Reikätiedostot

Reikätiedostot, often translated as "punch cards" or "punched cards," were an early form of data storage and input used in computing. These were stiff paper cards where information was represented by the presence or absence of holes in predefined positions. Each card typically contained a single line of data or a program instruction. A mechanical or optical reader would then scan the card, detecting the holes and translating them into electrical signals that the computer could process.

The use of reikätiedostot was widespread in the mid-20th century for tasks ranging from data entry and program storage to operating complex machinery. Organizations like IBM were pioneers in developing and popularizing this technology. The format of the holes and their arrangement followed specific standards, such as the Hollerith code.

Despite their historical significance, reikätiedostot were eventually superseded by more efficient and versatile storage methods like magnetic tape, floppy disks, and eventually hard drives. The physical nature of punch cards, their susceptibility to damage, and the labor-intensive process of creating and verifying them made them impractical for modern computing needs. However, their legacy is undeniable as a foundational step in the evolution of data processing and computer programming.