IBM Punch Card Gauge

IBM Punch Card Gauge

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Description
This gray metal instrument checked the "registration" or alignment of a card punch. Its surface is marked and numbered like an IBM punch card, with 80 columns of numbers. A sample punched card, held in place by three protrusions, fit over the surface and was compared to the rectangles below. Machines out of registration could then be reported.
A mark on the bottom reads: MFG. BY I.B.M. Another mark there reads: GAUGE CARD FACE UP.
The device fits in a brown cardboard envelope that is covered with cellophane. A mark on the envelope reads: 450550.
This is a gauge for an IBM 5081 punch card and a related card punch. It was used at the University of Pittsburgh in Professor Robert A. McConnell’s research on parapsychology.
For a related card, see 1990.0113.03.
Reference:
Accession File.
Location
Currently not on view
Object Name
punch card gauge
date made
1960s
maker
IBM
Physical Description
cellophane (overall material)
metal (overall material)
cardboard (overall material)
Measurements
overall:.6 cm x 22.4 cm x 11.3 cm; 1/4 in x 8 13/16 in x 4 7/16 in
ID Number
1990.0113.01
catalog number
1990.0113.01
accession number
1990.0113
Credit Line
Gift of Robert A. McConnell
subject
Psychology
Mathematics
See more items in
Medicine and Science: Mathematics
Tabulating Equipment
Computers & Business Machines
Science & Mathematics
Punch Cards
Data Source
National Museum of American History
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