Minivac 601

Minivac 601
DeveloperClaude Shannon
ManufacturerScientific Development Corporation (Cambridge, Massachusetts, later in Watertown, Massachusetts)
TypeElectromechanical
Release datec.1961
Introductory priceUS$85 (equivalent to $866.66 in 2023)
CPU(None)
Memory6 bits
Storage6 bits
Display6 indicator lamps, 16-position motorized dial
Input6 slide switches, 6 pushbutton switches, 16-position motorized dial
Power110 VAC
Dimensions5 1/8 x 24 x 13 1/4 in.[1]
Mass9 kilograms (20 lb)

Minivac 601 Digital Computer Kit was an electromechanical digital computer system created by information theory pioneer Claude Shannon and sold by Scientific Development Corporation as an educational toy using digital circuits.[2]

  1. ^ MINIVAC 601 Computer History Museum, "Description: This item comprises two pieces: A: Main unit B: Bag of jumper cables Produced by SDC Corporation, Watertown, MA. Operates from 110VAC. Object consists of: minivac, original cardboard box, 3 bags of jumper cables, 6 electrolitic [sic] capacitors..."
  2. ^ Advertisement: Minivac 601, Page 33, 1961-10, Popular Science

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