Foundational programming textbook developed around EDSAC, signed by Alan Turing
The Preparation of Programs for an Electronic Digital Computer.
8vo (158 x 235 mm). 92 ff. With 2 photo illustrations. Publisher’s brown cloth with gilt spine title.
€ 45,000.00
First edition of the earliest textbook devoted to computer programming, setting out systematic program design and the use of subroutines as developed at the Cambridge Mathematical Laboratory with the copy signed in pencil by Alan Turing on the back free endpaper, the signature entered upside down.
Based on work with the EDSAC, one of the first stored program computers in regular service, the manual codifies subroutine libraries, calling conventions, and debugging procedures, and describes the punched tape library then in use.
Title-page with printed slip of Scientific Computing Service Limited, sole agents in Great Britain.
Alan Mathison Turing (1912-1954), with his signature in pencil on the back free endpaper; Robin Gandy (1919-1995), Turing's friend and one of his executors; bequeathed to Wolfson College. A Fellow of Wolfson from 1970 until his death in 1995, Gandy generously left his entire estate to the College, including this book once owned by Alan Turing, with the wish that his legacy be used to benefit the College and its students. Deaccessioned to fund student support (Turing-Gandy bursary initiative).
Well preserved. Gilt on spine lightly dulled. Minimal rubbing to extremities. In excellent condition.
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