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PET 2001 Keyboard Restoration Wrapup
by william degnan 03 Nov '17

03 Nov '17

http://vintagecomputer.net/browse_thread.cfm?id=703 So I went ahead and ordered the Keypad-Fix product but being impatient I thought I'd try a little graphite powder on the conductive pads. It's just the right sticky to lay onto the tips and it works perfectly. The issue with Silver is that it'll eventually tarnish. The graphite powder should hold steady longer. The problem with the Keypad-Fix is that I don't have it here right now :-) but I bet that would work too. I also extended the wire from the caps-lock switch to make it easier to work on the keyboard, should in the future I have to repeat the fix. To clean the motherboard I found this neat product called Cyber Clean, it's a slime compound that you smoosh over a motherboard. It's made to clean electronics. It picks up everything and you just wash it off. Yes it's a little moist, but it seems to take the moisture up as well, leaving the mother board dry (enough)...A little moisture is fine as long as the circuit board is dried with a fan or blow dryer. Bill

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Update on the pet keyboards
by Herb Johnson 03 Nov '17

03 Nov '17

http://www.6502.org/users/andre/petindex/repairs.html#keyboard A page with several keyboard-repair links that look plausible. I can't vouch for them myself. Search "commodore pet keyboard repair" found it. I'm an engineer, so I like results and methods that pretend to know how the actual keyswitch works (as Bill suggested); and have been used for specific brand/models of vintage computers. That would be my approach. There's no shortage of chemical products and materials for repair, or adaptable to repair. It's all about knowing the "right tool for the job". Bill was likely asking for actual results from someone on the list. - Herb -- Herbert R. Johnson, New Jersey in the USA http://www.retrotechnology.com OR .net

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C-65 on eBay
by Evan Koblentz 03 Nov '17

03 Nov '17

I almost never post eBay auctions, but check this out: https://www.ebay.es/itm/Ultra-rare-Commodore-65-RAM-Expansion-C65-DX64-C90-… ________________________________ Evan Koblentz, director Vintage Computer Federation a 501(c)(3) educational non-profit evan(a)vcfed.org (646) 546-9999 www.vcfed.org facebook.com/vcfederation twitter.com/vcfederation instagram.com/vcfederation

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Update on the pet keyboards
by william degnan 03 Nov '17

03 Nov '17

I found that there are cheap products all over Ebay and Amazon for repairing carbon/rubber keypads for remotes, etc. Ordered one. Bill

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Funny story
by Evan Koblentz 03 Nov '17

03 Nov '17

About a year ago I tore apart my home looking for a binder containing some of my book research. Couldn't find it anywhere and thought I'd lost it forever! Tonight I found 100% of its contents -- neatly organized in my file cabinet -- sans the actual binder. Apparently being organized is so unusual that I forgot I did it! In my defense, this happened sometime last summer when I was on a ton of painkiller medicine.

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] PET keyboard question
by william degnan 03 Nov '17

03 Nov '17

So Brace was correct, thanks guys I will investigate this angle. Bill Degnan twitter: billdeg vintagecomputer.net On Nov 2, 2017 6:02 PM, "Alexander via vcf-midatlantic" < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> wrote: > > > ---------- Forwarded message ---------- > From: Alexander <ajpierson1(a)yahoo.com> > To: vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> > Cc: > Bcc: > Date: Thu, 02 Nov 2017 18:02:02 -0400 > Subject: Re: [vcf-midatlantic] PET keyboard question > I saw the silver paint-on used in a PET keyboard repair for the first time > recently. It seems like it was an effective fix. However, I have only > seen that done to a single PET, so I don't think it's a common solution. > That would be my next choice, seeing as the isopropyl didn't help things. > > -Alexander 'Z' Pierson > > Sent from my pocket telephone. > > william degnan via vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic@lists. > vintagecomputerfederation.org> wrote: > > >I could but I am looking for what someone who successfully restored a > dead > >keyboard did. I never heard anyone putting colloidal silver on a pet > >keyboard before. > > > >Bill Degnan > >twitter: billdeg > >vintagecomputer.net > >On Nov 2, 2017 4:48 PM, "Jeffrey Brace via vcf-midatlantic" < > >vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> wrote: > > > >How about putting silver on the contacts? > > > >On Thu, Nov 2, 2017 at 4:21 PM, william degnan via vcf-midatlantic < > >vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> wrote: > > > >> I used the 91% with qtip on both. I could try the eraser why not...but > my > >> method should have worked > >> > >> Bill Degnan > >> twitter: billdeg > >> vintagecomputer.net > >> On Nov 2, 2017 3:53 PM, "Justin Jernigan via vcf-midatlantic" < > >> vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> wrote: > >> > >> > > >> > >>I searched the web and did not find any specific best way to handle > >> keys > >> > >>that have no response at all given my described situation. Most > places > >> > say > >> > >>"clean everything"....OK tried that. What does one do specifically > >> > >>(materials and procedure) to clean the black carbon contact points > to > >> > >>ensure conductivity? This is not the same issue as the SOL/Tandy-II > >> > >>keyboard problem with the dried-out pads. The PET has springs, and > >this > >> > >>particular keyboard has no rust and very little crud. There must be > >> > >>something microscopic like a thin film that needs to be cleared. I > >> > believe > >> > >>the pads are extending and contacting the control board. I tried > using > >> > >>deoxit and isopropyl alcohol. Hope I did not ruin. I was able to > get a > >> > >>few keys to work but there are a lot more to fix. > >> > > >> > I use alcohol (91%) and a qtip on both the contact points and the > carbon > >> > pads. Have you tried using a pencil eraser on the board contact > points? > >> > Might be worth it on the carbon points as well (pencil eraser) and > then > >> > clean again with alcohol. > >> > > >> > >

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] PET keyboard question
by Alexander 02 Nov '17

