Discovery of two historical computers in switzerland: Zuse machine M9 and contraves cora and discovery of unknown documents on the early history of computing at the ETH archives

Abstract

Since 2009 we have been trying to find out more about the beginnings of computer science in Switzerland and abroad. Most eyewitnesses have already died or are over 80 years old. In general, early analog and digital computers have been dismantled long ago. Subject to exceptions, the few remaining devices are no longer functioning. Many documents have gone lost. Therefore investigations are difficult and very time-consuming. However, we were able to discover several unknown historical computers and hundreds of exciting documents of the 1950s. In 2012, the results have been published in a first book; a second volume will be forthcoming next year.