The Realities of Installing Large IT Equipment: Hidden Figures and More

Popular films often take some creative liberties to enhance their narrative and engage viewers. One such example is the 2016 film Hidden Figures, which focuses on the groundbreaking work of African American women at NASA. In the movie, the installation of an IBM computer is depicted with a notable exaggeration that raises questions about the historical accuracy of the scenario. Could it really be that the components didn’t fit into the computer room, or was this a case of artistic license?

Historical Context and Realities

While I can’t speak to the exact historical accuracy of the specific event depicted in the film, it is a well-known fact that large IT equipment installations often require careful planning and logistical coordination. The IBM 7090, the computer used by NASA during that era, was indeed a large and complex machine that required meticulous installation procedures.

Equipment Specs and Installation

The IBM 7090 was a mainframe computer, larger than the frame of a modest-sized doorway. In reality, the computer’s components could be cumbersome and unwieldy to install, especially in an existing facility with limited space. Modern equipment racks are typically 2 meters (approximately 6 feet 7 inches) tall, and often taller with wheels or feet. Moreover, these racks are often “populated” at the factory, meaning that all the necessary equipment and connections are pre-installed before shipment.

Specialized Packing and Transportation

Upon arrival at the installation site, these racks are usually transported in crates that are designed not only to protect the equipment but also to make it easier to move. The crates are often palletized, meaning they sit on a flatbed forklift, ensuring that they are not damaged during transit.

The Challenges of Installation

Installation challenges can be significant, particularly when it comes to fitting the equipment through smaller doorways or moving it to its final location. Here are some common scenarios:

Limited Space: The intended location for installing the equipment may not have sufficient room. Adjacent spaces may also be needed for pallets or to move the equipment around without damaging it. Lift Restrictions: Many facilities lack passenger elevators with adequate height clearance. This necessitates the use of a forklift or crane to lift the equipment over obstacles and into place. Window Utilization: In some cases, the equipment can be placed in a room with large windows. Cranes can then be used to carefully lift the crates through the windows and uprighten them in place. Disassembly and Customization: If all else fails, it may be necessary to disassemble the equipment into smaller, more maneuverable pieces or even reconfigure it to fit within existing racks.

Conclusion

The challenges of installing large IT equipment are real, and filmmakers often simplify or exaggerate these scenarios to make the story more engaging. However, the creativity and resourcefulness of humans involved in these installations often finds a way to make it happen. Whether it involves sliding crates through windows, using specialized tools, or even disassembling and reconfiguring the equipment, the end result is usually a successful installation.

Key Takeaways

Large IT equipment often needs careful planning for installation. Artistic license in films can exaggerate the challenges of installation. Practical solutions and human ingenuity often overcome logistical hurdles.