Digital computers, transistors and integrated circuits

Abstract

Abacus, a mechanical appliance (e.g. beads on a rod or a wire) making counting easy, was known already in Babylonia around 3000 years ago, rediscovered or improved in China, and later in Europe in 12—13th century. Thus, counting devices have very long and diversified history. This chapter summarizes recent history and conceptual importance of digital computers, transistors and integrated circuits.