![](https://t-lcarchive.org/wp-content/uploads/dobby-loom-chain-008-1024x646.jpg)
We would like to thank Mr Aram of Masson Mill for kindly donating this program chain and showing us around his Museum & Centre.
The Dobby Loom was first introduced in the mid 19th century and was programmed using a continuous chain of pegged slats. Still binary in nature, (yes + no) + (true + false). It differs from the Jacquard Loom program cards, as the chain can be reprogrammed, this can be done by taking the pegs out and repositioning them to form the new program.
![](https://t-lcarchive.org/wp-content/uploads/dobby-loom-chain-014-150x150.jpg)
![](https://t-lcarchive.org/wp-content/uploads/dobby-loom-chain-012-150x150.jpg)
You could give a very good argument for this being the first mechanical equivalent of a electronic Eprom. What do you think? It is hoped that in the new year the Museum will be getting a Dobby Loom. It’ll make an interesting crossover between the Computer Museum and the Heritage Centre! We’ll keep you posted on developments.