In the usual classification of computer generations, fifth generation computers are also known as what type of systems?

Introduction / Context:
Computer history is often divided into generations based on major technological developments in hardware and system design. Each generation is associated with particular components and capabilities. Fifth generation computers are linked with artificial intelligence and knowledge based processing rather than just hardware integration levels. This question checks whether you can correctly identify how fifth generation computers are described in many textbooks.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The focus is on fifth generation computers.
• The options include Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI), knowledge information processing system, both, or none.
• We assume the standard five generation model used in many introductory courses.
• The question expects recognition of the association between generations and key technologies.

Concept / Approach:
Fourth generation computers are typically associated with Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI), which refers to packing many thousands of transistors onto a single chip. Fifth generation computers, on the other hand, are often described as knowledge information processing systems that aim to incorporate artificial intelligence, expert systems, and natural language understanding. They are focused on processing knowledge rather than only raw data. Therefore, VLSI is linked with the fourth generation, and fifth generation computers are more accurately known as knowledge information processing systems. As a result, option B is correct and the combined option C is not.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the typical association for fourth generation computers. Fourth generation is known for using Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI) technology. Step 2: Recall the typical association for fifth generation computers. Fifth generation focuses on knowledge based processing, AI, and intelligent systems. Step 3: Examine option A. Option A connects fifth generation with VLSI, which is a mismatch as VLSI belongs to the previous generation. Step 4: Examine option B. Option B correctly describes fifth generation computers as knowledge information processing systems. Step 5: Examine option C. Option C claims both A and B are correct, but since VLSI is not the defining feature of fifth generation, this cannot be right. Step 6: Select option B as the accurate description.

Verification / Alternative check:
Many computer fundamentals books list the generations as follows: first generation (vacuum tubes), second generation (transistors), third generation (integrated circuits), fourth generation (VLSI microprocessors), and fifth generation (knowledge based systems and artificial intelligence). They explain that fifth generation projects such as the Japanese fifth generation computer project aimed to develop machines that could process knowledge and support logical reasoning. These references consistently associate fifth generation with knowledge information processing and AI, not specifically with VLSI alone. This confirms that option B is the correct label.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A (Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI)): VLSI is a hardware technology characteristic of fourth generation computers, not the defining feature of fifth generation systems. Option C (Both A & B): Combines a correct description (knowledge information processing) with an incorrect one (VLSI for fifth generation), so it is not fully correct. Option D (None of the above): Incorrect because option B accurately reflects the usual description of fifth generation computers.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes memorise lists of generations and technologies but confuse which generation corresponds to which feature. Because VLSI appears close in time to early AI research, they may incorrectly associate it with both the fourth and fifth generations. To avoid this confusion, remember that hardware integration levels like VLSI are tied to the fourth generation, while fifth generation is an evolution in function, focusing on knowledge processing and intelligent behaviour rather than just hardware size and speed.

Final Answer:
Fifth generation computers are also known as knowledge information processing systems that focus on intelligent and knowledge based processing.