# IBM 1442

> combination IBM card reader and card punch

**Wikidata**: [Q5968582](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q5968582)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IBM_1442)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ibm-1442

## Summary
The IBM 1442 is a combination card reader and card punch unit record equipment designed by IBM. It was used to read data from punched cards and punch new cards, serving as both an input and output device for early computer systems.

## Key Facts
- Designed by IBM as a combination card reader and card punch
- Classified as unit record equipment, card reader, and hole puncher
- Has aliases including "IBM 1442 Card Read-Punch"
- Freebase ID: /m/02k41v
- Wikipedia title: IBM 1442
- Commons category: IBM 1442
- Available in multiple Wikipedia languages: English, Spanish, Japanese, and Commons
- Wikidata description: "combination IBM card reader and card punch"

## FAQs
### Q: What was the IBM 1442 used for?
A: The IBM 1442 was used to read data from punched cards and punch new cards, serving as both an input and output device for early computer systems and data processing applications.

### Q: What type of equipment is the IBM 1442?
A: The IBM 1442 is classified as unit record equipment, specifically functioning as both a card reader and a hole puncher (card punch).

### Q: Who manufactured the IBM 1442?
A: The IBM 1442 was designed and manufactured by IBM, as indicated by its name and classification.

## Why It Matters
The IBM 1442 represents an important piece of computing history as a dual-function unit record device that streamlined data processing workflows. By combining both reading and punching capabilities in a single unit, it reduced the physical space and complexity needed for card-based data processing systems. This type of equipment was essential for businesses and institutions during the era of punched card computing, enabling efficient data input, output, and storage before the widespread adoption of magnetic storage and modern input devices.

## Notable For
- Dual functionality as both card reader and card punch in a single unit
- Part of IBM's extensive line of unit record equipment
- Served as a key component in punched card data processing systems
- Represented the integration trend in office equipment design
- Supported multiple languages in its documentation and online presence

## Body
### Technical Classification
The IBM 1442 falls under multiple technical classifications, serving as both a card reader and a hole puncher. This dual functionality made it a versatile component in data processing environments where punched cards were the primary medium for data storage and transfer.

### Design and Development
As an IBM product, the 1442 was designed to meet the needs of businesses and institutions using punched card technology. The combination design suggests it was intended to optimize workflow by reducing the number of separate devices needed for card processing tasks.

### Documentation and Resources
The IBM 1442 has maintained a presence across multiple Wikipedia language editions (English, Spanish, Japanese) and has a dedicated Commons category, indicating its historical significance and continued interest among technology historians and collectors.

### Industry Context
Unit record equipment like the IBM 1442 played a crucial role in the evolution of data processing, bridging the gap between manual data handling and modern electronic computing. These devices were the backbone of business data processing for several decades before being replaced by more advanced technologies.