First desktop computer from the Minuteman 1 ballistic missile
This material is a description of one of the most compact computers of the 1960s, the D-17b, which was used as a guidance system for the Minuteman 1 ballistic missiles and was subsequently transferred to US universities after the missiles were retired.
Compact computer
Functions and purpose
At one time, Minuteman 1 missiles were equipped with innovative computing devices for that time D- 17b. These computers were responsible for guiding the warheads, performing complex calculations of flight trajectories based on readings from gyroscopes and accelerometers. Thus, they provided highly accurate inertial guidance for missiles in the absence of modern GPS systems.
Compact form factor
Despite the impressive size of the Minuteman 1 missiles themselves (about 17 meters high), the D-17b computer had fairly compact dimensions. Its cylindrical body was only 80 cm in height and 75 cm in diameter. The device weighed 28 kg, making it portable for one person. The computer design was mounted in a dodecagonal chassis 54 cm high and 74 cm wide.
Internal structure
The D-17b's operating logic was provided by 75 separate printed circuit boards with discrete components – transistors, diodes and resistors. The computer did not have a single processor in the modern sense. A magnetic hard drive was used to store data, which was a remarkable achievement of miniaturization for its time.
Cost and Distribution
Development of the D-17b cost approximately $2 million in modern dollars, making it a very expensive device. Following the retirement of the Minuteman 1 missiles, these computers were donated free of charge to US universities for scientific research, an unprecedented act of generosity. Currently, some examples of the D-17b can be seen in computer history museums in California and Montana.
Glossary
- Minuteman 1 is an American intercontinental ballistic missile that was in service from 1962 to 1969.
- D-17b - computer used as the Minuteman 1 missile guidance system.
- IBM 350 - one of the first commercial hard drives, released by IBM in 1957 year, weighing about 1 ton.
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Which computer can be considered a desktop computer and why?
How did the D-17b computer work and what was it used for?
What features and components did the D-17b computer have?
Why were the D-17b computers given to US universities?
Where can you see the D-17b computer today?
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Discussion of the topic – First desktop computer from the Minuteman 1 ballistic missile
In 1962, the D-17b computer from the Minuteman 1 ballistic missile became the first desktop PC. After being removed from service, these computers were transferred to US universities for scientific research.
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Дмитрий
It was a terrible time! A computer the size of a refrigerator and a price of $2 million... 🤯 But still, it was a technological breakthrough for its time. I wonder how they managed to program this colossus using separate boards and wires?
Элизабет
Yes, today's computers are just toys compared to those monsters! 💻 But it is thanks to such pioneers that we now have modern technologies. I'm curious what exactly was calculated on it, besides missile trajectories?
Пауль
What a delight the students were when they received such powerful computers for those times for free! 😄 This is what I understand - the generosity of the US Army. Surely they carried out all sorts of experiments and developed science.
Грета
Yes, back then 28 kg was considered a compact size for a computer! 😆 Now we treat this with humor, but at that time it was the greatest achievement of engineering. Just imagine how many man-hours it took to create such a colossus!
Куба
Those were cool times! 🚀 Although a computer the size of a refrigerator is not capable of much by today's standards, it was something in the 60s! Controlling ballistic missiles, calculating complex trajectories - wow, this is a cosmic level for those times 🔥
Фредерик
Phew, why were these rockets and computers for them even needed? 😠 In my opinion, this is a waste of money on destruction. These millions would be better spent on hospitals and schools than on calculating death trajectories. Brrr, I don’t even want to think about it!
Анна
I keep wondering how such a large and heavy computer could receive energy? 🤔 Were there really huge batteries? Or did it have to be connected to powerful generators? There are still a lot of questions!
Марко
Yes, truly great achievements for its time! 👏 Although the size and price seem crazy now, it is thanks to such pioneers that we live in the modern computer world. It would be very interesting to look at this colossus with your own eyes in the museum!