paper tape

American  

noun

Computers.

1. a narrow strip of paper in which holes are punched in designated patterns to represent characters: formerly in common use as an input/output medium.

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paper tape British  

noun

1. a former name for punched tape

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Etymology

Origin of paper tape

1885–90, for earlier sense

Example Sentences

Cash registers punched holes into paper tape to record sales; the tape would then be sent to headquarters each day and fed into a computer to analyze sales.

From The Wall Street Journal

Only another briefcase with the same key on its paper tape could unscramble the message and convert the digits into a machine-like voice at the other end.

From BBC

Use fiberglass mesh tape, not the perforated paper tape that installers use between sheets of drywall.

From Washington Post

They knew that Mr. Gorky had adhered “The Limit” to the canvas with glue along the edges as well as kraft paper tape, an adhesive meant to be easily removable.

From New York Times

Worried about soldiers under fire fumbling with the flimsy paper tape then used to seal ammunition boxes, Vesta Stoudt had a solution - a waterproof, cloth tape.

From BBC