Vacuum Tubes Collection

Flemings First Vacuum Tube
England: 1904 Early types of John Ambrose Flemings two electrode valve, which was the first vacuum tube

Inventor Earl C. Hanson
United States: c. 1926 Inventor Earl C. Hanson holding the the peanut vacuum tube that he used in patenting the first vacuum tube hearing aid called the Vactuphone

The besm-1 computer designed by the institute of precision mechanics and computation techniques, the machine was used for the calculating the orbits of about 700 small planets of the solar system for

The besm-2 computer in operation at the calculating center of moscows ussr academy of sciences, 1959

Pilot ACE computer components, 1950s C013 / 7166
Pilot ACE computer components. Chassis and components of the Automatic Computing Engine (ACE) pilot model. This was a preliminary version of the full ACE design

Pilot ACE computer components, 1950 C013 / 7164
Pilot ACE computer components. View of short delay lines for the Automatic Computing Engine (ACE) pilot model. This was a preliminary version of the full ACE design

Pilot ACE computer components, 1950 C013 / 7163
Pilot ACE computer components. Rear view of the resistance tree box (over upper section) of the Automatic Computing Engine (ACE) pilot model

Pilot ACE computer components, 1954 C013 / 7165
Pilot ACE computer components. Magnetic drum forming part of the memory and data storage for the Automatic Computing Engine (ACE) pilot model

Pilot ACE computer components, 1950s C013 / 7162
Pilot ACE computer components. Chassis and components of the Automatic Computing Engine (ACE) pilot model. This was a preliminary version of the full ACE design

Analogue computer. These machines were the precursor of modern digital computers. This is an EAI (Electronics Associates Incorporated) Pace 231-R computer, a US model produced in 1961

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In a fascinating feature by the Daily Mirror's Ruggles, the team at the National Physical Laboratory takes center stage as they delve into the world of vacuum tubes. These remarkable inventions, pioneered by Fleming and later developed by inventor Earl C. Hanson, revolutionized technology as we know it. One captivating image showcases the besm-1 computer designed by the Institute of Precision Mechanics and Computation Techniques in 1955. This magnificent machine was responsible for calculating the orbits of approximately 700 small planets within our solar system, aiding in creating an international astronomical calendar. Additionally, it solved complex algebraic equations crucial for compiling maps based on geodesical surveys. Another mesmerizing snapshot captures technician T. Kondratyeva preparing this extraordinary besm-1 computer to tackle yet another mathematical conundrum in 1956. With precision and expertise, she types English text onto paper tape using a perforator that seamlessly translates from English to Russian—a testament to both human ingenuity and technological advancement. Fast forward to 1959 when we witness the awe-inspiring besm-2 computer operating at Moscow's USSR Academy of Sciences' Calculating Center. This cutting-edge machine showcased immense computational power while pushing boundaries in scientific research and analysis. The journey through these captivating images not only highlights the incredible advancements made possible by vacuum tubes but also pays tribute to those brilliant minds who brought them to life—the dedicated team at National Physical Laboratory and countless technicians like T. Kondratyeva who tirelessly worked behind-the-scenes. As we marvel at these historical milestones captured within these photographs, let us remember that without vacuum tubes paving the way for modern computing systems, our world would be vastly different today—underscoring how innovation shapes our future one breakthrough at a time.