First generation (1940 - 1956)

The first generation of computers used vacuum tubes as a major piece

of technology. Vacuum tubes were widely used in computers
from 1940 through 1956. Vacuum tubes were larger components and
resulted in first-generation computers being quite large in size, taking
up a lot of space in a room. Some of the first-generation computers
took up an entire room.

The ENIAC is a great example of a first-generation computer. It

consisted of nearly 20,000 vacuum tubes, 10,000 capacitors, and
70,000 resistors. It weighed over 30 tons and took up a lot of space,
requiring a large room to house it. Other examples of first-generation
computers include the EDSAC, IBM 701, and Manchester Mark 1.

Second generation (1956 - 1963)

The second generation of computers saw the use of transistors instead

of vacuum tubes. Transistors were widely used in computers
from 1956 to 1963. Transistors were smaller than vacuum tubes and
allowed computers to be smaller in size, faster in speed, and cheaper
to build.
The first computer to use transistors was the TX-0 and was introduced
in 1956. Other computers that used transistors include the IBM 7070,
Philco Transac S-1000, and RCA 501.

Third generation (1964 - 1971)

The third generation of computers introduced the use of IC (integrated

circuits) in computers. Using IC's in computers helped reduce the size
of computers even more than second-generation computers, and also
made them faster.

Nearly all computers since the mid to late 1960s have utilized IC's.
While the third generation is considered by many people to have
spanned from 1964 to 1971, IC's are still used in computers today.
Over 45 years later, today's computers have deep roots going back to
the third generation.

Fourth generation (1971 - 2010)

The fourth generation of computers took advantage of the invention of
the microprocessor, more commonly known as a CPU.
Microprocessors, with integrated circuits, helped make it possible for
computers to fit easily on a desk and for the introduction of the laptop.

Some of the earliest computers to use a microprocessor include

the Altair 8800, IBM 5100, and Micral. Today's computers still use a
microprocessor, despite the fourth generation being considered to
have ended in 2010.

Fifth generation (2010 to present)

The fifth generation of computers is beginning to use AI (artificial
intelligence), an exciting technology with many potential applications
around the world. Leaps have been made in AI technology and
computers, but there is still room for much improvement.

One of the more well-known examples of AI in computers is IBM's

Watson, which was featured on the TV show Jeopardy as a contestant.
Other better-known examples include Apple's Siri on the iPhone and
Microsoft's Cortana on Windows 8 and Windows 10 computers.
The Google search engine also utilizes AI to process user searches.

Sixth generation (future generations)

As of 2021, most still consider us to be in the fifth generation as AI
continues to develop. One possible contender for a future sixth
generation is the quantum computer. However, until quantum
computing becomes more developed and widely used, it is still only a
promising idea.
Some people also consider nanotechnology to be part of the sixth
generation. Like quantum computing, nanotechnology is largely still in
its infancy and requires more development before becoming widely
used.

 Generations of Computers and Their Characteristics

Generations of Computers can be generalized into mainly five generation :

1. First Generation Computers –1942 to 1954
2. Second Generation of Computers -1955 to 1964
3. Third Generation of Computers- 1965 to 1974
4. Fourth Generation Computers- 1975– till now
5. Fifth Generation of Computers – Still in Process

1. First Generation Computers (1942 to 1954) – Based on Vacuum Tubes

The first generation computers were used vaccum tubes as the main electronic part. For memory devices punch card
and paper tapes were used. Magnetic drums are also used for storage .At that time memory was very expensive.
Electronic time per calculation ranged from 0.1 milliseconds to1 milliseconds. They uses two types of computer
programming languages, machine language and assembly language. A list of popular first generation computers
ENIAC, UNIVAC,EDVAC, and EDSAC.
  
A) Computer Characteristics & Capabilities –

 Size – Relatively big size .Size was equivalent to a room.

 Speed – slow speed, hundred instructions per second.
 Cost – cost was very high.
 Language– Machine and Assembly Language.
 Reliability – high failure rate , Failure of circuits per second.
 Power– high power Consumption and it generated much heat.

