Fourth Generation computers (1971-Present) welcomed two programmers that would revolutionize the computer industry. Two teenagers by the name of Bill Gates and Steve Jobs had developed a passion for computer programming (“Steve Jobs”). By this time, Dennis Ritchie had introduced C, which is a computer programming language that is still in use today through an updated version called C++ (“The C Programming Language”). Along with the creation of C was the development of microprocessors by Intel. Microprocessors, which were about half the size of a U.S. dime, increase power, efficiency and reliability even further by localizing all components into a single chip (LaMorte).
Where manufacturers had created circuits to fit specific tasks before, they could now use a universal Intel microprocessor. These microprocessors could fit the needs of every single application needed, and were programmed according to how the programmed needed to be used. Instead of designing a new circuit for various electronics such as a microwave, television, or automobile, a microprocessor could be used for all of those. This combination of advanced hardware development, software development, and the introduction of the Internet, allowed computers to be designed for any application needed.
The History of computers 