A COMSPACE CT-650 COMPUTER TRAINER - THE PROFESSIONAL VERSION OF THE

An original Comspace CT-650 digital personal computer trainer divided into 6 labeled sections (Core Memory, Program Drum, Input Unit, Arithmetic Unit, Control Unit, and Output Unit) metal face-plates with metal toggle switches, multicolored lights, and bakelite dials, program drum in metal and paper, the whole with wooden body (54 inches long by 22 inches deep). In very fine condition, and complete with original protective plastic cover. 

To request a condition report for this lot, please email science@sothebys.com
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

AN EXCEPTIONALLY RARE CT-650, ONE OF THE EARLIEST DIGITAL PERSONAL COMPUTERS. Developed by Irving Becker, the CT-650 was one of the earliest digital personal computers ever made, and some make the argument that it was in fact the first. The CT-650 was one of many educational items developed by Becker, hence the very clear labeling of the various sections of the computer, and the clarity of its functions. It is sometimes called the "paperclip computer" due to the fact that the basis for the design came from the 1967 book by Alcosser, Phillips, and Wolk, How to Build a Working Digital Computer, which described how one could build a computer out of household items such as tin-cans and paperclips. While it is sometimes called a "paperclip computer", there is nothing home-made about the CT-650, which was a high-quality, professionally built machine. A very small number of the machines were sold (at a price of $1,000), and only 3 examples are known to be in private hands, including the present example.