First ever Cray T3D Supercomputer goes up for auction with $81,000 reserve — Europe’s fastest supercomputer in June 1996 goes on the block

https://www.tomshardware.com/author/mark-tyson· May 24, 2026 · 1:35 PM UTC ·8 min read · 0 reactions · 0 comments · 42 views

#technology #supercomputers #auction

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The first Cray T3D supercomputer, known as the 'Typhoon,' is up for auction with a reserve price of $81,000. This machine was once the fastest supercomputer in Europe in June 1996 and has historical significance in the evolution of supercomputing. Its size and weight may limit interest among potential buyers.

Key facts

▪The Cray T3D supercomputer was installed at Edinburgh University and was ranked as Europe's fastest supercomputer in June 1996.
▪This auction features the first Cray T3D ever produced, with a starting bid of approximately $81,000.
▪The machine represents a significant shift in Cray's performance strategy towards massively parallel supercomputing.

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Original publisher	Tom's Hardware
Canonical URL	https://www.tomshardware.com/tech-industry/supercomputers/first-ever-cray-t3d-supercomputer-goes-up-for-auction-with-usd81-000-reserve-europes-fastest-supercomputer-in-june-1996-goes-on-the-block
Publication time	Sun, 24 May 2026 13:35:29 +0000
Retrieval time	2026-05-24T13:42:32.690Z
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Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand

Tech Industry Supercomputers First ever Cray T3D Supercomputer goes up for auction with $81,000 reserve — Europe’s fastest supercomputer in June 1996 goes on the block News By Mark Tyson published 24 May 2026 Dubbed the ‘Typhoon,’ this sample was installed at Edinburgh University and was listed in the TOP500 as Europe’s fastest supercomputer in June 1996. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. (Image credit: The Saleroom) Copy link Facebook X Whatsapp Reddit Pinterest Flipboard Email Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter A historically significant supercomputer has gone up for auction.

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