
Computer | Definition, History, Operating Systems, & Facts
Jun 16, 2025 · A computer is a programmable device for processing, storing, and displaying information. Learn more in this article about modern digital electronic computers and their …
Computer - Technology, Invention, History | Britannica
Jun 16, 2025 · Computer - Technology, Invention, History: By the second decade of the 19th century, a number of ideas necessary for the invention of the computer were in the air.
What is a computer? - Britannica
A computer is a machine that can store and process information. Most computers rely on a binary system, which uses two variables, 0 and 1, to complete tasks such as storing data, calculating …
computer - Kids | Britannica Kids | Homework Help
Computer software is divided into two basic types—the operating system and application software. The operating system controls how the different parts of hardware work together. …
Computer - History, Technology, Innovation | Britannica
Jun 16, 2025 · The history of the solving of these problems is the history of the computer. That history is covered in this section, and links are provided to entries on many of the individuals …
Personal computer (PC) | Definition, History, & Facts | Britannica
2 days ago · personal computer (PC), a digital computer designed for use by only one person at a time.
computer summary | Britannica
computer, Programmable machine that can store, retrieve, and process data. A computer consists of the central processing unit (CPU), main memory (or random-access memory, RAM), and …
Computer science | Definition, Types, & Facts | Britannica
May 29, 2025 · Computer science is the study of computers and computing, including their theoretical and algorithmic foundations, hardware and software, and their uses for processing …
Mainframe | Definition & Facts | Britannica
Mainframe, digital computer designed for high-speed data processing with heavy use of input/output units such as large-capacity disks and printers. Mainframes have been used for …
Computer - Home Use, Microprocessors, Software | Britannica
Jun 16, 2025 · Computer - Home Use, Microprocessors, Software: Before 1970, computers were big machines requiring thousands of separate transistors. They were operated by specialized …