Oldenburger Computer-Museum

Current exhibitions

About the museum

The museum grew out of the private collection of Thiemo Eddiks. After smaller exhibitions, including at the computer science institute OFFIS and the University of Oldenburg, a permanent exhibition of historic computers opened on November 17, 2008. A year later the supporting association Oldenburger Computer-Museum e.V. was founded; it still runs the museum on a volunteer basis and is backed by several hundred members.

The initially small exhibition space was considerably expanded in 2014 with a move to larger premises; today more than 1,000 square meters are available on Bahnhofsplatz. This includes the OCM Hub, an event space in the middle of the collection whose coordination is funded by the Klaus Tschira Stiftung.

The museum's guiding principle is trying things out: all devices are in working order and loaded with software. The collection ranges from minicomputers of the early 1970s and the home computers of the 1980s to game consoles spanning three decades, complemented by arcade machines and pinball machines. In addition to guided tours for schools and companies, there are programs for older people and regular game nights.

Highlights

• All exhibits are in working order and may be used
• Early microcomputers such as the MITS Altair 8800B, Commodore PET 2001, and Apple II
• 24 playable video game consoles from 1972 to 2002
• Arcade hall with Space Invaders, Puck Man, and pinball machines
• PDP-8/e minicomputer with teleprinter

Permanent exhibitions

• Heimcomputer der 1970er und 1980er Jahre – Five rooms lead chronologically from minicomputers of the early 1970s and the first microcomputers to the Amiga, Atari ST, and Apple Lisa; all computers are up and running.
• Videospielkonsolen 1972–2002 – 24 playable consoles from six generations, from the Magnavox Odyssey to the PlayStation 2 and GameCube.
• Arcade-Halle – Arcade machines, pinball machines, and racing simulators, which are mainly switched on during the OCM PLAY evenings.

Founded

2008

Operated by

Oldenburger Computer-Museum e.V.

Admission & discounts

Free admission for association members and members of ICOM and regional museum associations. Payment in cash or via PayPal only. Special events and workshops have their own prices.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible
• Elevator
• Accessible restroom
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

Accessible with a wheelchair or rollator via a passenger elevator; accessible restroom.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Hands-on stations

All devices may be touched and tried out; children should be accompanied by an adult.

Getting there & parking

Amenities & dining

• Wi-Fi

Cold drinks available. Wi-Fi via Freifunk.

Events & venue rental

• Spaces for rent
• Corporate events

Up to 199 guests.

OCM Hub (400 m²) in the middle of the exhibition for workshops, seminars, company parties, team events, and conferences: up to 199 people standing, 150 in rows, 50 at seminar tables. €120 per hour (minimum 2 hours) plus cleaning and technical equipment; 50% discount for nonprofit and educational institutions; includes a museum tour of about one hour.

Plan your visit