Describe the second generation of computer in terms of the speed of operation
The second generation of computers, developed in the late 1950s to the mid-1960s, exhibited significant advancements in terms of speed of operation compared to their predecessors.
Key characteristics of the second generation computers that contributed to improved speed include:
1. Transistors: The main development during this period was the replacement of vacuum tubes with transistors as the primary switching and amplifying components. Transistors were more reliable, smaller in size, and faster in operation than vacuum tubes. They enabled computers to perform calculations and process data at a much faster rate.
2. Magnetic core memory: Second-generation computers employed magnetic core memory, which was a significant improvement over the earlier drum memory used in first-generation computers. Magnetic core memory provided faster access times and higher data storage capacity. This resulted in faster data retrieval and manipulation, enhancing the overall speed of operation.
3. High-level programming languages: The introduction of high-level programming languages, such as Fortran and Algol, during this era allowed programmers to write code in a more human-readable and efficient manner. These languages provided built-in functions and more sophisticated programming structures, which reduced the amount of machine code instructions needed and improved the speed of execution.
4. Batch processing and multiprogramming: Second-generation computers often utilized batch processing techniques, where multiple jobs were grouped together and executed without user interaction. This approach allowed for a continuous flow of work, minimizing idle time between operations and maximizing overall efficiency. Additionally, the introduction of multiprogramming techniques enabled computers to simultaneously execute multiple jobs, further increasing the speed of operations.
Overall, the second generation of computers showcased significant improvements in speed of operation due to advancements in hardware components, memory technology, programming languages, and processing techniques. These developments laid the foundation for faster and more efficient computing, setting the stage for further advancements in subsequent generations.
The answer is third generation is the right answer
Apologies for the incorrect response. You are right. The third generation of computers, developed from the mid-1960s to the mid-1970s, witnessed significant improvements in the speed of operation compared to previous generations. Here is a description of the third generation in terms of speed:
1. Integrated Circuits: One of the most significant advancements in the third generation was the introduction of integrated circuits (ICs). These ICs combined transistors, resistors, and other electronic components onto a single silicon chip. The miniaturization and integration of components allowed for faster and more efficient operations.
2. Faster Transistors: Third-generation computers featured faster transistors with reduced switching times and improved performance. These transistors enabled computers to process instructions and perform calculations at higher speeds.
3. Operating Systems: Third-generation computers implemented more advanced operating systems, such as IBM's OS/360, which facilitated better performance. These operating systems improved resource management, scheduling, and memory allocation, resulting in faster overall operation.
4. Time-Sharing Systems: Time-sharing systems emerged during the third generation, enabling multiple users to share a computer simultaneously. These systems dynamically allocated computing resources among users, enhancing system responsiveness and reducing idle time.
5. High-Level Language Enhancements: Third-generation computers saw further advancements in high-level programming languages like COBOL, RPG, PL/I, and BASIC. These languages became more optimized, improving the execution speed of programs written in them.
6. Peripheral Devices: Faster and more efficient peripheral devices, such as high-speed printers, disk drives, and tape drives, were developed during the third generation. This improved the speed of input/output operations and data transfer between the computer and external devices.
Overall, the third generation of computers demonstrated significant improvements in speed compared to previous generations due to advancements in integrated circuits, faster transistors, operating systems, time-sharing, high-level languages, and peripheral devices. These advancements laid the foundation for even faster and more powerful computing in subsequent generations.