Which of the following IC types were used in third-generation computers?
2019
Which of the following IC types were used in third-generation computers?
- A.
SSI
- B.
MSI
- C.
LSI
- D.
Both (A) and (B)
- E.
VLSI
Attempted by 204 students.
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Correct answer: D
The third generation of computers, spanning roughly from the mid-1960s to the early 1970s, is characterized by the use of Integrated Circuits (ICs) instead of discrete transistors. Specifically, this era utilized Small Scale Integration (SSI) and Medium Scale Integration (MSI) ICs. SSI chips contained a few transistors, while MSI chips integrated dozens to hundreds of components on a single silicon chip. This advancement significantly reduced the size and cost of computers while improving their speed and reliability compared to second-generation transistor-based machines. Option A (SSI) and Option B (MSI) are both correct, making Option D the right choice. In contrast, Large Scale Integration (LSI) and Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI) were introduced in the fourth generation, marking a shift to microprocessors and personal computers.