- vcf-midatlantic - lists.vcfed.org

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 19 Oct '17

19 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 19 Oct '17

19 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 16 Oct '17

16 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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Atari 800 lot in Chester
by Jason Howe 12 Oct '17

12 Oct '17

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/63079… --Jason -- Sent from my Android phone with K-9 Mail. Please excuse my brevity.

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Considering sale of Apple Lisa...
by William Sudbrink 12 Oct '17

12 Oct '17

Oh, one last thing to add, stored in cool dry basement since what? 1998 or maybe 1997. From: William Sudbrink [mailto:wh.sudbrink@gmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, October 11, 2017 9:39 PM To: 'vcf-midatlantic' Subject: RE: [vcf-midatlantic] Considering sale of Apple Lisa... Ok. For anyone holding their breath, it's a Lisa 2, not a 1. Oh well. Pictures here: http://wsudbrink.dyndns.org:8080/images/Lisa_Pics/ You can see close up shots of where the battery was removed. The only leak damage is very slight corrosion on some of the leads of the resistors and diodes in the immediate area. One condition note that I had forgotten is that somehow, a small hole was punched in the left shift key. This happened before I got it. As I said, I've never applied power, but mechanically, the key appears to work correctly. Things to note: All keyboard keys operate smoothly and easily. Mouse is clean, ball rolls nicely and button clicks sharply. Glare filter is clean and complete. Documentation appears complete. More than 20 user labeled diskettes. Original Apple branded power cord. Original Apple branded interface cable to Profile drive. Original Apple branded interface cable to printer. Apparently, it will boot into MacWorks XL or UNIX SYSTEM V. Bill Sudbrink --- This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. https://www.avast.com/antivirus

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Considering sale of Apple Lisa...
by William Sudbrink 11 Oct '17

11 Oct '17

Ok. For anyone holding their breath, it's a Lisa 2, not a 1. Oh well. Pictures here: http://wsudbrink.dyndns.org:8080/images/Lisa_Pics/ You can see close up shots of where the battery was removed. The only leak damage is very slight corrosion on some of the leads of the resistors and diodes in the immediate area. One condition note that I had forgotten is that somehow, a small hole was punched in the left shift key. This happened before I got it. As I said, I've never applied power, but mechanically, the key appears to work correctly. Things to note: All keyboard keys operate smoothly and easily. Mouse is clean, ball rolls nicely and button clicks sharply. Glare filter is clean and complete. Documentation appears complete. More than 20 user labeled diskettes. Original Apple branded power cord. Original Apple branded interface cable to Profile drive. Original Apple branded interface cable to printer. Apparently, it will boot into MacWorks XL or UNIX SYSTEM V. Bill Sudbrink --- This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. https://www.avast.com/antivirus

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Considering sale of Apple Lisa...
by William Sudbrink 11 Oct '17

11 Oct '17

Hi All, Sorry to do this here, but I'd really rather avoid boxing and shipping if I can get this to someone relatively local. I have an Apple Lisa computer that I've been "sitting on" for a long time and I'm coming to the conclusion that I will never do it justice. It is pretty complete, including an external hard drive, printer, software diskettes and documents. When I got it, the battery was leaking. I removed the battery and did some cleanup at the time, but nothing more. I've never applied power. Drop me a private message if you are interested and I will take some pictures. Sincerely, Bill Sudbrink PS: This is a little "weird" but I will trade the Lisa for the follow group of items: 1) One of Glitch's OSI memory boards (completely populated) 2) A Jade S-100 bus probe 3) A Percom SS-50 bus graphics card (I can give you details of how to acquire this but you have to buy a complete SWTPc system (which I don't need)) --- This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. https://www.avast.com/antivirus

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WTB: Large Quantity 6116 SRAMs
by systems_glitch 11 Oct '17

