Extremely unusual Texas Instruments HX-3100 Hex-Bus modem engineering sample dating to the early 1980s.
This example came from the estate of C. B. Wilson, who worked in Texas Instruments Home Computing and is documented as having served as Home Computing Engineering/Design Manager. The provenance is especially significant given that this unit is clearly marked as a pre-production engineering piece.
An original typed label on the case reads:
“TEXAS INSTRUMENTS HX-3100 MODEM
SUBJECT TO FCC APPROVAL”
Inside the battery compartment is the handwritten notation “ENG SMPL,” indicating Engineering Sample.
The HX-3100 was developed as part of Texas Instruments’ Hex-Bus peripheral system. Period documentation identifies it as a 300 baud, full-duplex, direct-connect modem compatible with Bell 103 standards. It was designed for use with the Texas Instruments Compact Computer 40 and could also interface with compatible TI computer systems through Hex-Bus hardware. The modem was introduced publicly in 1983.
This is not a typical retail-marked example. The “SUBJECT TO FCC APPROVAL” label and handwritten engineering-sample notation indicate that this unit predates or was associated with the product’s approval and production process.
Rear connections and switches are present as shown. Battery compartment holds four AA batteries. Batteries, power supply, cables and other accessories are not included.
I have not tested the modem for operation and it is being sold as is.
The case shows age-related surface wear, scratches, marks and discoloration consistent with an engineering piece that was handled and retained rather than a pristine retail example. Please examine all photographs closely for condition. Original engineering label remains attached.
A particularly interesting surviving piece of Texas Instruments computing history with direct provenance to a senior member of the company’s Home Computing engineering organization.
Please view photos as they are part of the description. Will be packed well shipped safely.
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