FACOM201

In 1957, the first parametron computer, MUSASHINO-1 was developed by Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Public Corporation (now, Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation). The parametron computer exhibited here was introduced in Tokyo University of Science in 1960 as an improved, commercial model of MUSASHINO-1B, FACOM 201, produced by Fuji Tsushinki Seizo.

The parametron, invented in Japan as an original, unique logic element, was used in a number of Japanese computers as a cheap and robust logic unit in the transition period from the vacuum-tube era to the transistor era. It is of tremendous value as technological heritage. Approximately 6,000 parametron units are used in this computer.

This computer was utilized in Tokyo University of Science for the purposes not only of scientific computations but also of technology developments such as "effects of the shape of a small rocket on the propulsion by solid fuel combustion" and "theoretical computations of the strength of car-body structures". Furthermore, it was employed for the education of computer technology and contributed to training of engineers.

This computer is preserved and exhibited at Tokyo University of Science, Noda Campus in its original form with the input-output units.