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    In the past, a great deal of research was conducted to develop a powerful machine. In this
                    chapter, you will learn about the scientists who were responsible for creating the effective
                    device you use in your everyday life.

                    Early Counting Tools

                    Since ancient times, people have invented tools for calculations. Early humans tied knots in
                    ropes and carved marks on clay to keep records. They also used fingers, toes, pebbles, stones,

                    sticks, knotted strings and bones to count.

                                                              Early Counting Tools

                    Abacus—First Calculating Device

                    The first step towards computing was the invention of the Abacus around
                    3000 years ago in China. It is a wooden frame with beads on parallel wires. It
                    is used to do simple calculations like addition and subtraction. This device
                    is used to calculate numbers at a fast speed.
                                                                                                                Abacus

                             Factbot

                       Abacus is also used in schools as an aid in teaching the numeral system.

                    Pascaline Adding Machine

                    In 1642, a mathematician, Blaise Pascal invented
                    the calculating  machine called  Pascaline
                    adding machine when he was 19 years old. The
                    numbers were fed into the machine by dialling

                    them on the wheels. This device is believed to be
                    the first mechanical calculator in the world.                     Pascaline              Blaise Pascal
                    This machine was capable of performing only addition and subtraction.

                             Factbot

                       In 1617, John Napier invented the calculating device called Napier bones. It was able to perform
                       addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.

                                                                                                  Computer Timeline    21

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