Punched Computer Tape Section

Name: Punched Computer Tape Section
Rating: 4.98 (56 reviews)

$12.00

56 reviews

OWN A PIECE OF ONE OF THE OLDEST COMPUTER PROGRAMS EVER CREATED

Perforated paper tape, also known as computer tape, was an early form of physical media used for storing digital data. It was first developed in 1725 and rose to popularity in the 1950s–60s. This section of tape was part of a computer program. Programs on tape were typically so long that the tape had to be stored on spools.

The data is encoded into the paper by punching holes according to one of several variations of the Baudot telegraphy code. Just like modern computers, these tapes stored binary data (think ones and zeroes) represented by the presence or absense of a hole at a specific location.

The row of smaller holes were not part of the data, but were used to advance the tape through a machine using a sprocket wheel, and also serve as a directional indicator since the row is offset to one side.

In the digital age, computer programs became much easier to create and widely accessible. Not only did it become simpler to write programs in a digital environment rather than from physical media, but also consider how rare it was to even have access to a computer during the punched tape era. It's safe to assume that of all of the computer programs ever written, punched tape programs are among the earliest.

Includes a 3.5" section of vintage punched tape mounted in a display capsule with info card.

Decode your computer tape—or encode your own—with this free online tool.

Acrylic Display

Research Card

This item was previously featured in our Matter Science Box

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5 stars: 55 (98%)
4 stars: 1 (2%)
3 stars: 0 (0%)
2 stars: 0 (0%)
1 star: 0 (0%)

Very happy with this item.

Is zwar nix weiter als‘n Papierschnippsel aber is okay !

Got this for my bf's dad as a throwback. He loved it :)

Looks great! It's a gift but I checked it over in advance, and everything seems good to me. Very quick shipping and delivery too

Out of all my boyfriend's bday gifts, this one was his favorite! We're both computer science majors so it was perfect😅

Very fast delivery and product is as described.

Perfect! Just as it was described!

This is going to be a fun gift for my brother, who is an IT guy. I'm stashing it away for a stocking stuffer 😊 This shop has so many fun and interesting things! Thank you for excellent service!

Great for that techie nerd in your life

Looks great and as expected

Black

Such a fun gift

Perfect for the nerdy tech in your life

Such a unique item for your favorite techie nerd

Cool!

Great product and service A+

Super Produkt. Qualität auch super. Hat alle meine Erwartungen erfüllt... Gerne wieder...

Gold

Perfect for my tech loving spouse

My husband loves vintage electronics and this is a perfect gift. The packaging and labeling are neat and crisp. Very well assembled. The strip is well preserved.

Kathy gave this item 5 stars

C gave this item 5 stars

great item and fast shipping!

this thing is amazing. it is in my Cool history box

Wonderful customer service, great gift ideas, fast shipping and intact historical pieces!

Wonderful products, great selection, very clean and protective packaging, very good customer service and fast shipping. These will make wonderful gifts!