WAEC Data Processing 2021 Paper

Concept:The first-generation computers mainly used vacuum tubes, which are also called electronic valves.Explanation:First-generation computers were built from the $1940$s to the $1950$s.Vacuum tubes acted as their main switching and amplifying component.These vacuum tubes are known in electronics as electronic valves.They performed the logic and processing functions of the computer.Electromagnetic drums were used alongside them for storage purposes.The other options belong to later computer generations.Transistors became the key component in the second generation.Integrated circuits became the key component in the third generation.Microchips became the key component in the fourth generation.So, among the given choices, only the electronic valve matches the first generation.Answer:D. Electronic valve