- vcf-midatlantic - lists.vcfed.org

TTL USB dongle to 5V TTL serial.
by Neil Cherry 17 Feb '23

17 Feb '23

This is not a RS232 USB dongle which has it's own issues with interfacing to older equipment (but same problem, no enough current to push or pull the signal). I have a 3v3/5v0 USB TTL dongle. It works with some equipment but it couldn't pull the signal to 5v0 interfacing to my HD6303 (Hitachi's 6803). I fixed this by using 2 gates on a 74LS04 with the USB dongles TX. Not sure how to solve this. Has anyone built such a set of line drivers? I'll be using a similar setup with a few other boards (EPROM burner, PT69-5, Microbox II, etc.). But those might be worse as I'll be using a ESP WiFi chip (3v3) as a terminal server. -- Linux Home Automation Neil Cherry kd2zrq(a)linuxha.com http://www.linuxha.com/ Main site http://linuxha.blogspot.com/ My HA Blog Author of: Linux Smart Homes For Dummies KD2ZRQ

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Repair Workshop 2023-02-11 & 2023-02-12
by Jeffrey Brace 17 Feb '23

17 Feb '23

Wow! What a great workshop. We were all packed into CDL and the adjacent classroom space. We had four new people come to our repair workshop which is great! It's good to have new blood and keep a regular group coming. It seems that the new people were referred to us by other members. One Member, Jim Preciado, said in an email to me: *"Jeff,* *Please pass my thanks onto all for a weekend well spent at your Repair Workshop.You may also pass my contact information onto any of the VCF staff that has a need for it. In particular, please make sure that Doug has it for the museum and the MicroVAX II.* *Thanks!"* ================================= Jeff Brace VCF National Board Member Chairman & Vice President Vintage Computer Festival East Showrunner Vintage Computer Federation is a 501c3 charity https://vcfed.org/ <http://www.vcfed.org/> jeffrey(a)vcfed.org

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3DFX Voodoo 5 6000 Rev 3700A 128MB prototype sells for $15, 000 after 65 bids
by Christian Liendo 14 Feb '23

14 Feb '23

When you think you have seen everything. A 3DFX Voodoo 5 6000 Rev 3700A 128MB prototype sells for $15,000 after 65 bids. https://www.ebay.com/itm/325521605074

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My video on the PDP 11/73 I recently picked up.
by Dave Shevett 14 Feb '23

14 Feb '23

Hey ya'll. I'm hoping to put together a series of videos on getting my PDP 11/73 up and running. The first video was just posted, I'm hoping folks can take a look and give me some feedback and some love on it. I've spent the last 2 months or so assembling and editing this video, and learned a lot about how to use software that is wildly unfamiliar to me. It's been fun! This is the first video of a series of getting this machine up and running - I have the next 2 videos uon the editing table, but I'm looking for feedback on this first one to help me style the next one. A like, a subscribe, and a comment goes a LONG way in Youtube land, I know folks aren't thrilled with promotional stuff, I do apologize, but this seems like a great way to spread the word on how awesome these machines are, and how exciting vintage computers can be. So, enjoy - please let me know what you think, and share it around if you think others might be interested. https://youtu.be/h6zdf0O1Qo0 -dave s. -- Dave Shevett shevett(a)pobox.com

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Don't turn on the Fredon Flexwriter!
by Neil Cherry 13 Feb '23

13 Feb '23

Ian and the other gentleman working on the Fredon Flexwritere, please note: I think the diodes are wired in wrong. https://forum.vcfed.org/index.php?threads/friden-flexowriter-terminal.12417… It just dawned on me that the motor takes 100v DC and I looked at the above. The selenium diode (ah what a smell) may not work the way you think. Here's a schematic but it's hard to read. https://collections.museumsvictoria.com.au/content/media/21/535271-small.jpg http://www.bitsavers.org/pdf/friden/SP8673R2_Friden_Flexowriter_Programatic… I think the selenium diode is setup as an AC Full Wave Rectifier. We should have one of those. We should be able to figure out which wires are which. But the current wiring won't work. -- Linux Home Automation Neil Cherry kd2zrq(a)linuxha.com http://www.linuxha.com/ Main site http://linuxha.blogspot.com/ My HA Blog Author of: Linux Smart Homes For Dummies KD2ZRQ

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NABUs back on ebay
by Andrew Diller 13 Feb '23

13 Feb '23

Grab them while you can. I got one. https://www.ebay.com/itm/394456877962 <https://www.ebay.com/itm/394456877962> -andy

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CDL phone numbers & 911 info
by Martin Flynn 13 Feb '23

13 Feb '23

Had a request from Neil Cherry today for a phone in the makerspace in case of emergency. The numbers for the CDL are: * 732-456-5001 Studio * 732-456-5013 Classroom * 732-456-5029 Workshop e911 info below: DID/CallerID: 7324565001 Full Name: Computer Deconstruction Lab Street #: 2201 Street Name: Marconi Address Type: Building Address Type #: 9059 City: Wall State/Province: NJ Country: US Zip/Postal Code: 07719 Language: EN Other Information: End of building closest from Monmouth Boulevard. DID/CallerID: 7324565013 Full Name: Computer Deconstruction Lab Street #: 2201 Street Name: Marconi Address Type: Building Address Type #: 9059 City: Wall State/Province: NJ Country: US Zip/Postal Code: 07719 Language: End of building furthest from Monmouth Boulevard. DID/CallerID: 7324565029 Full Name: Computer Deconstruction Lab Street #: 2201 Street Name: Marconi Address Type: Building Address Type #: 9059 City: Wall State/Province: NJ Country: US Zip/Postal Code: 07719 Language: EN Other Information: Workshop (center of building) Martin Flynn

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Breakfast tomorrow for repair workshop
by Jeffrey Brace 12 Feb '23

