Sometimes we take for granted the technology around us that we use to help simplify everyday tasks, like laptops or the internet. Or perhaps it is the televisions and game consoles that we use to entertain us. But as we are all aware, technology is forever moving forward and evolving – fast making ‘new’ technology and devices become superseded by newer, better, quicker and faster variants.
We are forever looking forward with excitement to see where the evolution of technology will take us, but it is rare to look back with nostalgia to see just where it has come from.
If you are ever in Melbourne near the Museum, do yourself a favour and get a ‘technological reality check’ by heading in and seeing the exhibit on CSIRAC – Australia’s first digital computer, and the oldest remaining first-generation electronic computer in the world. CSIRAC commenced construction in 1947 and in November 1949 it ran it’s first program. Input into CSIRAC was performed by inserting punched paper tape, but even still, CSIRAC was able to be programmed to play music.
CSIRAC completed is tenure of operation in 1964 and has since been listed on the Victorian Heritage Register.
Here is a list of some interesting comparisons between CSIRAC and the average laptop in 2010:
Technological change between 1949 – 2010
“We are forever looking forward with excitement to see where the evolution of technology will take us, but it is rare to look back with nostalgia to see just where it has come from.”
Specs
Processing speed
Memory capacity
Size
Weight
Power consumption
Technology
CSIRAC
500 – 1000 Hz
2000 bytes
40 m²
2,500 kg
30 000 watts
2000 valves
2010 Laptop
3500 million Hz
200 billion bytes
0.1 m² approx
2 kg approx
5 – 10 watts
microchip equivalent to 10-15 million valves
Click here for more information on CSIRAC
Clicke here for more information on the Melbourne Museum
