Perforated paper tape, also known as computer tape, was an early form of physical media used for storing digital data. It was first developed in 1725 and rose to popularity in the 1950s–60s. This section of tape was part of a computer program. Programs on tape were typically so long that the tape had to be stored on spools.
The data is encoded into the paper by punching holes according to one of several variations of the Baudot telegraphy code. Just like modern computers, these tapes stored binary data (think ones and zeroes) represented by the presence or absence of a hole at a specific location.
The row of smaller holes were not part of the data, but was used to advance the tape through a machine using a sprocket wheel, and also served as a directional indicator since the row is offset to one side.
In the digital age, computer programs have become much easier to create and widely accessible. Not only did it become simpler to write programs in a digital environment rather than from physical media, but also, consider how rare it was to even have access to a computer during the punched tape era. It's safe to assume that of all of the computer programs ever written, punched tape programs are among the earliest.
Includes a 3.5" section of vintage (verified authentic) punched tape mounted in a display capsule with an info card.
Decode your computer tape—or encode your own—with this free online tool.
NOTE: This is not a toy. This is a collectible artifact. Artifacts are human-made relics of history. This artifact is related to humanity's scientific pursuit of the understanding of the universe around us—whether they knew it at the time or not.
AGE: 14 and up
