2026-03-29 17:10 UTC
In 1991, the Space Shuttle upgraded its computer to the AP-101S, replacing two 60-pound boxes with one box. Since there were five computers on the Shuttle, this change freed up 300 pounds for additional cargo. The CPU was implemented in three boards full of chips, one below. These boards were much larger than the earlier 4 Pi boards.
Replies (2)
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@kenshirriff@oldbytes.space 2026-03-29 17:11
There were many more models of System/4 Pi computers, including refrigerator-sized computers used on submarines; see my article for details: https://www.righto.com/2026/03/ibm-4-pi-computer-history.html
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@urwumpe@hessen.social 2026-03-29 17:36
@kenshirriff Small correction there: The Space Shuttle contained six GPCs. A spare one was located in the mid-deck, permitting to replace a failed GPC while still in orbit.