How to Collect Vintage Computers

While machines that compute can be found as far back as the abacus, most date the computer age with the building of the first mainframes in the 1950s. Between those heavy behemoths and the portable laptops of today, many models are available for collecting.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Determine the type of computer you want to collect, which will probably depend on the amount of space available for your collection and your age. Earlier machines can take up vast floor space and may cost more to move than to purchase.

2. Complete your collection with software, manuals, telephone modems and other collateral items from a website such as Vintage Computer and Gaming Marketplace (see Resources below). Early software written on paper tape may be fragile, so store carefully.

3. Specialize in an area of meaning to you, then find other collectors who share your passion. Some collectors favor early versions of the personal computer such as the Apple I and II and the Commodore 64. Others seek build-it-yourself machines such as the Kenbak-1 and the Mark-8. Some only collect and play vintage computer games such as Pong. You can also search for computer parts to resurrect a vintage model at the Obsolete Computer Museum (see Resources below).

4. Learn from other computer collectors who congregate at places such as the Vintage Computer Forum (see Resources below).

Resources

• The Obsolete Computer Museum can help you find computer parts.
• Visit the Vintage Computer Forum.
• Bid on vintage computers and accessories at auction.