02 Nov '17

I saw the silver paint-on used in a PET keyboard repair for the first time recently. It seems like it was an effective fix. However, I have only seen that done to a single PET, so I don't think it's a common solution. That would be my next choice, seeing as the isopropyl didn't help things. -Alexander 'Z' Pierson Sent from my pocket telephone. william degnan via vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> wrote: >I could but I am looking for what someone who successfully restored a dead >keyboard did. I never heard anyone putting colloidal silver on a pet >keyboard before. > >Bill Degnan >twitter: billdeg >vintagecomputer.net >On Nov 2, 2017 4:48 PM, "Jeffrey Brace via vcf-midatlantic" < >vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> wrote: > >How about putting silver on the contacts? > >On Thu, Nov 2, 2017 at 4:21 PM, william degnan via vcf-midatlantic < >vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> wrote: > >> I used the 91% with qtip on both. I could try the eraser why not...but my >> method should have worked >> >> Bill Degnan >> twitter: billdeg >> vintagecomputer.net >> On Nov 2, 2017 3:53 PM, "Justin Jernigan via vcf-midatlantic" < >> vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> wrote: >> >> > >> > >>I searched the web and did not find any specific best way to handle >> keys >> > >>that have no response at all given my described situation. Most places >> > say >> > >>"clean everything"....OK tried that. What does one do specifically >> > >>(materials and procedure) to clean the black carbon contact points to >> > >>ensure conductivity? This is not the same issue as the SOL/Tandy-II >> > >>keyboard problem with the dried-out pads. The PET has springs, and >this >> > >>particular keyboard has no rust and very little crud. There must be >> > >>something microscopic like a thin film that needs to be cleared. I >> > believe >> > >>the pads are extending and contacting the control board. I tried using >> > >>deoxit and isopropyl alcohol. Hope I did not ruin. I was able to get a >> > >>few keys to work but there are a lot more to fix. >> > >> > I use alcohol (91%) and a qtip on both the contact points and the carbon >> > pads. Have you tried using a pencil eraser on the board contact points? >> > Might be worth it on the carbon points as well (pencil eraser) and then >> > clean again with alcohol. >> > >>

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] PET keyboard question
by william degnan 02 Nov '17

02 Nov '17

I could but I am looking for what someone who successfully restored a dead keyboard did. I never heard anyone putting colloidal silver on a pet keyboard before. Bill Degnan twitter: billdeg vintagecomputer.net On Nov 2, 2017 4:48 PM, "Jeffrey Brace via vcf-midatlantic" < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> wrote: How about putting silver on the contacts? On Thu, Nov 2, 2017 at 4:21 PM, william degnan via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> wrote: > I used the 91% with qtip on both. I could try the eraser why not...but my > method should have worked > > Bill Degnan > twitter: billdeg > vintagecomputer.net > On Nov 2, 2017 3:53 PM, "Justin Jernigan via vcf-midatlantic" < > vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> wrote: > > > > > >>I searched the web and did not find any specific best way to handle > keys > > >>that have no response at all given my described situation. Most places > > say > > >>"clean everything"....OK tried that. What does one do specifically > > >>(materials and procedure) to clean the black carbon contact points to > > >>ensure conductivity? This is not the same issue as the SOL/Tandy-II > > >>keyboard problem with the dried-out pads. The PET has springs, and this > > >>particular keyboard has no rust and very little crud. There must be > > >>something microscopic like a thin film that needs to be cleared. I > > believe > > >>the pads are extending and contacting the control board. I tried using > > >>deoxit and isopropyl alcohol. Hope I did not ruin. I was able to get a > > >>few keys to work but there are a lot more to fix. > > > > I use alcohol (91%) and a qtip on both the contact points and the carbon > > pads. Have you tried using a pencil eraser on the board contact points? > > Might be worth it on the carbon points as well (pencil eraser) and then > > clean again with alcohol. > > >

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Vic 21
by Alexander 02 Nov '17

02 Nov '17

Evan, I've got some good news for you. I just hope you can read Mandarin... -Alexander 'Z' Pierson Sent from my pocket telephone. Evan Koblentz via vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> wrote: >I continue anxiously awaiting for Windows 3.2. > > >Evan Koblentz >Director, Vintage Computer Federation >evan(a)vcfed.org / (646) 546-9999 > >www.vcfed.org >@vcfederation > > >On Nov 2, 2017 4:40 PM, "Jeffrey Brace via vcf-midatlantic" < >vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> wrote: > >> I may have one or two. I heard that they are more rare than C65. I heard >> one sold for big bucks. >> >> On Thu, Nov 2, 2017 at 4:30 PM, william degnan via vcf-midatlantic < >> vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> wrote: >> >> > Anyone have a vic 21 ? They're pretty rare too. Wonder what a person >> > could get for one of those today. >> > >> > Bill Degnan >> > twitter: billdeg >> > vintagecomputer.net >> > >>

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] PET keyboard question
by jaj＠totallyamused.com 02 Nov '17

02 Nov '17

>>I searched the web and did not find any specific best way to handle keys >>that have no response at all given my described situation. Most places say >>"clean everything"....OK tried that. What does one do specifically >>(materials and procedure) to clean the black carbon contact points to >>ensure conductivity? This is not the same issue as the SOL/Tandy-II >>keyboard problem with the dried-out pads. The PET has springs, and this >>particular keyboard has no rust and very little crud. There must be >>something microscopic like a thin film that needs to be cleared. I believe >>the pads are extending and contacting the control board. I tried using >>deoxit and isopropyl alcohol. Hope I did not ruin. I was able to get a >>few keys to work but there are a lot more to fix. I use alcohol (91%) and a qtip on both the contact points and the carbon pads. Have you tried using a pencil eraser on the board contact points? Might be worth it on the carbon points as well (pencil eraser) and then clean again with alcohol.

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PET keyboard question
by william degnan 02 Nov '17

02 Nov '17

People I have a PET non-chicklet 2001 (2001-B32) . I cleaned the inside of the keys where they contact the board, and the keyboard circuit board. The board works when I touch a target point directly with something conductive. I also can put in a different keyboard into the PET and that works. So I have eliminated the problem down to the keyboard keys not making contact. Very few actually work by using the keyboard. I searched the web and did not find any specific best way to handle keys that have no response at all given my described situation. Most places say "clean everything"....OK tried that. What does one do specifically (materials and procedure) to clean the black carbon contact points to ensure conductivity? This is not the same issue as the SOL/Tandy-II keyboard problem with the dried-out pads. The PET has springs, and this particular keyboard has no rust and very little crud. There must be something microscopic like a thin film that needs to be cleared. I believe the pads are extending and contacting the control board. I tried using deoxit and isopropyl alcohol. Hope I did not ruin. I was able to get a few keys to work but there are a lot more to fix. I thought I remember Doug Crawford had a page about it somewhere. Or someone else...Can anyone advise their experiences with restoring this or simlar keyboard. I would think the 4000 and 8000-series keyboards would be the same in this regard. Thanks Bill

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Festivus - important!
by Evan Koblentz 02 Nov '17

02 Nov '17

Everyone -- please sign up sooner rather than later for Festivus (Dec. 9-10) - it's vital that we know how many people are going so Jeff B. can get the right amount of food and stuff. Last year we ran out of burgers. https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1odmPxfBK9BrR-NDZIx4_ c-V2lZpt_-vU-3fIBGiyrM4/edit#gid=0

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TRS-80 model 1, looking for good home
by mike willegal 02 Nov '17

