Integrated Circuits (ICs) are related to which generation of computers?

Concept

Computer generations are conventionally classified by the dominant hardware technology that marks each major stage of development.

As components became smaller and more highly integrated, computers generally became faster, smaller, more reliable, and more energy-efficient.

Application

An integrated circuit combines multiple electronic components on a single semiconductor chip. This technology became the defining hardware transition of third-generation computers, so the matching value is Third Generation.

Contrast

• First Generation is associated with vacuum-tube hardware.

• Second Generation is associated with discrete transistors.

• Fourth Generation is associated with microprocessors and large-scale integration.

• Fifth Generation is commonly characterized by artificial-intelligence and parallel-processing goals.

Result

Integrated circuits are conventionally associated with the Third Generation of computers.