IBM 1401 Card Sorter CE Service Index
Document Number: 229-2027
Publication Date: September 1962
Introduction
This document serves as a service index for the IBM 1401 Card Sorter, a critical component in data processing systems of the early 1960s. It provides customer engineers (CEs) with essential information for diagnosing and resolving operational issues encountered with the device.
The IBM 1401 system was widely used for business data processing, and its card sorter component was responsible for arranging punched cards in a specified order, a fundamental step in many data workflows.
Common Faults and Troubleshooting
This section details common problems and their potential causes and solutions. Accurate diagnosis is key to maintaining system uptime and efficiency.
Fault: Missorting of First Few Cards in Pocket
Symptom: The initial cards processed into a specific pocket exhibit incorrect sorting order. This condition may appear as a consistent "missorting" of the first few cards.
Possible Cause: Intermittent missorting can be attributed to mechanical wear or misalignment. A primary suspect is a stretched cog within the card transport mechanism. Other potential causes include debris in the card path or issues with the sensing mechanisms.
Troubleshooting Steps:
- Inspect the cog mechanism for signs of wear or stretching. Replace if necessary.
- Clean the card path thoroughly to remove any obstructions or dust.
- Verify the alignment of card guides and sensing elements.
- Check for proper tension in drive belts and chains.
Note: Refer to detailed schematics and component diagrams (not included in this index) for precise locations and replacement procedures.
Fault: Card Jamming
Symptom: Cards fail to feed or become stuck during the sorting process.
Possible Cause: Misaligned feed mechanisms, damaged cards, or foreign objects in the feed path.
Troubleshooting Steps:
- Ensure cards are correctly oriented and free from damage.
- Clear any obstructions from the feed hopper and path.
- Check and adjust feed rollers for proper pressure and alignment.
System Overview
The IBM 1401 Card Sorter operates by reading data from punched cards and directing them into designated output pockets based on the column and value being sorted. This process is controlled by internal logic and mechanical actuators.
Key components include the card reading station, the sorting mechanism, output pockets, and control panels. Understanding the interaction of these parts is crucial for effective servicing.
