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TECHIPEDIA
(THE COMPUTER TIMELINE)
Hello Children, today we will learn about the evolution of
computers and how they have transformed from large
machines to the powerful devices we use today.
EVOLUTION OF COMPUTERS
The modern computer has a long history of evolution. There have been major developments
in the field of computers since their invention.
The evolution of computers is a result of man’s search for fast and accurate calculating
devices. Some of the early calculation devices such as the Abacus, Napier’s bones, Pascaline
calculator and Difference Engine have played a crucial role in laying the foundation of
present-day computers. Let us discuss them in detail.
Abacus
In earlier times, people used bones, stones, and
pebbles to count and calculate. However, calculating
bigger numbers was a tough task through these
objects. To calculate bigger numbers, China invented
the first calculating device called the abacus.
Abacus consists of a frame that has rods with beads sliding through it. Calculations were
done by sliding these beads on the abacus.
Napier’s Bones
John Napier, a Scottish mathematician, created a manually-
operated calculating device in 1617. This device used a set of
rods with numbers written on them. These rods were carved out
from bones, metals, woods or ivory. Napier's bones was named
after the name of the scientist.
Techipedia (The Computer Timeline) 121