12 Feb '23

9AM Breakfast at Princess Maria Diner -- ========================================= Jeff Brace VCF National Board Member Chairman & Vice President Vintage Computer Festival East Showrunner Vintage Computer Federation is a 501c3 charity https://vcfed.org/ <http://www.vcfed.org/> jeffrey(a)vcfed.org

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TRS-80 Model 4P - Did I Leave it at the Workshop?
by Alexander Jacocks 11 Feb '23

11 Feb '23

All, I can’t figure out what I did with my Model 4P after the last workshop. Did anyone see it? It seems an odd thing to have misplaced. Thanks! - Alex

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OT - air lines in the makerspace
by Martin Flynn 11 Feb '23

11 Feb '23

Was discussion quite a while back about installing the air compressor in the furnace room (for noise control) and running an air line through the attic with drops / legs in the makerspace where required With the deployment of the de-soldering and rework stations (which run on external compressed air) we will need to revisit this, and decide on where the connections will need to be, and if any drops will be deployed in the classroom area for use during VCF workshops. Direct replies on location recommendations preferred to keep the noise level down. Martin Flynn

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OT - air lines in the makerspace
by Martin Flynn 11 Feb '23

11 Feb '23

Blind cross-post to vcf and cdl lists: Was discussion quite a while back about installing the air compressor in the furnace room (for noise control) and running an air line through the attic with drops / legs in the makerspace where required With the deployment of the de-soldering and rework stations (which run on external compressed air) we will need to revisit this, and decide on where the connections will need to be, and if any drops will be deployed in the classroom area for use during VCF workshops. Direct replies on location recommendations preferred to keep the noise level down. Martin Flynn

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OT - Please reply directly
by Martin Flynn 10 Feb '23

10 Feb '23

Cross posted to VCF and CDL: CDL has an opportunity to acquire an HP HP8924C RF test set for the radio bench We have compatible serial and GPIB interfaces from the previously acquired HP logic analyzer. Please reply off list yes or no to proceed Martin A Flynn / W2RWJ Computer Deconstruction Laboratory 2201 Marconi Road Wall Township, NJ 07719 Tel: +01 732-456-5001 Email: martin.flynn(a)compdecon.org Online: www.compdecon.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/compdecon/

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Dinner reservations for tomorrow (Repair Workshop)
by Jeffrey Brace 10 Feb '23

10 Feb '23

This message is for those going out to dinner to Patrick's Grill tomorrow at the repair workshop I only have 9 people signed up so far. I made the reservations just now. It was a choice between 6PM and 8PM so I chose 8PM. Please let me know if there are any questions or problems. If you want to go and are not on the dinner signup list. <https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1uPXhGjZlyJJ7xuD7sBoplteTDLXAa34svEz…>, then let me know quickly tonight and I will add to the reservation. Don't know if I can add any more tomorrow. ========================================= Jeff Brace VCF National Board Member Chairman & Vice President Vintage Computer Festival East Showrunner Vintage Computer Federation is a 501c3 charity https://vcfed.org/ <http://www.vcfed.org/> jeffrey(a)vcfed.org

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] 2/11-2/12 Repair Workshop Weekend -- I could use help with some SCSI disk data recovery
by Dan FitzGerald 10 Feb '23

10 Feb '23

Jonathan, I tried using ddrescue last night, and was able to get a disk image. But both Linux and System 7.5.5 (under Basilisk II) say that they can't find a filesystem on the image. I know that the drive is marginal, however I can actually boot the SE from it, so I am confused as to why Basilisk II and Linux are saying that there is no readable filesystem on it. Regards, Dan FitzGerald They/Them/Theirs http://www.vm.ibm.com/devpages/dfitzger -----Original Message----- From: Jonathan Sturges via vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> Reply-To: vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> To: vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> Cc: Jonathan Sturges <jonathansturges(a)yahoo.com> Subject: Re: [vcf-midatlantic] 2/11-2/12 Repair Workshop Weekend -- I could use help with some SCSI disk data recovery Date: 02/10/2023 12:36:08 PM

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] 2/11-2/12 Repair Workshop Weekend -- I could use help with some SCSI disk data recovery
by Jonathan Sturges 10 Feb '23

10 Feb '23

> I will be coming to the Repair Workshop both days this weekend, and I > am bringing some Macintosh SCSI hard drives that need data recovery. > ?Are any of the folks who are coming able to bring their tools/knowhow > for imaging misbehaving SCSI disks? If the disks still spin, ddrescue is as good as anything for imaging marginal drives. If you also want to do data recovery from the saved images, I've personally had better luck with COTS tools than open source. I can recommend Disk Drill PRO. -Jonathan

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Dinner on Saturday at the Repair Workshop this weekend.
by Jeffrey Brace 10 Feb '23

10 Feb '23

If you didn't already let me know, then let me know NOW!!! if you are going to dinner with us. HERE IS THE INFO: *Saturday Night Dinner at 7PM*: SIGNUP FOR DINNER RESERVATIONS HERE <https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1uPXhGjZlyJJ7xuD7sBoplteTDLXAa34svEz…> * Patrick's Grille : https://patricksgrillenc.com/ ADDRESS: 62 W Sylvania Ave, Neptune City, NJ 07753 Please let me know if you are coming, I'm making reservations tomorrow Friday and need a headcount. ========================================= Jeff Brace VCF National Board Member Chairman & Vice President Vintage Computer Festival East Showrunner Vintage Computer Federation is a 501c3 charity https://vcfed.org/ <http://www.vcfed.org/> jeffrey(a)vcfed.org

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2/11-2/12 Repair Workshop Weekend -- I could use help with some SCSI disk data recovery
by Dan FitzGerald 09 Feb '23

09 Feb '23

Folks, I will be coming to the Repair Workshop both days this weekend, and I am bringing some Macintosh SCSI hard drives that need data recovery. Are any of the folks who are coming able to bring their tools/knowhow for imaging misbehaving SCSI disks? Regards, Dan FitzGerald They/Them/Theirs http://www.vm.ibm.com/devpages/dfitzger

