MCI wants to celebrate the official invention of the calculator today. Although adding machines have existed since the days of the ancients, with primitive machinery like the abacus (which is still used effectively today), August 19th was anniversary of the death of Blaise Pascal, the ‘inventor’ of the first patented calculator.
This beautiful and steampunkesque machine appeared in 1652. It had lovely little brass wheels along the top, giving it an ornate feel. It could add, subtract, multiply and divide. The genius in his design was the way that numbers could be carried forward. He miniaturised parts of machinery from water wheels, lantern gears and clocks in order to make his machine. He made a staggering 50 prototypes before coming out with his first version in 1645, then 20 more to improve the machine.
In 1649, the king of France (Louis XIV) gave him their version of a patent for his machine. The calculating machine was known as the Pascaline. Later modifications and calculator designs were always based on Pascal’s invention, until as late as 1820.
We wonder what Pascal would have made of the digital calculator. We take for granted the calculator apps on our phones or the scientific calculators we carry with us now. Pascal would have a fit if he could see what his invention would become!
If things aren’t adding up with your existing electrical or electronics solutions provider, call 01324 611371 to see how MCI can help keep your machinery going. Have a great week everyone!