Adapter and cables for desktop computer

Made:
China
Adapter and cables for desktop computer (cables; adapter)

Creative Commons LicenseThis image is released under a CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 Licence

Buy this image as a print 

Buy

License this image for commercial use at Science and Society Picture Library

License

Science Museum Group
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

HP HSTNN-DA24 adapter and attached cables, for desktop computer. Made in China.

Stephen Hawking's desk was standard-issue Cambridge University furniture, and his desktop computer was also mostly standard. This is in stark contrast with his wheelchair-mounted systems. In fact, Hawking largely used his wheelchair computers even when in his office. The desktop computer was more often operated by his staff. Among the unavoidable advantages of the desktop computer were its larger screens (including a sophisticated curved one) and advanced audio. These were preferred for watching and editing media, and also providing a higher-quality reproduction of his voice.

At the centre of the office is Hawking’s desk with a desktop computer, behind which there is space for him and his wheelchair, including all mobile computers, screens and custom equipment. The desk and his wheelchair were oriented so that Hawking could see incoming visitors, and the working blackboard. When working with academic colleagues, these often sat by Hawking’s right side, sharing the view of his screens and blackboard behind.

Details

Category:
Stephen Hawking Office
Collection:
Stephen Hawking’s Office
Object Number:
2021-561/607
Materials:
metal (unknown) and plastic (unidentified)
Measurements:
overall (cables coiled): 98 mm x 370 mm x 300 mm, .88 kg
type:
cables and adapter
credit:
Accepted in lieu of Inheritance Tax by H M Government from the Estate of Stephen Hawking and allocated to the Science Museum, 2021