The Programma 101, a programmable desktop calculator, debuted at the 1964 New York World's Fair, marking a shift toward electronic computing led by Pier Giorgio Perotto. This Italian engineer steered the transition of Olivetti from a mechanical firm to an electronics-focused company, influencing the trajectory of personal computing hardware and business automation systems throughout his career.
Early Career and Olivetti
Born in Turin in 1930, Perotto graduated from the Polytechnic University of Turin. He initiated his professional path at Fiat before transitioning to the machine manufacturer Olivetti. As the General Director of projects and research at the company's Ivrea headquarters, he oversaw the internal pivot from purely mechanical production to complex electronic systems. This shift proved essential in maintaining the firm's competitive relevance in the rapidly evolving technological landscape.
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Often referred to as the Perottina, the Programma 101 stood as one of the initial electronic desktop calculators capable of user programming. Following its 1964 launch, mass production commenced in 1965. With approximately 44,000 units sold, the device found utility in various high-stakes environments. Notably, NASA acquired ten units, which personnel utilized to assist with calculations for the Apollo 11 lunar landing mission.
Computing Innovation and Later Work
Throughout the 1970s, Perotto continued to lead hardware design at Olivetti, delivering models such as the P6060, recognized as the first personal computer to feature an integrated floppy-disk drive. He also developed the P6040 and P6066 systems. In 1997, he co-founded FINSA Consulting alongside Sergio Raimondi, serving as its president. Beyond engineering, he dedicated time to teaching and authoring numerous essays regarding business organization, strategy, and the future of information technology.
Recognition and Legacy
Perotto received the Leonardo da Vinci Award in 1991 for his contributions to computing. His influence extends beyond technical manuals; the main belt asteroid 12222 Perotto, discovered in 1982 at the Osservatorio San Vittore, bears his name. He passed away in Genoa in 2002, leaving behind a body of work that bridged the gap between mechanical calculator manufacturing and the digital computing age.
Fast facts
- Born: 1930, Turin, Italy
- Died: 2002, Genoa, Italy
- Education: Polytechnic University of Turin
- Key Invention: Programma 101 calculator
- Employers: Fiat, Olivetti, FINSA Consulting
- Award: Leonardo da Vinci Award (1991)
- Asteroid named for him: 12222 Perotto
Questions readers ask
What was the Programma 101 used for?
It was a programmable electronic desktop calculator used for various business and scientific applications, including the planning of the Apollo 11 moon landing by NASA.
Did Perotto work for any companies besides Olivetti?
Yes, he began his career at Fiat and later co-founded FINSA Consulting in 1997.
Achievements
- Affiliated with Polytechnic University of Turin
- Educated at Polytechnic University of Turin and University of Turin
- Worked as engineer, computer scientist and inventor
