NORBIT

The system was originally conceived as building blocks for solid-state[3][5] hard-wired programmed logic controllers (the predecessors of programmable logic controllers (PLC)) to replace electro-mechanical relay logic in industrial control systems for process control and automation applications, similar to early Telefunken/AEG Logistat, Siemens Simatic, Brown, Boveri & Cie, ACEC Logacec or Akkord [de] Estacord systems.

[3][9][10][11][12] Each available logical function was recognizable by the color of its plastic container, black, blue, red, green, violet, etc.

[8][13][14] The original Norbit modules of the YL 6000 series introduced in 1960 had potted single in-line packages with up to ten long flying leads arranged in two groups of up to five leads in a row.

[4][15] Also available in 1960 were so called Combi-Element[2][1][3][13][nb 1] modules in single-in line packages with ten evenly spaced stiff leads in a row (5.08 mm / 0.2-inch pitch) for mounting on a PCB.

[18] In 1967, the Philips/Mullard NORBIT 2[19][20][21] aka Valvo NORBIT-S[22][23][24][nb 3] family of modules was introduced, first consisting of the 60-series[25] for frequencies up to 10 kHz at a single supply voltage of 24 V,[19] only.