This site reimagines an interactive hardware device as a virtual machine. Each demo explores a different facet of classic exchange switching systems. 

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The demos include recorded dialog, relay operations, exchange switching sounds, classic telephone intercept recordings, exchange-themed music remixes and much more. There are 100+ pieces of audio media included with some explainer videos.

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Some of the recorded dialog may ask you to press physical control buttons. These controls are for in-person demos only. For this site, all control is done using the on-page control buttons. The buttons you will see in the videos are not responsive in this setting. This will be clear once you try a demo. 

 

Some dialog mentions a "Companion Booklet" and its contents are mostly recreated on the Basics and Anatomy pages herein. Why build such a device? 

 

The device pictured below was built to showcase the golden age of electromechanical telephone relays and exchanges. Many of the demos are best viewed on a PC/Mac/Tablet. 

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Press the play icon below for a short introduction. Then select a demo below and give it a try!