In the First Generation, computers and vacuum tubes were the main components at that time as a technology for a computer. Now in this article, we are going to list out
The main technology for Second Generation was transistors (1956-1963). The world saw transistors replace the vacuum tubes in the second generation of computers. The transistor was invented at Bell Labs in 1947 but did not see widespread use in computers until the late 1950s.
What is the Transistor? A transistor is a device that regulates current or voltage flow and acts as a switch or gate for electronic signals. Transistors consist of three layers of semiconductor material, each capable of carrying a current.
Advantages of Second Generation Computer
- Smaller in size as compared to the first generation computer.
- Second-generation computers were more reliable.
- Used less energy and were not heated as much as a first-generation computer.
- Wider commercial use.
- Better portability as compared to the first-generation computers.
- Better speed and could calculate data in microseconds.
- Used faster peripherals like tape drives, magnetic disks, etc…
- Used assembly language as well as machine language.
- Accuracy improved.
Disadvantages of Second Generation Computer
- A cooling system was required.
- Constant maintenance is required.
- Commercial production was difficult.
- Only used for specific purposes.
- Costly and not versatile.
- Punch cards were used for input.