The collection was initiated in 1973 by Professor Dr. Herbert Kargl, who at the time held the Chair of Business Administration and Information Systems. Initially, the collection included computers from the Department of Information Systems, such as the Chair’s first PC and machines from the original computer pool of today’s Faculty 03. Today, it contains a wide variety of systems—from simple screen terminals that served only as access points to a central computer, to early PCs and notebooks from various stages of technological development. The collection features computers that document IBM’s breakthrough in the 1980s computer market, alongside a specimen of the original iMac. A rare item in the collection is a word processing machine from the 1970s.

The collection traces the development of the hardware and software used in the early years of the Information Systems discipline. The devices were not only used in teaching and student exercises, but also played a role in research within the field of Information Systems. More broadly, the collection shows the overall progression of information technology over time. A unique aspect of the collection is that most of the exhibits are in working order or can be restored in the on-site repair and assembling shop. In addition, workshops on restoration techniques are offered regularly.