02 Nov '17

I have a TRS-80 model 1, that needs to find a good home. I originally was going to get one of each of the original systems of the "big three" from 1977, but decided I really don't have the time or space for them. I never found a chiclet keyboard PET, at a bargain price, so I never completed that collection. This system was at VCF east a few years ago. It has the expansion chassis, level II basic, the CRT, and a single floppy drive. There are also some cassette tapes and manuals, but no Cassette Tape drive. Matching cassette drives are available on eBay from time to time, as they apparently were standard Radio Shack cassette tape products. I wasn't able to boot DOS from floppy, but the main system and CRT were operating when I had it at VCF east. It was a bit intermittent, I think due to the ribbon cable connections between the keyboard and the expansion chassis. If I had the time, I would replace that cable. I only spent about an hour investigating the boot problem with the floppy at VCF and haven't powered on, since. I don't want to risk shipping, but depending upon where you live on the eastern coast of US, may be able to arrange delivery before the end of the year or you can pick up north of Boston, MA. Best offer above $150 gets it. regards, Mike Willegal

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rigaku RSX-11M
by william degnan 02 Nov '17

02 Nov '17

Anyone work with the "Rigaku" version of RSX-llM on the PDP 11? What system is this compatible with? The web reveals no useful information. I have three RL02 diskpacks with this printed on the label. BIll

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IBM PC near-compatibles
by Herb Johnson 31 Oct '17

31 Oct '17

NEC APC, the 8-inch floppy 8086 machine. I have one too, not powered up in some years. "gasoline powered clothes iron" _ don't have that. Seems entirely reasonable to me. Many clothes irons were heated in fires, or one put coals in them. It's another discussion to talk about these. My point was, items that fell out of favor just at product introduction, become rare and potentially collectable; sometimes as contrary items. Various mechanical calculators? same considerations. It's been interesting, as people have mentioned their favorite MS-DOS non-IBM-PC's. Herb -- Herbert R. Johnson, New Jersey in the USA http://www.retrotechnology.com OR .net

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Festivus - important!
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 30 Oct '17

30 Oct '17

Drew Notarnicola via vcf-midatlantic writes: >>I'll bring ribs again IF I can make it and some beer too. >What a hero. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PdWHsaly-XU FWIW, I missed October's RR launch because I drove nearly all the way when I then realized I'd forgotten to pack my motor casings. I'll miss November's because an old DECUS friend is getting married and I've been invited to his ceremony. Therefore, December's launch is the last this year and I want to make that one. If the weather IS NOT conducive to a launch, I'll make ribs and attend sometime by the late afternoon/early evening.

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Festivus - important!
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 30 Oct '17

30 Oct '17

Jeffrey Brace via vcf-midatlantic writes: >The reason I chose December 9 & 10 was because it originally conflicted >with World of Commodore, which was originally scheduled for December 2 & >3. I try to avoid conflicts with other events. I had asked back in June >for people to specify which dates they wanted. I had limited response, >so I chose a date. For some reason World of Commodore was rescheduled to >Dec. 9 & 10. The best laid plans of mice and men ... So, now you can move it up a week! :)

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Festivus planning
by Ian Primus 30 Oct '17

30 Oct '17

As usual, I am planning to attend Festivus, and bring my usual van full of televisions and assorted video game consoles. I'm trying to get things ready earlier this time, so, does anyone have anything in particular they would like me to bring, so I can try to plan better? -Ian

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Museum Report 2017-10-29 October 29, 2017
by Jeffrey Brace 29 Oct '17

29 Oct '17

A slow day at the museum due to pouring rain all day. We did get 6 visitors with mild interest. Mouse was at the InfoAge front desk. Thanks so much for filling in for VCF! It is much appreciated!

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Festivus - important!
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 29 Oct '17

29 Oct '17

Evan Koblentz via vcf-midatlantic writes: >Dec. 9 in the morning until Dec. 10 in the evening. We don't really >advertise it to the public. This is the group holiday party. It's our >only purely social event of the year. I may and I may not be there. Moving the party a week closer to Christmas this year causes me some conflicts. It'll all depend on the weather on the 9th if I can make it. Inclement weather -- I can be there. Nice weather -- I'll be flying. I'll bring ribs again IF I can make it and some beer too.

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] IBM PC near-compatibles
by Earl Baugh 29 Oct '17

29 Oct '17

Following up on two things. I have a NEC machine (nicknamed the "Herniator" because of it's weight) that came to me via Kyle that is a PC near compatible that has 8 inch drives. Runs MS-DOS. It at least, I'd say, is a little interesting. I don't know of many other MS-DOS compatible machines that ran off 8 inch floppy. And in theme with Herb's kerosene powered fan, I actually own a gasoline powered clothes iron. Looks like a regular small iron but is gasoline powered. Seriously. Earl

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FS: ADM-3A and ADM-5 Terminals at Festivus
by systems_glitch 29 Oct '17

29 Oct '17

All, Over the summer, I picked up a large lot (17) of ADM-3A and ADM-5 terminals, in various states of "probably not working." Most of them DO NOT have screen rot, and very few have bad burn-in. I paid $100 each, plus van rental to go get them, gas, etc. I'd like to sell some of the OK condition ones, for drop-off at Festivus, for $150 or trade. Contact me off-list if you're interested. Thanks, Jonathan

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Cyclops page (Popular Electronics and Cromemco)
by William Sudbrink 26 Oct '17

26 Oct '17

Hi, In case anyone is interested, I have finally cobbled together a web page that documents the construction of the Popular Electronics Cyclops camera that I exhibited at the 2016 VCF East. It also documents my work to produce a Cromemco S-100 Cyclops that I hope to exhibit at the 2018 VCF East. The page is here: http://wsudbrink.dyndns.org:8080/cyclops/index.html The Cromemco S-100 Cyclops starts down the page a bit. Bill S. --- This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. https://www.avast.com/antivirus

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] IBM PC near-compatibles
by Herb Johnson 25 Oct '17

25 Oct '17

Thanks to Joseph Oprysko & Alexander Pierson for their responses about PCJr and Sanyo MBC-550 respectively. also the posts on Tandy 2000. But their responses - and the lack of other responses about near-compatibles, spin-offs to other topics - kinda confirms my points. That's OK. I asked the question to get confirmation. The Sanyo video was interesting because it showed a game and some video modes. (Not my interest but other's interests.) The PCJr is a narrative about a failure for a notable brand. Tandy by brand, draws interest; and the 2000 has/had a base of owners or is at least known-to-be. So for "interest", these near-compatibles have to have a feature, a brand, a story. And they have to be owned by some number of people today, to become a collective interest. And old PC's are not-of-interest (or negative interest) among many classes of vintage computerists. Otherwise they are simply "not". Hard to establish an interest in a bunch of "not's". But one more thing. On an "Antiques Roadshow", I recall an item. It was a kerosene powered fan! A flame, provided hot-air flow, to rotate a fan. This was an actual product in the early 20th century. It makes no sense today, and stopped making sense when electricity became available, at the same time. Thus all those fans were scrapped, unsold. But now....they are so rare, they have a bit of value! And are a source of amusement, as I've described. So may go, some PC near-compatibles. Herb "not my technology" Johnson -- Herbert R. Johnson, New Jersey in the USA http://www.retrotechnology.com OR .net

