three-relay module
Date1950-1955
Inventory NumberWJ1007
ClassificationRelay
Subject
Maker
Department of Psychology, Harvard University
founded 1934
User
B. F. Skinner
1904 - 1990
Cultural Region
Place of Origin
Dimensions18.7 × 5.1 × 7 cm (7 3/8 × 2 × 2 3/4 in.)
Material
DescriptionThis shopbuilt module contains three double-pole, double-throw relays. They are mounted to a black panel whose front has contacts for snap leads.
The module is currently mounted in instrument rack WJ1011.
The module is currently mounted in instrument rack WJ1011.
Signedunsigned
Curatorial RemarksOriginally mounted in instrument rack (WJ1005) for exhibit in William James Hall (basement), removed 2016, and remounted onto instrument rack (WJ1011) for new exhibit in William James Hall (ninth floor)
FunctionBanks of relays were the backbone of the experimental system, serving as switches and logical devices. Electrical connections to other apparatus were made by snap leads, which were wires that snapped onto studs or other in-out contacts on the front of the module.
ProvenanceB. F. Skinner's laboratory, Memorial Hall, Department of Psychology, Harvard University.
Historical AttributesOne of many typical modular programming devices used in the late 1950s and early 1960's in B. F. Skinner's laboratory in the basement of Memorial Hall at Harvard University as part of his experiments on operant conditioning and behavioral psychology.
The three-relay bank was commonly used before the four-relay bank became standard in the laboratory.
Ralph Gerbrands Company
Date: 1960-1965
Object number: WJ0964
Department of Psychology, Harvard University
Date: 1955-1965
Object number: WJ0971
Leach Relay Company
Date: 1890-1930
Object number: RS0531
Grason-Stadler Company
Date: 1962-1965
Object number: WJ1014
Date: circa 1955
Accessories: WJ0978 is the other part of Skinner Exhibit #10.
Object number: WJ1010
Grason-Stadler Company
Date: 1960-1970
Accessories: extra screws and washers
Object number: 1999-1-0057