https://peertube.dngr.us/videos/watch/f3117f8a-426f-4ceb-b856-c386e3164809 Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCddem5RlB3bQe99wyY49g0g/join Want to learn more about Periscope Film and get access to exclusive swag? Join us on Patreon. Visit https://www.patreon.com/PeriscopeFilm Visit our website www.PeriscopeFilm.com "What is a Computer?" is a 1970 animated film by the Argo Record Company which was distributed by Encyclopedia Brittanica Films. It explains the evolution and basic principles of computing, using the metaphor of counting sheep to illustrate how repetitive tasks led to the development of computational systems. It starts with simple methods like using fingers or stones (unitary system) to count, progressing to the decimal system and the abacus for better efficiency. The narrative then introduces the binary system—using ones and zeros (bits)—as the foundation of modern computing, showing how these bits can represent on/off states in devices like switches, lamps, or punched cards. It describes how early computers process data through input (e.g., punched cards), storage (e.g., magnetic fields), and output (e.g., typewriters), with programs controlling operations via switches. The text covers flowcharts for logical problem-solving, binary logic circuits ("and," "not," "or"), and the computer’s strengths: fast calculations, complex switching, and vast storage. It highlights applications like automation, information retrieval, and space travel, where computers simulate conditions using alphanumeric data. Finally, it speculates on future possibilities—coding emotions like love or courage—while humorously suggesting counting sheep if the concept overwhelms, tying back to the opening metaphor. 1:00 - Counting sheep is boring and repetitive, ideal for machines to handle. 1:08 - A machine to count sheep could improve on the unitary system of one finger or stone per sheep, using stones as memory. 1:37 - Many sheep need many stones; the decimal system improves this by counting in tens with columns. 2:02 - Framing stones creates an abacus, a quick way to store and register numbers. 2:17 - Lamps replace stones, and switches let sheep count themselves, forming a simple computer with input, control, and output. 2:52 - In decimal, each leftward number multiplies by ten; in binary, by two, using only one and zero. 3:27 - Binary digits (bits) represent on/off states like lamps, current, switches, or magnetic fields. 4:03 - Bits also show as holes in punched cards, enabling number input into computers. 5:03 - Punched cards convert to pulses via electric rollers, storing numbers in magnets as memory. 5:54 - Pulses release stored numbers to a register or operate switches for instructions. 6:27 - Instruction pulses form a program, stored separately from input data. 7:06 - Program and data are stored, then a pulse triggers calculation, printing results via typewriter. 7:55 - Programs remain reusable, unlike consumed data; reference tables in backup stores like tapes aid routine tasks. 8:52 - Input can be alphabetical too, forming alphanumeric data separated by codes. 10:00 - Programs and data are punched into tape, processed, and output clearly via typewriter. 10:28 - Problems need logical flowcharts, like juggling steps with yes/no checks. 11:25 - Logical statements (true=1, false=0) form switching circuits, e.g., "elephants have big ears" (1) vs. "can fly" (0). 12:26 - "And" circuits combine conditions (e.g., tide in, weather good) for true/false results. 13:18 - "Not" circuits (e.g., "not John Smith") and "or" circuits (e.g., raincoat or umbrella) expand logic. 14:16 - Computers excel at fast calculations, complex switches, and vast storage. 15:03 - Calculation-focused computers have large processors; automation needs specialized ones; retrieval favors big backup stores. 15:59 - Space travel uses complex computers to simulate rocket conditions, integrating diverse expert inputs. 17:15 - Every possibility is checked before rocket production. 17:33 - One and zero can describe pictures, music, and more, but not yet emotions like love or courage—though it’s possible someday. 18:17 - If this keeps you awake, count sheep. 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