60-Channel Tape Reader

This 60-channel tape reader and punch was developed for the FACOM 100 (Japan's first practical relay-based automatic computer) from Fuji Tsushinki Manufacturing Corporation (currently Fujitsu). It's principle of operation and construction were similar to that of 6-channel tape readers and punches used at the time for telegraphs, but it was modified to 60-channel to increase efficiency. The system used wide paper tape for numerical values, and durable non-woven film for instructions to withstand repeated use. The FACOM 100 (completed in October 1954) was connected with four instruction tape readers, three numeric value tape readers, and 3 numeric value tape punches.