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IBM PC near-compatibles
by Herb Johnson 25 Oct '17

25 Oct '17

As vintage interest increases in the early IBM PC era computers, and in 386/486 PC's, I have a question. Is there any current interest in the early semi-compatible PC's? I mean of course, the 8088/88 systems near and after the IBM PC of 1981, where a number of manufacturers made MS-DOS systems which had most of the IBM PC hardware, some PC functionality (or better!) but was not 100% hardware compatible. It took some years for the "market" to decide, IBM PC software HAD to use every hardware trick to gain performance, and it could only do that if EVERY "PC" had the same IBM PC hardware. And, hardware HAD to be IBM PC and ISA compatible so it would run with minimal grief in PC's of the day, and their software. Eventually, the "Tiawan clones" came out, which were 100% PC compatible, and cheaper, and thus "PC compatible" became a redundant phrase. I know there's some interest in say Compaqs, which at times led the way over IBM. But those were pretty compatible too. But that leaves a bunch of S-100 systems, some Heath/Zenith systems, brands like Victor and God-knows how many others, who produced those semi-compatible systems, which were soon abandoned. Now, S-100, I can deal with and those catch some people's interest. In fact there's a lot of 3rd party PC hardware for the Heath/zenith Z-100 (Z-120 series). But Zenith 150-series systems, with five boards in some super-ISA backplane? Forgedabotit. I show some of the Zenith 151-s on my Web site, and of course Z-100's; so I get inquiries, like today, where someone has a Z-151 to offer. I tell them "sorry, no one cares". Comments? Herb Johnson -- Herbert R. Johnson, New Jersey in the USA http://www.retrotechnology.com OR .net

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] estate planning
by jaj＠totallyamused.com 25 Oct '17

25 Oct '17

-------- Original Message -------- Subject: [vcf-midatlantic] estate planning From: william degnan via vcf-midatlantic Date: Tue, October 24, 2017 3:59 pm >>Herb's comments about estate planning as it relates to the unique aspects >>of vintage computing hoards has come up a few times lately including the >>IBM PC near-compatibles thread. I created this new thread per his request. >>Estate Planning >>Most likely your collection is not worth as much as you think it is, when >>you take sales labor into account. Spouses and family often don't care and >>consider vintage computers junk, and when you go so will your collection >>(junk pile) Lately how a lot of us acquire our systems, eh? Family >>members looking to "donate" the items is a nice way of saying dump them, >>let's face it. These things are NOT like an inheritance of gold coins and >>one can't just sell them. One has to figure out what they have etc. Most >>people don't want to do that or can't. Very true. Often a collection is worth more in pieces - especially on a market like eBay. I've always just told my wife that if something happens to me to call Bill Degnan. But then what? Ideally a few pieces he would hold on to and then direct the sale and/or donation of the remaining via some on-line sellers/brokers. It wouldn't be about a windfall of money for my family, but more about putting it into the hands of others that have a need or want for it -- even if the overall transaction was just break even. Bill, did I tell you I signed you up for this? ...and apologies in advance if this formats wonky Justin

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] IBM PC near-compatibles
by Joseph Oprysko 25 Oct '17

25 Oct '17

You can’t forget about IBM’s own IBM PC “Near Compatible”. The PCJR. IBM’s attempt to enter the home computer market. I’m a big fan of the PCJR, but I could be biased because I had one when growing up. IBM dropped ISA compatibility completely with it. Each slot in the system was for a specific type of card, each with different pin counts and slot types. Yes, they provided for 3rd party expansion through the use of side-cars. But every port built into the PCJR is specific to the PCJR. On Tue, Oct 24, 2017 at 9:52 PM Alexander Pierson via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> wrote: > If you count the Sanyo MBC-550/555's as not-quite-PC compatibles, then I > may have a video that fits that bill. Time Bandit is the only game I've > ever seen mentioned for the MBC-555. It also is the only demonstration of > the color modes I've witnessed. It's mighty impressive, if you ask me. > > https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cN2wnCBQ1uo > > -Alexander 'Z' Pierson > > On Tuesday, October 24, 2017, 4:35:48 PM EDT, Jason Howe via > vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> > wrote: > > On 10/23/2017 09:55 PM, Dave McGuire via vcf-midatlantic wrote: > > If someone like us has a spouse like that (not referring to your wife > > here Jason, but the rest of the paragraph), then, respectfully, this is > > treating the symptom. The problem is a spouse that's simply > > incompatible at a very fundamental level. I've come across so many > > miserable people in that situation, and I just sit and wonder why. > > > > -Dave > > > > I completely agree and would never have married a woman who didn't > respect my hobbies, as that would mean she didn't respect me. Seriously > WTF would spend the rest of their life with that!? But, people do it > all the time for whatever reason. Anyway, it's not for me to tell > people how to live their lives -- I can only suggest how they can end > it...erm...you know what I mean! > > --Jason > > -- Normal Person: Hey, it seems that you know a lot. Geek: To be honest, it's due to all the surfing I do. Normal Person: So you go surfing? Normal Person: But I don't think that has anything to do with knowing a lot... Geek: I think that's wrong on a fundamental level. Normal Person: Huh? Huh? What?

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estate planning
by william degnan 24 Oct '17

24 Oct '17

Herb's comments about estate planning as it relates to the unique aspects of vintage computing hoards has come up a few times lately including the IBM PC near-compatibles thread. I created this new thread per his request. Evan was talking to Bob Roswell about possibly doing a talk at VCF next year on this subject. Insurance: I can tell you that I had insurance with a company called Collectibles Insurance Services but I let it lapse because in my case it was better to just lump in with my business as inventory insurance. It's easier to add a rider in for vintage computers as business inventory in my case. Persons who don't have an incorporated business might want to contact Collectibles Insurance Services about their own collections. It may be "cold" to say this but the best thing that can happen at least financially is to get the big payoff from a fire or flood. It saves you the trouble of listing, packing, shipping should a disaster hit your collection. You'll get replacement value, which is a lot more than actual sales value when you add in man hours to make the sales. Estate Planning Most likely your collection is not worth as much as you think it is, when you take sales labor into account. Spouses and family often don't care and consider vintage computers junk, and when you go so will your collection (junk pile) Lately how a lot of us acquire our systems, eh? Family members looking to "donate" the items is a nice way of saying dump them, let's face it. These things are NOT like an inheritance of gold coins and one can't just sell them. One has to figure out what they have etc. Most people don't want to do that or can't. Reality For these reasons describe above it's best to distribute what you have before it's too late. Sell it slowly as a small retirement savings or 2nd income. Or start your museum while you're still young and have the energy for such things. You can't take it with you. Bill

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Photos of Downstairs floor, Large Scale Computer Museum
by william degnan 24 Oct '17

