A Punched Card Reader

This paper deals with a new type of on-line punched card reader designed to feed data into the punched tape input terminal of the Minsk-1 computer. The card reader extends the capability of this computer by providing an additional means of input. Standard 45-column cards are used at a speed of 100 cards per minute. The information is read in a series-parallel mode. An internal decoder converts the decimal data into 8-4-2-1 BCD code, compatible with the particular input terminal of the computer. The computer generates appropriate control signals utilized in the control module of the reader. A signal is fed into the computer whenever a word begins or ends. For the serial output of the digits, a shift register is used consisting of transistor-ferrite core elements. A laboratory model was built and tested with satisfactory results. The unit is small, simple, and reliable.