Comptometer is a mechanical calculator invented in 1887. Its spelling is composed of two parts: "compto" and "meter". The first syllable "compto" is pronounced as /kɑmˈtoʊ/, with the stress on the first syllable. The second part "meter" is spelled phonetically as /ˈmiːtər/. Altogether, the correct pronunciation of "Comptometer" is /kɑmˈtoʊmɪtər/. Despite the fact that the Comptometer was replaced by electronic calculators, its name has remained in use, becoming a part of mechanical calculators’ history.
The Comptometer is a mechanical calculating device that was widely used in the early 20th century to perform mathematical calculations. Developed by Dorr E. Felt in the late 19th century, it revolutionized the field of computation by providing a more efficient and accurate method of performing calculations compared to manual methods.
The Comptometer consists of a series of keys, each representing a number or mathematical operation, arranged in columns. It operates by pressing these keys in the desired sequence to input the numbers and operations for a given calculation. The device uses a complex system of gears and levers to perform the calculations instantly and accurately.
One of the key advantages of the Comptometer is its ability to perform calculations rapidly, making it immensely valuable in business and financial settings where quick computations are necessary. It eliminates the need for individuals to rely on mental calculations or hand-operated adding machines, saving significant time and reducing errors.
The Comptometer's precision and reliability also made it popular in areas such as accounting, where accuracy is of utmost importance. While the Comptometer was eventually superseded by the electronic calculator, it played a crucial role in the development of mechanical computation devices and paved the way for more advanced technological advancements in the field of computing.
The word "Comptometer" is derived from two root words: "compt" and "meter".
The term "compt" is derived from the verb "compute", which means to calculate or reckon. It comes from the Latin "computare", which combines "com-" meaning "with" and "putare" meaning "to settle an account" or "to reckon".
The word "meter" comes from the Greek "metric" meaning "meter" or "measure". It refers to a device used for measuring or counting.
Both roots come together to form "Comptometer", which is a brand name for a mechanical calculator invented in the late 19th century by Dorr E. Felt. The name reflects the device's primary function of performing calculations or computations.