11 Oct '17

All, Before I spin the wheel on China relabels, does anyone have a bunch of 6116 type 2K x 8 static RAM ICs they want to sell? I have a few RAM boards that came to me with all of the SRAMs pulled, looking to try and repopulate them and get them going. Looking for 32 or more, don't care if they're used or pulls or whatever. Thanks, Jonathan

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] OT: housing?
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 10 Oct '17

10 Oct '17

Evan Koblentz via vcf-midatlantic writes: >NJ members, > >I need a new place to live by early November. Anyone have a spare room? > >(Please withhold non-constructive responses, I don't need advice or "I >wish I could help but", I need a place to live.) It's fun to stay at the YMCA... Sorry, not constructive but I couldn't resist.

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OT: housing?
by Evan Koblentz 10 Oct '17

10 Oct '17

NJ members, I need a new place to live by early November. Anyone have a spare room? (Please withhold non-constructive responses, I don't need advice or "I wish I could help but", I need a place to live.) ________________________________ 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-marked ICs
by Herb Johnson 10 Oct '17

10 Oct '17

http://www.retrotechnology.com/restore/chip_re-labeling.html There was some discussion in this list, about pulled vintage IC's being relabeled with different datecodes, brands, sometimes the wrong function. An ancient TTL chip was actually a touch-tone decoder chip - ONE IC! The depth of this problem, down to handfulls of chips selling for little, surprised me. So I gathered some details from the sources and participants, added discussion from another vintage list, and created a Web page to report on the issue and practices. My thanks for their permission and reportage. I'd welcome an email from any who stumble over this problem, when buying some part to fix a S-100 card or other vintage microcomputer. Herb Johnson -- Herbert R. Johnson, New Jersey in the USA http://www.retrotechnology.com OR .net

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Univac update
by Evan Koblentz 10 Oct '17

10 Oct '17

Duane Craps (from several states away) and Bill Dromgoole spent the weekend at our museum to work on the Univac. Here's a lightly edited version of their report: --------------- The 1219B is mostly operational It still has a few intermittent problems and a few we know about like a fan not operating below the memory chassis. We don’t have full communication with the 1540 tape drive but can transfer functional commands. We found a few bad cards in the tape drive but a lot more work is needed. We are able to load UPAK and diagnostic programs. We loaded and executed the memory test program but did not get a full 10 passes to get a good printout. After about 5 to 8 passes we get a program fault. We think due to overheating. We also were able to load and run “Hunt the Wumpus” game program. Here are some photos and videos. The second photo shows the broken computer with the main timing chain not working and some random lights lit. The eighth photo shows the parts at fault we found the first day. https://photos.app.goo.gl/Sauxna7fBda2OroU2 This link should work for anyone who thinks 640K is enough." ----------------- Related: Drom and Duane also served as museum docents. They reported a modest amount of visitors Saturday and tons of visitors Sunday. Said Drom: "It was so hectic I couldn’t give people as much attention as they wanted."

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FS: Processor Tech 2KRO 1702/5203 EPROM S-100 Board Repaired/Tested/Working
by systems_glitch 09 Oct '17

09 Oct '17

link: http://www.ebay.com/itm/272880791277 Processor Tech's early 2K ROM board, can be used with 1702/5203 type ROMs, including the slower 1702 variants (up to 4 wait states can be added). This board arrived with two shorted tantalum capacitors, which have been replaced. I changed addressing and wait state jumpers from soldered wire to machine pin sockets to save on board wear and tear. Tested with a 1702A pattern ROM (not included) in my IMSAI 8080 -- works fine! Thanks, Jonathan

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] vax scsi questions
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 09 Oct '17

