Modern computers have the ability to follow generalized sets of operations, called programs. These programs enable computers to perform an extremely wide range of tasks. A “complete” computer including the hardware, the operating system , and peripheral equipment required and used for “full” operation can be referred to as a computer system.This term may as well be used for a group of computers that are connected and work together, in particular a computer network or computer cluster.
This includes simple special purpose devices like microwave ovens and remote controls, factory devices such as industrial robots and computer-aided design, and also general purpose devices like personal computers and mobile devices such as smartphones.
The first transistors in the late 1940s were followed by the MOS transistor and integrated circuit in the late 1950s, leading to the microprocessor and the microcomputer revolution in the 1970s. The speed, power and versatility of computers have been increasing dramatically ever since then, with MOS transistor counts increasing at a rapid pace, as predicted by Moore’s law.
Conventionally, a modern computer consists of at least one processing element, typically a central processing unit , and some form of memory. The processing element carries out arithmetic and logical operations, and a sequencing and control unit can change the order of operations in response to stored information.
Peripheral devices allow information to be retrieved from an external source and they enable the result of operations to be saved and retrieved.
