INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINE CORPORATION, 1959

Comprising an IBM 7151 console control unit with IBM 7155 switch control console attached to side, an IBM 711 card reader, two IBM 7617 Data Channel Consoles, an IBM 7608 power converter, thirteen IBM 729 magnetic tape units, an IBM 1401 mainframe computer, an IBM 7302 core storage, an IBM 7606 multiplexer, an IBM 7108 instruction processing unit, an IBM 7109 arithmetic sequence unit, an IBM 7607 I data channel, an IBM 7607 II data channel, an IBM 7618 power control, an IBM 1403 printer, an IBM 1402 card read punch, an IBM 716 printer, a trolley of instruction manuals, a large quantity of archival boxes of punched cards, three boxes of archival folders of user manuals, and twelve archival boxes of printouts.

The IBM 7090, introduced in 1959, marked a transformative shift from earlier systems. This pioneering machine was renowned for its remarkable speed and computational power, distinguishing itself from its predecessors with a revolutionary transistorized architecture. Unlike the IBM 709, which relied on cumbersome vacuum tubes, the 7090's use of transistors enabled a significant leap in efficiency, performance and reliability.

With a processing capability of approximately 229,000 instructions per second, the IBM 7090 was a trailblazer of its era, setting a new benchmark for computational speed. This capability made it an invaluable tool for a wide array of demanding scientific and engineering applications. The 7090's 36-bit word length and its advanced floating-point arithmetic capabilities facilitated complex calculations, positioning it as an ideal computer for intricate tasks in fields such as aerospace engineering, weather forecasting, and nuclear research.

The IBM 7090's impact extended beyond its immediate technical advancements. It played a crucial role in solidifying IBM's dominance in the mainframe computing market, establishing the company as a formidable leader in the industry. The 7090's success demonstrated the potential of transistorized computing systems and set new standards for performance and reliability. Throughout the 1960s, its influence was felt across various large-scale computing environments, driving innovation and shaping the future of computational technology, and establishing the computer as a device that was kept in secure room, with limited access.

Today, the IBM 7090 is remembered not just for its specifications, but for its role in heralding a new era of computing. It stands as a symbol of the rapid technological progress of the late 1950s and early 1960s, embodying the spirit of innovation that continues to drive advancements in the field of computing.

Overall dimensions 5 ft. 8 1/2 in. (1.7 m.) high, 27 ft. (8.2 m.) wide, 27 ft. 10 in. (8.5 m.) deep

Weapons Research Establishment, South Australia.
Acquired from the above by the late owner, 2017.

Please note that all property in this sale is currently located in Seattle and will ship from Seattle, and that the total purchase price will be subject to the applicable state sales tax. All post-sale matters for the online sale (inclusive of invoicing and property pickup/shipment) will be handled by Christie's. Kindly note that this lot requires a detailed deinstallation. Please reach out to GenOne@christies.com for full information and quotes

This lot is subject to additional disclaimers. Please carefully review Section E(2), subsection (h) “Vintage Computers and Machines”.