[en] Neutron diffractometry contributes substantially to studies of the structure of materials. Scientists at Harwell were among the first to make the collection of diffractometer data automatic and have continued to contribute to this field. This paper outlines the development of automatic neutron diffractometers at Harwell from 1960, and considers the various ANDROMACHE systems up to a hierarchical computer system that is anticipated for 1979. Appendices provide examples of the documentation provided for users of the ANDROMACHE Mark 6 neutron diffractometer system and give brief descriptions of the elements of the programs. (author)