A Computer Built in 1784

In the 1780s, Johann Helfrich Müller, a German engineer, was tasked with checking tables of data on the volumes of trees. To make the work go faster, he designed this machine:

Müller's calculating machine is very similar to the machine of Hahn and was based on the Stepped Drum of Leibniz, but it is larger (285 mm diameter, 95 mm height, weight 15.4 kg). It was in the form of a round box with a handle placed centrally and the number wheels concentrically arranged around the handle. It could calculate with 14 figures and its number and gear wheels could be altered to enable it to operate with non-decimal number systems. 

Link -via Nerdcore | Photo: Marcin Wichary


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Technically, I think this is a calculator, not a computer. A computer is generally assumed to have branching and looping capability. But this, and the inventor's proposed difference engine to calculate arithmetical progressions and even print out the results as it goes, are truly amazing in their own right.
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That is hilarious.
I feel sorry for the ones who have abnormally, tragically mutated tastebuds and think that warm, mushy pineapple is an excellent compliment to pepperoni and tomato sauce. The juice of the pineapple itself takes over, muting and mutilating the otherwise deliciousness of the pizza, the worlds most perfect food. Never let these people pick restaurants, meals, recipes... basically any decision that has to do with food. You just never know what abstract concoction they'll think is reasonable. While they're going "mmmm, isn't this delicious?" you're wondering how you can fake an illness out of the blue, or how you can sneakily dispose of what's on your plate. Where is that hungry dog that is otherwise always staring up at me from under the table while I'm eating? Even it has run away from such a culinary disaster, that it's pretending it needs another nap.
Standalone pineapple as a snack on a beautiful summers day however, is absolute perfection.
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I love this cartoon.... even though "quatto formaggi" is my favourite choice, i enjoy some pineapple and brine-cured ham on a pizza from time to time.... Anchovis are also a very delicious choice.... i once was on vacation in italy and they offered sfilacci de caballo on a pizza and also pizza with french fries... As long as there are people wanting to eat pineappe or whatever on their pizza just let them... And if there wouldn't be a market for pineapple-pizza it would have perished a long time ago....
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