5th Generation: Microcomputer

This Generation computers are based on artificial intelligence which is still in development. The
quantum competition and molecular nano technology will change the face of computer in future. More
improve microprocessor are develop. Natural languages were developing for programming such as SQL
(Structured Query Language), PROLOG (Programming Logic), etc... The main memory is now in the
form of EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), SIMM (Single In-line
Memory Module), and DIMM (Dual In-line Memory Module). CDs, DVDs and USBs are used as
storage devices. These generation computers are smaller, cheaper, more reliable and faster than previous
generations.
WHAT IS A MICROCOMPUTER?
MICROCOMPUTER
Consists of a single chip processor as it CPU, memory unit, Input/Output devices and storage
devices. These computers are designed to be used by individual.
Uses: Theses computers are widely used in home computing, educatin, media, etc..
Example: Personal Computers (PC), Laptops, Palmtop computers, etc
Became popular in the 1970s and 80s.
Includes random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), input/output ports,
interconnecting wires and motherboard.
1970, Hewlett-Packard (HP) manufactured and released a microcomputer as a calculator with
varying levels of programmability, although the Datapoint 2200 by Computer Terminal
Corporation (CTC) is credited as the first microcomputer. Intels x86 processor family can also
be tracked back to CTCs release.
The Commodore 64 was one of the most popular microcomputers of its era, and is the bestselling model of home computer of all time.
Widely used and the fastest growing computers
Cheapest among the other three types of computers
SQL Structured Query Language
A standard interactive and programming language for getting information from and updating a
database.
PROLOG Programming Logic
Based on defining and then solving logical formulas.
A declarative language or a ruled-based language because its programs consist of a list of facts
and rules.
Used widely for artificial intelligence applications, particularly expert systems.

EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory

Non-volatile memory
-is a computer memory that can retrieve stored information even after having been power cycled.
SIMM Single In-line Memory Module
Contains random-access memory
-form of computer data storage
-allows data items to be read and written in approximately the same amount of time, regardless
of the order in which data items are accessed.
DIMM Dual In-line Memory Module
Comprises a series of dynamic random-access memory (DRAM)
-a type of RAM that stores each bit of data in a separate capacitor within an integrated circuit.
Types of Micro Computers
Microcomputers can be further divided into different types based on the size of their central processing
unit (CPU) and other major and minor components. They are;Notebook Micro Computers: these micro computers are having their sizes just like the size of exercise
note books. As a result, they are handy.

Laptop Microcomputers: these are the microcomputers that can be conveniently operated on the lap.
They are bigger in size and slightly heavier than the notebooks. They can perform virtually all the
function of the desktop microcomputers, yet very portable like the briefcase size. They can perform
complex task anywhere, anytime with ease. They are expensive compare to other microcomputers with
larger sizes; this is as a result of high technology with reduction in size.

Desktop Microcomputers: these computers can be placed on flat smooth tables (desk) for convenience
and comfort ability when in use. They are bigger than notebooks and laptops. They can also perform
various complex operations. Desktop microcomputers are subdivided into their sub-devices/ parts eg.
The keyboard, monitor, system unit are all separated from one another having cables used for their
connection before use unlike notebooks and laptop where all are permanently joined (connected)
together when manufacture.

Minitower Microcomputers: these are recent modification on the system unit, whereby the system unit
is made to stand erect on its own and placed beside the monitor unlike desktop which lies flat on tables
and monitors placed on it. They also have their parts separately having cables for connection.

Full Tower microcomputer: These computers are closely related to the mini Tower, except that they are
a bit higher and wider in physical size than the Mini Tower. All other things are the same as in Mini
Tower Microcomputers.