Abstract: A device for punching holes in program strips, which device includes a punch and die mechanism and a carriage for positioning a program strip. The carriage is mounted so as to be movable simultaneously in two mutually perpendicular directions in a plane, thereby permitting rapid and exact positioning of the strip relative to the punch and die. A first locking plate is fixed to the carriage and is provided with guide means which constrain the motion of the carriage in the direction of advancement of the program strip. A second locking plate is meshed with the first locking plate and controls the transverse position of the carriage. Both locking plates are provided with means for locking the carriage against further motion once the position of the carriage has been set.