Birthing the Computer: From Drums to Cores

Birthing the Computer: From Drums to Cores examines the evolution of computer systems architecture based on two evolutionary developments: memory technology magnetic drums to magnetic cores and CPU technology transistors. This evolution, exemplified by a number of academic and commercial computing machines, yielded significant performance improvements and more storage leading to more effective utilization. These features would drive the development of programming languages and system software that would enhance the usability of the machines to solve more complex problems in both business, government, and scientific domains. The machines described in this volume represent the leading edge of the transition to second generation computer systems. They introduce a number of key technology concepts in computer architecture and system software that are found in every computer system today, albeit in a more modern form.

Table of Contents

Part I: Magnetic Drum Machines
Chapter One IBM 650 Magnetic Drum Calculator
Chapter Two Royal McBee/Librascope Machines
Chapter Three Bendix G Machines

Part II: Core Memory Machines
Chapter Four RCA BIZMAC I/II
Chapter Five Ferranti Atlas
Chapter Six JOHNNIAC

Part III: Transistor Machines
Chapter Seven UNIVAC Solid State Computer
Chapter Eight UNIVAC 418
Chapter Nine UNIVAC 490/494
Chapter Ten MIT’s TX-0
Chapter Eleven Philco Ford computers
Chapter Twelve Bendix G-20
Chapter Thirteen Packard Bell

Appendix A: Glossary