Telex Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
ðŸ“
telex
[ˈtɛlɛks ]
Definition
communication system
Telex was an international communication system that used teleprinter technology to send and receive typed messages over telephone lines. It allowed for the transmission of messages instantly to far-off destinations, linking businesses and organizations worldwide.
Synonyms
message, telecommunication, teleprinter.
Examples of usage
- The company sent a telex to confirm the order.
- Before emails, we relied on telex for urgent communications.
- The telex machine was essential for international trade in the 20th century.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term comes from 'teleprinter exchange,' originating in the early 20th century, making communication faster.
- Telex technology was first developed in Germany in the 1920s, revolutionizing long-distance communication.
Technology
- Telex machines operated over telephone networks, using wires and later, radio signals for sending messages.
- In the 1960s and 70s, telex was widely adopted in businesses for efficient communication across corporate networks.
Pop Culture
- During the 1980s, telex was a key tool in journalism, allowing news agencies to transmit stories rapidly across the globe.
- Some movies from the 70s and 80s depict characters using telex machines, reflecting their importance in communication of that era.
Science
- Telex was a precursor to modern fax machines and email, demonstrating early integrations of technology and communication.
- The reliability of telex systems paved the way for digital communication technologies we use today.
Business
- Despite declining use due to digitalization, telex remained crucial in certain industries like shipping and aviation for decades.
- Some businesses still maintain telex systems for legacy purposes in international communications.
Origin of 'telex'
The term 'telex' is derived from 'teleprinter exchange', which was developed in the early 20th century as a means of automated message transmission. Initially, telex systems were introduced to replace telegraphy and provide a more direct communication method. The first commercial telex services commenced in the late 1920s, with the technology gaining traction in the following decades, especially during and after World War II. Its global reach and reliability made it a preferred choice for businesses, governments, and media organizations. Telex played a crucial role in international banking, trade agreements, and news dissemination until the rise of fax machines and, later, the internet, led to its decline.