This is the control unit from a flown Space Shuttle on-board computer, designed and manufactured by the IBM Corporation for the Shuttle program. An operational Shuttle has five, identical on-board computers, which vote on a process to override any single and some dual malfunctions. Each computer consists of a controller like this one, plus a companion processor unit. It is not known on which Shuttle missions this controller was installed.

Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.

Object Details

Country of Origin

United States of America

Type

INSTRUMENTS-Computers, General Purpose

Manufacturer

IBM Corporation

Contractor

Rockwell International Corporation

Dimensions

3-D: 50.8 x 25.4 x 20.3cm, 20.4kg (20 x 10 x 8 in., 45lb.)

Materials

Aluminum, Plastic, Copper, Steel, Gold Plating, Paper, Adhesive, Glass, Phenolic Resin

Inventory Number

A19950161000

Credit Line

Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
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