1960 and beyond: the third and subsequent generations
The rapid growth of the use of computers began with the so-called. "3rd generation" of computers. Start to this invention of integrated circuits that are independently invented by Nobel laureate Jack Kilby and Robert Noyce. This led to the invention of the microprocessor by Ted Hoff (company Intel).
During 1960, there was some overlap of technology 2 nd and 3rd generations. At the end of 1975, Sperry Univac continued the manufacture of machines 2 nd generation, such as the UNIVAC 494.
The emergence of microprocessors has led to the development of microcomputers - small inexpensive computers, which can hold small companies or individuals. Microcomputers, representatives of the fourth generation, the first of which appeared in the 1970's, have become commonplace in the 1980's and later. Steve Wozniak, co-founder of Apple Computer, became known as the developer of the first mass home computer, and later - the first personal computer. Computer-based microcomputer architecture, with features added from their larger counterparts, now predominate in most market segments.