'Programmers' Handbook for Manchester Electronic Computer Mark II'
MS. Eng. misc. b. 260/C.40
Bodleian Libraries, University of Oxford
Description
From Bodleian Archives & Manuscripts
This is an extract only. For more information, see the catalogue record in Bodleian Archives & Manuscripts.
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Title
'Programmers' Handbook for Manchester Electronic Computer Mark II'
Shelfmark
MS. Eng. misc. b. 260/C.40
Summary
'Programmers' Handbook for Manchester Electronic Computer Mark II', inscribed 'With the Compliments of A.M. Turing' (not in Turing's hand). n.d., perhaps March 1951.
This is the First Edition Handbook, compiled by Turing himself, and very difficult to operate. Turing is known to have sent a copy to Strachey while he was working on his draughts-playing program at Harrow. Strachey contrived to master the handbook sufficiently to be able to run his draughts program on it overnight when he visited Manchester. This was considered a real achievement.
The handbook bears manuscript annotations and corrections by Strachey.
Note: Though described as 'Handbook... Mark II', this is the Mark I Handbook, which was the basis for modifications introduced for Mark 1*, and for Mark II (subsequently Mercury).
Date
n.d.
Language
English
Physical extent
1 file
View full record in Bodleian Archives & Manuscripts
Collection contents
Papers and correspondence of Christopher Strachey
Working Papers, Notes, and Calculations
National Research Development Corporation
Manchester University Computing Machine Laboratory
Manchester Mark I and Mark II & Ferranti I computers
'Programmers' Handbook for Manchester Electronic Computer Mark II'
