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The Computer-free Automation of a Jukebox (Electromechanics)

Technology Connections · explainer · Watch on YouTube

Mechanical & precision engineeringElectronics & circuit designHistory of computing

What it is

Technology Connections takes apart a 1970 Wurlitzer 3400 jukebox to show how electromechanical relays and switches automated its behavior without a computer.

Why Hacker News recommends it

Recommended as an eye-opening look at pre-computer automation and relay logic.

  • 2 people recommended it
  • 2 different months
  • 1 strong recommendations
  • first 2020, last 2021

What HN commenters said

  1. “I've been hooked. I really enjoyed the multi-part one where he explained the inner workings of a jukebox”

    Multi-part explanation of jukebox inner workings that hooked commenter.

    milofeynman, 2020-07 · Strong recommendation · in “The Classic Sunbeam Radiant Control Toaster (2006)”

  2. “The computer free automation of a jukebox from the 1970s is an eye opener”

    In-depth teardown of 1970s jukebox automation without computers.

    lathiat, 2020-04 · Recommendation · in “Hardware Microphone Disconnect in Mac and iPad”

Excerpts from Hacker News comments, linked to the originals. Summaries and labels were written by a language model from those comments.

Topics: jukebox, relays, electromechanics, wurlitzer, vintage technology

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