Selective Alteration of Digital Data in a Magnetic Drum Computer Memory
Abstract
Information coded in terms of binary digits (1's and 0's) may be recorded on a suitable magnetic medium bonded to a continuously rotating drum. An experimental storage system of this kind is described, in which individual digits may be selectively altered. High linear digital density and digital scanning rate are achieved through representation of digit sequences in each truck by a continuous, or "non-return-to-zero", pattern rather than by discrete magnetic marks. Recorded magnetic patterns containing 150 digits per linear inch are scanned at the rate of 210,000 digits per second, with a drum surface speed of 1400 inches per second.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1947
- Accession Number
- AD0083915
Entities
People
- Arnold A. Cohen
- Arnold P. Hendrickson
- George A. Hardenbergh
- James G. Miles
- William R. Keye