Brief Introduction Of First & Second Generation Of Computers.

First Generation

First generation computers were used during 1942-1960. These computers were based on Vacuum tubes. First generation of computers was developed by two scientists Mauchly and Echert at the census department in 1947. These computers were very big in size and require a lot of electricity.

Advantages of First Generation

• Vacuum tubes were the only electronic component available during those days.
• Vacuum tubes technology made possible to make electronic digital computers.
• These computers could calculate data in milliseconds.

Disadvantages of First Generation

• These computers were very large in size.
• They consumed a large amount of energy.
• They heated very soon due to thousands of Vacuum tubes.
• Costly Commercial Production.
• Slow in Speed.
• Not versatile.
• Punch cards for input.
• Air Conditions were required.

Examples

Example of first generation computers are:

1. Electronic Numerical Integrator And Computer (ENIVAC)
2. UNIVersal Automatic Computer UNIVAC-I

Second Generation Of Computers

In second generation computers Transistors were used. The scientists of Bell Laboratories developed transistor in 1947. The size of computer was decreased by replacing vacuum tubes with transistors.

Advantages of Second Generation

• Smaller in size
• More Reliable
• Used less energy 
• Better Speed
• Wider commercial use.
• Better portability
• Produce less heat.

Disadvantages of Second Generation

• Costly.
• Not versatile
• Air conditions were required.
• Constant maintenance

Examples

1. IBM 7094 Series
2. CDC 164