24 Oct '17

http://www.vintagecomputer.net/browse_thread.cfm?id=702 I only had my phone camera and I completely forgot to take pictures while I was upstairs (doh!) but what I have is what I have. The downstairs has the large systems (Cray, SUN, SGI, DEC, IBM, Interdata, HP, Burroughs), the upstairs has the micros, portables and trainers (Many quite rare and historic items to see) . There is something for everyone here. I need to return soon to take better photos.. I did not get a good-enough photo of everything so some systems are missing. We had a great time at the museum, plus dinner at the Penn Brewery. Dave, Matt, and Corey are excellent docents. Evan, Jeff and I were quite impressed by the quality (and quantity) of exhibits on display. It was great to see Dan and Autumn too. It's hard to take it all in just one weekend. I think my brain is still processing everything. I heartily recommend the trip. Bill

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taking microvax3100.vintagecomputer.net offline for now
by william degnan 20 Oct '17

20 Oct '17

Thanks everyone who helped test this server. I am taking microvax3100.vintagecomputer.net offline for the weekend. Bill

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] VMS question
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 20 Oct '17

20 Oct '17

william degnan via vcf-midatlantic writes: >I noticed when I logged in today a file / info dump printed to the >screen but when I logged out and in again it was gone. Perhaps that's >what you're talking about? > >Understand that I did not write SYSLOGIN.COM or any of this >configuration ... I would not have imagined someone would have a messed >up SYSLOGIN.COM to cause the issue you described. There may be another >explanation. No, that's the only explanation. Poorly written DCL logic and a really stupid premise too. When somebody logs into VMS, they are granted the privileges defined in the UAF record. They then execute ALL subsequent DCL with the persona (privileges, rights, UIC, etc.) defined in the UAF record. There's no way to elevate privileges via ANY DCL command! The author of that SYLOGIN seemed to believe otherwise. >I am trying to "take over" from where they guy that set this machine up >left off and learn how this particular server was set up and why. I >want to fix, but I also know System administration tends to reflect the >personality of the admin, people have reasons for things. I am making >the assumption that given this was a production system there must be >some reasons for things. Eventually I can try to improve. Never make assumptions!!! I have seen more systems in production in my career that look like they were managed and or configured by brain-dead chimps. I see people that when told "don't do this" will "do this" and then, contact me and want their error corrected. I tell them "you did what I told you not to do" and "don't do it again!" Guess what? They do it again and again and again. I have one case now (large gov't organization) that have been told NOT to do something. Not only have they NOT heeded my advice but they have "institutionalized" what I told them NOT to do in they're procedures to startup the system. Why??? Here's a gun. Here's a bullet. There is your foot. Don't shoot yourself in the foot. Oops! "Hello, Brian? I shot myself in the foot. Can you help?" >When I log in using Evan's account, I can get in but I have a disk quota >exceeded error when I try to generate an email message. > >MAIL> mail To: SMTP%"evan(a)snarc.net" Subj: VAX USERN/PASS >%MAIL-E-OPENOUT, error opening >COBK$DATA:[COBK.PERSONAL.EKOBLENTZ]MAIL_0128_SEND .TMP; as output >-RMS-E-CRE, ACP file create failed -SYSTEM-F-EXDISKQUOTA, disk quota >exceeded The disk that his account has been assign to IS the system disk. If you look, it's very verly low on disk space. If I were you, I'd move his account and any other user accounts (save SYSTEM, FIELD, SYSTEST) OFF OF THE SYSTEM volume. Personally, if you really are hell bent on keeping the system as it was delivered, I'd suggest you backup all the volumes and then, init and start from stratch. Then, once you know how it all works, you can go back and see what a mess the prior system's owner(s) left you.

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] VMS question
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 20 Oct '17

20 Oct '17

william degnan via vcf-midatlantic writes: >To be precise I would type > >$ EDIT systartup_v5.com [enter] (for example) > >... and I would be greeted by a screen full of the file, so that I could >use the cursor to jump around the file. > >Now, when I type > >$ EDIT systartup_v5.com [enter] > >... I see this: > >[$] !+++++ C* > >My question for you is, did you change the OS to change the way EDIt by >default works, but more important why is this now happening and how can >I get into a text editor style mode? First, I just logged in and from the SYSTEM account: $ SHOW SYMBOL E* E*DIT == "EDIT/EDT/COMMAND=SYS$LOGIN:EDTINI.EDT" This SHOULD elicit the EDT behavior you're used to seeing. Also, and this is what happens when you're using a system configured by a madman... $ SHOW LOGICAL E* (LNM$PROCESS_TABLE) (LNM$JOB_80746EA0) (LNM$GROUP_000001) (LNM$SYSTEM_TABLE) "EDTINI" = "SYS$MANAGER:EDTINI.EDT" THis should be: "EDTSYS" = "SYS$MANAGER:EDTINI.EDT" I manually added EDTSYS to the system logical table. Try things out now. I am assuming you're using the SYSTEM account for all you're querying about.

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] VMS question
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 20 Oct '17

20 Oct '17

william degnan via vcf-midatlantic writes: >Brian, Do you know anything about why now I can't edit COM files like >they are text files, it seems like you deleted all of the old versions >of systartup_v5.com that I was saving. can you please advise how to >return the EDIT command to show a text editor style, rather than a VI >type edit style? Bill I did not touch SYSTARTUP_V5.COM. Why would you NOT be able to edit a .COM file? It's just text. The editors on VMS are not brain-damaged to decide what's in a file based upon file extension like on other OS.

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] VMS question
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 20 Oct '17

20 Oct '17

william degnan via vcf-midatlantic writes: >On Fri, Oct 20, 2017 at 11:27 AM, Brian Schenkenberger via vcf-midatlantic < >vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> wrote: > >> william degnan via vcf-midatlantic writes: >> >> >The quotas on this server for all users in [100,*] are 1000000. >> >That seems pretty high. No where else have I seen them that much. >> >> A million blocks??? *512 is 512MB. How big are those drives??? >> > > >Apparently as big as your imagination. I was thinking maybe for VMS 5.x >they still used Kb rather than Mb., but from a manual that covers 5 and 6 >that I use, 1000000 is ludicrous. > >$ show dev d > >Device Device Error Volume Free >Trans Mnt > Name Status Count Label Blocks >Count Cnt >COBUCK$DKA700: Mounted 0 USER3 360894 >37 1 >COBUCK$DKB0: Mounted 0 USER1 39771 > 1 1 >COBUCK$DKB100: Mounted 0 UTLTEST 208620 > 1 1 >COBUCK$DKB200: Mounted 0 USER2 1953795 > 1 1 >COBUCK$DKB300: Online 0 >COBUCK$DKB500: Mounted 0 VAXVMSRL054 23946 > 186 1 >$ You need /FULL to see the physical/logical volume size.

