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08 March 2013

Langrex keeps the rebuilt Colossus computer working 


Extremely rare supplies, to save the worlds first electronic computer, Colossus, have been donated by Langrex, based in Billingshurst, West Sussex.

A public appeal was launched for rare and delicate parts by The National Computer Museum, in Bletchley Park and this week have received the first delivery of a charitable donation of 100 glass valves from the West Sussex business who specialize in obsolete and discontinued valves and intergrated circuits.

Colossus, built in 1943 is now known to be the worlds first truly electronic computer after top secret government records about it were declassified in 1975. It is thought that 10 decrypting Colossus computers were made but were all disassembled after WWII during which they were used for deciphering communications between Hitler and his generals, in Bletchley park.

Due to the delicate nature of the materials required to run the machine and age and scarcity of the parts this donation has become essential to keep the machine running for visitors to the museum.

Phil Hayes, Chief Engineer of the Colossus Rebuild said “It’s significant for us, at present we can keep it running for ten years.”

Images and sound bytes can be found at Ben Mail


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