Keypunch

What does Keypunch mean?

Keypunch, Also known as a keypunch machine or card punch, is a mechanical or electromechanical device for Entering data into punch cards. It is a data entry device that uses a set of keys to punch holes in specific positions on a punch card. Each key corresponds to a specific character or function, and the punched holes represent the data to be processed. Keypunches were widely used in the early and Mid-20th century, before the advent of electronic data entry methods.

Keypunches come in various forms, including manual, semi-automatic, and fully automatic models. Manual keypunches require the operator to manually punch each hole using a hand-operated punch. Semi-automatic keypunches have a motor that automates the punching process, while fully automatic keypunches can read and punch data from a source document, such as a paper tape.

Applications

Keypunches played a significant role in the early days of computing, serving as the primary means of entering data into computers. They were used in various applications, including:

• Data entry: Keypunches were used to enter data into punch cards from source documents, such as invoices, purchase orders, and inventory records.
• Data processing: Punch cards containing data were fed into computers for processing. The punched holes represented instructions and data that the computer could interpret and execute.
• Information storage: Punch cards served as a compact and portable storage medium for data. Large quantities of data could be stored on punch cards and easily transported and processed.
• Data retrieval: Keypunches could be used to select and retrieve data from punch cards based on specific criteria.

History

The keypunch was invented in 1887 by Herman Hollerith, a statistician working for the U.S. Census Bureau. Hollerith’s invention was initially used to tabulate data from the 1890 U.S. Census. The device consisted of a Keyboard and a punching mechanism that punched holes in paper cards. Each hole represented a specific piece of data, such as age, Gender, or occupation.

Over time, keypunches evolved significantly. In the early 20th century, electric keypunches were introduced, which automated the punching process and increased efficiency. By the mid-20th century, fully automatic keypunches were developed, further streamlining data entry.

Keypunches remained widely used until the 1970s, when electronic data entry methods, such as magnetic tape and disk drives, became more prevalent. Today, keypunches are largely obsolete, but they continue to hold historical significance as pioneers of data entry technology.