History of Computers - Z3

The Z3 was the first programmable computer, invented in 1941 by Konrad Zuse.

Significance

In 1998 the Z3 was proved to have the capabilities of a universal Turing Machine. In effect this means that the Z3 was able to carry out any of the algorithms used by a modern computer, and therefore the Z3 was the first modern computer. Although in its time it was used for much simpler tasks involving the implementation of basic engineering instructions of the day, this has great implications on the Z3's significance. As the first programmable computer, the Z3 began a revolution in the computing era beginning the ascension of general purpose computing.

Specs

• Frequency: 5,3 Hertz
• Average calculation Speed: Addition 0,8 seconds Multiplication 3 seconds
• Power Consumption: Ca. 4000 Watts
• Weight: Ca. 1000 kilograms
• Memory: 64 words with a length of 22 bits.
• Input: Decimal floating point numbers
• Output: Decimal floating point numbers

External Links

• The Life and Work of Konrad Zuse
• Konrad Zuse's Legacy: The Architecture of the Z1 and Z3