Second Generation Computers (1955-1964)

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.