Bild: Brett Sayles / Pexels · Pexels · Pexels Lizenz: kostenlos nutzbar, Attribution freiwilligAs Tom’s Hardware reports (https://www.tomshardware.com/pc-components/storage/rampocalyse-pricing-prompts-maker-to-construct-his-own-memory-using-ancient-apollo-era-tech-usb-drive-resurrects-hand-threaded-magnetic-core-memory-using-salvaged-russian-computer-parts), a technology enthusiast has recreated a magnetic core memory from the Apollo era as a USB storage device. The project combines old memory technology with modern manufacturing techniques such as CNC milling and 3D printing to realize a working memory module with a capacity of 64 bits.
Historical Memory Technology Reinterpreted
Magnetic core memories were one of the most important memory technologies in the 1960s and 1970s before semiconductor memories like DRAM and flash replaced them. They consist of tiny magnetic rings, each storing one bit by being magnetized or demagnetized. Manufacturing these memories was extremely labor-intensive at the time, as each core had to be manually threaded with wire.
The hobbyist used discarded parts from Russian computers and hand-assembled the memory cores into a case reminiscent of a USB stick. Control is handled by modern electronics that connect the magnetic core memory to a PC, enabling data transfer.
Technical Challenges and Limitations
Although the project is impressive, the memory capacity of 64 bits is extremely low compared to today’s standards, which range from gigabytes to terabytes. This makes the magnetic core memory impractical as a storage medium for everyday use. Rather, the project serves as a demonstration of engineering skill and a tribute to the pioneering era of computer technology.