Data plate typing.

[kaysystems]

The subject of frame data plates has been discussed at least once. We know that they were 'typed' on an IBM Selectric using Elite 72 fort ball.

I don't have a working typewriter, but I have a data plate and a ball.

Is anyone in the forum producing correctly typed data plates?

Thanks


David

[Dave354]

Hi, I wasn’t aware of the font used, however this is my attempt using manual punches

Regards

Dave

[nalimugmug]

Heres an original foil if this helps at all

Bob

[kaysystems]

I looked for manual punches, but could only find ones that are too large. The letters don't fit in the boxes.

David

[Dave354]

I used a 3mm punch set similar to this….. it was good enough for a reasonable representation, I don’t think the original font will be easily found?

https://ebay.io/m/7NUZSA

[Jordan]

they were 'typed' on an IBM Selectric using Elite 72 fort ball

David

Hi David,
Is the typewriter used to stamp the foils?
The labels then rolled to shape?

I've worked on a couple of Selectrics, in a computerised office that still had them for a specific, simple card typing job.
I was able to make one working one from the two - not fully functional but adequate for purpose.
They were impressive machines, but hellishly complex.
No wonder they had armies of technicians servicing them. So different to how things are done now.