Mystery IBM processor

[Mike Ross]

On Sat, May 28, 2016 at 11:40 PM, Dave Wade <dave.g4ugm at gmail.com> wrote:
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: cctech [mailto:cctech-bounces at classiccmp.org] On Behalf Of Mike Ross
>> Sent: 28 May 2016 11:29
>> To: General Discussion: On-Topic Posts <cctech at classiccmp.org>
>> Subject: Re: Mystery IBM processor
>>
>> On May 28, 2016 9:51 PM, <malcolm at avitech.com.au> wrote:
>> >
>> > Just wondering if anyone can help us to identify a rather large IBM
>> > processor assembly. It weighs around 60 pounds.
>> >
>> > The frame has a P/N of 34F5089. The frame houses 9 modules, 6 of which
>> > are installed. The module we removed for inspection has a P/N of 34F0615.
>>
>> Definitely IBM mainframe. The individual square alloy lumps are what are
>> called MCMs - Multi Chip Modules. Insides are dozens of individual ECL ICs.
>> Water cooling heatsinks would have been bolted to the front side in life.
>> Can't remember what IBM called the entire assembly. 1980s, probably a 3080
>> or 3090 but don't quote me on that.
>
> I believe the modules are called TCM's or Thermal Conduction Modules. It looks like a 3090 chip but I thought those were withdrawn before the date code of "90xx".
>
> I thought the ES/9000 follow on had a re-designed chip with multiple rows of pins like this...
>
> http://www.ebay.com/itm/Rare-IBM-9121-TCM-Thermal-Conduction-Module-ES-9000-Mainframe-Microprocessor-/182138577581
>
> but when I look at the IBM web pages:-
>
> http://www-03.ibm.com/ibm/history/exhibits/mainframe/mainframe_PP9000.html
>
> it says only the high end machines have the new TCM so I think it may be a TCM from an entry level ES/9000 machine...

TCM! That's what I was looking for. If you think your collection is
getting out of hand Jim Austin has *half* of a 3084.... shows how the
CPU assembly fits into the machine:

http://www.computermuseum.org.uk/fixed_pages/IBM3084.html

Mike

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