In 1967, the F.B.I. instituted a computer center known as the N.C.I.C. (National Crime Information Center) to track criminal activity across the United States. It included not only a duplex IBM 320/40 computer system for data processing, but teletype machines like this one for entering and receiving data from throughout the country. An IBM 1052 printer and keyboard also served as a terminal (for an example, see 1988.0407.01). The teletype was transferred to the Smithsonian from the F.B.I. in 1989.
The system stored information concerning stolen automobiles, license plates, guns, and other identifiable articles, aas well as wanted persons. It represents the first attempt by a national law enforcement agency to make its extensive records on crimes and criminal avalable quickly at any time of day or night to local police departments throughout the country, It symbolizes changes in the relationship between electronic information technology and privacy, government power, and the limits of law enforcement.
References:
Accession file 1989.0433.
National Crime Information Center, Operating Manual, Part I, System Description and Procedures, 1967.
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