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] VMS question
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 20 Oct '17

20 Oct '17

william degnan via vcf-midatlantic writes: >The quotas on this server for all users in [100,*] are 1000000. >That seems pretty high. No where else have I seen them that much. A million blocks??? *512 is 512MB. How big are those drives???

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] VMS question
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 20 Oct '17

20 Oct '17

william degnan via vcf-midatlantic writes: >On Fri, Oct 20, 2017 at 9:23 AM, Brian Schenkenberger via >vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> >wrote: > >> william degnan via vcf-midatlantic writes: > > >I noticed when I >logged in today a file / info dump printed to the > >screen but when I >logged out and in again it was gone. Perhaps that's > >what you're >talking about? > > > >Understand that I did not write SYSLOGIN.COM or >any of this > >configuration ... I would not have imagined someone would >have a messed > >up SYSLOGIN.COM to cause the issue you described. >There may be another > >explanation. > > No, that's the only >explanation. Poorly written DCL logic and a really > stupid premise >too. When somebody logs into VMS, they are granted the > privileges >defined in the UAF record. They then execute ALL subsequent > DCL with >the persona (privileges, rights, UIC, etc.) defined in the UAF > record. > There's no way to elevate privileges via ANY DCL command! The > author >of that SYLOGIN seemed to believe otherwise. > > > OK. > > >> > >I am trying to "take over" from where they guy that set this >machine up > >left off and learn how this particular server was set up >and why. I > >want to fix, but I also know System administration tends >to reflect the > >personality of the admin, people have reasons for >things. I am making > >the assumption that given this was a production >system there must be > >some reasons for things. Eventually I can try >to improve. > > Never make assumptions!!! I have seen more systems in >production in my > career that look like they were managed and or >configured by brain-dead > chimps. I see people that when told "don't >do this" will "do this" and > then, contact me and want their error >corrected. I tell them "you did > what I told you not to do" and "don't >do it again!" Guess what? They > do it again and again and again. > > >That I know, but I am learning a whole new OS and even if it's not the >best way it's the way it is now, learning why something is the way it is >helps me to learn. > > >> > >When I log in using Evan's account, I can get in but I have a disk >quota > >exceeded error when I try to generate an email message. > > > >>MAIL> mail To: SMTP%"evan(a)snarc.net" Subj: VAX USERN/PASS > >>%MAIL-E-OPENOUT, error opening > >>COBK$DATA:[COBK.PERSONAL.EKOBLENTZ]MAIL_0128_SEND .TMP; as output > >>-RMS-E-CRE, ACP file create failed -SYSTEM-F-EXDISKQUOTA, disk quota > >>exceeded > > The disk that his account has been assign to IS the system >disk. If > you look, it's very verly low on disk space. If I were you, >I'd move > his account and any other user accounts (save SYSTEM, FIELD, >SYSTEST) > OFF OF THE SYSTEM volume. > > I have a new disk I am >preparing to use, agreed. > > > >> > Personally, if you really are hell bent on keeping the system as it >> was delivered, I'd suggest you backup all the volumes and then, init > >and start from stratch. Then, once you know how it all works, you > can >go back and see what a mess the prior system's owner(s) left you. > > > >There is a historic angle here, I get your points though. Logical. > >I see now I never set up the disk quota, doing that now. It's all a >learning process. One thing about me, I am pretty good to remember once >I make a mistake/crash something is sometimes how I learn. So I trash >an old VMS box, I can always start from scratch. It's not a job. > >I see now that the operator of this box probably was not fully trained, >makes it less valuable as a learning tool, why learn on a poorly >configured VAX, but I also have nothing to loose. :-) > >Bill 2+2 = 5 The earth is flat.

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] VMS question
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 20 Oct '17

20 Oct '17

The problem was a poorly written SYLOGIN.COM file!!! That "Sorry%" message was found in the SYLOGIN.COM file. Evan's password will need to be reset. It is presently the magic word from Adventure twice. ;) Sadly, the stupid SYLOGIN.COM, redefined command DELETE, so the SYLOGIN.COM file is NO LONGER there. It didn't do all that much and what it did to was wrong and stupid, so start over and learn some DCL.

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[OT] Anyone Interested in Building a New Atari XE/XL Mini ITX Board?
by Herb Johnson 20 Oct '17

20 Oct '17

> Wow, as if on queue, someone is offering a complete kit ETA soon): Alex, I have no Atari interest, but I looked at the links you posted, briefly. I'm not the moderator here, either; but your message here in VCFed looked like *you* bought 50 boards and suggested *you'd* sell them at $10 each. Actually, you posted a copy of "MacRorie"'s post - THAT person claimed to make the purchase, estimate a price. That's my read of that Atari forum thread, you pointed to. Sorry to stick my nose in, but seems like you (Alex) would like to be clear about your previous offer-to-buy and sell boards; and your more-recent post if you have decided to differ to someone else's purchase-and-resell offer. Herb -- Herbert R. Johnson, New Jersey in the USA http://www.retrotechnology.com OR .net

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] VMS question
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 20 Oct '17

20 Oct '17

william degnan via vcf-midatlantic writes: >A while back I was working on my MicroVAX and I had a few OS and hardware >setbacks. I have finally gotten back to where I was before. > >So, I have a question for you VMS admins out there. > >I can log into my Microvax 3100 as SYSTEM remotely the FQDN is >microvax3100.vintagecomputer.net. I am having issues adding new users. I >remember asking about this problem a year ago and Brian helped me fix it at >VCF E 12 I think, but I forget how he fixed it. > >I can create a user (for Evan K to try) and I can log in, but it >immediately logs me out. I get the following error: > >Username: EKOBLENTZ >Password: > Welcome to VAX/VMS version V5.5-2 on node COBUCK > Last interactive login on Thursday, 19-OCT-2017 15:14 >%Sorry, your default device is unavailable for login, try again later... > > EKOBLENTZ logged out at 19-OCT-2017 15:14:38.56 > >I remember Brian S fixed this problem, and it's not a user setup issue >within AUTH, there is something else I need to do to allow non SYSTEM users >to log in. > >This is not a production server but I do have it up and running now, if >anyone who can advise needs the SYSTEM password just send me an email and I >will send to you. Please if you fix, I need to document the fix so I can >know how to create a new user. > >Here is the process I am using: > >$ set process/privileges=all >$ set default sys$system: >$ run authorize >UAF> show [100,*] /brief >UAF> add EKOBLENTZ /uic=[100,30] /account=COBK >UAF> modify EKOBLENTZ /password=password >UAF> modify EKOBLENTZ /device=sys$sysdevice <=== L@@K >UAF> modify EKOBLENTZ /directory=[EKOBLENTZ] <=== L@@K >UAF> modify EKOBLENTZ /owner="Evan Koblentz" >UAF> modify EKOBLENTZ /nopwdexpir /flag=nodisuser >UAF> modify EKOBLENTZ /defprivileges=(TMPMBX, OPER, NETMBX) >/privileges=(TMPMBX, OPER, NETMBX) >UAF> modify EKOBLENTZ /flags=nodisuser >UAF> exit >$ create /directory /owner=[100,30] COBK$DATA:[COBK.PERSONAL.ekoblentz] <=== L@@K >/OWNER=[ekoblentz] > > >SO...What else do I need to do? I know my SYSTARTUP_V5.COM is a little >screwy (yes I am using VMS 5.2) and I need to clean it up, but I don't >think the problem described above is related to the system start script. I >seem to remember Brian going into a directory someplace and adding the user >to a table or changing the system to allow a certain user to be able to log >in. What I'd like is to allow any user I create by default to be allowed >to log in, if they have the correct permissions as a user. > >Thanks > >Bill You have created/established Evan's account with a default "home" directory of SYS$SYSDEVICE:[EKOBLENTZ] but you created COBK$DATA:[COBK.PERSONAL.EKOBLENTZ]. Either: (1) $ MCR AUTHORIZE UAF> modify EKOBLENTZ /device=COBK$DATA: UAF> modify EKOBLENTZ /directory=[COBK.PERSONAL.EKOBLENTZ] ...or... (2) $ CREATE/DIRECTORY SYS$SYSDEVICE:[EKOBLENTZ]/OWNER=[100,10] Remember, computers only do what you tell them to do. ;)

