26 Sep
2012
26 Sep
'12
2:36 p.m.
From: Eric Smith <eric at brouhaha.com>
? C:The first uwave ovens had computers in them. We
got our first around 1980.
Actually the early microwave ovens had mechanical timers.
When they started having electronic timers, they were hardwired ASICs, which don't
meet any reasonable definition of "computer". They didn't have any ALU,
memory, or stored program.
Somewhat later they started using single-chip microprocessors similar to the TI TMS1000
series.
C: Perhaps I stand to be corrected about our model. It did have nixie tubes. We only
tossed it a couple back. I held onto it intending to try a controversial method of melting
metals (brass, etc.) as it was rated for 1000 watts and was virtually unused.