What technology characterized the first generation of computers?Group of answer choicesTransistorsVacuum tubesIntegrated circuitVery large scale integration

1. Break Down the Problem

The question asks which technology characterized the first generation of computers. The options provided are:

1. Transistors
2. Vacuum tubes
3. Integrated circuits
4. Very large scale integration

2. Relevant Concepts

• First Generation Computers: These computers were developed between the 1940s and early 1950s and primarily used vacuum tubes for circuitry and magnetic drums for memory.

3. Analysis and Detail

• Transistors: These were integral in the second generation of computers, replacing vacuum tubes.
• Vacuum Tubes: Used in first generation computers, vacuum tubes were the main technology for processing.
• Integrated Circuits: These started being used in the third generation of computers, with significant advancements in technology.
• Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI): This technology came into play with fourth generation computers and is not relevant to first generation.

4. Verify and Summarize

The defining technology for the first generation of computers is the vacuum tube. They were large, consumed a lot of power, and were the primary means of creating the circuitry for early computers.

Final Answer

The technology that characterized the first generation of computers is Vacuum Tubes.