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VMS question
by william degnan 19 Oct '17

19 Oct '17

A while back I was working on my MicroVAX and I had a few OS and hardware setbacks. I have finally gotten back to where I was before. So, I have a question for you VMS admins out there. I can log into my Microvax 3100 as SYSTEM remotely the FQDN is microvax3100.vintagecomputer.net. I am having issues adding new users. I remember asking about this problem a year ago and Brian helped me fix it at VCF E 12 I think, but I forget how he fixed it. I can create a user (for Evan K to try) and I can log in, but it immediately logs me out. I get the following error: Username: EKOBLENTZ Password: Welcome to VAX/VMS version V5.5-2 on node COBUCK Last interactive login on Thursday, 19-OCT-2017 15:14 %Sorry, your default device is unavailable for login, try again later... EKOBLENTZ logged out at 19-OCT-2017 15:14:38.56 I remember Brian S fixed this problem, and it's not a user setup issue within AUTH, there is something else I need to do to allow non SYSTEM users to log in. This is not a production server but I do have it up and running now, if anyone who can advise needs the SYSTEM password just send me an email and I will send to you. Please if you fix, I need to document the fix so I can know how to create a new user. Here is the process I am using: $ set process/privileges=all $ set default sys$system: $ run authorize UAF> show [100,*] /brief UAF> add EKOBLENTZ /uic=[100,30] /account=COBK UAF> modify EKOBLENTZ /password=password UAF> modify EKOBLENTZ /device=sys$sysdevice UAF> modify EKOBLENTZ /directory=[EKOBLENTZ] UAF> modify EKOBLENTZ /owner="Evan Koblentz" UAF> modify EKOBLENTZ /nopwdexpir /flag=nodisuser UAF> modify EKOBLENTZ /defprivileges=(TMPMBX, OPER, NETMBX) /privileges=(TMPMBX, OPER, NETMBX) UAF> modify EKOBLENTZ /flags=nodisuser UAF> exit $ create /directory /owner=[100,30] COBK$DATA:[COBK.PERSONAL.ekoblentz] /OWNER=[ekoblentz] SO...What else do I need to do? I know my SYSTARTUP_V5.COM is a little screwy (yes I am using VMS 5.2) and I need to clean it up, but I don't think the problem described above is related to the system start script. I seem to remember Brian going into a directory someplace and adding the user to a table or changing the system to allow a certain user to be able to log in. What I'd like is to allow any user I create by default to be allowed to log in, if they have the correct permissions as a user. Thanks Bill

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[OT] Anyone Interested in Building a New Atari XE/XL Mini ITX Board?
by J. Alexander Jacocks 19 Oct '17

19 Oct '17

All, If anyone else is interested in building a new Atari motherboard, and would like to do a group buy for components, or the blank PCBs, themselves, drop me a line. I’ve been following this project for months, and it has produced an amazing result: http://atariage.com/forums/topic/261147-1088xel-alternative-mother-board-pr… <http://atariage.com/forums/topic/261147-1088xel-alternative-mother-board-pr…> The BoM, from DigiKey, is here (page 41): http://atariage.com/forums/index.php?app=core&module=attach&section=attach&… I’m willing to make the orders, and mail out (or hand out) the PCBs. I can also order components, if anyone wants. Thanks! - Alex

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Trip to Large Scale Systems Museum (Pittsburgh) This Weekend
by william degnan 17 Oct '17

17 Oct '17

Evan, Jeff B and I are going to visit Dan, Dave, Corey, Matt ?, etc and the Large Scale Systems Museum this weekend. Not sure if anyone else is planning to go, too. If so, see you there. Bill

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weekend report
by Evan Koblentz 16 Oct '17

16 Oct '17

I had a busy weekend with VCF / Infoage stuff. Friday and Saturday night I volunteered at the ticket desk for Infoage's Halloween event. Saturday night surprise visitors -- Tony and Ken. Spent 10-4 on Saturday at the "Jersey Shore Makerfest" which is a small-ish local event. It's not affiliated with the official Maker Faire franchise. Anyway, VCF has a single table there staffed by me. I demo'd the Laser 128 + Lego robot setup. It was a hit. I was our museum docent Sunday (Dean/Drew were there Saturday). Attendance was low but good quality. One of our guests was an MIT grad who already knew a lot about computer history and spent substantial time visiting us. He was also interested in hackerspaces, so I opened the IXR lab for him too. ________________________________ Evan Koblentz, director Vintage Computer Federation a 501(c)(3) educational non-profit evan(a)vcfed.org (646) 546-9999 www.vcfed.org facebook.com/vcfederation twitter.com/vcfederation instagram.com/vcfederation

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Atari 800 lot in Chester
by John Heritage 16 Oct '17

16 Oct '17

I'm looking for 810 drives to complement my recently restored 800's.. non functional is OK .. Thanks :) On Thu, Oct 12, 2017 at 12:11 PM, Bob Aviles via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> wrote: > > > ---------- Forwarded message ---------- > From: Bob Aviles <raviles132001(a)yahoo.com> > To: Jason Howe via vcf-midatlantic < > vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> > Cc: > Bcc: > Date: Thu, 12 Oct 2017 16:11:40 +0000 (UTC) > Subject: Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Atari 800 lot in Chester > Hi Jason, > I saw this before, but like you cannot afford to buy it by myself. I am > located in NJ, interest in the 800 & software.So if you still need somebody > else to purchase? Please get back me. > ThanksBobbyt > On Wednesday, October 11, 2017, 8:23:05 PM EDT, Jason Howe via > vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> > wrote: > > Came across this today. > > I'm across the country, but would be interested in splitting this with > others...actually only a couple things I'm interested in here. > > https://newjersey.craigslist.org/sys/d/vintage-atari-8-bit- > collection/6307964219.html > > --Jason > -- > Sent from my Android phone with K-9 Mail. Please excuse my brevity. > >

