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Abacus—First Calculating Device
The first step towards computing was the invention of Abacus around 3000 years
ago, in China. It is a wooden frame with beads on parallel wires which can do
simple calculations like addition and subtraction. This device is used to calculate
numbers at a fast speed.
Abacus
Brainy Fact
Abacus is also used in schools as an aid in teaching the number system.
Charles Babbage’s Analytical Engine
In 1822, Charles Babbage, a mathematician, developed a steam-driven calculating
machine, which was the size of a room, which he called the Difference Engine. But
even after working on this project for 10 years, this machine never became a reality.
Evolution of Computers 9

