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Telegraphone, early 20th century
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Telegraphone, early 20th century
Telegraphone, early 20th-century artwork. This sound-recording device was invented in 1898 by the Danish engineer Valdemar Poulsen (1869-1942). It demonstrated the principle of magnetic recording and could be used to record and play back sounds. Here, the recording medium was a magnetic wire. It was not until later that magnetic tape was used as the recording medium. The wire is seen moving between two coils, past a recording or playback head. The combined telephone microphone and earpiece is at lower left. Artwork from the 26th volume (second period of 1900) of the French popular science weekly La Science Illustree
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Media ID 6339839
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1898 1900 1900s Annual Volume Audio Coiled Coils Danish Device French La Science Illustree Louis Figuier Machine Magazine Micro Phone Popular Science Sounds Weekly Mono Chrome Physical Sound Recording
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This artwork showcases the Telegraphone, an early 20th-century sound-recording device that revolutionized the world of audio technology. Invented by Danish engineer Valdemar Poulsen in 1898, this remarkable machine demonstrated the groundbreaking principle of magnetic recording. The illustration depicts a mesmerizing scene where a thin magnetic wire gracefully moves between two coils, passing by a recording or playback head. During this era, the Telegraphone utilized magnetic wire as its recording medium before magnetic tape became more prevalent. Positioned at the lower left corner is a combined telephone microphone and earpiece, highlighting its multifunctional capabilities. This monochrome artwork captures both the physicality and technological sophistication of this historical device. Originally featured in La Science Illustree, a popular French science weekly publication from the early 20th century, this image provides us with a glimpse into scientific advancements during that time period. It beautifully illustrates how innovation was shaping history and paving the way for future developments in sound recording technology. The Telegraphone's invention marked an important milestone in audio engineering and set the stage for further advancements in communication devices. While commercial use is not mentioned here, it is evident that Poulsen's creation laid down foundations for subsequent breakthroughs within this field. As we admire this intriguing piece of artistry from Science Photo Library's collection, we are reminded of humanity's relentless pursuit to capture and preserve sounds throughout history.
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