What do computer errors sound like? In our everyday use of computers error messages are communicated without sound. Most likely you are presented with matter-of-fact information like, “Server Error. The server has encountered a temporary error and could not complete your request,” or “Oops. This link appears to be broken. HTTP 404. File not found.” These silent messages are software interfaces designed to prevent you from having to worry about or engage with what is taking place at the deeper level of the computer’s processor. The errors however do manifest themselves behind the surface of the screen. Using discarded hard disks with open tops and attached contact microphones Marcelina Wellmer has created a group of hardware interfaces to three common errors that – beyond principles of usability – challenge the visitor to relate to the materiality of errors through the abstract qualities of sound.

Image: Marcelina Wellmer