The player-piano rolls in the transmitter (aboard the ship) and receiver (in the torpedo) would be started at exactly the same moment, and would then stay synchronised after launch, providing a secure radio link from the ship to the torpedo.

ECONOMIST: Player-piano pioneer

PianoDisc, which is one of few modern-day makers of player piano systems (Others include: Pianoforce, Yamaha, and QRS), hires the leading interpreters of some of the greatest composers to make a specific piece for the company.

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Lamarr and Antheil proposed using a punched-paper roll like that of a player piano.

ECONOMIST: Player-piano pioneer

He was hired as its piano player in 1950 and only became a vocalist later -- staying for more than 60 years, generally as its lead tenor.

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