B) Trends and Developments in Computer Hardware-

 Main Component – based on vacuum tubes

 Main memory –Magnetic drum
  secondary Memory – Magnetic drum & magnetic tape.
  Input Media – Punched cards & paper tape
 Output Media – Punched card & printed reports.
 Example – ENIAC, UNIVAC, Mark –I,mark-III , IBM 700 series , IBM 700  series ,IBM
701  series IBM 709 series etc.

2.Second Generation of Computers (1955 to 1964) – Based on Transistor

The invention of transistor lead to start the second generation of computers. Vaccum tubes are replaced
by transistors. For data storage magnetic tapes and magnetic tapes and magnetic disks were used. For
programming purpose besides machine and assembly languages, high level languages were also used like FORTRAN,
COBOL and BASIC etc.
A) Computer Characteristics & Capabilities –

 Size – Smaller than first generation Computers.

 Speed – Relatively fast as compared to first generation, thousand instructions per
second.
 Cost – cost Slightly lower than first generation.
 Language – Assembly Language and High level languages like FORTRAN,
COBOL,BASIC.
 Reliability – Failure of circuits per days.
 Power– Low power Consumption.

 B ) Trends and Developments in Computer Hardware-

 Main Component – Based on Transistor.

  Main Memory – Magnetic core.
 Secondary Memory – Magnetic tape & magnetic Disk.
 Input Media – Punched cards
 Output Media – Punched card & printed reports.
 Example – IBM-7000,CDC 3000 series, PDP1,PDP3,PDP 5 ,PDP8 ,ATLAS,IBM-
7094  etc.
3. Third Generation of Computers (1965 to 1974) – Based on Integrated Circuit

In this generation of computers transistors are replaced by its integrated form, known as integrated Circuits(IC). Mini
computers were introduced in this generation. Multiprogramming facility was developed.Size, cost, power
requirement and heat generation decreased. High level languages were used in this generation. Processing speed
and storage capacity used of computer increased.

 A) Computer Characteristics & Capabilities –

 Size – Smaller than Second generation Computers. Disk size mini computers.
 Speed – Relatively fast as compared to second generation, Million instructions per second (MIPS).
 Cost – cost lower than Second generation.
 Language– High level languages like PASCAL, COBOL,BASIC,C etc.
 Reliability – Failure of circuits in Weeks.
 Power– Low power Consumption.

B) Trends and Developments in Computer Hardware-

 Main Component – Based on Integrated  Circuits (IC)

 Primary Memory – Magnetic core.
 Secondary Memory– Magnetic Tape & magnetic disk.
 Input Media – Key to tape & key to disk
 Output Media – Printed reports & Video displays.
 Example – IBM-307 Series ,CDC 7600 series, PDP (Personal Data processer ) II etc.
4.  Fourth Generation of Computers (1975– till now )- Based on 
ULSI Microprocessor

The fourth generation computers started with the invention of Microprocessor. Software is user friendly. Storage
capacity is high. Size, cost, power requirement, heat generation decreased compared to the previous generation.
Problem-oriented fourth generation language (4GL) is used to develop the program.
A) Computer Characteristics & Capabilities –

 Size – Typewritter size micro Computer.

 Speed – Relatively fast as compared to Third generation, Tens of Millions instructions per second.
 Cost – Cost lower than third generation.
 Language– High level languages like C++,KL1 , RPG, SQL.
 Reliability – Failure of circuits in months.
 Power– Low power Consumption.

 B) Trends and Developments in Computer Hardware-

 Main Component – Large scale integrated (LSI) Semiconductor circuits called MICRO PROCESSOR or chip and
VLSI(Very Large scale integrated).
 Main Memory – Semi conductor memory like RAM, ROM and cache memory is used as a primary memory.
 Secondary Memory – Magnetic disk, Floppy disk,  & Optical disk (CD,DVD).
 Input Media – keyboard.
 Output Media – Video displays ,Audio responses  & printed reports.
 Example – CRAY 2, IBM 3090/600 Series, IBM AS/400/B60 etc.
5.Fifth Generation of Computers ( Still in Process)-Based on ULSI
Microprocessor ,AI

In this generation of computer Artificial Intelligence (AI) concept is adopted. The computers have intelligence quality,
default assumptions, Decision making capability etc. through these concepts expert systems. Knowledge based
systems, Decision Support System are developed. Robots are the common example of this type of system.
Generally this generation of system is expected to be intelligent as mankind. It may be hear, understand and work as
human being. Research and development are continued.