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Saturday 2/11 Dinner at Repair Workshop 7PM
by Jeffrey Brace 09 Feb '23

09 Feb '23

Let me know now if you want to be included in the group. I'm making reservations for Saturday night at Patrick's Grill. It is a great place that we tried out last month. The reservations have to be made the day before. I'm reserving for 16 people, so the first 16 that reserve on this list will be included. HERE IS THE INFO: *Saturday Night Dinner at 7PM*: SIGNUP FOR DINNER RESERVATIONS HERE <https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1uPXhGjZlyJJ7xuD7sBoplteTDLXAa34svEz…> * Patrick's Grille : https://patricksgrillenc.com/ ADDRESS: 62 W Sylvania Ave, Neptune City, NJ 07753 Please let me know if you are coming, I'm making reservations tomorrow Friday and need a headcount. ========================================= Jeff Brace VCF National Board Member Chairman & Vice President Vintage Computer Festival East Showrunner Vintage Computer Federation is a 501c3 charity https://vcfed.org/ <http://www.vcfed.org/> jeffrey(a)vcfed.org

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Retro Directory
by Christian Liendo 08 Feb '23

08 Feb '23

Retro Directory - A website to find retro arcades, shops, museums, clubs and more VCF is in here https://retro.directory/

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February Repair Workshop info (2/11 & 2/12)
by Jeffrey Brace 08 Feb '23

08 Feb '23

Signup for February 2023 Repair Workshop here: February 2023 Repair Workshop Signup Sheet <https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1TIBIkSTCDako3Cl6coDLsaT-H7_kX_jgKb2…> Spaces are first come first serve to the CDL space. Limited space available. Sign up to guarantee a space in your preferred area!!! *DATES*: February 11 & 12, 2023 *LOCATIONS:* InfoAge: 2201 Marconi Road, Wall Township, NJ Building 9059 (CDL Hackerspace - Formerly IXR) TIME: Saturday START time == 10 A.M. END time == 11PM. Sunday START time == 10 A.M. and END == 5 P.M. *COST:* - $15 per person, PER day. This money goes to InfoAge and CDL. - $25 per night for those wanting to stay overnight (Money goes to InfoAge). Please pay ME upon arrival. Cash or PayPal is acceptable as payment. Ask ahead of time if you need to use a credit card. *OVERNIGHT*: Bring your own pillow, blankets, soap etc. We provide a bed frame and an uncovered mattress. There are showers and a kitchen for your use. - You can pay via PayPal to paypal(a)vcfed.org. or to me via cash or credit card in person. *EQUIPMENT:* - VCF will provide a table and you can use any available electrical outlet. - Bring your own tools, power strips, power cords, and supplies etc. - If you need particular tools that you don't own or particular parts, please post to the list for those going. They may have what you need. Let them know ahead of time. - Let everyone know what project you are working on ahead of time to inspire collaboration. *DRINKS*: You should bring your own. We have a refrigerator in CDL to keep them cold. VCF will buy some water and soft drinks for member use. *FOOD*: *Saturday Night Dinner at 7PM*: SIGNUP FOR DINNER RESERVATIONS HERE <https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1uPXhGjZlyJJ7xuD7sBoplteTDLXAa34svEz…> * Patrick's Grille : https://patricksgrillenc.com/ ADDRESS: 62 W Sylvania Ave, Neptune City, NJ 07753 Please let me know if you are coming, I'm making reservations tomorrow (Thursday) and need a headcount. *Sunday Morning*: OB Diner at 9AM *PARKING:* Park in the main parking lot, unless you are unloading. Don't park on the lawn. QUESTIONS? PHONE: ( 7 3 2 ) 7 2 2 - 5 0 1 5 EMAIL: repairworkshops AT vcfed DOT org Have fun everyone! ========================================= Jeff Brace VCF National Board Member Chairman & Vice President Vintage Computer Festival East Show-runner VCF Mid-Atlantic Executive Director Vintage Computer Federation is a 501c3 charity http://www.vcfed.org/ jeffrey(a)vcfed.org

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Recommendation for a hot air rework station?
by Neil Cherry 07 Feb '23

07 Feb '23

I'm looking to get a hot air rework station for the CDL. I don't need the best but I do want to get a decent station. Any recommendations? Is used a good idea or would it just be a good idea to get new? This was triggered by me having a Microbox II retro board order. Seems the parts are really fine like grains of ground pepper. I think I'm gonna need a bigger magnifier! ;-) -- Linux Home Automation Neil Cherry kd2zrq(a)linuxha.com http://www.linuxha.com/ Main site http://linuxha.blogspot.com/ My HA Blog Author of: Linux Smart Homes For Dummies KD2ZRQ

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Recommendation for a hot air rework station?
by Dave McGuire 07 Feb '23

07 Feb '23

Well one doesn't generally use one's fingers when doing surface mount work. -Dave On February 7, 2023 12:59:18 PM Sentrytv via vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > ---------- > Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Recommendation for a hot air rework station? > From: Sentrytv sentrytv(a)yahoo.com > Date: Feb 7, 12:59 PM > To: vcf-midatlantic vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org > > And smaller fingers > > Sent from: > My extremely complicated, hand held electronic device. > >> On Feb 7, 2023, at 12:49 PM, Neil Cherry via vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: >> >> ?I'm looking to get a hot air rework station for the CDL. I don't need the best but I >> do want to get a decent station. Any recommendations? Is used a good idea or would it >> just be a good idea to get new? >> >> This was triggered by me having a Microbox II retro board order. Seems the parts are >> really fine like grains of ground pepper. I think I'm gonna need a bigger magnifier! >> ;-) >> >> -- >> Linux Home Automation Neil Cherry kd2zrq(a)linuxha.com >> http://www.linuxha.com/ Main site >> http://linuxha.blogspot.com/ My HA Blog >> Author of: Linux Smart Homes For Dummies KD2ZRQ -- Dave McGuire, AK4HZ New Kensington, PA

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Important Repair Workshop Info
by Jeffrey Brace 07 Feb '23

07 Feb '23

CDL had a $500 Gas bill this month. CDL is continuing to tighten up the building to conserve energy, however they need help: - During workshop and VCF events *please* close the doors - Do not prop them open longer than necessary. - Ask me for the proper operating temperature and temperature to leave it when finished.

