In contrast to computers used for scientific applications, commercial data processing systems have a different structure, since they are optimized to support large storage systems and to process lots of data, as in payroll applications and the like. Sometimes the distinction between scientific and commercial systems is not a clear one. The examples below are typical small to medium systems for commercial applications.
In 1968, P101 which has been extended with more memory, was coupled to a
typewriter. This made it possible to print tables and the like automatically.
It is interesting to note that the computer was only capable to print numbers -
text data had to be typed manually on the keyboard.
One of the most remarkable features of this 'computer' is its enclosure. It
was designed by the Italian designer 'Mario Bellini' and got quite some awards.
Even today the style of the machine is admired by many.
Unfortunately, Olivetti dropped this design and later machines were just plain
cubes in the style of the 1970s.
Also interesting are typical paper tape accessories as shown below. It is next to incredible that not too far ago programs had to be prepared with tools like these. The figure below shows a manual paper tape punch on the left which can be used to punch programs on a paper tape. For the most basic version of the NCR 446 which lacked the attached paper tape punch, this was the only way to create program tapes!
Programming in those days was done as follows: First, the program was written
down by hand. Each character was then translated manually using a NCR
supplied code table to its corresponding numerical code. The paper tape was then
punched by a secretary. Correcting errors was obviously rather cumbersome and
time consuming.
The NCR 446 in the museum's collection allowed the creation of paper tapes by
means of the built-in keyboard and the automatic paper tape punch
unit at an additional cost of 20,000 DM (10,000 EUR).
The motor driven paper tape winder shown on the right could be used to wind
the paper tapes after using them on the computer.
A typical small to medium data processing system is the NIXDORF 820 built in 1969/1970. This system is built entirely from modules, has a magnetic account reader and a threaded ROM which was user modifiable. The console consists of a typewriter, the magnetic account reader and two punch card readers. In addition to this the system supports a card punching unit, a high speed matrix printer (visible on the right), two cassette tape drives and a stand alone card puncher (IBM or YUKI, see above). Clicking on the picture will yield a more detailed version of it.