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IBM1401 Demo Lab

The IBM 1401 Data Processing System transformed data processing and became one of the most popular computers of all time. Travel back in time to 1959 and experience the sights and sounds of a business computer center. This exhibit re-creates a working medium-size computer operation from the 1960s, including working keypunches, printers, card readers, sorters and tape drives.

Demonstrations

Experience the IBM 1401 in action

Wednesdays, 3 p.m.
Saturdays, 11 a.m.

IBM 1401 Demo Lab

Demonstrators

CHM’s IBM 1401 is maintained and demonstrated by a corps of highly trained volunteers. Visitors can experience the system in action Wednesdays at 3 p.m. and Saturdays at 11 a.m.

IBM 1401 Demo Lab

Magnetic Tape Unit

The IBM 1401 was very successful; over 12,000 were sold. Like all early computers, however, 1401s were very labor-intensive to build, with little automation.

IBM 1401 Demo Lab

Visitors in the Demo Lab

IBM 1401 Demo Lab

Printing Card Punch

Travel back in time to 1959 and experience the sights and sounds of a business computer center.

IBM 1401 Demo Lab

Demo Lab Entrance

IBM 1401 Demo Lab

Printing Card Punch

Visitors of all ages enjoy the exhilaration of using a 026 printing card punch

Become a Demonstrator

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