Timeline

During the 1960s, Texas A&M used mainframe computers as the foundation for early academic and research computing. The mainframe supported coursework, research, and computing needs across campus. IBM mainframe systems provided students and faculty with access to computing resources that were emerging at the time.

In the mid 1970s, Texas A&M adopted Amdahl 470 mainframe hardware, becoming Amdahl’s third customer to use their technology. At the time, the other users were the University of Michigan and NASA. A commonly shared story recalls that when the Amdahl computers arrived on campus in the company’s orange and white colors, the exterior panels were repainted maroon and white at a Cadillac dealership.

Texas A&M University became the first university in Texas to install a Cray Y‑MP supercomputer. At the time, the Cray Y‑MP was among the most powerful computers in the world, capable of handling complex calculations far beyond standard campus systems. Researchers across campus used the system, and authorized users could access the supercomputer remotely from workstations attached to the campus fiber network.

In 1996, Texas A&M launched the Computing and Information Services (CIS) homepage, establishing a central web presence for IT services and information where students, faculty and staff could access technology resources and support.

As part of the Kyle Field renovation in 2014, a new fiber-based data network was implemented to support increased connectivity and data usage within the stadium. This upgrade allowed high-volume activity such as mobile usage, video streaming, and point-of-sale (POS) concession transactions.

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic required Texas A&M to rapidly transition to remote instruction and work. More than 13,000 classes moved online, significantly increasing reliance on digital platforms and support services. During this period, Help Desk Central experienced an increase in calls related to remote learning and work technologies, and Zoom usage grew dramatically, increasing from approximately 5,000 meetings per month to more than 130,000. When students returned to campus, the Division of IT and the Office of the Provost established 15 outdoor study locations across campus equipped with tables, chairs, tents and access to the university's wireless network. These spaces allowed students to attend online classes, study and connect to campus resources while maintaining physical distancing at a time when access to indoor facilities was limited.

Mainframe computers were at the center of computing at Texas A&M, supporting everything from research and student registration to payroll and financial systems. The university's mainframe era began in 1959 with the IBM 650 and came to a close in 2023 after 64 years of service.