The first generation of computers was introduced in 1946 and lasted until 1959.
During this era, computers usually worked with batch processing operating systems, which allows an execution of programs without manual intervention. Punched cards, magnetic tape as well as paper tape Input & Output devices were utilized as well.
The Central Processing Unit, often referred to as CPU is one of the most important parts in any computer.
The computer's memory and circuitry was built by using vacuum tubes.
During this time only large and wealthy organizations were able to work with these computers. In order to understand why this was the case, we need to take a closer look at these vacuum tubes. Since their heat production was similar to electric bulbs and installations were often fused, repairs and exchanges of parts were highly expensive and therefore frequent.
Machine codes and electric wired board languages were also used for the first generation computers.
Some computers of this generation were:
- ENIAC
- EDVAC
- UNIVAC
- IBM-701
- IBM-650
The IBM-701
The EDVAC
(Electronic discrete variable automatic computer)
The main features of this generation are:
- Vacuum tube technology
- Unreliable
- Supported Machine language only
- Costly to maintain
- High production of heat
- Slow Input/Output device
- Air conditioning was needed
- Non-portable due to size
- High consumption of energy
