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IBM 1401

A decimal business computer announced on October 5, 1959, with more than 12,000 units produced.

IBM announced the 1401 on October 5, 1959. It was the first of the highly successful IBM 1400 series. It was a variable-wordlength decimal computer.

It was aimed at replacing unit record equipment that processed data on punched cards. It also provided peripheral services for larger computers. IBM withdrew it on February 8, 1971.

Why it matters

IBM considers the 1401 the Ford Model T of the computer industry because of its mass appeal. Over 12,000 units were produced, and many were leased or resold after newer machines replaced them.

Key facts

  • Announced October 5, 1959.
  • Variable-wordlength decimal computer.
  • Replaced punched card unit record equipment.
  • Over 12,000 units produced.
  • Withdrawn February 8, 1971.

Sources

  1. Wikipedia, "IBM 1401", en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IBM_1401, accessed October 14, 2026.
  2. Wikipedia, "IBM", en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IBM, background reading, accessed October 14, 2026.