Pixar Image Computer II (P-II), circa 1987

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Artifact Overview

Pixar is celebrated for its animation--but the company's origins began with computer hardware. In 1984, they created the Pixar Imaging Computer (PIC)--a groundbreaking device aimed towards high-end graphics and animation. The PIC was used within medical and scientific industries--and for the iconic ballroom scene in Disney's Beauty and the Beast. This improved PII was released in 1987.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Computer

Date Made

circa 1987

Creators

Place of Creation

Creator Notes

CPU manufactured by Pixar at their Emeryville, CA headquarters; the monitor was manufactured for them by Sony Corporation; made in Japan.

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

2014.63.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Glass (Material)
Plastic
Rubber (Material)
Steel (Alloy)

Dimensions

Height: 21 in (CPU)
Width: 17.5 in (CPU)
Length: 23.5 in (CPU)
Weight: 140 lbs (CPU)
Height: 20 in (monitor)
Width: 19 in (monitor)
Length: 22 in (monitor)
Weight: 84 lbs (monitor)

Inscriptions

CPU, front: PIXAR CPU, label, rear: Pixar Model 820204 Serial No. 8950A00306C . . . monitor, front: PIXAR monitor, label, rear: Model No. GDM-1950 Trinitron Graphic Display Monitor Ser. No. 2005180 Manufactured by Sony Corp. Made in Japan
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