History of Early Computing

Early Counting and Information Sharing

• Before computers, tools like the abacus were used for calculations.
• Information sharing relied on manual counting systems and basic mechanical devices.

Definition of a Computer

• A computer is defined as a machine that can be programmed to automatically execute sequences of arithmetic or logical operations.

Abacus

• One of the earliest calculation tools.
• Capable of performing basic arithmetic calculations.

Pascaline

• The first mechanical calculator.
• Invented by Louis Blaise Pascal.

Analytical Engine

• Powered by a steam engine, allowing it to handle and process large amounts of data.
• Invented by Charles Babbage, often referred to as the "Father of Today’s Computer."

Tabulating Machine

• Invented by Herman Hollerith in 1890.
• Capable of reading, processing data, and providing desired outputs.

ENIAC

• Stands for Electronic Numerical Integrator and Calculator.
• Recognized as the first electronic computer, designed in 1946 by John W. Mauchly and Presper Eckert.

UNIVAC

• Stands for Universal Automatic Computer.
• Developed in 1951 by John W. Mauchly and Presper Eckert; significant in the history of computer development.