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First Video Game?
by Duane Craps 07 Feb '23

07 Feb '23

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bertie_the_Brain -- DuaneCraps sdɐɹɔ ǝuɐnp

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Morven Museum of Bell Labs ends Feb 9
by Jeffrey Jonas 07 Feb '23

07 Feb '23

The Morven Museum & Garden in Princeton is a lovely little museum particularly for their well curated and amazingly well presented exhibit about Bell Labs. What makes me cry is how Bell labs should have continued as the nation's leading R&D community, not a post-mortem of a dead company. As Dave McGuire would say: "the suits" ruined it all. Even Dan Roganti's original t-shirt poked fun at that with "Alcatel sucks" on the building. Bill Inderrieden and I visited the museum and had a grand time. Instead of just signs, the walls were painted with photos and narrative. The commentary is very fair and well balanced. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/monthly-tours-of-ma-bell-the-mother-of-inventi… Tours of Ma Bell: The Mother of Invention in New Jersey NOV 10, 2022 \xe2\x80\x93 FEB 9, 2023 1:00 PM Join one of Morven\xe2\x80\x99s engaging docents for an interactive tour of our current exhibition Ma Bell: The Mother of Invention in New Jersey. The final tour will be offered on Thursday, February 9, 2023.

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] OT: HA! I can't believe this is a REAL product!
by Jonathan Sturges 04 Feb '23

04 Feb '23

Date: Fri, 3 Feb 2023 11:16:22 -0500 (EST) From: Ethan O'Toole <telmnstr(a)757.org> To: Martin Flynn via vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> Subject: Re: [vcf-midatlantic] OT: HA! I can't believe this is a REAL product! >> Insurance claim was denied in its entirety > I mean the business model of an insurance company is to collect money > inbound and try any way possible to refuse payment so they can keep it. Even casino slots often pay back at a rate of 96%.

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VCF-MA Steering Committee Public Update
by Jeff Salzman 04 Feb '23

04 Feb '23

The VCF-MA Steering Committee last met on Jan 24, 2023. Here are a few highlights of our discussion: *Collections Management* The organization is looking to adopt a tried-and-true system to manage the warehouse collection. Our partners at System Source use an open-source software known as CollectiveAccess, and we are looking at adapting that software for our needs. *Organizational E-Mail Addresses* If you ever get assigned a vcfed.org email address due to your participation in an elected position, or for other required organizational appointments, it is the decision of the national board to discontinue your access to that email address two weeks after your appointment ends. That email address will then be forwarded to a catch-all e-mail address in order to maintain contact with any external resources you established for organizational business needs. Although it's best practice to only use a vcfed.org email for organizational communications only, the two week period is a courtesy to give you time to "disconnect" yourself from any personal contacts established while using that email address. *IBM 1130* The IBM 1130 restoration project has been delayed about one month due to Carl Claunch's requirements. Carl is the person VCF-MA commissioned to do our restoration. *Docents* Docents are being asked to check that the VCF-MA warehouse doors are locked when they leave for the day. This is a prudent measure to protect organizational assets. *YouTube* Corey Cohen has been posting more videos to the VCF-MA YouTube channel. Please check them out! Vintage Computer Federation - YouTube <https://www.youtube.com/@vcfederation/videos> Sincerely, Jeff Salzman Chairman VCF-MA Steering Committee

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OT: HA! I can't believe this is a REAL product!
by Chris Fala 03 Feb '23

03 Feb '23

https://www.newegg.com/p/17B-0461-00011?Item=9SIAUSRHHU3805

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Next Repair Workshop February 11 & 12, 2023
by Jeffrey Brace 02 Feb '23

02 Feb '23

Next repair workshop at InfoAge is February 11 & 12, 2023 Signup here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1TIBIkSTCDako3Cl6coDLsaT-H7_kX_jgKb2… ========================================= Jeff Brace VCF National Board Member Chairman & Vice President Vintage Computer Festival East Showrunner Vintage Computer Federation is a 501c3 charity https://vcfed.org/ <http://www.vcfed.org/> jeffrey(a)vcfed.org

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Ultimate Power Solution
by Herbert Johnson 02 Feb '23

02 Feb '23

Thanks to Dave Shevett for clarifying that this supposed product is a work of fiction and Photoshop. Without going on about it, I do not care for a class of post which amounts to a joke that people keep extending in reply. I don't care for this joke in particular. I went to the suggested home-page. The first thing I saw, was a supposed Macintosh on a supposed desktop - entirely fake. Vintage Mac models can be hard to identify sometimes, so it's an annoying poke-in-the-eye about that. Discussing the art of this artist, would be off-topic. As is, disinformation, however amusing it appears to be. And blowing up capacitors deliberately, is not fun to me, someone who does repair work. So, all in all, I was unhappy with this particular thread. While I could simply ignore it, it seems to me that if threads are either ignored or appreciated, that becomes approval. But "yes" is not the absence of "no". So I vote "no" on this thread. regards, Herb Johnson > On Wed, Feb 1, 2023 at 9:59 AM Jeff S wrote: > >> Found the perfect solution for the limited power taps for VCF and the >> Workshops. No more fighting... except when trying to exit the building in time to save >> yourself. >> >> Power Strip >> <https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FnxAJ2xXwAEXPFZ?format=jpg&name=medium> > Dave Shevett writes: > This is the work of Dana Sibera, aka 'nanoraptor' - she does some amazing > mockups of 'machines / equipment that never existed' > https://bitbang.social/@NanoRaptor/109769185815969896 > > Highly recommend looking at her work. > > Here's her home page > https://bitbang.social/@NanoRaptor > > -- Herbert R. Johnson, New Jersey in the USA http://www.retrotechnology.com OR .net preserve, recover, restore 1970's computing email: hjohnson AT retrotechnology DOT com or try later herbjohnson AT comcast DOT net

