[GreenKeys] Torn tape continuous transmissions

[Jim Haynes]

On Thu, 23 Jul 2026, Harold Hallikainen via GreenKeys wrote:

> All those stepper switches to put a message number on the tape are
> interesting and complicated!

Western Union had some systems using stepper switches instead of torn
tape.  They called it pushbutton switching.  A message could be
directed to a certain outlet by pushing a button rather than taking
the tae phsically to a tape reader.  I don't know how many messages
the allowed to be stacked waiting on a busy line, but before that
they had some plug and jack switching.  Using 9-conductor plugs
so they could send the bits in parallel rather than serial.

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