What is the first computer? - test-drb@ccmp.vtda.org

17 Jun 1998

On 17 Jun 98 at 9:17, Jeff Kaneko wrote:

...
  <SNIP>

  I think there was an automated loom that was
invented in the 17th century
 that wove a pattern based on a template, but I don't recall if this was a
 hole punch reader, a specially shaped gear, or other apparatus. It did
 exist though. Although most definitely not a computer as we see them today,
 it did take a program for input, process it, and output it in the form of
 fabric. (I think this was right before CGA was made a standard...)  
 I remember seeing a picture of this machine-- it was a link-belt of 
 cards in a loop, with holes punched through them.  They would pass by 
 this 'reader' thingie which would 'read' the card with a matrix of 
 metal rods poking through the holes. 
According to the dictionary I just scrounged:
Jacquard (noun) Apparatus with perforated cards to facilitate weaving 
of figured fabrics. 