Beschreibung
Six component parts in a leather carrying case with metal clasps, metal hinges, metal corner bosses, and a plastic handle. "Personal Analog Computer" in gilt on edge of the lid of the case. Contains six component parts: a control unit, two multipliers, two integrators, and an adder, and several wire leads and cords as issued, as well as a folder with a manual for the unit (enclosed in a hidden compartment), including several additional printed or mimeographed (usually dated) supplements. Serial number "237" on the back of all of the individual units. Ownership markings from a technical institute stenciled on the case, modest wear, light rust to the metal clasps, but overall near fine and a remarkable survivor. According to the website Early Computers: "The Pastoriza Personal Analog computer was designed to be used by students at the Case Institute of Technology (which later merged with Western Reserve University in 1967 to form Case Western Reserve University). These computers were issued to 200 students in late 1962 or early 1963 by the school for use in their linear systems course. The students were part of a study to compare students who used slide rules with those who had their own analog computer. The computer was designed by Dr. James Reswick, who was then Head of the Case Engineering Design Center, James Pastoriza (who manufactured them and for whom they were named) and George Philbrick who was already well known as one of the founders of the analog computer systems." "The computer was battery powered and built into a small case so that it was easily portable. They consisted of several modular units that could be configured however the student wanted. The control unit was marked on the back as serial #127. Several of the smaller units had the same number on the back and were part of that original set. Pastoriza Research, who manufactured this computer, was bought out by Analog Devices, Inc. in 1969. Analog Devices is one of the leaders in the field of analog/digital conversion." Case was the first engineering college to offer a program in computer engineering. The quoted website, which is run by West Chester University in Pennsylvania, also pictures the unit, and as to its rarity notes that they are aware of the existence of only their own unit, referring to it as "one of a kind." The training manual, housed in a folder with the printed title "A Catalog of Analog/Digital Systems, Modules, Training Aids" notes that the unit sold for $397.00 in 1963 dollars, and consists of several different handouts, including printed and mimeographed bulletins. Although apparently used only at Case, our unit has an old label from another technical institute, whether it was sold to that institute by Pastoriza or obtained later is unclear. An article in the March 1963 issue of *Popular Electronics* mentions the groundbreaking machines at Case. We have not attempted to use it, and are probably incapable of it. In any event a rare and remarkable survivor.
Bestandsnummer des Verkäufers 391158
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