How did we survive without high speed internet, computer games and iTunes? Motat is offering an opportunity to see what New Zealand's first computer was originally used for.
Motat is currently displaying the world's only surviving and fully operational Meccano Differential Analyser, which visitors can see in action.
Marketing manager Angela Willis said the artefact is very significant to Motat.
"We are thrilled to have the differential analyser as part of the Motat collection. Visitors will be fascinated to see how far computers have come, the differential analyser certainly isn't something that fits in your pocket like today's iPhones," Ms Willis says.
The first Meccano Differential Analyser built by Arthur Porter in Manchester was the inspiration for the second machine built at the Cambridge University Mathematical Laboratory in 1935. It was used to research the flow of heat, explosive detonations and simulations of transmission lines in World War II.
New Zealander Dr Harry Whale brought the computer to New Zealand in 1950 where it was used for radio wave research.
Ms Willis says: "The differential analyser is housed in our 1950s themed exhibition, I Am the Last Tram, and can be seen in action on Tuesdays."
A miniature version of the Meccano Differential Analyser been on show as part of the Meccano Display at Te Papa Museum.
Aucklanders can see it in action on Tuesdays in Motat's I Am The Last Tram exhibition.
The main entrance is on Great North Road, Western Springs. Plenty of parking is available at both Motat sites and trams transport between sites. Tram rides are free with museum entry.
Costs
The Meccano Differential Analyser can be seen as part of general entry fees to Motat. The rest of the museum, free tram rides and entry to the Tactile Dome and Voyager1 are included in the one price.
Entry Fees:
Family (2 adults and up to 4 children) $35
Adults $14
Children (under 16) $8
Students $8
Senior Citizens $7
Children under 5 years are free
Motat Mates (annual pass) - $65 for a family (entitles you to unlimited visits to MOTAT)
More info, ph: 0800 MOTAT NZ (0800 668 286) or see www.motat.org.nz
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