Os COMPUTADORES eram PESSOAS! #SagaDosComputadores Ep.1

Introduction

This tutorial explores the fascinating history of computers, tracing their origins back to human "computers"—individuals who performed calculations by hand. By understanding this historical context, we can appreciate the development of modern computing technology, starting with the invention of the Pascalina by Blaise Pascal. This guide will also provide insights into constructing a simple version of a calculator inspired by Pascal's invention.

Step 1: Understand the Concept of Early Computers

• Definition of Computing: Originally, the term "compute" meant to count or calculate.
• Human Computers: In the past, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s, human calculators known as "computers" performed various tasks, such as:
  • Calculating financial transactions
  • Converting calendar dates
  • Computing planetary positions
• Workforce Composition: Many of these human computers were women, especially in roles like NASA, where they calculated rocket trajectories essential for space exploration.

Step 2: Learn About Early Calculating Devices

• Blaise Pascal's Contribution: In 1642, Blaise Pascal created the first functional calculator, known as the Pascalina.
• Significance: This invention marked a significant milestone in the evolution of computing, laying the groundwork for future mechanical calculators.

Step 3: Create Your Own Pascalina

• Materials Needed:

  • A cardboard base
  • A ruler
  • A pencil
  • Beads or buttons (to represent numbers)
  • A string or wire (to create the moving parts)

• Construction Steps:

  1. Base Preparation: Cut the cardboard into a rectangular shape to serve as the base of your calculator.
  2. Marking the Scale: Use the ruler to draw a scale with numbers on one side of the base.
  3. Adding Beads: Attach beads or buttons along the scale. Each bead should represent a number.
  4. Creating Mechanism: Use the string or wire to create a mechanism that allows you to move the beads up and down as you input numbers.
  5. Test Your Calculator: Try using your Pascalina to perform basic arithmetic operations like addition or subtraction.

Step 4: Explore the Impact of Early Computers

• Historical Significance: Reflect on how these early human computers and devices contributed to major advancements in various fields, particularly in science and technology.
• Modern Implications: Consider how the evolution from human computers to machines has shaped contemporary computing and the roles of technology in our lives today.

Conclusion

The journey from human calculators to mechanical devices like the Pascalina highlights the fundamental changes in how we compute and process information. By understanding this history, we not only gain insights into the evolution of technology but also appreciate the ingenuity behind early computing methods. If you're interested, try building your own Pascalina and experiment with basic calculations to connect with this rich history.