09 Oct '17

william degnan via vcf-midatlantic writes: >> > > Minimum boot will not execute your system's SYSTARTUP_VMS (or *_V5 >because > you're living in the past). > > >ironic statement. In my case I just wanted to keep the license as-is >being all historical and all that I am. I have a VMS 7.2 or .3 on CD if >I really wanted to upgrade. > > >> That is, typically, where one would add MOUNT > commands to mount >other device volumes available to the system. When you > DO startup the >system minimally, there are many other aspects of *normal* > VMS startup >that are also bypassed. You can also modify the system startup > in >SYSGEN when you boot conversationally (>>> BOOT/[R5:]1) and define the > >startup to the OPA0: (SYSBOOT> SET/STARTUP OPA0:). WHen your system >boots, > it will leave you at the DCL prompt ($). No need to even know >the SYSTEM > password or login to the SYSTEM account. However, when you >do this, there > is no error handling! A error, even a typo >precipitating an unknown > command > syntax error, will kick you out >with no resolve other than to reboot. The > trick here is to issue a "$ >SPAWN" command first. This way, you'll have a > subprocess that, if it >terminates, will dump you back into the STARTUP pro- > cess. NOTE: If >you change the startup, you will want to change it back. > >Conversationally boot. SYSBOOT> SET/STARTUP SYS$SYSTEM:STARTUP.COM and >> SYSBOOT> CONTINUE. > > I ran this > >SYSBOOT> SET STARTUP_P1 = " " SYSBOOT> CONTINUE > >problem is now the computer always tries to boot into the network. I >need to re-establish a boot into DKB500. I thought this would work: > >SYSBOOT> SET STARTUP_P1 = "DKB500" > >but I am starting to think with V5 you need to do it this way: > >SYSBOOT> SET STARTUP_P1 = "DKB500:" (with the colon) > >On my systems, I MOUNT volumes in a procedure (I call >SYSTARTUP_MOUNT.COM) > that I run as a detached process. If it hangs up >on a MOUNT I can still, > eventually after STARTUP.COM and its scion >complete, login. > > That makes sense. I still have a ways to go to >make a safe system exposed to the outside WWW as well. One thing about >VMS, it let's you make catastrophic mistakes without protest. Very >flexible OS though. You know, there was a VMS I&DS manual in the consignment at one of the (last) VCF at InfoAge that probably would have got to the skip if I hadn't saved it from becoming landfill. You would be well suited to have a copy and read it. By the time you see SYSBOOT, you've already DECIDED what is the boot device. The boot device can he specified at the dead sargeant (>>> B DKB500) or you can specify to the console that it be the default device to be assumed when you issue the BOOT command. >>> SET BOOT DKB500 If nothing has been established, the console will attempt to boot off of the network (if a network card is present) and then off of the various devices. It's looking for VMB.EXE which is the primary bootstrap loader. Again, by the time VMB.EXE is executing (which maps much of VMS and SYSBOOT), it's far too late to try to change the boot volume. You know, if there was a real interest, I'd consider doing a VMS seminar at VCF but I've so many more things in my personal life's firepit at the moment to commit to yet another log on the fire.

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] vax scsi questions
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 09 Oct '17

