Pastoriza Personal Analog Computer

The idea of a personal computer in 1963 is enchanting (and way ahead of its time)! The Pastoriza Personal Analog computer was designed to be used by students at the Case Institute of Technology (which later merged with Western Reserve University in 1967 to form Case Western Reserve University). These computers were issued to 200 students in late 1962 or early 1963 by the school for use in their linear systems course. The students were part of a study to compare students who used slide rules with those who had their own analog computer.¹ The computer was designed by Dr. James Reswick, who was then Head of the Case Engineering Design Center, James Pastoriza (who manufactured them and for whom they were named) and George Philbrick who was already well known as one of the founders of the analog computer systems.

The computer was battery powered and built into a small case so that it was easiy portable. They consisted of several modular units that could be configured however the student wanted. The control unit was marked on the back as serial #127. Several of the smaller units had the same number on the back and were part of that original set.

Pastoriza Research, who manufactured this computer, was bought out by Analog Devices, Inc. in 1969. Analog Devices is one of the leaders in the field of analog/digital conversion. Their website, www.analog.com, mentions the purchase of Pastoriza Research.

There is very little information on this computer. We know of no other examples of it. We are dating this computer based on the single article we have found...it may be one or two years earlier. If you have any information, please contact us.