Word Processor, The / The Electric Light

Synopsis: Tim Hunkin humorously explains the workings of familiar machines. His technique is to present the scientific principles and show how the machines evolved by using demonstrations and animated cartoon sequences.
1: Shows the workings of the word processor as an application of computer technology, demonstrating ASCII binary code, examining early computers (the 1959 Pegasus valve-powered computer), their progress towards miniturisation, what silicon chips do and the development of the personal computer. Follows the evolution of printers, throught the dot matrix, daisywheel to the ink jet. Looks at the social consequences of the word processor.
2: The evolution of electric lighting from Humphrey Davy’s attempt in 1989, through arc lamps, and the problems with the heating effect of electricity. Looks at the work of Joseph Swann and Thomas Edison and the gradual introduction of electric light into buildings. Looks at fluorsecent light, the variety of lights available today, colour alterations with different kinds of light and a comparison with daylight.
Series: Secret Life of Machines, The
Language: English
Country: Great Britain
Medium: Video; Videocassette. VHS. col. 52 min.
Year of production: 1992
Availability: Sale; 1997 sale: £14.99 (+VAT +p&p)
Notes: Broadcast on C4 on 4/3/93 and 11/3/93.
Subjects: Technology
Keywords: computers; electric lighting; history of technology; word processing

Director

Frank Prendergast

Producer

Elizabeth Queenan

Writer

Tim Hunkin

Cast

Rex Garrod
Tim Hunkin

Title: Word processor, The
Synopsis: 1: Shows the workings of the word processor as an application of computer technology, demonstrating ASCII binary code, examining early computers (the 1959 Pegasus valve-powered computer), their progress towards miniturisation, what silicon chips do and th
Title: Electric light, The
Synopsis: 2: The evolution of electric lighting from Humphrey Davy's attempt in 1989, through arc lamps, and the problems with the heating effect of electricity. Looks at the work of Joseph Swann and Thomas Edison and the gradual introduction of electric light into

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Notes: Producer and distributor of DVD-based teaching packs for schools and colleges that aim to stimulate discussion on issues in areas including citizenship, religious education, critical thinking, energy and environment, and careers/work experience.

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