The Mark I Computer (1937-1944)
In 1944 in the United States, International Business Machines (IBM) built a machine in cooperation with scientists working at Harvard University under the direction of Prof. Aik-en. The machine, called Mark I Automatic Sequence-Controlled Calculator, was built to perform calculations for the Manhattan Project, which led to the
development of atomic bomb. It was the largest electromechanical calculator ever built. It used over 3000 electrically actuated switches to control its operations. Although its operations were not controlled electronically, Aiken's machine is often classified as a computer because its instructions, which were entered by means of a punched paper tape, could be altered. The computer could create ballistic tables used bynaval artillery.
The relay computer had its problems. Since relays are electromechanical devices, the switching contacts operate by means of electromagnets and springs. They are slow, very noisy and consume a lot of power.
Unit 12
My future specialty
I. Language
Exercise 1. Study the vocabulary
cybernetics - кібернетика
qualitative - кваліфікаційний
to acquire - отримувати
applied program systems – прикладні програмні системи
to be engaged – бути зайнятим
software systems - системи програмного забезпечення
bureau - бюро
design of economic information systems – дизайн економічних інформаційних систем
guidance – довідник,
information technologies – інформаційні технології
software of automated systems- програма автоматизованих систем
capable - здатній
to be devoted – бути присвяченим
practical training – практичне тренування
Exercise 2. Translate from Ukrainian into English the following words and word-combinations:
Прикладні програмні системи, інформаційні технології, кібернетика, системи програмного забезпечення, проектування економічних інформаційних систем, керівництво, якісні зміни.
ІІ. Reading
Exercise 3. Read the text and translate it.
My future specialty
I am a second year student of the Kherson National Technical University. I study at the Faculty of Cybernetics, the Department of Information Technologies. Our department trains specialists on such specialties: “Software of Automated Systems”, “Computer Systems and Networks” and “Economic Cybernetics”. My future specialty is Computer Systems and Networks.
Now that the country is through a period of qualitative changes in its economy the higher school acquires a special task to train specialists of new type who would combine fundamental knowledge with a high professional level and practical training.
The course of study lasts 5 years. The academic activities for subjects fall into such types: lectures, seminars, practical classes, laboratories, tutorials, credits, examinations.
The department offers four year courses leading to the degree of Bachelor of Engineering and five year courses leading to the degree of Master of Engineering.
We are taught by a highly-qualified staff of professors, assistant professors and teachers. Our practical training and laboratory works are done in the laboratories equipped with modern installations, apparatuses and devices. Theoretical training is combined with scientific work at the scientific centers and students’ design bureaus. As a rule, students write their term-papers and graduation theses on the problems connected with their scientific work.
They operate experimental and industrial installations, conduct research work, read scientific literature which deals with their speciality. It is also combined with practical training at the advanced enterprises. All these help to turn a student into a highly-skilled engineer, ready for independent work.
Graduates from our University can work as an engineers, foremen, shop managers or directors of the plant.
The future specialist can design and use applied program systems using modern information technologies for different kinds of activity. The future specialist must know:
- the basis of general theoretical subjects;
- special subjects, which explains the main principles of programming, design, and planning of different kinds of activity.
Students participation in research is one of the most effective methods for training high-qualified specialists capable of taking part in the rapidly developing scientific and technological revolution. Students are engaged in research under the guidance of professors, instructors, engineers.
Computer software engineers design and develop software. They apply the theories and principles of computer science and mathematical analysis to create, test, and evaluate the software applications and systems that make computers work. The tasks performed by these workers evolve quickly, reflecting changes in technology and new areas of specialization, as well as the changing practices of employers.
IV. Language.