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Free Apple IIGS, drives, books - come and get
by Bill Degnan 02 Feb '23

02 Feb '23

I have an Apple IIGS with a bad power supply. No monitor. Disk drives, untested. Lots of books and manuals.....all free. First come first served. 126 S. Union St. Kennett Sq., PA 19350 No I will not ship or bring with me to the next event. There are other free items in the Kennett Classic free pile. Bursting at the seams at the moment. If you take everything I will throw in a free Commodore poster. Will post pics to Twitter @billdeg Bill

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] WD 1001-05
by Neil Cherry 02 Feb '23

02 Feb '23

Seems Herb and you are interested in the board. So far I don't know what it's worth and if it works. Last time I used it was in the early 90s with the Atari ST. I don't know what happened to the Atari interface. I think I also have the Cisco/AT&T BRouter and Cisco ACS. -- Linux Home Automation Neil Cherry kd2zrq(a)linuxha.com http://www.linuxha.com/ Main site http://linuxha.blogspot.com/ My HA Blog Author of: Linux Smart Homes For Dummies KD2ZRQ

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Ultimate Power Solution
by Ian Litchfield 01 Feb '23

01 Feb '23

I feel like we would need atleast 6 of those for our uses. I say get one just to test it On Wed, Feb 1, 2023 at 10:37 Sentrytv via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > Plug in too many USB 3 devices and you may have a fire! > > Sent from: > My extremely complicated, hand held electronic device. > > > On Feb 1, 2023, at 10:15 AM, Neil Cherry via vcf-midatlantic < > vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > > On 2/1/23 09:58, Jeff S via vcf-midatlantic wrote: > >> Found the perfect solution for the limited power taps for VCF and the > >> Workshops. > >> No more fighting... except when trying to exit the building in time to > save > >> yourself. 😁😎 > >> Power Strip > >> <https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FnxAJ2xXwAEXPFZ?format=jpg&name=medium> > > > > 900W/4A > > "Power outlet for Home, Office, Dorm, Gamin Room, Fire." > > > > At least there truth in that advertisement. ;-) > > > > Please tell me that thing is not real and that someone had fun with > > Photoshop. > > > > -- > > Linux Home Automation Neil Cherry kd2zrq(a)linuxha.com > > http://www.linuxha.com/ Main site > > http://linuxha.blogspot.com/ My HA Blog > > Author of: Linux Smart Homes For Dummies KD2ZRQ > >

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Ultimate Power Solution
by Jeff S 01 Feb '23

01 Feb '23

Found the perfect solution for the limited power taps for VCF and the Workshops. No more fighting... except when trying to exit the building in time to save yourself. 😁😎 Power Strip <https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FnxAJ2xXwAEXPFZ?format=jpg&name=medium>

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Vox Media's Lisa Article
by Christian Liendo 31 Jan '23

31 Jan '23

I guess they didn't get their hands on one https://www.theverge.com/c/23570610/apple-lisa-computer-legacy

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Media Vision Sound Card/CD interface
by Neil Cherry 31 Jan '23

31 Jan '23

Anyone interested in a PC Media Vision Sound Card. last used ??? Yes, I've been going through my stuff looking for my EPROM burner manuals. I'm finding all sort of interesting 3COM network cards (16 bit), serial/parallel/ Game/FDC cards (16 bit). I still haven't found my second manual (grrr). Did find one of my 6809 card I worked on in the 1980's :-) -- Linux Home Automation Neil Cherry kd2zrq(a)linuxha.com http://www.linuxha.com/ Main site http://linuxha.blogspot.com/ My HA Blog Author of: Linux Smart Homes For Dummies KD2ZRQ

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WD 1001-05
by Neil Cherry 30 Jan '23

30 Jan '23

I have a WD 1001-05 (no a PC board). Anyone interested in buying this? Here's a picture of it: http://www.bitsavers.org/pdf/westernDigital/WD100x/WD1001-05/WD1001-05.jpg Last used in the 1990's with my Atari ST. -- Linux Home Automation Neil Cherry kd2zrq(a)linuxha.com http://www.linuxha.com/ Main site http://linuxha.blogspot.com/ My HA Blog Author of: Linux Smart Homes For Dummies KD2ZRQ

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it's new to me: eject a floppy in zero-g
by Jeffrey Jonas 30 Jan '23

30 Jan '23

It turns out touchpads won over trackball or mouse in 0-g. Scott Manley shows Ejecting A Floppy Disk in Zero-G - Why NASA Flew A Mac on the Space Shuttle https://youtu.be/99pXlcakHdE -- jeff jonas

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Ideas for VCF 2023 t-shirts
by Jeffrey Brace 30 Jan '23

30 Jan '23

I'm starting the process for ideas and a design for this year's t-shirt. If anyone has any ideas that they want to throw to us, then please do so by replying to this email either publicly or privately. Keep in mind that we may not use your idea, so don't feel disappointed if we choose another. One t-shirt that was really popular was the "dragon" t-shirt which had the IBM 5150 running Adventure and a dragon on the side. Perhaps a similar iconic creature would be popular with people. Thanks! ========================================= Jeff Brace VCF National Board Member Chairman & Vice President Vintage Computer Festival East Showrunner Vintage Computer Federation is a 501c3 charity https://vcfed.org/ <http://www.vcfed.org/> jeffrey(a)vcfed.org

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Ideas for VCF 2023 t-shirts
by Chris Fala 28 Jan '23

