Wayne State University Computation Laboratory Records

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One of the first large scale computer laboratories in the United States, the Wayne Computation Laboratory was organized in 1949 via the Industrial Mathematics Society (IMS) as a joint effort between the University and local industry. The Computation Laboratory performed three basic functions: to provide service to industry and business, to conduct academic research, and to provide training in computer operations.

Initially, the laboratory had a 1930 Bush Differential Analyzer donated by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. When it first began operation, the lab solved engineering problems for the automobile industry. A Unitized Digital Electronic Computer (UDEC) was purchased from the Burroughs Corporation and put into operation in December of 1953. Increasing demand upon the laboratory caused the need to purchase an IBM 650 computer in the spring of 1956, with an additional purchase of equipment in 1960.

Series Two of the collection documents Dr. Walter Hoffman’s endeavors to reform mathematics curriculum at the secondary school level.

Series Three details the laboratory’s work on industrial problems.

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