For my exam revision (university) I've been reading about the history of computing.
In general what happened with many (Pascal, Leibniz, Schickard, etc.) is that they had an idea yet the current state of technology and skilled workers was not adequate.
So, many of them learnt how to do build their ideas themselves. They learnt the necessary skills. From the textbook:
".. he designed his first machine and contracted some local workmen for the construction work. An unworkable instrument was duly delivered. As many were to find after him, having a good idea was not enough, one also had to master the arts of tool making and engineering."
In general what happened with many (Pascal, Leibniz, Schickard, etc.) is that they had an idea yet the current state of technology and skilled workers was not adequate.
So, many of them learnt how to do build their ideas themselves. They learnt the necessary skills. From the textbook:
".. he designed his first machine and contracted some local workmen for the construction work. An unworkable instrument was duly delivered. As many were to find after him, having a good idea was not enough, one also had to master the arts of tool making and engineering."