Have you ever run into that method (discrete module+components) in non-IBM configurations? What abut non-computing configs? I've never seen it before.
I powered up the module independently, powering a light bulb, so it's a non-computing configuration. (I'm not sure if that's what you're asking.)
Univac had similar single-tube modules (but without the handle), as well as multiple-tube modules. See this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVbjXHR6WAY The BRLESC computer used printed-circuit boards that had components and a single tube (parallel to the surface). I have a Burroughs module with 8 tubes.