The auction house Heritage Auctions has put up for sale the Q1 computer. This device is considered the world's first microcomputer. Interestingly, it was accidentally found by cleaners at Kingston University in London in boxes for storing various old junk. They also found a later version of the computer and a printer.
Q1 is considered the world's first full-fledged, autonomous microcomputer with a built-in screen and keyboard. It was created by the Q1 Corporation from New York and is based on the Intel 8008 processor instead of bulky TTL logic circuits and wired transistor arrays. This microprocessor architecture allowed Q1 to boast capabilities that were typically found in larger systems at the time. However, Q1 was not commercially successful. Its largest customer was the NASA space agency, and exports were very insignificant.
Nevertheless, thanks to the find, Heritage Auctions has put up for sale the following devices:
- a desktop microcomputer Q1 from 1972, which has a built-in keyboard, screen, and printer;
- Q1 Lite from 1976, which is a simplified version without a printer and with an added digital keyboard;
- desktop computer printer Q1, designed to work with Q1 Lite. Made of metal, the printer is significantly heavier than modern devices.
All devices look decent externally, although, considering their considerable age, they have some cosmetic defects — signs of wear on the discoloration. However, all the keys are in place. At the same time, the functionality of the systems has not been tested, so they are all sold in "as is" condition.
At the time of preparing the material, the price of the Q1 version with a printer is $32,000. Bids are still being accepted — the auction will last for over 6 hours.
Source: newatlas
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