tabulaatorite

Tabula automatica, commonly referred to as the tabulator, is a mechanical calculator that was invented in the early 19th century. The device was designed to perform mathematical calculations, specifically addition and subtraction, using a set of rotating drums and numeric dials.

The first tabulator was built by William S. Burroughs in 1886. Burroughs, an American inventor, was granted a patent for his invention on February 2, 1890. The device was originally intended for commercial use, such as in accounting and bookkeeping.

The tabulator was designed to maximize efficiency and minimize human error in mathematical computations. It consisted of a series of rotating drums, each containing a series of holes of varying depths. A user would rotate the drums to position the correct numbers, and then turn a handle to perform the calculation. The result would be displayed on a reading dial.

Initially, the tabulator was used primarily in commercial settings, but it eventually found applications in various fields, including education and scientific research. Its invention marked a significant milestone in the development of calculators and computational machines.webdriverThe principle of operation of the tabulator laid the groundwork for later innovations, such as the mechanical calculator, which enabled the widespread use of computing machines in various industries.

Unlike modern electronic calculators, the tabulator relied on mechanical components to perform calculations. Despite its limitations, the device played an important role in the history of calculators and contributed to the development of more advanced computational machines.