The History of Computing: From Gears to Quantum AI

• First known analogue computer.

• Found in a Greek shipwreck.

• Predicted planetary positions using gears.

Antikythera Mechanism
(100 BCE)

• Invented by John Napier.

• A tool using rods for multiplication.

• Introduced algorithmic thinking.

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Napier’s Bones (1617)

• Invented by Blaise Pascal.

• First mechanical calculator.

• Could add and subtract.

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Pascaline (1642)

• Used punch cards for weaving patterns.

• Showed programmable logic.

• Inspired early computers.

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Jacquard Loom (1804)

• Designed by Charles Babbage.

• First idea of a general-purpose computer.

• Used punch cards for instructions.

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Babbage’s Analytical Engine (1837)

• Alan Turing and the Bombe machine.

• Cracked Enigma codes in WWII.

• Basis for modern algorithms.

Turing & Bombe (1940s)

• First programmable digital computer.

• Used vacuum tubes.

• Processed binary data.

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Colossus (1943)

• Guided Apollo missions to the Moon.

• First use of integrated circuits.

• RAM: only 64 KB!

Apollo Guidance Computer (1969)

• Apple I: first personal computer sold as a kit.

• Microsoft created BASIC language.

• Start of PC revolution.

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Apple I & Microsoft (1976–1977)

• Quantum computers use qubits.

• AI powers chatbots, robots, self-driving cars.

• Big leap beyond silicon chips.

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Quantum Computing & AI (Now & Future)