Definition of a Computer

[Tony Duell]

> 
> Tom Jennings wrote:
> 
>> For a stored program, automatic, digital, computer, the thing that 
> > distinguishes it from other human artifacts is this one
> > simple-seeming thing: the machine that modifies itself.

Problem is, AFIAK this list is not just about stored-program digital 
computers... Analogue machines are on-topic, so arguably are machines 
that can't change their own program.

> >
> The main point I remember about computer defs is  'They do stupid simple 
> things really fast."

Quote from the preface of the TRS80 microcomputer technical reference 
handbook (for the model 1 of course).

'If you are a technical person, but have never played around with 
microprocessors, dive right in! A computer is nothing more than a fast 
idiot. Don't let the "idiot" intimidate you. All of the familiar logic is 
there; there just may be more of it than you're used to seeing in one place.'

-tony