and Visual Basic.
Fourth-generation computers are used in data management, report generation, software development, GUI development, web development, and research.
They have unbelievable data and information storing capacity.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Fourth Generations of Computer Systems With Image
Benefits and Advantages of Fourth Generations of Computer
- The 4th generation of computers is designed and developed for general and special purposes. They do not produce heat and energy and therefore do not require an air conditioner.
- They are more reliable and efficient compared to other generations of computers.
- They work and perform operations and tasks with incredible speed and accuracy.
- The speed of the fourth generation is measured in the picosecond, and therefore it is considered a significant advantage of the fourth generation of computers.
- The consumption of electricity is low compared to the previous generation of computers.
- They require less maintenance.
- They are equipped with more advanced internal and external storage.
- They have fantastic processing powers.
- They used and utilized microprocessors as the major component.
- 4th generation computers used VLSI chips.
- They used semi-conductor memory for better performance.
- Advanced application software can work with these generations of computers like spreadsheets, documents, words, media players, etc.
- They can work with GUI [Graphical User Interface].
- They are less expensive and therefore are affordable to the general public.
- They are portable due to their compact size.
- They used high-level programming languages.
- They are multitasking and multiprogramming with the time-sharing concept.
Drawbacks and Disadvantages of Fourth Generations of Computer
- The fourth generation’s computer used microprocessors which are complex in manufacturing.
- VLSI circuit needs more advanced technology.
- Due to network connectivity spread, harmful viruses and malware are found.
- Heavily dependent on the internet.
- Microprocessors are prone to get damaged.
- More storage is needed.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Fourth Generations of Computer in Tabular Form
| # | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| 1 | They are more reliable and efficient compared to other generations of computers. | The fourth generation’s computer used microprocessors which are complex in manufacturing. |
| 2 | The consumption of electricity is low compared to the previous generation of computers. | VLSI circuit needs more advanced technology. |
| 3 | They have fantastic processing powers. | Due to network connectivity spread, harmful viruses and malware are found. |
| 4 | They are multitasking and multiprogramming with the time-sharing concept. | Heavily dependent on the internet. |
| 5 | They are portable due to their compact size. | Microprocessors are prone to get damaged. |
| 6 | They used semi-conductor memory for better performance. | More storage is needed. |
Advantages and Disadvantages of Fourth-Generation Languages (4GLs)
| # | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| 1 | Higher-Level Abstraction. | Limited Control. |
| 2 | Enhanced Productivity & Reliability. | Limited Portability. |
| 3 | Reduced Complexity. | Scalability Issues. |
| 4 | Database Integration. | Restriction and Limitations. |
| 5 | Faster Development Process. | Less Customization. |
Examples of Fourth Generations of Computer
- PDP 11
- Macintosh
- CRAY-1 (Super Computer)
- CRAY-X-MP (Super Computer)
- IBM 4341
- DEC 10
- STAR 1000
- ZX – Spectrum
- Intel Pentium
- AMD
- Apple II
- STAR 1000
- PDP 11
- CRAY2
- CRAY Y-MP
- CRAY Y-MPC
- IBM 4341
- IBM PC
- VAX 9000
- Micral
- IBM 5100
- Altair 880
Features of Fourth (4th) Generations of Computer
- Advanced Development of Microprocessors revolutionized the computer industry.
- Advanced internal and external storage mediums allowed it to store vast amounts of data and information.
- Input and output devices were used for better performance and functionality. (Keyboards and Mouse)
- The speed at which these generations’ computer-operated was terrific compared to other generations of computers.
- They consume less power and electricity.
- They do not produce heat and energy; therefore, an air conditioner was not mandatory.
- They are more reliable and user-friendly machines.
- The development of more advanced systems and application software made them easier to use and handle.
- They used and utilized high-level programming languages like C++, KLI, RPG, SQL
- They are highly portable and can be easily shifted from one location to another.
Characteristics of Fourth (4th) Generations of Computer
- The fourth generation of computers is also called “Personal Computers”.
- They do not require an air conditioner for cooling.
- They are equipped with more advanced internal and external storage.
- They are developed with GUI [Graphical User Interface].
- They require an operating system for better performance.
- 4th gen computers are developed with advanced technology like VLSI [Very Large Scale Integrated].
- They are commercial products and are designed and developed for end-users.
- They can be easily connected to another computer in a “computer networking” network.
- The use of printers and scanners made them more conventional.
What are Five Generations of Computer Systems
- First Generation of Computer (1940-1956)
- Second Generation of Computers(1956-1963)
- Third Generation of Computers(1964-1971)
- Fourth Generations of Computers:: ( 1971-To 2000)
- Fifth Generations of Computers (Present and Beyond)
All Generation of Computer [1st To 5th]
| # | Computer Generations | Timeline | Hardware |
| 1 | First Generation of Computer | 1940-1956 | Vacuum Tubes |
| 2 | Second Generation of Computer | 1956-1963 | Transistor |
| 3 | Third Generation of Computer | 1964-1971 | Integrated Circuit (I.C.) |
| 4 | Fourth Generation of Computer | 1971-1980 | Microprocessor |
| 5 | Fifth Generation of Computer | 1980- Till Now | Artificial Intelligence |
Advantages and Disadvantages of Fourth Generations of Computer [YT]
Which is the Fourth Generations Languages?
Perl, Python, Ruby, SQL, MatLab (Matrix Laboratory).
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Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
Who Invented Fourth Generations of Computers?
In 1971, Intel released the 4004 microprocessor.
What is the Main Component of Fourth Generation Computer?
Computers of the fourth generation used Very Large Scale Integrated (VLSI) circuits.
Which Technology was Used in 4th Generation of Computers?
VLSI Technology.
What Memory is 4th Generation?
Magnetic Core Technology.
What is the Most Popular Example of 4GL?
Perl, Python, Ruby, SQL, MatLab (Matrix Laboratory
Who Built the 4th Generation Computer?
It was developed in 1975 by Micro Instrumentation Telemetry Systems and termed a personal computer;
Is Java a 4GL language?
No. Java is third generation language.
What is the speed of 4th generation computer?
Pico seconds.
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