Papertape

Papertape refers to a data storage medium composed of a continuous strip of paper, onto which data is encoded by punching holes. The presence or absence of a hole at a specific position represents a binary digit, typically a '1' or '0'. This method was widely used in early computing and telecommunications before the advent of magnetic tape and other electronic storage solutions.

The concept of using punched paper for recording information dates back to the Jacquard loom in the early 19th century, which used punched cards to control the weaving patterns. Later, this concept was adapted for data processing and communication. Papertape readers and punches were electromechanical devices that could read the holes in the tape and create new holes. The width of the tape and the number of rows for punching holes varied, with common formats including 5-hole, 6-hole, 7-hole, and 8-hole tapes.

Papertape was used for a variety of applications, including inputting programs and data into early computers, transmitting messages via teleprinters, and storing configuration information. Its advantages included relative simplicity and low cost of production. However, papertape had significant drawbacks, such as its susceptibility to physical damage, low data density, and slow read/write speeds. Errors could easily occur due to dirt or tears in the tape. Consequently, papertape has largely been superseded by more robust and efficient storage technologies.