MOSAIC – a neglected fragment of the UK’s computer story

SPEAKERS

Synopsis

The talk will look at the development of MOSAIC (Ministry of Supply Automatic Integrator or Computer), derived from Alan Turing’s innovative design for an Automatic Computing Engine (ACE) is examined.

The story is told in the context of technology developments in stored program computing and the nascent UK computer industry. The contribution from the British Post Office, particularly the Dollis Hill research establishment, in developing MOSAIC is significant.

Further development of the machine took place following its deployment at the Radar Research Establishment in Malvern, demonstrating aspects of the ongoing evolution of the computer field. Its development is described with reference to the main ACE development noting its key architectural to be evaluated.

About the speaker

Edward Smith worked in the telecommunications and computer industries, for BT and several other organisations.

His historical research work is focused on the development of information and communications technologies, their commercial exploitation and the significance of their contribution.

He is a Fellow of the BCS and assesses candidates for Incorporated and Chartered Engineer.

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This event is brought to you by: Computer Conservation Society