Item Details
“Programme Design for a High-Speed Automatic Calculating Machine” [in Journal of Scientific Instruments and of Physics in Industry. Vol. 26, No. 6.
London: Institute of Physics, 1949. First Edition. Original Wraps. “Wilkes’s first paper on computer programming.” [OOC 1021]
Entire issue, subject article at pp. 217-220. “Wilkes’s first paper on computer programming is notable for having been submitted for publication . . . three months before EDSAC was officially operating. It confirms that the method of programming the machine had to be worked out while the machine was in development. ‘A good deal has been written about the design and construction of high-speed automatic calculating machines, but little has been said about the detailed steps which are necessary to prepare a problem for the machine and to obtain a solution - a process which is usually referred to as “programming”’ (p. 127). Wilkes made special reference to EDSAC’s programming system, describing its library of subroutines, methods of instruction modification and loading.” [OOC 1021]
A handsome copy of this scarce issue. Near Fine in Wraps. Minor shelf/edge wear, hint of toning at spine, else tight, bright, and unmarred. Printed blue paper wraps. 4to. 177-224pp plus adverts. Illus. (b/w plates). Item #11054
Price: $1,500.00