The history of computers and computing in virtual museums

Abstract

Online computer museums have large educational, cultural and aesthetic significance. They promote preservation of our historical and cultural heritage. Edward Proydakov’s Virtual Computer Museum launched in 1997 (http://www.computer-museum.ru) is the most representative and professional one in Russia. The unique feature of this project is active participation of outstanding scientists, engineers and designers who created the first Soviet computers. Many of them led projects that later came into legend. Different aspects of this museum’s activity are described in the article. Some other Russian projects and foreign virtual museums are also represented.