I recall helping IBM to implement an AS/400 system in a local government department here back in the mid 80's. I cannot remember the exact model, but it was definitely a lot larger than the one in the article. Basically the size of two filing cabinets placed front to back. And beige, not black, which would have been way cooler.

I wasn't in charge of the software on that - mainly just helped with hooking it up to the local (Token Ring, IIRC) network in the building. I did however look after the backups on a VAX PDP/8 on another floor in the same building! :)