UNIVAC computer element
Date: circa 1960
Inventory Number: 1997-1-1141
Classification: Computer Element
Subject:
Maker: Sperry Rand Corporation (UNIVAC Federal Systems Division) (1955 - 1978)
Cultural Region:
Place of Origin:
Dimensions:
1.2 × 19.5 × 9.9 cm (1/2 × 7 11/16 × 3 7/8 in.)
Description:
A component from the UNIVAC computer encased in a transparent blue plastic rectangle with rounded edges and corners. There are flecks of foil suspended in the plastic as decorative glitter. There is a silver name plate on the left hand side of the blue rectangle. Above it is a small, round plastic holder (possibly for holding a pen).
The computer component itself is a square, black microchip plate with various circuit parts soldered together and onto the surface. A black, elongated-H shaped extension is attached to one edge of the plate. There are twenty-eight brass prongs for connecting the chip along the edge of this extension. The microchip plate itself contains layers of conducting foil encased in a textured black epoxy.
The computer component itself is a square, black microchip plate with various circuit parts soldered together and onto the surface. A black, elongated-H shaped extension is attached to one edge of the plate. There are twenty-eight brass prongs for connecting the chip along the edge of this extension. The microchip plate itself contains layers of conducting foil encased in a textured black epoxy.
Signedprinted in blue and black lettering on device label plate: SPERRY RAND / CORPORATION / UNIVAC / FEDERAL SYSTEMS DIVISION / C.B. MERRITT
FunctionThe object is a decorative preservation of the UNIVAC component, possible to serve as a pen holder or paper weight. The function of the computer component itself, and the specifications of the circuits built on it are unknown.
A historical overview of the UNIVAC computer is available here.
A historical overview of the UNIVAC computer is available here.
ProvenanceGift of R. Forsberg '41, 4/21/89.