01 November 2010 - New Zealand's first computer housed at MOTAT
How did we survive without high speed internet, computer games and iTunes? Come along to MOTAT and see what New Zealand's first computer was originally used for.
MOTAT is currently displaying the world's only surviving and fully operational Meccano Differential Analyser, which visitors can see in action.
Angela Willis, Marketing Manager at MOTAT, said the artefact is very significant to MOTAT.
"We are thrilled to have the Differential Analyser as part of the MOTAT collection. Visitors will be fascinated to see how far computers have come, the Differential Analyser certainly isn't something that fits in your pocket like today's iPhones," Ms Willis said.
The first Meccano Differential Analyser built by Arthur Porter in Manchester was the inspiration for the second machine built at the Cambridge University Mathematical Laboratory in 1935. It was used to research the flow of heat, explosive detonations and simulations of transmission lines in World War II.
New Zealander Dr. Harry Whale brought the computer to New Zealand in 1950 where it was used for radio wave research.
Ms Willis said, "the Differential Analyser is housed in our 1950s themed exhibition, I Am the Last Tram, and can be seen in action on Tuesdays."
A miniature version of the Meccano Differential Analyser will also be part of the Meccano Display at Te Papa Museum on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 November 2010.
Dates
In action on Tuesdays in MOTAT's ‘I Am The Last Tram' exhibition
Location
MOTAT main entrance, Great North Road, Western Springs, Auckland. Plenty of parking is available at both MOTAT sites and trams will transport you between sites. Tram rides are free with museum entry.
Costs
You can view MOTAT's Meccano Differential Analyser as part of your entry fee to MOTAT. You can also enjoy the rest of the museum, free tram rides and entry to the Tactile Dome and Voyager1 for one great price.
Entry Fee:
Family (2 adults and up to 4 children) $35
Adults $14
Children (under 16) $8
Students $8
Senior Citizens $7
Children under 5 years are free
MOTAT Mates (annual pass) - $65 for a family (entitles you to unlimited visits to MOTAT)
Public Information Number
Phone: 0800 MOTAT NZ ( 0800 668 286 ) or visit www.motat.org.nz
