KEYPUNCHER Meaning and
Definition
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A keypuncher, also known as a punch card operator, is an individual who operates a mechanical device called a keypunch machine or a card punch. The keypuncher's main responsibility is to input data into punched cards by punching holes in specific patterns according to the information being encoded.
The keypunch machine, typically used in the early to mid-20th century, consists of a keyboard with keys corresponding to each character or data field to be entered. The operator places a blank card against a guide drum, aligns it properly, and then presses the corresponding key for each character. This action causes a metal punch to pierce a hole through the card in the appropriate position. By following this process, the keypuncher effectively translates information into a format that can be processed and stored on punched cards.
Keypunchers were commonly employed in various industries, notably in data processing, telecommunications, and scientific research institutions. Their skills were crucial for creating and maintaining accurate records, managing inventories, and inputting instructions or data for computer systems.
As technology advanced, the keypuncher role became obsolete with the rise of electronic data entry methods. However, the significance of keypunchers in the field of computing should not be underestimated, as the use of punched cards played a significant role in early computer programming and data storage systems.
Common Misspellings for KEYPUNCHER
- jeypuncher
- meypuncher
- leypuncher
- oeypuncher
- ieypuncher
- kwypuncher
- ksypuncher
- kdypuncher
- krypuncher
- k4ypuncher
- k3ypuncher
- ketpuncher
- kegpuncher
- kehpuncher
- keupuncher
- ke7puncher
- ke6puncher
- keyouncher
- keypunchere
- keypucher
- keypunchor
- keypanchor
Etymology of KEYPUNCHER
The word "keypuncher" is derived from two main components: "key" and "puncher".
1. Key: The term "key" originally referred to the small lever or knob on early typewriters and mechanical devices that was pressed to input information. derives from the Old English word "cǣg" meaning a wooden pin or wedge. Over time, it came to represent any similar lever or button used for pressing or operating different devices, such as pianos or telephone buttons.
2. Puncher: The word "puncher" is derived from the verb "punch", which comes from old French "poinçon" meaning "a punch or stamp". The act of punching involves using a sharp object or tool to create a hole or mark in a surface.
The combination of these two components, "key" and "puncher", resulted in the word "keypuncher".
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