The Evolution of Computer Time Clocks Since 1987

Original context: written around 2007 during the rapid expansion of computerized time clocks.

Computerized time clocks began reshaping payroll operations in 1987 with the introduction of the EPM Digital Time Calculator by Icon Time Systems. At the time, this self-contained unit with PIN entry and direct-to-printer output represented a technological breakthrough. It supported 40 employees, basic departments, and weekly or bi-weekly pay cycles. While modest by today’s standards, no comparable affordable digital payroll calculator existed on the market.

The system was developed by Andrew King of Portland, Oregon, who later expanded the company under the name Icon Time Systems. By 1993, the platform had evolved to include DOS-based management software. This allowed businesses to edit employee data, time punches, and pay rules directly on a computer — a major advancement from mechanical punch clocks.

Capabilities quickly expanded to 80 employees, 99 departments, multiple overtime rules, and floating overtime calculations designed for semi-monthly and custom pay cycles. These features addressed real payroll complexity that mechanical clocks simply could not manage.

During the early 1990s, additional manufacturers entered the electronic timekeeping market, including Kronos, Acroprint, Time America, and Stromberg. As computing technology became more accessible, digital time clocks shifted from novelty equipment to essential business tools.

By 2007 — when this original narrative was written — computerized time clocks had become mainstream. However, most systems still relied on locally installed software, manual backups, and direct PC connections.

How Technology Has Changed Since Then

Since 2007, time and attendance technology has evolved dramatically. Modern systems now feature:

• Cloud-hosted software with automatic data backup
• Browser-based reporting with no local installation
• Biometric fingerprint and facial recognition options
• Mobile punch capability with GPS verification
• Real-time overtime tracking and compliance alerts

These improvements have solved many of the limitations early digital systems faced — particularly data security, remote access, and multi-location management.

At EmployeeTimeClocks.com, we have worked through every phase of this evolution — from mechanical punch clocks to DOS software, PC-connected terminals, and now fully web-hosted systems. Today’s solutions, including biometric and cloud-based platforms, provide significantly greater accuracy and flexibility than early standalone devices.

The philosophy that drove early innovators — build reliable, easy-to-run, and affordable systems — still defines the best time clock solutions today. Businesses that choose the right system spend less time correcting payroll errors and more time focusing on growth.

Computer time clocks have evolved from simple PIN-based calculators into secure workforce management platforms. Understanding that history helps businesses make informed decisions about modern payroll technology.