# Phoenix

> IBM mainframe computer at Cambridge University's Computer Laboratory

**Wikidata**: [Q7186772](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q7186772)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phoenix_(computer))  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/phoenix-q7186772

## Summary
Phoenix was an IBM mainframe computer installed at Cambridge University's Computer Laboratory, operational from February 1973 to September 30, 1995. It served as a key computing resource for academic and research activities at the university.

## Key Facts
- **Operational Period**: February 1973 – September 30, 1995.
- **Location**: Cambridge University, United Kingdom (coordinates: 52.20362° N, 0.12023° E).
- **Aliases**: Accessed via `phx.cam.ac.uk`.
- **Type**: Classified as both a computer and a mainframe computer.
- **Image**: [Phoenix at the Centre for Computing History](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Phoenix_at_the_Centre_for_Computing_History_1.jpg).
- **Wikidata Description**: IBM mainframe computer at Cambridge University's Computer Laboratory.

## FAQs
### Q: What was Phoenix used for?
A: Phoenix supported research, teaching, and computational work at Cambridge University's Computer Laboratory for over two decades.

### Q: When was Phoenix decommissioned?
A: It was retired on September 30, 1995, after 22 years of operation.

### Q: Where can I find more information about Phoenix?
A: Details are available on its Wikipedia page ("Phoenix (computer)") and the Wikimedia Commons category "Phoenix (computer)".

## Why It Matters
Phoenix played a critical role in advancing computing and research at Cambridge University during the 1970s–1990s. As a robust IBM mainframe, it provided reliable processing power for academic projects, contributing to the university's reputation in computer science. Its long operational lifespan (1973–1995) underscores its durability and adaptability in an era of rapid technological change. By hosting the `phx.cam.ac.uk` alias, it facilitated networked access to computing resources, supporting collaboration and innovation in the academic community.

## Notable For
- **Longevity**: Operated for 22 years, a notable lifespan for a mainframe of its era.
- **Academic Resource**: Served as a central computing platform for Cambridge University's research and educational programs.
- **IBM Architecture**: Represented IBM's mainframe technology in a prominent academic setting.
- **Network Identity**: Accessible via the distinctive `phx.cam.ac.uk` alias, reflecting its integration into the university's infrastructure.

## Body
### Operational History
Phoenix began operations in February 1973 and was decommissioned on September 30, 1995. It was housed at Cambridge University's Computer Laboratory in the United Kingdom, at coordinates 52.20362° N, 0.12023° E.

### Technical Specifications
- **Type**: IBM mainframe computer.
- **Access**: Hosted under the alias `phx.cam.ac.uk`, enabling networked access for university users.

### Legacy
Phoenix supported decades of research and teaching at Cambridge, reflecting the importance of mainframe systems in academic computing during the late 20th century. Its retirement in 1995 marked the end of an era for large-scale centralized computing at the university, coinciding with the rise of distributed and personal computing technologies.