North Star Horizon S-100 computer with original documentation from Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico, including paperwork referencing an “Analyzer Wind Profile” application. The system appears to have been used in a dedicated scientific or instrumentation environment and retains its custom hardware.
The computer was brought up slowly on a variable AC source before testing. Upon power-up, the cooling fan operates and the system’s indicator lights illuminate as expected. The left floppy drive briefly powers up during startup before stopping, while the right drive shows no visible activity. No further testing has been performed, and the system is being sold as-is for restoration, repair, parts, or further evaluation.
Installed hardware includes:
-North Star ZPB-A2 Z-80A Processor Board
-North Star HRAM6 Memory Board
-North Star MDS-A3 Micro Disk Controller
-North Star HRZ-MB Motherboard
-Custom wire-wrapped Intel 8255-based interface card
The custom interface board appears to be a hand-built wire-wrapped prototype utilizing an Intel 8255 Programmable Peripheral Interface along with additional logic components and external ribbon cable connections. While its exact function is unknown, it appears to have been developed for a specialized instrumentation or data acquisition application. The accompanying Holloman Air Force Base documentation has been retained with the computer and will be included with the sale.
Cosmetically, this system shows heavier wear than most Horizon computers encountered today. The walnut cabinet remains structurally intact but exhibits significant wear, including missing sections of wood around the front panel mounting slot areas. The aluminum front panel has a noticeable bend in the lower left corner, likely caused by years of use without rubber feet or adequate clearance between the chassis and supporting surface. The left floppy drive is slightly loose within the chassis but remains installed and retained in place. Additional scratches, scuffs, edge wear, discoloration, and age-related cosmetic imperfections are present throughout. Please review all photographs carefully to assess condition and completeness.
This is an especially interesting Horizon system due to its retained custom hardware, military provenance, and included documentation. The computer is being offered exactly as acquired and has not been modified, repaired, or restored by me.
Vintage S-100 computers require specialized packing, and I have successfully shipped multiple S-100 systems and other large vintage computers without issue. This system will be packed with great care and shipped fully insured.
Dimensions
20” L x 17.5” W x 7.5” H
39 pounds
Items come from a smoke & pet free home. Reference the photos and description carefully to see the quality of the exact product you will receive. Please reach out with any questions! I use recycled shipping supplies whenever possible. Global shipping through and other international shipping available.
