Computers are an essential part of everyday life and are becoming more powerful and more important every day. This list explores 10 of the most interesting and amazing facts about computers, from the first computers to the latest advancements in technology. We hope these facts will help you gain a better understanding of the fascinating world of computers.

1. The first modern computer was massive.

There are arguments over what the first computer was. Some people say it was an abacus which is a counting device that has been used for centuries.

However the first modern computers were electronic calculating machines and were developed during the Second World War.

One computer would take up rooms and parts of the computers were put on wheels because they were so big.

2. The first modern computer was basically a giant calculator.

Even though the first modern computer was massive it could actually only do 4 things. Add, subtract, multiply and divide.

Can you believe that now we have calculators on our phones when once upon a time a calculator would take up a room the size of a school hall.

3. Computers work through special instructions called algorithms.

Computers work by following instructions. These instructions are called algorithms.

Computers don’t have common sense so algorithms have to be really clear for them to understand. If there is even a small mistake in an algorithm then the computer won’t be able to complete a task.

Ada Lovelace invented the first computer algorithms.

4. Phones are computers.

We use computers everyday without even knowing it. Lots of things we call by other names are types of computers.

For example mobile phones, tablets, smart speakers, laptops and games consoles are all examples of computers.

5. A computers memory is called RAM.

RAM stands for Random Access Memory and is its short term memory. Without it the computer wouldn’t be able to do anything from opening files to streaming a video.

6. Over 6,000 computer viruses are released each month.

Computers are always a risk of getting a computer virus that makes them shut down or run slow. That’s why it’s important your computer has anti-virus software on it.

7. It’s important to take breaks when using a computer to look after your eyes.

Computers have very bright screens so it’s important to take breaks around every 20 minutes to look after your eyes.

Every 20 minutes look away from the screen and look to something at least 10 metres away – this is like doing an exercise for your eyes.

8. The first Apple computer was made from free items collected from Apple staff.

The first Apple computer ever made by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak was made from old parts they collected for free from their staff.

9. You can spell the word typewriter using the top line of letters on a computer’s keyboard.

We bet you’re trying it now! Stewardesses’ is also the longest word you can type with one hand. 

10. When you work on a computer your hands travel 20 kilometres a day!

If your parents work on a computer you can tell them this amazing fact.

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