Generally speaking, a computer is a machine that electronically manipulates data or information. It can store, retrieve, and evaluate information. Following instructions, sending emails, playing online games, and browsing the internet are all now possible with the help of a computer. It is also possible to edit or create spreadsheets, reports, and, in certain cases, even films with this software. However, the development of this complicated structure began around 1940 with the introduction of the first Computer Generation and has continued to evolve since then.

Historically, the computer revolution has been defined as a technological innovation that has profoundly altered the unique method of computers operating, resulting in ever smaller and cheaper machines that are increasingly efficient and much more efficient overall. In the context of the many types of computing devices, it is common to make mention of the advancement of computer technology over time. 

A transistor computer, often known as a second-generation computer, is a computer that operates on the principle of single transistors rather than vacuum tubes. By 1947, the transistor had been invented, and it had a significant impact on the production of computers. The transistor replaced the vacuum tube in television sets, phones, and computers, which continues to do today. A direct result is that computer equipment has become smaller in size. The transistor had been hard work on the gadget as early as 1956.

Some facts:

• An electronic transistor is a semiconductor device used to control current or convert multiple output signals into single input signals.
• Because transistors were significantly superior to old-fashioned vacuum tubes, transistors were employed to construct the second generation of computers, allowing them to be tiny in size, compact in design, and fast.
• Even though they were using machine language, they used assembly language.
• For input, they used punch cards, and for output, they used printouts. The magnetic core technology was used to store the collected data and information.
• The usage of transistors, which were far stronger, more advanced, and upgraded than their predecessors, allowed second-generation computers to operate at a far faster rate than first-generation computers.
• Computer Generations have been used as a part of the nuclear energy sector, and some of their instances are as follows:

• IBM 7030/7094
• Honeywell 400 Philco

Describe the characteristics of a second-generation computer system.

• Transistors, rather than vacuum tubes, were used to construct the second-generation computer. This is widely regarded as the most important characteristic of the second-generation computer system.
• They are capable of processing assembly language and high-level languages such as FORTRAN and COBOL.
• They generate less heat and energy than other types of energy.
• They are more intelligent and faster than the first generation of computer systems.
• Compared to the earlier generation of computer systems, they are less expensive.
• Second-generation computer systems are smaller and more compact than their predecessors.
• Secondary storage is accomplished through the use of magnetic tape and disc.

Characteristics of a Second Generation Computer are explained and discussed

• The use of transistors in the Second Generation Computer System allows for improved performance.
• They lowered the amount of time required for processing and handling any tasks and jobs assigned to them.
• They were provided with the capability of establishing a link between two devices.
• Data and information storage are accomplished through the use of magnetic core technology.
• They use less heat and energy than traditional heating and cooling systems.
• They are not prohibitively pricey.
• They need air conditioning.
• In comparison to previous generations, second-generation computers are compact.
• In comparison to the first generation computers, they were significantly faster.
• When compared to first-generation computers, they are more portable.
• Programming was carried out using the assembly language.
• Physical devices are less prone to failure than software gadgets.
• Individual components had to be manually assembled into a functional unit, which was still required.

Second Generation Computers Have Several Advantages and Benefits, as Listed Below:

• Punch cards are used to collect data for processing.
• They have a good reputation for being dependable and user pleasant.
• Reduce your electricity consumption.

Drawbacks and disadvantages of second-generation computer systems are summarised in the following points:

• It is necessary to install an air conditioner.
• There was a lot of maintenance required because the hardware was prone to failure.
• Punch cards were slow to operate and had a considerable impact on the overall pace of the machine.
• They were less expensive than first-generation computers, but they were still extremely expensive and not particularly affordable.
• They were created and built specifically to perform specific duties and processes.
• Only for specific purposes is this term used.

Conclusion 

The second generation existed between 1959 and 1965. Vacuum tubes were replaced by less expensive transistors, utilized less power, and were smaller. They were also more dependable and faster. With magnetic cores serving as the primary memory and magnetic tape/disks serving as secondary storage, this was the era of the magnetic core.