The Forgotten Computers of a Soviet-Era Factory
Inside an abandoned textile factory in Armenia, I stumbled upon something unexpected: rows of old computers, a large auditorium, and a Soviet mosaic. While I'm usually drawn to monumental Soviet art, this time the computers completely stole the show. They looked like nothing I'd ever seen before—and strangely, even a Google image search didn’t turn up anything similar.
Curious, I dug deeper. I ran a DeepSearch with Grok and asked around in the Reddit community r/vintagecomputers. Here’s what I found out:
What Were These Mysterious Computers?
The machines are labeled "AM-5" and were likely produced by Gerber Technology, a U.S. company known for CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) systems, especially for the garment industry.
They were used from the late 1980s for tasks like pattern design, grading, and automated fabric cutting.
Since the factory they were found in used to produce textiles, the match fits perfectly.
Evidence points to the computers being manufactured in Germany, at Gerber's European branch—Gerber Technology GmbH in Ismaning, Germany.
Why It Matters
In the 1980s, companies like Gerber were revolutionizing how clothes were made. Their computers streamlined the process—digitally creating patterns, optimizing fabric usage, and even controlling cutting machines. These “AM-5” systems were likely part of that wave of innovation, quietly sitting in Armenia, forgotten by history.
After stepping out of the computer room one can see a wonderful mosaic by Vanik Manukyan
These machines, echoes of the past, are part of a larger narrative—where fashion and automation converged during the final years of the Soviet Union.
Final Thoughts
It’s frustrating how few people recognize the value of preserving relics like these. Old computers, military bunkers, carpet-weaving machines, thread spinners, watch-making tools—they’re all part of our industrial and cultural heritage. With the right approach, they could fuel niche tourism and spark real curiosity. But sadly, most are being looted or scrapped long before anyone realizes their worth.
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