A) Computer Characteristics & Capabilities –

 Size –Credit card size micro computers.

 Speed – Billions instructions per second.
 Cost – Cost Slightly lower than first generation.
 Language– Artificial Intelligence (AI) Languages like LISP, PROLOG etc
 Reliability – Failure of circuits in year.
 Power– Low power Consumption.

B ) Trends and Developments in Computer Hardware-

 Main Component – based on ULSI ( Ultra Large scale integrated)  Circuit .that is also called Parallel Processing
method.
 Memory – Optical disk and magnetic disk.
 Input Media – Speech input, Tactile input.
 Output Media – Graphics displays, Voice responses.
 Example – Lap-Tops, palm –Tops, Note books ,PDA (personal Digital Assistant ) etc.
 1. Computing Power 
Computing power has already established its place in the digital era, with almost every device
and appliance being computerized. And it’s here for even more as data science experts have
predicted that the computing infrastructure we are building right now will only evolve for the
better in the coming years. At the same time, we have 5G already; gear up for an era of 6G with
more power in our hands and devices surrounding us. Even better, computing power is
generating more tech jobs in the industry but would require specialized qualifications for
candidates to acquire. From data science to robotics and IT management, this field will power
the largest percentage of employment in every country. The more computing our devices will
need, the more technicians, IT teams, relationship managers, and the customer care economy will
flourish.

One essential branch under this field that you can learn today is RPA, i.e. Robotic Process
Automation. At Simplilearn, RPA is all about computing and automation software that can train
you for a high-paying role in the IT industry. Here are the top jobs you can target after RPA: 

 Data Scientist
 AI Engineer
 Robotics Researcher
 AI Architect
 Robotics Designer

2. Smarter Devices 
Artificial intelligence has played an essential role in making our world smarter and smoother. It
is not just simulating humans but going the extra mile to make our life hassle-free and simpler.
These smarter devices are here to stay in 2022 and even further, as data scientists are working on
AI home robots, appliances, work devices, wearables, and so much more! Almost every job
needs smart software applications to make our work life more manageable. Smarter devices are
another addition to the IT industry that is of high requirement and demand as more companies
transform into digital spaces. Almost every higher-level job requires a good proficiency in IT
and automation these days to thrive. This is why Simplilearn’s RPA course can help you master
these skills to achieve par excellence in your career, whether in IT, marketing, or management.
Here are the best jobs you can venture:

 IT Manager
 Data Scientists
 Product Testers
 Product Managers
 Automation Engineers
 IT Researchers

4. Datafication 
Datafication is simply transforming everything in our life into devices or software powered by
data. So, in short, Datafication is the modification of human chores and tasks into data-driven
technology. From our smartphones, industrial machines, and office applications to AI-powered
appliances and everything else, data is here to stay for longer than we can ever remember! So, to
keep our data stored the right way and secure and safe, it has become an in-demand
specialization in our economy. 

Datafication leads to a higher need for IT professionals, data scientists, engineers, technicians,
managers, and so much more. Even more useful is that anyone with a sound knowledge of
technology can do a certification in data-related specializations to find a job in this space. Data
jobs are more about skills than big-level qualifications, and we have so many successful leaders
emerging from smaller cities and developing countries like India. You can also equip yourself
with this useful trending skill by doing a course like RPA to help you understand how
automation works in the world of data. Let’s look at some popular data careers:
 Big Data Engineers
 Robotics Engineers
 IT Architect
 Business Intelligence Analyst
 Data Scientists

5. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning

Artificial Intelligence, or AI, has already received a lot of buzz in the past decade, but it
continues to be one of the new technology trends because of its notable effects on how we live,
work and play are only in the early stages. AI is already known for its superiority in image and
speech recognition, navigation apps, smartphone personal assistants, ride-sharing apps and so
much more.

