Definition of the word punch into

The term "punch into" is a common phrase used in the context of entering data or information into a system or machine. Its origin can be traced back to the early days of computing, during the mid-20th century, when punch cards were the primary input devices used to operate computers. A punch card contained a series of rows with a set of eight columns, and each column could be either blank or punched with a hole. The series of holes on the card represented a sequence of instructions, and these cards were fed into a machine called a card deck puncher, which could create multiple cards simultaneously. As the computer industry evolved, and more user-friendly interfaces emerged, punch cards became obsolete. However, the term "punch into" remained and is now commonly used in other contexts outside of computing. For example, in banking and finance, the term "punch into" is used to describe entering account numbers, amounts, and other financial data into banking systems or machines, such as ATMs. In transportation, it's used to depict typing in a destination or travel itinerary into a GPS system. In manufacturing, "punch into" is used to signify inputting specific machine dimensions, codes, or settings into machines used to manufacture products. Overall, the phrase "punch into" still serves as a functional and intuitive synonym for "input" or "enter into" in various modern-day contexts.