Second Generation of Computer

Second Generation of mordern computer (1955 - 1964)

The period of second generation was 1959-1965. In second generation of computer transistors were used. The transistors were highly reliable and easier to handle and maintain than the vacuum tubes. They required much less power. These transistors replaced vacuum tubes in computers during this period. The magnetic cores were used to construct large random access memories. Magnetic disk storage was also developed during this period.
Commercial applications rapidly developed during this period and dominated computer use by mid 1960s. This period also witnessed development of high level languages (like FORTRAN, COBOL, ALGOL, and SNOWBOL) and operating systems. The computers used multiprogramming and batch processing operating system.

Advantages of Secound Generatin of Computer

» Smaller in size compared to the first generation of computer.
» The second generations computers were more reliable.
» Used less energy and were not heated as much as the first one.
» Better speed and could calculate data in microseconds.
» Used faster peripherals.
» Better portability as compared to the first generation.
» Accuracy improved.
» Used assembly language as well.

Disadvantages of First Generatin of Computer

» Cooling system was required.
» Only used for specific purposes
» Constant maintenance was required
» Commercial production was difficult
» Costly and not versatile
» Puch cards were used for input.

Example of Second Generation of Computer

1. Honeywell 400
2. IBM 7094
3. CDC 1604
4. CDC 3600
5. UNIVAC 1108
6. IBM 7030

Other generation of computer

1. First Generation of Computer (1946 - 1954)
3. Third Generation of Computer (1965 - 1974)
4. Fourth Generation of Computer (1975 - 1989)
5. Fifth Generation of Computer (1990 onwards)