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Information technology (IT) is the application of computers and telecommunications equipment to store, retrieve, transmit and manipulate data,^[1] often in the context of a business or other enterprise. The term is commonly used as a synonym for computers and computer networks, but it also encompasses other information distribution technologies such as television and telephones. Several industries are associated with information technology, including computer hardware, software, electronics, semiconductors, internet, telecom equipment, e-commerce and computer services.

Humans have been storing, retrieving, manipulating and communicating information since the Sumerians in Mesopotamia developed writing in about 3000 BC,but the term information technology in its modern sense first appeared in a 1958 article published in the Harvard Business Review; authors Harold J. Leavitt and Thomas L. Whisler commented that "the new technology does not yet have a single established name. We shall call it information technology (IT)." Their definition consists of three categories: techniques for processing, the application of statistical and mathematical methods to decision-making and the simulation of higher-order thinking through computer programs. Based on the storage and processing technologies employed, it is possible to distinguish four distinct phases of IT development: pre-mechanical (3000 BC – 1450 AD), mechanical (1450–1840), electromechanical (1840–1940) and electronic (1940–present).

Devices have been used to aid computation for thousands of years, probably initially in the form of a tally stick. The Antikythera mechanism, dating from about the beginning of the first century BC, is generally considered to be the earliest known mechanical analog computer, and the earliest known geared mechanism. Comparable geared devices did not emerge in Europe until the 16th century, and it was not until 1645 that the first mechanical calculator capable of performing the four basic arithmetical operations was developed.

Writing

Grammar exercise.

1. Rewrite the sentences using the... the... + a comparative adjective or adverb.

1 If you study more, you learn more.

The________________ , the_______________ .

2 If we leave soon, we'll get there earlier.

The________________ , the_______________ .

3.If you are sociable, you have more friends.

The________________ , the_______________ .

4. If you are happy, you are nicer to other people.

The_____________ , the _______________.

<== попередня сторінка	\|	наступна сторінка ==>
Microeconomics and Macroeconomics	\|	Complete the sentences with the present perfect simple or continuous.

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