Earlier Computing devices (Mechanical)

Introduction

From basic calculating tools to multi-functional devices, it is true that computers have come a long way. The journey began with the, abacus, dating as back as around 2700 B.C, and Subsequently, there was the er slide rule, designed in 1622, and Napier’s bones, which appeared in the early 17th century. Furthermore, major developments and inventions like Pascaline in 1642, Leibniz  Calculator , late seventeenth century, Jacquard Loom of 1804, Difference Engine of the 1820s, and Analytical Engine during the 1830s all contributed as well. Coming in the later half of the nineteenth century was The Hollerith which marked the beginning of automated data processing the result was the birth of the Harvard Mark I machine in 1944. The use of these primitive pieces formed the basis of the modern devices that we use today.

An abacus is a manual tool used to keep track of numbers and to perform basic mathematical operations. Abaci have been in use in various parts of the world for over 4,000 years. Even in the modern digital age, abaci remain popular for certain applications in accounting, education, and for use in austere environments.

1.Abacus 

The abacus is an ancient tool used for counting and performing mathematical calculations like the basic operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Traditionally, an abacus is made with a frame that holds beaded rods or wires representing digits. These beads are moved during calculations.

2. A slide rule

A slide rule is a mechanical calculator that uses sliding rulers to perform mathematical calculations. It was a common tool in science, engineering, and business until the late 20th century when it was replaced by the electronic calculator                                                                                                                              

3. Napier Bones  

Napier's bones are a calculating tool used to multiply, divide, and find square roots. They were invented by John Napier (1550-1617) of Merchiston, Scotland. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S9kj87CeN1s

                                                   

4. Pascaline

The Pascaline was the first calculator, invented by French mathematician Blaise Pascal in 1642. It was a mechanical device that could add and subtract numbers. The Pascaline was the first calculator to be mass-produced and used. 

5. Leibniz Calculator

The Leibniz calculator was the first developed machine that is able to take written formulas and put them into a machine that can perform the formula automatically. The speed of the calculation was groundbreaking and exceptional for its time

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hYYfOKrkHis

       6. Jacquard Loom    

It simplified the way in which complex textiles such as damask were woven, and Jacquard first demonstrated it in 1801. The mechanism involved the use of thousands of punch cards laced together. Each row of punched holes corresponded to a row of a textile pattern.