28 Jan '23

That idea has potential. I like it. On Sat, Jan 28, 2023 at 2:04 PM Sentrytv via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > How about a Rube Goldberg design using a chip and supporting components.? > > Sent from: > My extremely complicated, hand held electronic device. > > > On Jan 28, 2023, at 1:57 PM, Bill Degnan via vcf-midatlantic < > vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > > > > I could just be a simple Blinky light circuit, just to make comment to > the > > inderlying.technology that supports our hobby. How about that old 6502 > > test circuit?. Very easy to make into a shirt design dors anyone here > > knownwhat Inmean? I could draw it if anyone not sure > > > >> On Sat, Jan 28, 2023, 6:48 AM Jeff S via vcf-midatlantic < > >> vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > >> > >> The 74S181 is a remarkable chip in computing history, but I feel it may > be > >> too esoteric on a t-shirt if we were make it the theme of the t-shirt. > >> > >> If the schematic was used as a generic graphic, along with a VCF slogan > or > >> something, people might easily understand it as "something about > >> computing." If we called it what it is on the shirt, it'll probably > >> generate questions like, "why this?", As opposed to the more common, > "What > >> is this?" > >> > >> Questions from the public are good, but questions from a confused public > >> are not as good. Unless we have exhibits or a show theme about the > >> historical significance of the 74S181, then it's schematic graphic > wouldn't > >> work as a t-shirt graphic focused on the chip itself. It might actually > >> hurt t-shirt sales. If you showed one of our average visitors a labeled > >> picture of the 74S181 and an IBM PC, and asked them which one they would > >> buy as a t-shirt, what do you believe they will choose? > >> > >> Think of it like this... why did we put a Commodore 64 graphic on a > t-shirt > >> before, instead of a schematic or block diagram of its VIC-II chip? The > >> latter is a significant chip in computing history, but people will more > >> readily recognize a computer more than a specific chip. > >> > >> I first wasn't wholly set on suggesting an IBM PC as the t-shirt > graphic, > >> but good points and arguments were made in this thread about doing so. > >> Either way, the t-shirt graphic should be something more readily > recognized > >> by a passing viewer AND be historically significant this year. In lieu > of > >> any other ideas, the IBM PC would be a better choice in my opinion. > >> > >> The 74S181 sure would be a great exhibit of historical significance if > >> someone needed an exhibit idea. 🙂 > >> > >> Jeff Salzman > >> > >> On Sat, Jan 28, 2023, 1:20 AM Douglas Crawford via vcf-midatlantic < > >> vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > >> > >>> > >>> > >>> On 1/27/2023 9:49 PM, Dave McGuire via vcf-midatlantic wrote: > >>>> On 1/27/23 21:20, Douglas Crawford via vcf-midatlantic wrote: > >>>>> One working circuit idea: > >>>>> I just was researching the TI ALU that some mini computers used > >>>>> prior to microprocesses, 74S181. It was pretty influential. > >>>>> The logic diagram could work as a graphic to wear. > >>> > >> > >

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(off topic) - options for smaller than 19" receiver/amp for multiple RCA connections?
by John Heritage 28 Jan '23

28 Jan '23

Hey folks, Just wondering - I have multiple vintage devices sharing an old 19" Onkyo receiver. It works great but takes up a lot of desk space. If I replaced it with a smaller amp (that I could mount under a desk) what are some options for hooking up multiple RCA cables and switching between them? Would appreciate links to example devices. (Fwiw - currently I keep an Amiga, an ST, and a Sega Genesis attached but only use sound on one at a time. May add a 4th device later). If you're linking something with an amp (which is cool) my power requirements aren't huge. 40w RMS would be ideal. Thanks! John

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Help with Advertising VCF East 2023
by Jeffrey Brace 28 Jan '23

28 Jan '23

If you would like to help me advertise VCF East 2023, then please let me know and update this Google Sheet: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1bTUD823vqyATavVYWGs8k5fdYBQRdk6cIUR… Thanks! ========================================= Jeff Brace VCF National Board Member Chairman & Vice President Vintage Computer Festival East Showrunner Vintage Computer Federation is a 501c3 charity https://vcfed.org/ <http://www.vcfed.org/> jeffrey(a)vcfed.org

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Updated VCF East exhibitors list
by Jeffrey Brace 28 Jan '23

28 Jan '23

I had some time tonight. I updated the VCF East 2023 Exhibitor List. There are 20 exhibitors so far. We still have plenty of room for exhibits. Deadline is March 24 for exhibits. Keep them coming! Thanks! On Thu, Jan 26, 2023 at 12:43 PM Peter Fletcher via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > > I had a friend ask me about attending VCF East this year and wanted a list > of what to expect from the exhibitors. I pointed him to > https://vcfed.org/events/vintage-computer-festival-east/vcf-east-exhibits/ > but there are only two exhibits listed which I assume is not up to date. > > Is there a current list I can show him? > > Thanks! > > -Pete > >

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1986 Matrix Film Recorder
by Jeffrey Brace 28 Jan '23

28 Jan '23

Someone contacted me about help with diagnosing a problem with the electronics of a 1986 Matrix Film Recorder. They live near Montclair, NJ. If anyone is interested in helping out, then please contact me off list. Thanks! ========================================= Jeff Brace VCF National Board Member Chairman & Vice President Vintage Computer Festival East Showrunner Vintage Computer Federation is a 501c3 charity https://vcfed.org/ <http://www.vcfed.org/> jeffrey(a)vcfed.org

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Updated VCF East exhibitors list
by Jeffrey Brace 28 Jan '23

28 Jan '23

Hello Pete, Sorry for the delay. I've been busy. I will update the list by this weekend. I needed to process the exhibits, approve the exhibits, check the description, etc. Jeff On Thu, Jan 26, 2023 at 12:43 PM Peter Fletcher via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > > I had a friend ask me about attending VCF East this year and wanted a list > of what to expect from the exhibitors. I pointed him to > https://vcfed.org/events/vintage-computer-festival-east/vcf-east-exhibits/ > but there are only two exhibits listed which I assume is not up to date. > > Is there a current list I can show him? > > Thanks! > > -Pete > >

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] x86 question (was:Ideas for VCF 2023 t-shirts)
by Bill Degnan 28 Jan '23

