Rare Teletype Model 33TC-1 - Electromechanical Teleprinter
Acquired from the University of Arizona. It turns on, but no further testing has been performed. This unit will need to be restored if it is to be operational.
We can ship it ground in two boxes or it can be freight shipped on a pallet for an additional charge.
The Teletype Model 33TC-1 is a version of the popular Teletype Model 33 teleprinter, introduced by Teletype Corporation in 1963. It was originally designed for the United States Navy and later released commercially. The "TC" in the model number refers to "Teletype Corporation".
Key Features and Importance:
Electromechanical Teleprinter: The Model 33 is a classic example of an electromechanical teleprinter, combining typewriter mechanics with data transmission capabilities.
ASCII Compatibility: The Model 33 was significant because it was one of the first products to utilize the newly developed ASCII code, enabling it to be widely used with early minicomputers.
Three Versions: The Model 33 came in three main versions:
ASR (Automatic Send and Receive): This version featured a built-in punched tape reader and punch, keyboard, and printer.
KSR (Keyboard Send and Receive): This version had a keyboard and printer but lacked the paper tape reader and punch.
RO (Receive Only): This version was the most basic, with neither a keyboard nor a paper tape reader/punch.
Historical Impact: The Teletype Model 33 played a key role in the development and adoption of ASCII, and its slow speed influenced the design of early minicomputer operating systems like Unix. It was also influential in computer-assisted instruction and even provided Bill Gates' first computing experience.
Is the Model 33TC-1 Rare?
While the Teletype Model 33 was very popular, with over half a million manufactured by 1975, certain variations, like the Model 33TC-1 (which refers to the Teletype Corporation version), might be less common compared to the more standard Models 33 ASR, KSR, and RO.
Important Note: The Model 33 was designed for "light-duty office use" and had limitations compared to more rugged and expensive Teletype models like the Model 35 ASR. Its maximum usage rating was 20% duty cycle, and it required regular maintenance like lubrication