[[IBM]] sold the Calcomp 565 as the [[IBM 1627]] for use with its low-end scientific computers, first the [[IBM 1620]], and, later, the [[IBM 1130]]. It was perhaps the first non-IBM peripheral that IBM allowed to be attached to one of its computers.
The paper rolls were {{convert|120|ft|m|sing=on}} long. A metal bar above the take-up reel allowed a finished plot to be torn off and removed. The drum would then be advanced using the manual controls and the fresh paper end taped to the take-up reel. The standard pen was a [[ball-point pen|ball-point]], but liquid ink pens were available, and typically used for higher quality plots intended for publication. Other paper stock could be taped to the drum if desired. A chart drive switch was provided to turn off the motorized paper supply and take-up reels for this purpose.