28 Jan '23

As everyone knows in the mid 80's companies making home/small business computers fell under huge pressure to produce IBM compatibles or face going out of business. IBM totally dominated the enitre computer market (PC, Mini, Mainframe) then. There were exceptions of course. 8-bit home computers that were cheap survived, early high-end workstations, desktop publishing machines, etc. Look up the marketing info you will see what I mean. Fast forward to 1997 or so, when "vintage computing" as we know it today started, people wanted to focus on the computers that came before the IBM PC. IT was kind of a rebellion against how boring modern computers at the time had become. In particular interest was the homebrew era (73-79) stuff and the computers by companies who went out of business due to IBM market dominance. Add in the home gaming machines and you have "vintage 1997 vintage computing". That's why Commodore, Atari, Sinclair, etc. produced in the 80's were "OK" but the IBM PC was not. If you wanted to do an exhibit at an early VCF, the peer pressure at the time was to exhibit things like the SOL-20, Altair, RCA Cosmac Elf, etc. Stuff from Byte magazines in 1975 were the show stoppers. There was an equal contingent of cool DEC hardware. Basically the culture was "anything but IBM because IBM made computers boring and corporate" IBM mainframe hardware was OK though. Each subsdequent VCF year brought more and more Commodore, Atari, Tandy and Apple stuff. Today these manufacturers make up a majority of the shows. "vintage 2023 vintage computing" is often dominated by 8-bit hardware, Amiga, MAC, SGI, NeXT, stuff like that. DEC and S-100 systems are getting quite rare in VCF's now, but there are the dihard exhibits of these. And of course this is just a generalization, there are always rare and interesting things from foreign lands, mods, etc. The 30th anniversary of the IBM PC was I think the first time there was an IBM PC exhibit, and it only contained the very first models, CP/M, etc. On Fri, Jan 27, 2023 at 11:11 AM Sentrytv via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > There are so many people out there with IBM and compatibles that are from > the early 80s. > They really should be considered vintage as well as “retro” > > Sent from: > My extremely complicated, hand held electronic device. > > > On Jan 27, 2023, at 10:39 AM, Jeff Galinat via vcf-midatlantic < > vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > > > > I have heard the argument you describe. The x86 PC thing is something I > > never understood at all. The IBM PC was released in 1981 and the XT was > > released in 1983 both predating the Mac. > > I just don’t get it. > > Jeff Galinat > > > >> On Fri, Jan 27, 2023 at 4:39 AM Jeff S via vcf-midatlantic < > >> vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > >> > >> > >> The IBM XT would work, too, but there's still that hanging argument that > >> x86 PC systems will never be considered "vintage" in any way. > >> > >> > >

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Seeking Applesauce FDC testimonials - museum use
by Dave McGuire 28 Jan '23

28 Jan '23

Ok. That's a tough nut to crack. -Dave On 1/27/23 11:59, drummy wrote: > The Univac tapes are 7 track. > > > > Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone > > > -------- Original message -------- > From: Dave McGuire via vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> > Date: 1/27/23 11:41 AM (GMT-05:00) > To: vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> > Cc: Dave McGuire <mcguire(a)neurotica.com> > Subject: Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Seeking Applesauce FDC testimonials - > museum use > > On 1/27/23 11:40, Douglas Crawford via vcf-midatlantic wrote: > > I welcome a bit of illumination to help me form > > a vision of the totality of the problems. > > On the tape subject, one practical need I'd like to > > crack this year is archiving the UNIVAC 1219 tapes. > > Lets start a new thread on tapes if anyone has more to > > offer at this time. > > We do a lot of tape archiving at LSSM, and can help with some of this. > > Are the Univac's tapes 7-track, or 9? > > -Dave > > -- > Dave McGuire, AK4HZ > New Kensington, PA > -- Dave McGuire, AK4HZ New Kensington, PA

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Seeking Applesauce FDC testimonials
by Douglas Crawford 28 Jan '23

28 Jan '23

I'm wondering how comprehensive a solution it has become and how well it works on all supported formats. If anyone recommends it from first hand experience for doing all the disk formats that it is supposed do, please contact me off list. (I have done disk image management with all the varied tools but if Applesause does it all well with one package I may go this way for the museum and warehouse use. I need to know before I set up all the old stand-byes to support our disk imaging) - Doug Crawford VCF Museum Mgr

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Seeking Applesauce FDC testimonials - museum use
by David Ryskalczyk 27 Jan '23