Related learning: Advantages and Disadvantages of Artificial Intelligence

Related learning: Top Disruptive Technologies to Watch Out for in 2022

Mastering AI and machine learning will help you secure jobs like:

 AI Research Scientist
 AI Engineer
 Machine Learning Engineer
 AI Architect

6. Extended Reality 
Extended reality comprises all the technologies that simulate reality, from Virtual Reality,
Augmented Reality to Mixed Reality and everything else in-between. It is a significant
technology trend right now as all of us are craving to break away from the so-called real
boundaries of the world. By creating a reality without any tangible presence, this technology is
massively popular amongst gamers, medical specialists, and retail and modeling.

Regarding extended reality, gaming is a crucial area for popular careers that don’t require high-
level qualifications but rather a passion for online gaming. You can pursue game design,
animation or even editing programs to pursue a successful career in this specialization.
Meanwhile, check out the best jobs in AR, VR as well as ER:
 Extended Reality Architect
 Front Lead Engineer
 Software Developer
 AR/VR Support Engineers
 Game Designers
 Pro Gamers

7. Digital Trust 
With people being accommodated and tangled with devices and technologies, confidence and
trust have been built towards digital technologies. This familiar digital trust is another vital trend
leading to more innovations. With digital conviction, people believe that technology can create a
secure, safe and reliable digital world and help companies invent and innovate without worrying
about securing the public’s confidence. 

To create a safer space for digital users, cybersecurity and ethical hacking are the major
specializations you can check out. In these two, there is an array of jobs you can discover from
junior to senior levels. For ethical hacking, you might have to take up professional certifications,
while for cybersecurity, a diploma or even a master’s qualification is sufficient to aim for a high-
salary role. Here are the top jobs you can find in cybersecurity and ethical hacking:

 Cybersecurity Analyst
 Penetration Tester
 Security Engineer
 Security Architect
 Security Automation Engineer
 Network Security Analyst

8. 3D Printing 
 A key trend in innovation and technology is 3D printing which is used to formulate prototypes.
This technology has been impactful in the biomedical and industrial sectors. None of us thought
of printing a real object from a printer, while right now, it’s a reality. So, 3D printing is another
innovation that’s here to stay. For companies in the data and healthcare sector that require a lot
of 3D printing for their products, various jobs pay well and are international. All you need is a
sound knowledge of AI, Machine Learning, Modeling, and 3D printing. Let’s check out the best
jobs in this specialization:

 CX Program Manager
 3D Printer Engineer
 Emulation Prototyping Engineer
 Robotics Trainer
 AI Engineer
 Operations Manager
 Organ & Prosthetic Designer

9. Genomics 
Imagine a technology that can study your DNA and use it to improve your health, helping you
fight diseases and whatnot! Genomics is precisely that technology that peruses upon the make-up
of genes, DNAs, their mapping, structure, etc. Further, this can help quantify your genes and
result in finding diseases or any possible problems that can later be a health issue. When it comes
to a specialization like Genomics, one can find a variety of technical as well as non-technical
roles. Technical jobs in this area are all about designing, analyzing, and diagnostics, while non-
technical jobs are concerned with higher levels of research and theoretical analysis. Here are the
top jobs in Genomics:

 Bioinformatics Analyst
 Genome Research Analyst
 Full Stack Developer
 Software Engineer
 Bioinformatician
 Genetics Engineer

10. New Energy Solutions

 The world has agreed to be greener for the sake of its landscapes and the energy we use. This
results in cars running on electricity or battery and houses using greener choices like solar and
renewable energy. What’s even better is that people are conscious of their carbon footprints and
waste; thus, minimizing it or turning those into renewable energy is even more helpful. 

This alternative energy arena is also boosting environment-related and data-oriented careers.
These careers pertain to those in Science specializations and social science qualifications. Let’s
take a look at the top jobs you can find in New Energy:

 Energy Specialist (Solar, Thermal, Hydro-power etc.)

 Solar Plant Design Energy
 Climate Strategy Specialist
 Project Manager
 Chemical Energy
 Biotechnology Specialist
 Renewable Energy Technologist

11. Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

Like AI and Machine Learning, Robotic Process Automation, or RPA, is another technology that
is automating jobs. RPA is the use of software to automate business processes such as
interpreting applications, processing transactions, dealing with data, and even replying to emails.
RPA automates repetitive tasks that people used to do. 

