The IBM 6400 series is a series of four calculating and accounting machines produced by IBM in the 1960s. The IBM 6405 was a desk-size calculator, and the 6410, 6420, and 6430 were more advanced accounting machines.
The output for each machine was facilitated a keyboardless IBM Selectric typewriter mounted above the CPU. Programming was done by a control panel. Calculations were done by electronics (SMS) and program steps were controlled by relays.
Optional input/output devices included a card reader and punch, a paper tape reader and punch, and a magnetic card reader. The magnetic card reader used a large card (30cm x 35 cm) with the top part used as a printer ledger. A 2.5cm 4-track magnetic strip was across the bottom of the card.
The 6405, 6410, and 6420 were developed by IBM in Lexington, Kentucky, United States, in the early 1960s. Manufacturing was done by IBM in Lexington and by IBM in Don Mills, Ontario, Canada. In 1966 all work was transferred to Don Mills.
In 1968 an IBM 6430 was developed in Don Mills. The programming was done on cards and the programs steps were controlled by electronics (SMS).
Production of all models in the 6400 series ended in the early 1970s.
IBM 6400 Series Matrix Line Printers 500, 1000, 1500 & 2000 lpm
IBM 6400 Line Printer SeriesOverview
The 6400 Series of High Speed Matrix Line Printers offer the latest in line matrix technology combined with interface selections to meet today’s expansive and changing printing requirements. With the 6400, users can select the right line matrix printer for their application. Moreover, with its print speeds of 500 lpm to 2000 lpm, interfaces, configurations and options make the 6400 series a true investment in your printing needs for today and tomorrow. (Click on Picture for specifications)
There have been several series of the 6400 Matrix Line Printer. The 6400 is only available as a refurbished printer. The 6500 Series is the most current release of this workhorse Matrix Line Printer. Click here to be taken to the 6500 page. Highlights:
Flexibility - 500, 1000, 1500 and 2000 LPM Speeds
Multi-platform compatibility - Twinax, Coax, LAN, RS6000, ASCII, Wireless Ethernet
Fully Enclosed Quietized Cabinet or Easy Access Pedestal Models
Advantages and Features
The 6400 family of line matrix printers support multiple data streams: IPDS (Intelligent Printer Data Stream), Twinax/Coax SCS, Ethernet and ASCII. Users can choose from a variety of models and configurations to meet system and user requirements and applications. If system requirements change, users can select from an extensive array of options to support expanded requirements. (Click on Picture for specifications) Flexibility
The 6400 series has the flexibility and forms handling capability to support multi-part forms, financial reports, invoices payroll information and program listings. The quiet operation of the fully enclosed models and the flexibility of the pedestal models allow users to match printers to the environment
Four print speed choices of 500, 1000 ,1500 and 2000 LPM
Multi-part forms and reports
Twinax and Coax units include an ASCII emulation port
Fully Quietized cabinet or pedestal models
Optional Internal Ethernet Attachment
Compatibility
IBM’s 6400 printers offer a wide selection of optional features to provide the AS/400, iSeries and 3270 users ASCII, SCS or IPDS emulations to satisfy their needs. These are great replacements for existing older products such as the 4234, 5224 and 5225s or new printer requirements without concern. The optional IPDS, QMS or IGP graphics features options enable expanded print functions such as bar codes, forms overlays, and expanded characters to enhance printed output.
Multi-platform support: iSeries, AS/400, 3270, RS/6000, AS/36, System 36 and LAN
Multiple data stream support capability: ASCII, Ethernet, Twinax/Coax or IPDS
QMS or IGP graphics options