27 Jan '23

The Applesauce is the only option that has a very easy-to-use GUI that can easily be taught to people who are not familiar or comfortable with command-line. It also has very good support from the developer. As far as I am aware, it is the only device capable of writing copy-protected disks with advanced forms of copy protection such as spiral tracking, though that part is an advanced feature that requires an understanding of copy protection and some manual analysis to mark up start- and stop-write markers. The Applesauce also has a fast imager that is extremely useful for data recovery of non-copy-protected disks, as it minimizes the time that the disk is being read. Additionally, for most formats the Applesauce software is capable of read-only parsing of the filesystem and file extraction. This functionality is leveraged for verification of data in the fast imager. Applesauce (hardware and software) does require a relatively modern Mac as its host computer. For some that has been a roadblock. The other available options are: Kryoflux — extremely expensive institutional license would be required (multiple thousands of dollars per year), potential legal minefield with their institutional agreement (potentially forbidding the use of other options) Supercard Pro — Inexpensive, limited format support Greaseweazle — Inexpensive, open source, good product, CLI interface that is not all that easy to use. Would be highly recommended to have one or more for data recovery and advanced use FluxEngine — Open source, software works with Greaseweazle with no caveats, so it makes the Greaseweazle even more useful for data recovery and advanced use HxC Pauline — Expensive, open source, limited availability, no write support now or soon (they seem more interested in drive emulation) Legacy methods: ImageDisk, Anadisk, old hardware — these all rely on having working older hardware. ImageDisk is less flexible than Applesauce (or for that matter Greaseweazle) as it relies on the capabilities of the PC floppy disk controller, and Applesauce (or Greaseweazle) can write IMDs. As the needs here involve writing out new disks that will then be used in museum computers, the only other option here that is at all viable is the Greaseweazle — or one of the legacy methods. As VCF already has an Applesauce that can be used with single-sided single-density 5.25" disks and 3.5" disks, which would cover A list of formats supported by the Applesauce — likely out of date, more formats keep getting added — is here: https://applesaucefdc.com/what-is-applesauce/ Since Herb mentioned floppy replacement technology and that it comes and goes across periods of years, here is some feedback on that: As for floppy replacement technology, the go-to for PC-style interfaces is the FlashFloppy firmware for the Gotek floppy drive emulators, as well as improved Gotek clones. This firmware is open source and has wide format support. The other option is the HxC emulator firmware, which supports some additional formats and also runs on Gotek emulators, but is sold and is not open source. For other computers and floppy interfaces, it is really on a per-machine basis, so devices do come and go. David > On Jan 27, 2023, at 11:08 AM, Sentrytv via vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > > > From: Sentrytv <sentrytv(a)yahoo.com> > Subject: Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Seeking Applesauce FDC testimonials - museum use > Date: January 27, 2023 at 11:08:41 AM EST > To: vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> > > > Personally, maybe a Seminar / class on basics and then get into the details. > Getting to know the hardware, the capabilities, then actually doing some disk imaging and creating. > > Sent from: > My extremely complicated, hand held electronic device. > >> On Jan 27, 2023, at 10:33 AM, David Gesswein via vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: >> >> Would it be better if a couple people could cover the current options or in >> depth on just the Applesauce? >> >>> On Thu, Jan 26, 2023 at 04:40:41PM -0500, Douglas Crawford via vcf-midatlantic wrote: >>> Yep. Probably time to do that. >>> It was covered at VCF East classes some years. >>> Maybe time to do it again. >>> Could do it at a workshop too. >>> >>>> On 1/26/2023 3:29 PM, Sentrytv wrote: >>>> Hey here’s an idea. >>>> >>>> For those people who don’t know and are willing to learn about Applesauce and reading / writing old discs. >>>> >>>> How about having a Workshop/seminar on this topic and a having a full demonstration and class about it? >>>> >>>> Mike Rosen >>>> >>>> >>>> >>>> Sent from: >>>> My extremely complicated, hand held electronic device. >>>> >>>>> On Jan 26, 2023, at 3:23 PM, Douglas Crawford via vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: >>>>> >>>>> Follow up- >>>>> >>>>> David R. gave me a generous amount of time today on the phone >>>>> and its clear to me expanding our Applesauce >>>>> allow attachment of an IBM type 5 1/4" and 8" drives >>>>> will cover some high 90% of disk creating that we need >>>>> in the museum. It will provide a single method/user interface >>>>> that enable non-expert users to create needed media >>>>> from images on demand across most all the micros in the >>>>> museum- Apple, Atari, Amiga, PC, CP/M. >>>>> >>>>> I plan to get more familiar with the Applesause system >>>>> and the support facilities available. Soon I will >>>>> gather the upgrade and extra materials we would need >>>>> to account for everything to make the expanded system. >>>>> Following that, we will assemble the pieces and work up the >>>>> functional capabilities at workshops. >>>>> >>>>> FYI- >>>>> Media preservation/data recovery is a different effort >>>>> and will follow this effort. It would likely >>>>> be located in the warehouse. I anticipate using a similar >>>>> applesause system for as much as we can, and augment with >>>>> whatever other systems necessary things it cannot do. >>>>> Hopefully folks really interested in working this part >>>>> of the operation will be able to come forward for lending >>>>> expertise. >>>>> >>>>>> On 1/25/2023 7:04 PM, Alexander Jacocks wrote: >>>>>> Doug, >>>>>> AppleSauce is quite a flexible disk imaging and creating system. John Morris has expanded the tool far beyond its original purpose of Apple II disk management. >>>>>> I have used it to create disks of quite a number of formats, and find that it works as described, and is far easier to use than most other imaging tools. >>>>>> Additionally, John is quite receptive to requests for new formats and features. >>>>>> - Alex >>>>>>>> On Jan 25, 2023, at 2:03 PM, Douglas Crawford via vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: >>>>>>> >>>>>>> I'm wondering how comprehensive a solution it >>>>>>> has become and how well it works on all supported >>>>>>> formats. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> If anyone recommends it from first hand experience for >>>>>>> doing all the disk formats that it is supposed do, >>>>>>> please contact me off list. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> (I have done disk image management with all the varied >>>>>>> tools but if Applesause does it all well with one package >>>>>>> I may go this way for the museum and warehouse use. I >>>>>>> need to know before I set up all the old stand-byes to >>>>>>> support our disk imaging) >>>>>>> >>>>>>> - Doug Crawford >>>>>>> VCF Museum Mgr >>>> > > >

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Seeking Applesauce FDC testimonials
by Herbert Johnson 27 Jan '23

27 Jan '23

>> Douglas Crawford >> >> I'm wondering how comprehensive a solution it >> has become and how well it works on all supported >> formats. ... I may go this way for the museum .. My general observation of floppy replacement technology, is that it comes and goes over periods of years. I have a long view, so I get skeptical. If a developer gets tired of working on some tech (or worse becomes unavailable), what happens to support for problems and availability of the "product"? Tech that uses then-standard microcontrollers (or flavors of Arduinos) may be hard to obtain when that part goes out-of-support. At the least, you have to get spares while available, and source codes for any software. Morso, if you buy for several systems. I don't know this particular product. But I'm asking about long-term support for reasons stated. I'm curious what other think; perhaps several years is enough, enjoying buying something new every several years, etc. regards Herb -- Herbert R. Johnson, New Jersey in the USA http://www.retrotechnology.com OR .net preserve, recover, restore 1970's computing email: hjohnson AT retrotechnology DOT com or try later herbjohnson AT comcast DOT net

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