On the first generation computer, there were Vacuum Tubes (1940-1956) on the first computer systems. The main reason for using Vacuum tubes on 1st Generation computers for circuitry and magnetic drums for memory, and were often enormous, taking up entire rooms. So what are Vacuum Tubes:Â
In electronics, a vacuum tube, an electron tube, or just a tube, or valve is a device that controls the electric current between electrodes in an evacuated container.
Advantages of First Generation Computer
- Made use of vacuum tubes which are the only electronic component available during those days.
- The use of vacuum tube technology made it possible to make an electronic digital computer.
- These computers could calculate in milliseconds.
Disadvantages of First Generation Computer
- The computers were very larger in size
- They consumed a large amount of energy.
- They heated very soon due to thousands of vacuum tubes.
- They were not very reliable.
- Air conditioning is required.
- Constant maintenance was required.
- Not-portable.
- Costly commercial production.
- Very slow speed.
- Limited programming capabilities.
- Used machine language only.
- Used punch card for input.
- Not versatile and less accurate.
Wrapping it up
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