answersLogoWhite

0

Some consider the "engima machine" of WW2 to be the first computer. Depending on your definition it could be that or you might want to wait until the Univac was built. At some point it becomes a matter of semantics.

++ Depends rather on whether you consider purpose; and 'Enigma' was not a computer. 'Colossus', not 'Enigma', was the first programmable electronic computer, and its basic principles were those of any electronic computer at circuit and logic level. However, Colossus was built for a specific purpose: cracking the Germal military codes set on the Enigma system. Enigma was closer to a sophisticated combination-lock than a calculator.

Others would consider Charles Babbage's 'Difference Engine' (London, 1840s) to be the first computer, though it wqas all-mechanical and for a specific purpose, calculating log and trig tables. For some reason Babbage never saw it through to completion, but Science Museum staff have completed enough of it to prove its design and craftsmanship was sound. Had the original been finished as intended it would have been a very powerful tool in its day.

User Avatar

Wiki User

12y ago

What else can I help you with?