Re-Testing An Apollo Guidance Computer Module That Failed Certification Testing

Mike Stewart investigates a scrapped Apollo Guidance Computer rope driver module manufactured by Raytheon, stamped 'Scrapped Module,' to determine why it failed certification testing. Using original acceptance documents found on the Internet Archive, he maps the module's schematics and performs conservative bench testing at room temperature. Evidence of prior repair attempts is visible in the potting compound, and an error in the original documentation (wrong pin number in table 4-2) is discovered along the way. All tested parameters passed, suggesting the module was repaired and repurposed for engineering use rather than flight. Channels were found out of calibration, though whether this is an original defect or age-related degradation remains unknown.

Source: https://hackaday.com/2026/07/27/re-testing-an-apollo-guidance-computer-module-that-failed-certification-testing. 8sync News only summarizes and links out; content copyright belongs to the authors and original sources.