Electronics Challenge: Define the Word Computer
By Gary StrikerThe Electronics Challenge
The dictionary describes the word computer as an electronic device designed to accept data, perform prescribed mathematical and logical operations at high speed, and display the results of these operations. Jameco Newsletter reader Gary Striker has been working with computers since the 1970s and he contends that this definition misses the mark.Can you guess Gary's improved definition?
How would you define computer?
Before you jump to the answer let's clarify the challenge. Your answer must contain the word "is" as part of your definition. Your answer must also be based on theoretical and scientific knowledge to provide the correct definition. Your response should be historically accurate, unarguably correct and specific to processes that define what a computer is, and not what it does or how it does it, etc. Provide the logical derivation that led you to your definition.
Read Gary's definition.