Retro Technology, Difference Engines and Steam Punk

With CES happening and all the announcements about new technology, let's take a moment to think about the first computer geek ever, Charles Babbage. He drew up all kinds of blueprints which described high-tech machines but he never got the real cool stuff built. But a modern computer geek, Nathan Myhrvold, put up some of his Microsoft millions to fund a project to build Babbage's Difference Engine, a 5-ton, crank-driven counting machine...the world's first computer.

NPR also did a great story about this modern-day manifestation of Babbage (currently on display at the Computer History Museum). Rumor has it that one of the two Difference Engines are heading up to the Seattle area after a stay at the museum, to find a permanent home in a private residence. Also, there is some great video at the NPR site, too.

Charles Babbage, the original steam punk.