The second generation computers used Transistors. The scientists at Bell laboratories developed
transistor in 1947. These scientists include John Barden, William Brattain and
William Shockley. The size of the computers was decreased by replacing vacuum
tubes with transistors.
The examples
of second generation computers are IBM 7094 series, IBM 1400 series and CDC 164
etc.
Advantages
·
Smaller
in size as compared to the first generation computers.
·
The
2nd generation Computers were more reliable
·
Used
less energy and were not heated.
·
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, printer etc.
·
Used
Assembly language instead of Machine language.
·
Accuracy
improved.
Disadvantages
·
Cooling
system was required
·
Constant
maintenance was required
·
Commercial
production was difficult
·
Only
used for specific purposes
·
Costly
and not versatile
·
Puch
cards were used for input.