We are living in the age of science. Science has given us many wonderful gifts to make our life comfortable. So far, computer is the most remarkable invention of modern science. It has exceeded the excellence of all the invention of all ages.
The word computer has derived from a Latin word- 'Computa' which means to calculate something. Fundamentally, it is a powerful calculating machine which can perform thousands of complicated work in a few seconds. But it can perform other numerous functions in the twinkle of an eye.
Computer was not invented over night. Mankind had to wait for a long time. There is a long history behind its invention. In 1643, the french mathematician B. Pascal invented a theory of 'Digital Calculating System.' This event has paved the way to the invention of computer. In 1812 Charles Babbage invented the complete structure of modern computer. He is called the father of modern computer. Later, in 1944 an American Scientist Mr. Howard Akin invented the computer perfectly with the help of Harvard University and IBM Company.
A computer consists of five major components. These are: input unit, memory unit, control unit, arithmetic unit and output unit. It performs three functions.
a) It receives data
b) It processes data and
c) It emits data.
Computer is of great use to us. To speak the truth this unique device has changed the entire world. It has contributed to almost all the spheres of human life. It plays a vital role in our individual. social, national and international life. The uses of computer:
i) In communication: Computer has brought a revolutionary change in the field of communication. It has made the world much smaller. Through internet, it has brought the world into the grip of man. With the help of E-mail we can communicate with the people of the farthest corner of the world.
ii) In Education: Computer helps us greatly to prepare study materials. Results of various public exams are readied accurately and published by computer. Books, records, educational documents are preserved and printed by it.
iii) In medical Science: Now-a-days computer is frequently used to diagnose complicated diseases. The latest inventions of medical science like MRT. CT. scan, ECG all these are now possible by the bounty of computer. Beside these, it is used to grind the stones of our stomach.
Moreover, computer is used in commerce, industrial sectors, various types of research and other works.
Though computer has uncounted merits, it has some demerits also. Sometimes young boys and girls become addicted to abuse it. Besides, it weakens our eye-sight if we use it at a stretch.
We all are to confess that computer is a blessing of modern science. we can not think about a single moment without it. It has become a part and parcel of our modern life. It is the amazing gift of science which has increased the speed of civilization and still increasing.