09 Oct '17

william degnan via vcf-midatlantic writes: >>> > >>> >Guessing there us a way from the >>> prompt to change a drive's volune, >>> >but I did not find a way to do it. >>> >>> From the dead sergeant, you can select a boot device. Volume information >>> -- >>> label, structure, ownership, etc., etc. -- are manifestated in the >>> operating >>> system (VMS). If you had an issue with the device on SCSI id 2, you could >>> have physically removed that drive. The device would then not appear in >>> the >>> device configuration and the MOUNT command would fail: >>> >>> %MOUNT-F-NOSUCHDEV, no such device available >>> >>> Assuming there is no ON ERROR in the startup procedures, your system >>> should >>> then boot through the system startup to the point where you can login. At >>> that point, you can reconnect the device and issue: >>> >>> $ MCR SYSGEN AUTOCONFIGURE ALL >>> >>> Then, a: >>> >>> $ SHOW DEVICE D >>> >>> should show you your disk devices including the device at DKx200:. >>> >> >> >> >> >one last thing...I only had one bootable drive, and I could only get to the >$ prompt from the drive that was configured to mount and load some stuff >from the ID=2 drive. What you suggest above would work, but would still >have to have done what I did to get into minimal boot, etc. At least in >VMS 5 minimal boot does not mount nor include any other drive than the boot >drive in a $ show dev d. Minimum boot will not execute your system's SYSTARTUP_VMS (or *_V5 because you're living in the past). That is, typically, where one would add MOUNT commands to mount other device volumes available to the system. When you DO startup the system minimally, there are many other aspects of *normal* VMS startup that are also bypassed. You can also modify the system startup in SYSGEN when you boot conversationally (>>> BOOT/[R5:]1) and define the startup to the OPA0: (SYSBOOT> SET/STARTUP OPA0:). WHen your system boots, it will leave you at the DCL prompt ($). No need to even know the SYSTEM password or login to the SYSTEM account. However, when you do this, there is no error handling! A error, even a typo precipitating an unknown command syntax error, will kick you out with no resolve other than to reboot. The trick here is to issue a "$ SPAWN" command first. This way, you'll have a subprocess that, if it terminates, will dump you back into the STARTUP pro- cess. NOTE: If you change the startup, you will want to change it back. Conversationally boot. SYSBOOT> SET/STARTUP SYS$SYSTEM:STARTUP.COM and SYSBOOT> CONTINUE. On my systems, I MOUNT volumes in a procedure (I call SYSTARTUP_MOUNT.COM) that I run as a detached process. If it hangs up on a MOUNT I can still, eventually after STARTUP.COM and its scion complete, login.

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AOL keyword "RIP"
by Jeffrey Jonas 09 Oct '17

09 Oct '17

AIM, AOL's instant messaging service, is to shut down December 15 after 20 years of operation. I'm just re-tweeting this from hash-tag (something catchy but useless)

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FS: Very Early Bob Mullen S-100 Card Extender
by systems_glitch 09 Oct '17

09 Oct '17

link: http://www.ebay.com/itm/272880651747 This one just has initials, no actual Mullen name, but the PO Box address is the same. Unlike later Mullen cards, this one is just an extender -- no fuses, no logic probe, no prototype area. It uses a high quality 3VH50 mil-spec S-100 connector, which really grabs the inserted S-100 board. Previous owner applied labels with the S-100 pinout to the front and back. This extender is short enough to leave in with the chassis cover installed, so you don't have to pull it out every time you want to put the cover back on. My preferred style -- saves wear on motherboard S-100 connectors. Thanks, Jonathan

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] vax scsi questions
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 09 Oct '17

09 Oct '17

william degnan via vcf-midatlantic writes: >This all came up because I wanted to replace a drive, but the only >replacement I had avail was also ID 2 but a diff volume name. >Systartup_v5.com was hanging on the mount of the drive. So, knowing no >other way, I had to access the OS via minimal boot to bypass systartup >and then comment out the mount of drive 2. In MIN state I could not >mount the new drive to initialize it so re!enabled a full boot. I >could not get to drive ID=2 in an ONLINE state. I mounted drive ID=2 to >initialize and change its volume name to.match the old volume name. >Next I returned systartup to mount drive id=2 (dkb200), and finally >rebooted into a normal system. > >The trial and error associated with all that was a useful learning >experience. > >Guessing there us a way from the >>> prompt to change a drive's volune, >but I did not find a way to do it. >From the dead sergeant, you can select a boot device. Volume information -- label, structure, ownership, etc., etc. -- are manifestated in the operating system (VMS). If you had an issue with the device on SCSI id 2, you could have physically removed that drive. The device would then not appear in the device configuration and the MOUNT command would fail: %MOUNT-F-NOSUCHDEV, no such device available Assuming there is no ON ERROR in the startup procedures, your system should then boot through the system startup to the point where you can login. At that point, you can reconnect the device and issue: $ MCR SYSGEN AUTOCONFIGURE ALL Then, a: $ SHOW DEVICE D should show you your disk devices including the device at DKx200:.

