Saturn V Launch Vehicle Digital Computer, 6.5 x 5.75 x 5, with chipboards and ribbons to each of the six sides, and bottom frame labeled as "CPL7," with feet marked in black felt tip, "RAM 32K" and "Memory Apollo Rocket." Ribbons are respectively stamp-dated between April and November 1964, with boards bearing various part numbers; bottom board: "61 08 761, S/N 6, 6110380, 63-04"; open side board: "Ser. No. 7, 6111427, 6111310, 62-03"; and top board: "6108750." In fine condition. The LDVC provided autopilot for the Saturn V rocket from liftoff to Earth orbit insertion, and was one of the main components of the Instrument Unit (IU), fitted to the S-IVB stage of the Saturn V and Saturn IB rockets. Saturn V was controlled and monitored by ground operators via an umbilical, but once the ignition sequence was initiated the IU took control of guidance, attitude, engine adjustment, telemetry, staging, and all other onboard operations, thus making Saturn V the most sophisticated and fully autonomous system of its time. One of history's first examples of applied microchip technology, this computer represents the staggering technological leaps made for the advancement of the Apollo program. A marvel of its generation that served as a precursor for all facets of modern electronics.
