What does EDSAC mean in COMPUTING


EDSAC stands for "Electronic Discrete Sequential Automatic Computer" and was the first operational electronic stored-program computer. It was developed by Maurice Wilkes and his team at the University of Cambridge's Mathematical Laboratory in England. EDSAC became operational in May 1949 and was used for various scientific and engineering calculations, including solving partial differential equations and performing crystallographic calculations.

EDSAC

EDSAC meaning in Computing in Computing

EDSAC mostly used in an acronym Computing in Category Computing that means Electronic Discrete Sequential Automatic Computer

Shorthand: EDSAC,
Full Form: Electronic Discrete Sequential Automatic Computer

For more information of "Electronic Discrete Sequential Automatic Computer", see the section below.

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Key Features of EDSAC

  • Electronic: EDSAC used electronic components, such as vacuum tubes and crystal diodes, for its internal operations, making it much faster than previous mechanical computers.
  • Discrete: The computer's components were separate, individual units, unlike later integrated circuit-based computers.
  • Sequential: EDSAC executed instructions one after another in a sequential manner, rather than in parallel as modern computers do.
  • Automatic: The computer could automatically carry out a sequence of instructions stored in its memory, without human intervention.

Design and Architecture

EDSAC had a word-oriented architecture, with a word size of 32 bits. Its memory consisted of 512 32-bit words, which could be used to store both data and instructions. The computer's instructions were simple and included basic arithmetic and logical operations. EDSAC also featured a rudimentary input-output system, using punched paper tape for input and a teleprinter for output.

Historical Significance

EDSAC played a significant role in the development of computer science. It demonstrated the feasibility of stored-program computers and influenced the design of subsequent computers, including the Manchester Mark 1 and the IBM 701. EDSAC's legacy lies in its pioneering role in the field of electronic computing and its contributions to the advancement of scientific research and technological development.

Essential Questions and Answers on Electronic Discrete Sequential Automatic Computer in "COMPUTING»COMPUTING"

What is EDSAC?

EDSAC (Electronic Discrete Sequential Automatic Computer) was one of the earliest stored-program digital computers. It was developed at the University of Cambridge in England and became operational in 1949. EDSAC was used for a wide variety of research and development projects, including the development of compilers and operating systems.

What were the key features of EDSAC?

EDSAC was a serial binary computer with a 32-bit word length. It had a memory capacity of 512 words, which could be expanded to 1024 words. EDSAC was programmed using a machine code that was stored in its memory. It was also equipped with a number of input and output devices, including a punched tape reader and a line printer.

Who were the key people involved in the development of EDSAC?

EDSAC was developed by a team of engineers and scientists at the University of Cambridge, led by Maurice Wilkes. Other key members of the team included David Wheeler, Stanley Gill, and James Wilkinson.

What was the significance of EDSAC?

EDSAC was one of the first stored-program digital computers, and it played a major role in the development of computer science. It was used for a wide variety of research and development projects, and it helped to establish the basic principles of computer architecture. EDSAC is also notable for being the first computer to run a chess game.

Final Words: EDSAC was a groundbreaking achievement in the history of computing, paving the way for the modern digital computers we use today. Its innovative design and features made it a significant milestone in the transition from mechanical to electronic computation. EDSAC's legacy continues to inspire researchers and engineers in the field of computer architecture and technology.

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