World's Earliest Computer, After 2000 Years

This was a hot topic for engineers and historians a few months back. The device mentioned is officially known as the Antikythera mechanism.



Its discovery has puzzled many historians of science and technology. Prompting a number of experts worldwide to undertake a systematic investigation of the mechanism. The investigators suggest that the device may be of Syracusan design, and may have a connection to the works of Archimedes.



The abacus may still hold claim as the earliest computer. However, the abacus is only simple calculating tool when compare to the complexity of Antikythera mechanism.

The Antikythera mechanism is an ancient mechanical calculator (also the first known mechanical computer) designed to calculate astronomical positions or movements of the planets. It was a precision engineered device, that could be programmed by the user. The device appears to be constructed using theories of astronomy and mathematics developed by Greek astronomers.

Here's the modern recontruction of the world's first analog computer. (IT guys take note!)



See the video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZrfMFhrgOFc

Ponder on all these for a while; you will come to realize that the people of ancient civilizations are much smarter than we credited them with. The only reasons they aren't as successful as us, is because they live in the time of civil and religious wars, superstition, and rampant diseases.

Also visit:
Antikythera Mechanism Research Project