Definition & Meaning of "calculating machine"

What is a "calculating machine"?

A calculating machine is a mechanical device used to perform arithmetic operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. It typically operates by turning knobs, pressing buttons, or cranking levers to input numbers and functions. The machine then uses gears or other mechanical parts to carry out the calculations. Early calculating machines were used in offices, banks, and businesses to speed up manual calculations, and they played an important role in the development of modern computers. While most calculating machines are no longer used, they laid the foundation for today's digital calculators.