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Asked by tend1dew to Sheridan on 27 Mar 2024.
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Sheridan Williams answered on 27 Mar 2024:
It depends on your definition of a computer. If your definition is:
* Information in
* Processed with the ability to calculate and make decisions
* Results out
then you could consider Babage’s analytical engine, however this was never made
Colossus would be your next bet, it was made by Tommy Flowers and his team of telephone engineers in 1943
If you want a computer to be made using the design by von Neumann (stored program) the EDSAC and the Manchester Baby should be considered.
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Comments
Cliff W commented on :
Sheridan is correct to point out that a lot depends on your definition of computers and has given some examples of early developments. There are others and it should not be forgotten that in the past computers were humans, people who performed mathematical calculations. Many of these early computers were women and women have played an important role in the history of computing. For example, Ada Lovelace is credited with being the first person to publish a computer program.
Another important invention was the Jacquard loom which used interchangeable punch cards to provide the instructions to weave different patterns. Babbage adopted this use of punched cards in his design.