Vintage Computing

Carleton University was founded in 1942, placing its history alongside the entire evolution of modern computing. The School of Computer Science was founded in 1980 at the start of the micro computing revolution.  Every component of the computer has a fascinating past deeply connected to advances in electronics and technology. Much of our collection showcases the fascinating evolution of microcomputing.

We are proud to showcase some of the most notable and important micro computers in the world that we have acquired from the university and local enthusiasts. Some computers originate from the late 1960’s and early 1970’s many of these computers were not accessible due to exorbitant costs of computers of this era. We also have computers from every era. It’s interesting to see them today and see how they shaped computing and see their successes and failures. 

The pedagogical idea is that exploring the past helps us gain a greater appreciation for where computing originated, how computers operate, and what exciting possibilities the future holds. By preserving and sharing this history, we hope to inspire new generations of students and researchers to push the boundaries of what technology can achieve.

• People associated with vintage computing at Carleton

Welcome to the School of Computer Science at Carleton University, a vibrant community fuelled by a deep passion for computing. We absolutely love computers, and we are especially excited about celebrating and preserving the rich heritage of vintage computing.

Our grand vision is to create a large-scale display of world famous vintage computers right here at the School. While we continue building this collection, we are proud to care for an incredible range of classic desktop computers and historically significant computing artefacts donated by students, faculty, staff, alumni, and enthusiasts. Explore our evolving collection here:

• School of Computer Science Vintage Computing List

Preserving this computing history is essential, not only to safeguard the remarkable technological achievements of the past, but also to ignite curiosity and inspiration in a new generation of students. We want to bring the fascinating evolution of computing to you,  see how computers evolved over time, linking past innovations to the future breakthroughs our students will create.

The collection is a vibrant centerpiece for vintage computing events, clubs, and a unique, engaging stop on Carleton University tours, sharing the story of computing history with the broader community and visitors alike. We envision establishing a dedicated vintage computing day to celebrate the history of computing, as well as creating a hands-on display area where visitors and students can use and experience the vintage equipment firsthand.

The School of Computer Science was founded in 1980 and has retained some of its and the universities computing artifacts. Currently the school maintains the following vintage computing displays and artifacts:

• Vintage computer listing (in storage)
• three hallways displays
• five hanging display

At this time many vintage computer items are too large to display and are kept in storage. We are currently working on displaying part of the collection in our computer laboratory.

We have started a grass-roots group consisting of students, faculty and staff that are interested in maintaining the vintage computing collection at Carleton. We call our group the Carleton Vintage Computing (CVC) Group and we have the motto: 0% commitment, 100% fun. You have the opportunity to see and work with some of the most iconic vintage computers in the world. Much of the work is self motivated, work on things that you are most interested in:

• Much of the equipment needs to be tested: hook it up and try to boot it
• Help debug and repair computers
• Learn how to use some of the very early computers, write a program and create a demo
• Many of the iconic gaming computers can be tested and documented
• Many items have a fascinating history
• Any graphic artists and industrial design students have the opportunity to contribute to our vintage computing display
• Interested in VR? We need your help in creating a vintage VR experience

It is a unique opportunity to work with vintage computers that were inaccessible. Try them and share your experience. Whether you’re a seasoned tech enthusiast or a curious newcomer, your passion and skills will help revive these retro tech treasures. Ready to get involved? Fill out our Vintage Computing Volunteer and Project Interest Form today:

• Vintage Computing Volunteer and Project Interest Form

Computer Donations

The school has collected a number of artifacts from students, faculty and staff at Carleton, various Carleton University departments and from local residents wishing to donate their vintage equipment. Do you have vintage computing equipment that you like to donate to the School of Computer Science?

• We will keep information about the donated equipment on file. We encourage a small write-up or story about what the equipment was used for and anything interesting associated with it.
• We hope that students, faculty, staff and visitors will enjoy your equipment on display at the school.
• Larger vintage computing pieces will be in storage until we have the opportunity to display them.
• Please note that a tax receipt can be issued for your donation if you provide an independent third-party appraisal or estimate of its fair market value.
• Here are some items we have in our collection: SCS Vintage Computer Collection

Tell us about your equipment and we will get back to you:

• Vintage Computing Donations Form

Sponsors

The school is always in need of sponsors, we need to maintain equipment, fund projects and display our amazing collection. In return we can highlight your initiative at the school.

If you are interested in sponsoring vintage computing at our school please contact us.