Beaverton, OR: Vintage Tek Equipment Museum

 Tucked away on the Tektronix campus in Beaverton is a museum of the company's past.

You may have an idea from other sources of how important Tek has been to the technological development of the area, but it is easy to not know much about how that happened. You can learn a lot here.

While there is reasonable signage for the displays, if you are offered a tour, take it. The context, anecdotes, and demonstrations really add to the full story.

There is memorabilia from the color printing group and from the Grass Valley Group, including an Emmy for technical achievement. 

Surprisingly, there was even a musical section with a theremin and some memorabilia of Tek's connection to Rodgers Organ Company.

Of course, the vast bulk of the equipment on display consists of oscilloscopes. This is where it is most inspiring.

It is ultimately a story of innovation: fiddling around with what you want until you have created it, then finding out that other people want it too.

That includes learning how to make various parts yourself, even including cathode ray tubes.

As interesting as the journey into the past is, there is more to the museum than the past.

They also operate a lending library, where you can borrow various items and get assistance with their use as needed.

They will also do repairs on vintage Tek products. That is a very specific need, but it's good news if that is your need.

It has deservedly drawn attention as a place worth visiting.

https://www.electronicproducts.com/10-sites-of-electrical-history-to-visit-on-your-next-road-trip/

It's worth the trip.

COVID: Masks are required on visitors and worn by the volunteer staff.

Accessibility: There is a ramp for entrance and an ADA-compliant bathroom. I was not sure if the aisles were wide enough for mobility devices, but I asked our tour guide and he confirmed that they have have many mobility devices come through, and have conducted tours for other groups with special needs. If you have a specific concern I am sure they will address it.

https://vintagetek.org/