TECH-INFO-FIRST

The first touchscreen was implemented at Switzerland’s CERN laboratories. Though a device that created buttons on a touch-responsive display already existed, it was unwieldy and required an awkwardly large frame. The solution proposed by CERN member Bent Stumpe was to etch a set of electric capacitors into a film of copper, which was then joined with the glass screen. A touch would increase the capacity, sending a signal to the computer.

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The screens were developed for use in the central control of CERN’s SPS division, and they remained in use at the facility for over 20 years. Compare that to your smartphone, which is lucky to get through the unboxing process without voiding the warranty.