Chris TrottierNov 25, 2022

The first computer bug was a literal bug.

To be exact, a moth.

On Sept 9, 1947, a moth got trapped in Harvard University's Mark II computer -- causing multiple errors.

This bug disrupted the electronics inside the Mark II.

Here's a photo of that first computer bug.

Show threadEmma (IPG)Nov 25, 2022
@atomicpoet i'm curious, is this why the name "bug" was given to computer errors?
Show threadChris TrottierNov 25, 2022
@ipg Yes.
Show threadhugovangalen 🤖 🕹ī¸ đŸ˜ŧNov 25, 2022

@atomicpoet I remember reading the word "bug" was used way before 1947.

I could only find Edison's use of it in 1878 but I remember reading about an even older reference but a quick search didn't help me find it.

Edited to add link to source: https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/the-origin-of-the-term-computer-bug

@ipg

What is the origin of the term "computer bug"?

Computer bugs are occupational hazards for programmers and software developers. But have you ever wondered about the origin of the term computer bug?

Interesting Engineering
Show threadAriaflameNov 25, 2022
@hvangalen Insects appear to have a propensity to get into places they should not.
Show threadAldo McAldo
@ariaflame @hvangalen kinda like computers... 😋
Nov 25, 2022 at 8:13pmWeb