Computer Memory

Computer Memory by Rona Black

An abstract macro photograph of a Ferrite Memory Core plane from an early IBM mainframe computer. This grid is made up of fine wire threaded through tiny magnetic ferrite rings (cores). Magnetic core memory, a type of random-access memory (RAM), was introduced in 1955 and succeeded in the 1970s by solid-state memory in integrated circuits.

The Museum of Modern Art has three in its permanent collection, but none on display.