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The so-called second-generation

computers can be taken to be those


produced during the second decade of the
electronic computer era (approximately
1955-1964)




They used high-level languages such as FORTRAN
(1956), ALGOL (1960) & COBOL (1960 - 1961). I/O
processor was included to control I/O operations.

Around 1955 a device called Transistor replaced
the bulky Vacuum tubes in the first generation
computer. Transistors are smaller than Vacuum
tubes and have higher operating speed. They
have no filament and require no heating.
Manufacturing cost was also very low. Thus the size
of the computer got reduced considerably.
It is in the second generation that the
concept of Central Processing Unit
(CPU), memory, programming language
and input and output units were
developed. The programming
languages such as COBOL, FORTRAN
were developed during this period.
1. IBM 1620: Its size was smaller as compared to First
Generation computers and mostly used for
scientific purpose.





Transistors were used instead of Vacuum Tube.

Processing speed is faster than First Generation
Computers (Micro Second)

Smaller in Size (51 square feet)

The input and output devices were faster.

Example: IBM 1400 and 7000 Series, Control Data
3600 etc.



Many of the improvements associated with second-
generation computers actually first appeared in
vacuum tube or hybrid machines. The IBM 704
vacuum tube had index registers and floating-point
which was rudimentary operating system. The later
models of 704, 709, had input out-put processors(then
called "data synchronizers "and later
"channels")which were special-purpose processors
used exclusively to control actions were controlled
directly by the CPU; this is now termed programmed
IO. With the second generation it became necessary
to talk about computer systems, since the number of
memory units processors, IO devices, and other
system component could vary between different
installation, even though the same basic computer
was used.
The IBM 7094 Model I was amide number of IBM's
second generation of scientific computer. Built with
discrete transistors. The shows the console. The 7094
system is about the same size as 709 and has the
same kind of principle. The IBM 2302 disk drive for
the 7094. The disk platters are 24 inches in diameter
and the head assembly is positioned with
compressed air. It is one of the last model this size
and can store 300 MB .

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.

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.

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