> > (Class C or D I think - it's been too long since I investigated such
> > things). Basically the only chance you've got is finding one that escaped
> > the system sideways and wasn't destroyed by the DRMO folks. For instance,
> > the 2nd AN/ALR-56C display I have I bought off of eBay from a surplus
> > dealer that got it in an Estate Sale.
>
> So there are no graveyards somewhere in Arizona with decommissioned planes
> waiting to be scrapped as I've heard?
>
Oh there certainly are. However, nothing on the DOD destroy list is
supposed to leave the facility. Even things not on the list must go
through a "demil" process first. In the case of the DFCS computer in the
Tomcat, that would consist of either punching holes through the boards or
more likely running them through a material grinder somewhat like a wood
chipper.
Currently there is one F-14A at AMARC[*] is S/N 160378. It's AMARC
inventory # is AN1K0119 and the construction number is H80. It arrived at
AMARC August 21st, 2000. It was the last of a lot to be delivered to
Iran, but delivery never took place. It was converted to be an NF-14
testbed aircraft.
[*]Aerospace Maintenance And Regeneration Center
> > Do you happen to have an F-14A that
needs one? :) >
> No, but the computer is significant in many, many ways, not the least of
> which is that it contains a microprocessor that predates the Intel 4004:
>
> http://www.microcomputerhistory.com
>
That is very cool. Unfortunately, I don't think you'll ever get one. You
might be able to get your hands on some pictures possibly. You should
check with the public relations dept. of the Navy and see if their
historical research branch can help you out. If this was a USAF bird, I
could tell you exactly who to talk to...
g.
Received on Mon Sep 15 2003 - 21:21:00 BST