Country of Origin: United States of America
Dimensions:
3-D Test: 29.2 x 38.1 x 7.6cm (11 1/2 x 15 x 3 in.)
Materials:
Metal, Black
Keyboard and Display - Plastic
The Payload and General Purpose Computer is modified version of a commercial laptop computer and is one of the first of many laptops that have been used by Shuttle astronauts for a variety of mission duties. The computer, manufactured by Grid Systems, Inc., was chosen because of its durable metal case and because its memory did not use a rotating disk, which at that time was considered prone to mechanical failure. Modifications were made to adapt it for use in space by SAI Technology, a division of SAIC. NASA and other contractors also developed custom software for the device.
This laptop flew on Shuttle mission STS-56, in April 1993. NASA transferred this computer to the Museum in 1998.
Transferred from NASA, Johnson Space Center.