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OT: Test
by Jeffrey Brace 09 Oct '17

09 Oct '17

Where is my message?

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Festivus 2017 Dec. 9 & 10 - Signup
by Jeffrey Brace 09 Oct '17

09 Oct '17

Signup here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1odmPxfBK9BrR-NDZIx4_c-V2lZpt_-vU-3f…

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] vax scsi questions
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 08 Oct '17

08 Oct '17

william degnan via vcf-midatlantic writes: >> >> Some MicroVAXes in the 3100 series came with two SCSI busses. There >> are designated A and B. The SCSI id for the MicroVAX controller was >> typically 7; so devices could be attached with ids from 0 to 6. The >> naming of the devices, when VMS is booted are: >> >> ddcn: when dd is the name of the driver controlling the device. If >> the device is disk, this is DK (DKDRIVER). If the device is a tape, >> it's MK (MKDRIVER). The 'c' in the device designation if the adapter >> upon which the device is located. If there are two adapters, this is >> either A or B. The 'n' is the device number. Unless you're looking >> as a dvices served from a storage controller, the sub-LUN vallues are >> 0. So on your MicroVAX, you see somehting like a DKA300: for a disk >> addressed as SCSI id 3 on the A adapter. >> >> If you need more info, ask. > >This applies exactly, thanks. >Bill I should take this time to mention that there's also a GKDRIVER (generic SCSI); albeit, you'll need to connect that driver manually to the appro- priate SCSI id. I used to use a large HP bed scanner; it was SCSI based. Via the GKDRIVER, there was software that would allow me to scan pictures, documents, and whatever else I might place upon the scanner bed.

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FS: Two Processor Tech 4KRA 4K Static RAM S-100 Boards Tested/Working
by systems_glitch 08 Oct '17

08 Oct '17

Board #1: http://www.ebay.com/itm/272879702807 Board #2: http://www.ebay.com/itm/272879706168 I'm guessing both of these boards were used in the previous owner's Altair 8800 until they had RAM failures, and were likely replaced with something newer and less power-hungry. These are one of Processor Tech's earlier S-100 boards, and they use 32x low-power (for the time!) 2102 static RAMs. Both boards have been repaired and fully tested in my IMSAI 8080 with a 2 MHz 8080 CPU board. The first one is fully socketed and had five dead SRAMs. The second is not socketed and had one dead SRAM, which was replaced with a machine pin socket. The second one used soldered jumpers for address selection, so I switched it over to machine pin sockets for easy re-addressing. I'd suggest that these boards not be purchased by someone wanting a static RAM board for general debugging -- they're low-density, I don't believe they support the *PHANTOM line, 2102s aren't the world's most reliable SRAM, etc. They'd go nicely with an original Altair 8800 (especially if you have a CUTS system!) or SOL-20. Thanks, Jonathan

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FS: Processor Tech VDM-1 Video Board Tested/Working
by systems_glitch 08 Oct '17

08 Oct '17

link: http://www.ebay.com/itm/272879570374 This board had some trace damage in the address jumper area, which was repaired by installing machine pin sockets in all of the address jumper positions. One position had the through-hole completely pulled out, with no pads on either side -- the trace to this pin was repaired, and the pin secured in place with two-part epoxy. After repair to the address jumper area, it was found that the DM8131 address decoder was bad, this was replaced with a NOS part. As shown in the listing, this board is now 100% functional and tests out according to the Processor Tech manual. It was tested in my IMSAI 8080 with an Intel 8080 CPU board. Do note that this is an older design and requires I/O addresses to be mirrored (high byte should be the same as low byte). This is standard for 8080/8085 CPU boards, but other CPU boards (e.g. Z80) may not support it, or may require a jumper change. Thanks, Jonathan

