Taxonomy of DEC consoles

This is a loose classification of the visual design languages of various DEC front panels.

PDP-1 style

Characteristics: angled sides, a horizontal bend in the lower part.

• PDP-1
• PDP-4

PDP-5 style

Characteristics: flat metal panel, toggle switches, some conical.

• PDP-5
• PDP-6
• PDP-7

PDP-8 style

Characteristics: flat dark panel, paddle switches.

• PDP-8, /E, /S, ...
• LINC-8
• PDP-9
• PDP-11/20, ...
• PDP-11/05, although it has a somewhat distinct style.

PDP-8/I style

Characteristics: flat panel, "washing machine" switches.

• PDP-8/I

PDP-10 style

Characteristics: angled case, "washing machine" switches.

• PDP-9/L
• PDP-10
• PDP-12
• PDP-15

KI10 style

Characteristics: push buttons, the epitome of DEC blinkenlights.

• DECsystem-1070

PDP-11/45 style

Characteristics: flat dark panel, not sure what to call these switches.

• PDP-11/45, /40, /70, ...

ODT style

Characteristics: an affront to real computers. Also known as "calculator" style.

• PDP-8/A
• PDP-11/04, /34, /60, ...

Replaced by a mini

Characteristics: the console is a minicomputer.

• DECsystem-1080, -109x

Dishonourable mentions

Characteristics: there is no console, just very few indicator lights.

• PDP-11/03
• VAX
• DECSYSTEM-2020