Third Generation (1965-1970)
"My own interest developed because I thought it was a fascinating subject and something I wanted to pursue."
-Jack Kilby, Inventor of the Integrated Circuit
Computers with Integrated Circuits
In the third generation of computing, transistors were replace with the smaller integrated circuit. It was actually invented by two individuals, both unaware of each others actions. Jack Kilby and Robert Noyce were both worked on almost identical projects made of semiconductor material; silicon. The first IC was commercially available in 1961. The chips were first used in calculators for the Air Force computers in 1962. In following years, most computers started using the chips instead of transistors and other components. The first ICs composed of a transistor, three resistors, and a capacitor. Modern IC can hold up to 125 million transistors. They are classified as Solid State Technology.
IC Put to Use; the IBM System/360
In 1964, the IBM System/360 was announced by International Business Machines Corporations. It contained custom hybrid integrated circuits, worked with 32-bit words, and used 360 assembly language. It was this computer that processed data concerning lunar landings at NASA. Its mainframe could run programs of earlier systems, making it more useful and valuable. It and its succeeding models were ultimately a huge impact on the computer world in terms of workload and power.
UNIVAC Strikes Again
The UNIVAC 1108 was introduced in 1964. Integrated circuits replace the thin film memory for register storage. They contained smaller and faster cores for main memory of the UNIVAC 1107. In the end, 296 were produced. In 1969, an identical machine was produced; the UNIVAC 1106. It was slower but cheaper for its customers. A alternate memory system that wasn't as expensive or efficient was used in it.
What defines the generation 3?
Characteristics of the third generation include:
Some computers of the third generation include:
- Use of Integrated Circuits
- More Reliability
- Much Smaller than those of Prior Generations
- Still Fairly Costly
- Less Heat Generated
- Less Maintenance
- Support Higher Level Language
- Consumed Less Energy
- Keyboard and Monitor (Instead of Punch Cards)
- Operating Systems
Some computers of the third generation include:
- IBM 360 Series
- UNIVAC 1108/1106
- Honeywell 6000 Series