Burroughs B5000 Core Memory Plane, 1961

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Artifact Overview

Core memory is an early form of computer memory. Small rings of magnetic material strung on a wire grid were programmed to represent a binary "one" or "zero." Core planes were individually woven (typically by women) under a microscope. It was the standard form of computer memory from 1955-1975, until displaced by the integrated circuit, which could be mass produced.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Magnetic memory (Computers)

Date Made

1961

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

2017.94.14

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Burroughs, Inc.

Color

Brown
Silver (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 5.25 in
Width: 5.25 in

Burroughs B5000 Core Memory Plane, 1961