Although Forrester Research estimates RPA automation will threaten the livelihood of 230
million or more knowledge workers or approximately 9 percent of the global workforce, RPA is
also creating new jobs while altering existing jobs. McKinsey finds that less than 5 percent of
occupations can be totally automated, but about 60 percent can be partially automated.

For you as an IT professional looking to the future and trying to understand latest technology
trends, RPA offers plenty of career opportunities, including developer, project manager, business
analyst, solution architect and consultant. And these jobs pay well. An RPA developer can earn
over ₹534K per year - making it the next technology trend you must keep a watch on!

Mastering RPA will help you secure high paying jobs like:

 RPA Developer
 RPA Analyst
 RPA Architect
 12. Edge Computing
Formerly a new technology trend to watch, cloud computing has become mainstream, with major
players AWS (Amazon Web Services), Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud Platform dominating
the market. The adoption of cloud computing is still growing, as more and more businesses
migrate to a cloud solution. But it’s no longer the emerging technology trend. Edge is.

Related learning: Top Cloud Technologies

As the quantity of data organizations is dealing with continues to increase, they have realized the
shortcomings of cloud computing in some situations. Edge computing is designed to help solve
some of those problems as a way to bypass the latency caused by cloud computing and getting
data to a data center for processing. It can exist “on the edge,” if you will, closer to where
computing needs to happen. For this reason, edge computing can be used to process time-
sensitive data in remote locations with limited or no connectivity to a centralized location. In
those situations, edge computing can act like mini datacenters.

 Cloud Reliability Engineer

 Cloud Infrastructure Engineer
 Cloud Architect and Security Architect
 DevOps Cloud Engineer

13. Quantum Computing

Next remarkable technology trend is quantum computing, which is a form of computing that
takes advantage of quantum phenomena like superposition and quantum entanglement. This
amazing technology trend is also involved in preventing the spread of the coronavirus, and to
develop potential vaccines, thanks to its ability to easily query, monitor, analyze and act on data,
regardless of the source. Another field where quantum computing is finding applications is
banking and finance, to manage credit risk, for high-frequency trading and fraud detection.

Quantum computers are now a multitude times faster than regular computers and huge brands
like Splunk, Honeywell, Microsoft, AWS, Google and many others are now involved in making
innovations in the field of Quantum Computing. The revenues for the global quantum computing
market are projected to surpass $2.5 billion by 2029. And to make a mark in this new trending
technology, you need to have experience with quantum mechanics, linear algebra, probability,
information theory, and machine learning.

14. Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality

 The next exceptional technology trend - Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR), and
Extended Reality (ER). VR immerses the user in an environment while AR enhances their
environment. Although this technology trend has primarily been used for gaming thus far, it has
also been used for training, as with VirtualShip, a simulation software used to train U.S. Navy,
Army and Coast Guard ship captains.

Read more: All about Virtual Reality!! What is Virtual Reality?

In 2022, we can expect these forms of technologies being further integrated into our lives.
Usually working in tandem with some of the other emerging technologies we’ve mentioned in
this list, AR and VR have enormous potential in training, entertainment, education, marketing,
and even rehabilitation after an injury. Either could be used to train doctors to do surgery, offer
museum goers a deeper experience, enhance theme parks, or even enhance marketing, as with
this Pepsi Max bus shelter.

Fun fact: 14 million AR and VR devices were sold in 2019. The global AR and VR market is
expected to grow to $209.2 billion by 2022, only creating more opportunities in the trending
technology, and welcoming more professionals ready for this game-changing field. 

While some employers might look for optics as a skill-set, note that getting started in VR doesn’t
require a lot of specialized knowledge - basic programming skills and a forward-thinking
mindset can land a job; another reason why this new technology trend should make up to your
list of lookouts!

