Vintage 1961 Minivac 601 Computer
Here was a very rare item up for sale on eBay, it's Minivac 601 Computer from 1961. Here is excerpt from the acution text: "Up for auction is a nice 1961 vintage Minivac 601 computer. The really neat thing about these is that when running a program the relays are clicking, and the lights are blinking, etc. A real conversation piece. This unit is tested and fully functional, but due to it's age I'm selling it as-is."
Then you find some of the problems with it: "Let's talk about the problems that I have attempted to highlight in the photos, there are a few stains on the base paint, the frames of the relays have oxidized, and the most serious is a crack in the top panel that was difficult to photograph. It would be extremely simple to reinforce the crack if it's of great concern. None of these flaws affect operation in any way. One last item, the unit originally had 6 rubber feet, and now it has 5. Quite frankly, the method that was used to secure the feet on these should have been an embarassment to the company, but it is what it is and I'm not responsible."
Hint: When you buy vintage technology, I would always set your expectation low about the equipment working properly. In generally electronics will break down after a few decades, for example capacitors are notorious for going bad.
Then you find some of the problems with it: "Let's talk about the problems that I have attempted to highlight in the photos, there are a few stains on the base paint, the frames of the relays have oxidized, and the most serious is a crack in the top panel that was difficult to photograph. It would be extremely simple to reinforce the crack if it's of great concern. None of these flaws affect operation in any way. One last item, the unit originally had 6 rubber feet, and now it has 5. Quite frankly, the method that was used to secure the feet on these should have been an embarassment to the company, but it is what it is and I'm not responsible."
Hint: When you buy vintage technology, I would always set your expectation low about the equipment working properly. In generally electronics will break down after a few decades, for example capacitors are notorious for going bad.
Comments
However, the good news is that it is easy to disassemble and I was able to restore it to working condition in a few days. It had to be taken apart and cleaned (and every wiring hole scraped a little with a needle file), and I had to make a new power supply for it, and it needed repainted due to rust. I went to a paint shop and they matched the color (I needed a few ounces but had to buy a quart, so if anyone wants to repaint theirs, I'll be happy to trade the correct color paint for a copy of the manuals!) as well as give advice and post photos of my restoration.
The 601 was a great, fun educational product and mine is still getting used by my kids 47 years after it was made, so I have to disagree with anyone who says that anything about this machine is an embarrassment. I think it is just lovely.
Barry L. Kramer (blk@debbieharry.net)