B. Holbrook interview: May 10, 1969
Uta C. Merzbach · 1999
Holbrook began working for Bell Laboratories in 1930 in transmission research, developing electrical analog anti-aircraft fire control equipment, and with the switching research department. In 1957, Holbrook became head of the Computing Systems Research Department. This was Holbrook's first official association with computing. He discusses the early activities of computing at Bell Laboratories upon his arrival in 1930. Mentions Sam Williams of Bell Labs and his contributions to telephone switching systems and his design of a relay computer used by Bell in approximately 1940. Holbrook briefly comments on the Model 1 and its operation from 1940 to 1949 when it was replaced by the Bell Mod 6 computer. Also comments on the Mod 2, Mod 3, Mod 4, and Mod 5. Discusses various work done in conjunction with the government during the war years. Colleagues mentioned include George Stibitz, Sam Williams, Bill Maltiner, and Ernie Andrews.