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Photos: Babbage's Difference masterpiece in action
Five tonnes of computer history

By Kara Tsuboi

Published: Monday 12 May 2008

Charles Babbage's Difference Engine number 2 is making its US debut at the Computer History Museum in Mountain View, California.

A forward-thinking mathematician and engineer, Babbage designed the Difference Engine in 1847. His intent was to create an automated computing machine but was never able to turn his vision into reality.

Fast forward 150 years, and an impassioned Babbage expert and wealthy financier have teamed up to build Babbage's dream via a new exhibit running through until next April.

Photo credit: CNET News.com