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IBM 5151 (mono) / 5153 (CGA) PC/XT monitors for sale
by william degnan 14 Oct '17

14 Oct '17

IBM 5151 (mono) - $99 ea 5153 (CGA) - $199 ea They all work, but some have scratches/case chips. Some need minor vertical potentiometer adjustment. Come here, test to your satisfaction. No shipping, first come first served Landenberg, PA. PC 5150 and 5160 also available. Keyboards. parts/software Contact me through vintagecomputer.net/contact.cfm Bill

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Minefaire show at the Philly Expo Center
by Henry S. Courbis 14 Oct '17

14 Oct '17

RetroCPU.org seems to have exhibits at the Minefaire show at the Philly Expo Center. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/minefaire-a-minecraft-fan-experience-philadelp… Sat, Oct 14, 2017, 10:00 AM – Sun, Oct 15, 2017, 5:00 PM I friend just sent some pics of kids playing games on C64's. Sorry if someone posted this already. New VPS and was having email issues this week. Seems I got kicked off of the list a few times for bounced emails. Should be back 100% now. Fingers crossed, although hotmail/ outlook.com hate me. Which is mutual actually. Henry S. Courbis Office Toll Free: (800) REACTIVE (732-2848) Office/Mobile Direct: (856) 779-1900 www.ReActiveMicro.com <http://www.ReactiveMicro.com> - Sales, Support, and News, Our Headquarters on the Internet ReActiveMicro.com/wiki - Support, Software, Manuals, and History. Create your own page today! Facebook.com/reactivemicrousa - Our Social Media Outlet and Support

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Manual card punch
by Mike Loewen 13 Oct '17

13 Oct '17

Many of you have seen the Wright Line 2600 manual card punch: http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/Keypunch/wright.html ...but how many of you have seen one of these? http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/Keypunch/Wright2629.html A code wheel is used to select the character to punch, and a cylinder with 12 cams selects the rows to be punched. A character wheel presses against a short inked ribbon loop to print the character on the top row of the card. You can even set tabs. Mike Loewen mloewen(a)cpumagic.scol.pa.us Old Technology http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Museum Artifact Report
by Jeffrey Brace 13 Oct '17

13 Oct '17

Bill, We appreciate whatever work you do to repair the TR-20! It's a hobby after all! It will be great to see it actually work instead of just looking at a static artifact! Jeff Brace On Fri, Oct 13, 2017 at 12:53 PM, Bill Inderrieden via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> wrote: > > > ---------- Forwarded message ---------- > From: SVCatITC(a)aol.com > To: vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org > Cc: > Bcc: > Date: Fri, 13 Oct 2017 12:53:19 -0400 > Subject: Museum Artifact Report > > Hello All; > > I figured it was time, (Since the UNIVAC Pix spread was sent by Bill D.) > that I would also update us all on the progress of getting the EAI TR20 > back > on line. > > 1. Progress is slow, but moving forward on getting a decent stable > reference > in the test bed for doing integrator tray testing from our TR20. > The test bed has to undergo some major revamp to make room for more > test components to use with the main test evaluations. We are doing > that > revamp and fabrication here at my shops. > > Reference components have been purchased and now have to be installed. > > 2. A master 10 volt reference, to be used for setup and maintenance of the > rack reference, as well as the test bed reference, has been purchased. > This reference is good to better than 0.02 % error, which will be 5x > better > than we need for computation. > > 3. I still need to get out to a machine shop to fabricate the wheeled > dolly for > the main rack display. This will allow us to roll the rack in and out > of it's > berth for easy maintenance access. > > 4. Back lighting has been purchased for accent lighting on the TR20 while > in > the rack, as it will be in shadows when the XY plotter gets installed. > > 5. The TR20 main power supply oscillates at high frequency. Being an > alumnus of EAI, I fought this problem in these supplies when working > there. > The solution has already been installed in the test bed, > (as my supply did also osc. in the bed). I have more updated parts to > install in a > duplicate 10.179 supply, which will then be installed in the TR20. > The original supply will be left untouched and be put "under > Plexiglas" > to show the workmanship to visitors. This update will also be done > to > the 10 volt reference in the rack and the original rack tray be put > under > glass as well for viewing. > > The work goes slow as I have had several "real job" work projects and > "life stuff" > that has gotten in the way of doing this fun stuff. > > I will try and give further updates as they move forward. > > Bill Inderrieden. > > > >

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Museum Artifact Report
by SVCatITC＠aol.com 13 Oct '17

13 Oct '17

Hello All; I figured it was time, (Since the UNIVAC Pix spread was sent by Bill D.) that I would also update us all on the progress of getting the EAI TR20 back on line. 1. Progress is slow, but moving forward on getting a decent stable reference in the test bed for doing integrator tray testing from our TR20. The test bed has to undergo some major revamp to make room for more test components to use with the main test evaluations. We are doing that revamp and fabrication here at my shops. Reference components have been purchased and now have to be installed. 2. A master 10 volt reference, to be used for setup and maintenance of the rack reference, as well as the test bed reference, has been purchased. This reference is good to better than 0.02 % error, which will be 5x better than we need for computation. 3. I still need to get out to a machine shop to fabricate the wheeled dolly for the main rack display. This will allow us to roll the rack in and out of it's berth for easy maintenance access. 4. Back lighting has been purchased for accent lighting on the TR20 while in the rack, as it will be in shadows when the XY plotter gets installed. 5. The TR20 main power supply oscillates at high frequency. Being an alumnus of EAI, I fought this problem in these supplies when working there. The solution has already been installed in the test bed, (as my supply did also osc. in the bed). I have more updated parts to install in a duplicate 10.179 supply, which will then be installed in the TR20. The original supply will be left untouched and be put "under Plexiglas" to show the workmanship to visitors. This update will also be done to the 10 volt reference in the rack and the original rack tray be put under glass as well for viewing. The work goes slow as I have had several "real job" work projects and "life stuff" that has gotten in the way of doing this fun stuff. I will try and give further updates as they move forward. Bill Inderrieden.

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OT: CD Duplicatator and printer availalbe to a non-profit (or for sale)
by Kelly Leavitt 12 Oct '17

12 Oct '17

We have an 8 year old Rimage 5200n cd/dvd duplicator and printer. Great quality, but it is excess to our needs. If anyone knows of a non-profit that would need something like this, contact me off list. Kelly

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