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Oldest computer discovery confirmed, 150 B.C.
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Clinically Insane
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Nov 30, 2006, 11:54 AM
 
Early Astronomical ‘Computer’ Found to Be Technically Complex - New York Times

Dang cool. I remember a while back in Science journal about this device. There was a lot of arguments about whether or not it really was a computing device. New evidence now points that this device was indeed extremely complex.

The hand-operated mechanism, presumably used in preparing calendars for planting and harvesting and fixing religious festivals, had at least 30, possibly 37, hand-cut bronze gear-wheels, the researchers said. A pin-and-slot device connecting two gear-wheels induced variations in the representation of lunar motions according to the Hipparchos model of the Moon’s elliptical orbit around Earth.

They even had the eliptical orbits down. Up there on the Cool Factor with Archimedes developing Pre-Newtonian Calculus.
"…I contend that we are both atheists. I just believe in one fewer god than
you do. When you understand why you dismiss all the other possible gods,
you will understand why I dismiss yours." - Stephen F. Roberts
     
Addicted to MacNN
Join Date: Aug 2006
Location: The Annals of MacNN History
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Nov 30, 2006, 11:56 AM
 
     
Clinically Insane
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Nov 30, 2006, 11:58 AM
 
Originally Posted by Dakar² View Post
I did, but I guess I missed it.
"…I contend that we are both atheists. I just believe in one fewer god than
you do. When you understand why you dismiss all the other possible gods,
you will understand why I dismiss yours." - Stephen F. Roberts
     
   
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