15. Blockchain
Although most people think of blockchain technology in relation to cryptocurrencies such as
Bitcoin, blockchain offers security that is useful in many other ways. In the simplest of terms,
blockchain can be described as data you can only add to, not take away from, or change. Hence
the term “chain” because you’re making a chain of data. Not being able to change the previous
blocks is what makes it so secure. In addition, blockchains are consensus-driven, so no one entity
can take control of the data. With blockchain, you don’t need a trusted third-party to oversee or
validate transactions.

Mastering blockchain can help you scale up in a variety of fields and industries:

 Risk Analyst
 Tech Architect
 Crypto Community Manager
 Front End Engineer
16. Internet of Things (IoT)
Another promising new technology trend is IoT. Many “things” are now being built with WiFi
connectivity, meaning they can be connected to the Internet—and to each other. Hence, the
Internet of Things, or IoT. The Internet of Things is the future, and has already enabled devices,
home appliances, cars and much more to be connected to and exchange data over the Internet.

As consumers, we’re already using and benefitting from IoT. We can lock our doors remotely if
we forget to when we leave for work and preheat our ovens on our way home from work, all
while tracking our fitness on our Fitbits. However, businesses also have much to gain now and in
the near future. The IoT can enable better safety, efficiency and decision making for businesses
as data is collected and analyzed. It can enable predictive maintenance, speed up medical care,
improve customer service, and offer benefits we haven’t even imagined yet.

And we’re only in the beginning stages of this new technology trend: Forecasts suggest that by
2030 around 50 billion of these IoT devices will be in use around the world, creating a massive
web of interconnected devices spanning everything from smartphones to kitchen appliances. The
global spending on the Internet of Things (IoT) is forecast to reach 1.1 trillion U.S. dollars in
2022. New technologies such as 5G is expected to drive market growth in the coming years.

And if you wish to step foot in this trending technology, you will have to learn about Information
security, AI and machine learning fundamentals, networking, hardware interfacing, data
analytics, automation, understanding of embedded systems, and must have device and design
knowledge.

17. 5G
The next technology trend that follows the IoT is 5G. Where 3G and 4G technologies have
enabled us to browse the internet, use data driven services, increased bandwidths for streaming
on Spotify or YouTube and so much more, 5G services are expected to revolutionize our lives.
by enabling services that rely on advanced technologies like AR and VR, alongside cloud based
gaming services like Google Stadia, NVidia GeForce Now and much more. It is expected to be
used in factories, HD cameras that help improve safety and traffic management, smart grid
control and smart retail too.

Related learning: How 5G Technology Will Change the World?

Just about every telecom company like Verizon, Tmobile, Apple, Nokia Corp, QualComm, are
now working on creating 5G applications. 5G Networks will cover 40% of the world by 2024,
handling 25% of all mobile traffic data making it an emerging technology trend you must watch
out for, and also save a spot in.
 18. Cyber Security
Cyber security might not seem like an emerging technology, given that it has been around for a
while, but it is evolving just as other technologies are. That’s in part because threats are
constantly new. The malevolent hackers who are trying to illegally access data are not going to
give up any time soon, and they will continue to find ways to get through even the toughest
security measures. It’s also in part because new technology is being adapted to enhance security.
As long as we have hackers, cybersecurity will remain a trending technology because it will
constantly evolve to defend against those hackers.

Related learning: Top 10 Cybersecurity Trends

 As proof of the strong need for cybersecurity professionals, the number of cybersecurity jobs
is growing three times faster than other tech jobs. According to Gartner, by 2025, 60% of
organizations will use cybersecurity risk as a primary determinant in conducting third-party
transactions and business engagements.

You must note that however challenging the field is it also offers lucrative six-figure incomes,
and roles can range from 

 Ethical Hacker 
 Malware Analyst
 Security Engineer 
 Chief Security Officer
offering a promising career path for someone who wants to get into and stick with this evergreen
trending technology. 

Have a look at this video that talks about the trending technologies in 2022 that you should
watch out for.

9 New Technology Trends and 1 Solution to Succeed in Them

Although technologies are emerging and evolving all around us, these 9 technology trends offer
promising career potential now and for the foreseeable future. And most of these trending
technologies are welcoming skilled professionals, meaning the time is right for you to choose
one, get trained, and get on board at the early stages of these trending technologies, positioning
you for success now and in the future.