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Amateur Radio/History - Saturday April 26, 2008, Room SSB-105

10:15 am to 11:10 am
The Apollo Guidance Computer: Architecture and Operation
Frank O?Brien, Infoage Science/History Learning Center

Abstract :

Perhaps the single spacecraft component that assured the success of the Apollo lunar missions was its guidance computer. Created in the 1960?s when most computers filled an entire room, the Apollo Guidance Computer (AGC) was small, low power, and included capabilities that are advanced by today?s standards. The Infoage Science and Learning Center has acquired an early AGC as part of its History of Computing Technologies collection. We will be discussing the computers hardware and software architecture, interfaces and how designers overcame its limitations. Additionally, we will cover the user interface and operations required for a flight from the Earth to the Moon. Attendees will get the opportunity to examine the AGC, its components and review its source code.

Bio :

Frank O?Brien is a contributing editor for the Apollo Lunar Surface Journal, and is co-editor of the Apollo Flight Journal, both found on the NASA history website. From this work, He was invited to the Cradle of Aviation Museum on Long Island to prepare the only remaining Lunar Module Mission Simulator and other artifacts for exhibition, and is now part of a team creating a new museum, the Infoage Science/History Learning Center in Wall, NJ.

11:20 am to 1:00 pm
Ham Radio Liscense Testing and Information

1:00 pm to 2:25 pm
Ham Radio Liscense Exam - Exam Begins Promptly at 1:00 pm

3:40 pm to 4:35 pm
APRS, where we are and where we are going
Brian Boccardi, NJ state office of emergency management

Abstract :

This presentation will discussion Automatic Position Reporting System (APRS) used by radio amateurs. Computers play a large role in this exciting aspect of amateur radio communications. APRS? current state and where it may go in the future will be considered.

Bio :

Brian has presented at TCF for many years and holds the amateur radio callsign N2MPM. He works with the NJ state office of emergency management and with other agencies to promote APRS use in New Jersey.