Electronic data processing: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 13:13, 14 May 2004

Revision as of 11:33, 16 May 2004

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High hardware costs and relatively slow processing speeds forced developers to use resources 'efficiently'. [[Computer storage|Data storage]] formats were heavily compacted, for example. A common example is the removal of the century from dates, which eventually lead to the '[[millennium bug]]'.

Data input required intermediate processing via punched paper tape or [[punch card|card]] and separate input to computers, usually for overnight processing. Data required validation in batches. RejectedAll of this was a repetitive, labour intensive task , removed from user control and error-prone. Invalid or incorrect data needed correction and resubmission with consequences for data and account reconciliation.

Data storage was strictly serial on [[magnetic tape]]: the use of data storage within readily accessible memory was not cost-effective. Very early computer installations also used delay line storage.

Results would be presented to users on paper. Enquiries were delayed by whatever turn round was available.