George: computer for MIT 1958

Vintage Computer Festival East - the annual computer exhibition , which is held in the city of Wall (Wall), New Jersey. This exhibition shows the computers of the mid-20th century (50th, 60th, 70th). This exhibition features many interesting computer systems, including the main exhibit: the George Computer, designed in a single copy for MIT. Accordingly, this computer does not have a serial number, only the name obtained from the creator, the company George A. Philbrick Researches.

Unfortunately, the assembly of such a rarity is not the easiest task. Volunteers working at the exhibition, almost assembled the system, but did not have time to start it - probably, it will happen in a few days. It is worth noting that the exhibition workers not only retain their exhibits in their current form, but also restore something that does not work. In the near future - the replacement of the power supply George with 400 V to something more modern and less lethal.


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The system itself is modular, with cables that connect the individual podul. Each module performs its own task. For example, just above the monitor you can see the inscription "Universal Multiplier - Divider". There is also a module “Arbitrary Function Component”, which is responsible for plotting graphs. At the same time, there is no “correct” configuration for the modules - everything has to be learned by experience. The entire setup, according to MIT engineers, will take about a week.









In addition to George, the exhibition has a lot of interesting things. For example, a replica of the Apple I, with a selection of the original Apple computer models of later times. There is even a part of ENIAC, and a robot that looks like it comes from Star Wars.





There is another interesting computer called MOBIle DIgital Computer. Its mobility, however, lies in the fact that the computer can be transported - it is placed in a considerable size trailer. In another trailer - generators and power supplies for the system. System abbreviation - MOBIDIC.