Abstract: Disclosed is a tape preparation system for preparing tapes used to operate numerically controlled devices such as machine tools. The preferred embodiment of the system generates punched tapes by visually dislaying and guiding an unskilled operator through the steps necessary for error-free numerical control programming. The system consists of a computer interconnected to a visual display front panel through an interface logic module. A data terminal such as a Teletype ASR 33TY, functions as a tape punch, tape reader, printer and keyboard input console for operator communication with the remainder of the system.The system computer is programmed to generate data words and address codes corresponding to the locations of a predetermined series of ordinary English messages which are stored in several visual display modules housed in the visual display front panel.