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] vax scsi questions
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 08 Oct '17

08 Oct '17

Jim Scheef via vcf-midatlantic writes: >Bill, Are the two SCSI port two separate bus or two ports on the same >bus (controller)? If there is only one bus, terminate the empty >connector. If there are two bus, turn off the empty bus. This is >standard SCSI. Duplicate SCSI ID's are a no-no and must be fixed. All >devices on the bus must has a unique ID. Hope this is what you asked. >Jim Which MicroVAX 3100 model? In general, each device on a SCSI bus must have a unique SCSI address. If, for example, two drives are address as SCSI id 3, you'll find you will have issues with both or corrupt one or both drives. Typically, the MicroVAX startup firmware will probe the SCSI bus and complain if there are SCSI id conflicts. Some MicroVAXes in the 3100 series came with two SCSI busses. There are designated A and B. The SCSI id for the MicroVAX controller was typically 7; so devices could be attached with ids from 0 to 6. The naming of the devices, when VMS is booted are: ddcn: when dd is the name of the driver controlling the device. If the device is disk, this is DK (DKDRIVER). If the device is a tape, it's MK (MKDRIVER). The 'c' in the device designation if the adapter upon which the device is located. If there are two adapters, this is either A or B. The 'n' is the device number. Unless you're looking as a dvices served from a storage controller, the sub-LUN vallues are 0. So on your MicroVAX, you see somehting like a DKA300: for a disk addressed as SCSI id 3 on the A adapter. If you need more info, ask.

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VAX stuff available
by william degnan 08 Oct '17

08 Oct '17

I have the following items available from a recent purchase. I got them from Fran down in Baltimore (I think he's on our list, in addition to CCTALK). I got more than I needed assuming others will want some of it. I will sell for same price as paid-for (tens of dollars), just to pass along to someone who might want them, at my cost.. VAX 4000-60 (I got two, keeping one) VAX 3100 (not microvax, has diskette drive, interesting) I also already had a few other items related to DEC VAX/Alpha/Rainbow that I don't need that you can pick through here. Ideally looking for someone to pop over to Landenberg and pick up. If you're looking to get into VAX/VMS cheap now is your chance. If there are no takers now I will bring what's left to Festivus in December. Contact me through vintagecomputer.net Trades excepted. Pickup only or wait until Festivus. Here is what I have, VAX-wise Alpha 2100 DEC 3000 Microvax 3100 * VAX 4000-200 * VAX 4000-60 (have two one avail) VAX 3100 Rainbow 100s and parts. (have three two avail) Cables VT 220's. (more terminals than keyboards) other terminals. VT100 (with no keyboard, needs flyback repair) * not available, what I am keeping Bill

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Collection downsizing
by Jonathan Gevaryahu 07 Oct '17

07 Oct '17

I very badly need to downsize the collection of computers and computer ephemera I have, and would appreciate any advice on the best way to go about doing so. The collection has grown over the past 15 years to far larger than I am able to handle at the current time. I do not have a complete inventory of the current collection, but it is a mixture of complete machines and spare parts. Is there some place I could drop off machines, 'free to a good home' or offer stuff 'free for the price of shipping/handling'? -- Jonathan Gevaryahu jgevaryahu(a)gmail.com jgevaryahu(a)hotmail.com

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vax scsi questions
by william degnan 07 Oct '17

07 Oct '17

working through from VAX 3100 / microvax SCSI drives. Three questions / looking for confirmation 1) true/false - it does not matter which scsi connector port you use, as long as the last drive's unconnected port has a terminator 2) true/false - drives have their names (DKB500, DKB300, etc) and they travel with the drive even if removed 3) true/false - show dev shows all drives attached to the computer that are properly terminated. 4) If question 2 is true and there are two drives with the same name, how does the VAX handle this? ignore the 2nd of same name? Thanks Bill

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