- vcf-midatlantic - lists.vcfed.org

Introduction and room sharing request
by Jason Perkins 11 Apr '16

11 Apr '16

Greetings fellow VCFers, This will be by first time exhibiting, and first time coming to a show. I'm super excited, I had wanted to attend last year but had a schedule conflict. I'll be toting my Lisa 2/10 with me, along with several printers and Profiles up from Springfield VA. I realize this is late notice, but is anyone looking to split a room? I was originally going to bring a friend with me, but they bailed so now I'm coming by myself. Thanks! -- Jason Perkins 313 355 0085

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Anyone from NY going to VCFe
by Rich Cini 11 Apr '16

11 Apr '16

All -- I won't be able to go this weekend but a friend from Virginia is going and he has a box of Windows SDK documentation. If someone from NY-metro is going and is able to grab this for me, please contact me off-list. Should be about a copy box size. Thanks! Rich Cini Sent from my iPad

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] clearing the queue in VMS 5.2 (or thereabouts)
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 11 Apr '16

11 Apr '16

william degnan via vcf-midatlantic writes: >DID like (no leading single quote) > >QUEUE = F$getqui("DISPLAY_QUEUE","QUEUE_NAME","MULTINET_SMTP") OK. I see you've figured it out. I took advantage of the fine weather and went out to powerwash the house.

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] clearing the queue in VMS 5.2 (or thereabouts)
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 11 Apr '16

11 Apr '16

william degnan via vcf-midatlantic writes: > <http://www.vintagecomputer.net/readme.cfm> > >Did not like > >$ QUEUE = 'F$getqui("DISPLAY_QUEUE","QUEUE_NAME","MULTINET_SMTP") Oops. I didn't notive I put one there too. I should have just left my DCL command line syntax checks with the double quotes in place. > >%DCL-W-UNDSYM, undefined symbol - check validity and spelling >\MULTINET_SMTP\ > >$ F$getqui("DISPLAY_QUEUE","QUEUE_NAME","MULTINET_SMTP") > >%DCL-W-IVVERB, unrecognized command verb - check validity and spelling >\F$GETQUI\ You'd have to supply a verb for the above... For example: $ WRITE SYS$OUTPUT "''F$getqui("DISPLAY_QUEUE","QUEUE_NAME","MULTINET_SMTP")'"

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] clearing the queue in VMS 5.2 (or thereabouts)
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 11 Apr '16

11 Apr '16

Brian Schenkenberger via vcf-midatlantic writes: >Try: > >$ QUEUE = 'F$getqui("DISPLAY_QUEUE","QUEUE_NAME","MULTINET_SMTP") >$ 100$: ENTRY = 'F$getqui("DISPLAY_ENTRY","ENTRY_NUMBER") >$ IF "''F$type(ENTRY)'".NES."STRING" >$ THEN $ DELETE/ENTRY='ENTRY' >$ GOTO 100$ >$ ENDIF Ooops... $ 100$: ENTRY = F$getqui("DISPLAY_ENTRY","ENTRY_NUMBER") No apostrophe.

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] clearing the queue in VMS 5.2 (or thereabouts)
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 11 Apr '16

11 Apr '16

william degnan via vcf-midatlantic writes: > How does one clear the multinet SMTP cache, anyway? I have looked >but it's not obvious to me, must be handed over to the OS as a system >function. $ DELETE/ENTRY=# MULTINET_SMTP

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] clearing the queue in VMS 5.2 (or thereabouts)
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 11 Apr '16

11 Apr '16

william degnan via vcf-midatlantic writes: >On Mon, Apr 11, 2016 at 1:16 PM, Brian Schenkenberger via >vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> >wrote: > >> william degnan via vcf-midatlantic writes: > > > How does one clear >the multinet SMTP cache, anyway? I have looked > >but it's not obvious >to me, must be handed over to the OS as a system > >function. > > $ >DELETE/ENTRY=# MULTINET_SMTP > > Do I have to > >$ DELETE/ENTRY=1 MULTINET_SMTP $ DELETE/ENTRY=2 MULTINET_SMTP $ >DELETE/ENTRY=3 MULTINET_SMTP $ DELETE/ENTRY=4 MULTINET_SMTP $ >DELETE/ENTRY=# MULTINET_SMTP > >800+ times? I'm pretty sure that the lexical F$getqui() existed in V5.2 but then, I not been very good at recalling all that history; especially, with versions that are 25+ years old. Try: $ QUEUE = 'F$getqui("DISPLAY_QUEUE","QUEUE_NAME","MULTINET_SMTP") $ 100$: ENTRY = 'F$getqui("DISPLAY_ENTRY","ENTRY_NUMBER") $ IF "''F$type(ENTRY)'".NES."STRING" $ THEN $ DELETE/ENTRY='ENTRY' $ GOTO 100$ $ ENDIF

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Pre VCF photos...
by Dave McGuire 11 Apr '16

11 Apr '16

On 04/11/2016 11:53 AM, Bill Sudbrink via vcf-midatlantic wrote: > Here is a directory of photos showing my progress > in reproducing the Cyclops camera from the February > 1975 Popular Electronics article: > > http://wsudbrink.dyndns.org:8080/images/cyclops-latest/ Very cool! -Dave -- Dave McGuire, AK4HZ New Kensington, PA

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] clearing the queue in VMS 5.2 (or thereabouts)
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 11 Apr '16

11 Apr '16

Dave McGuire via vcf-midatlantic writes: >On 04/11/2016 12:13 PM, william degnan via vcf-midatlantic wrote: >>> >Here is the output, note *MISSING* is the name I gave the directory by >>>> accident when I installed MULTINET, I don't think other than the >name >>> it's an issue, but I thought I'd mention. >>> >>> >COBUCK$DKA700:[*MISSING*.VAX_COMMON.MULTINET.SPOOL] >> >> On an ODS-2 >volume? {*} I think not! An asterisk is the wildcard >> character >> >in any VMS file specification, so I'd highly doubt that you have a >> >directory >> with an asterisk in it! >> >> {*} I'm assuming ODS-2 >because you said you're running V5.2. >> > These were bolded my me for >emphasis. Your email software converted to * > characters. If you seen >an asterisk around something, assume this is your > email program >converting for you. you must have a text email. > > The asterisks are generated on the sending end, FYI. Friggin' >Microsoft. Well, there's no BOLDIN here either: http://lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org/pipermail/vcf-midatlantic/2016-A… As for Micro$haft, well, my opinion of their shoddiness is well known.

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] clearing the queue in VMS 5.2 (or thereabouts)
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 11 Apr '16

11 Apr '16

william degnan via vcf-midatlantic writes: > >Here is the output, note *MISSING* is the name I gave the directory by >accident when I installed MULTINET, I don't think other than the name >it's an issue, but I thought I'd mention. > >COBUCK$DKA700:[*MISSING*.VAX_COMMON.MULTINET.SPOOL] On an ODS-2 volume? {*} I think not! An asterisk is the wildcard character in any VMS file specification, so I'd highly doubt that you have a directory with an asterisk in it! {*} I'm assuming ODS-2 because you said you're running V5.2. >I am being conservative about making any changes to this system this >close to VCF East, but maybe we can talk about cleaning up the configs >on Sat or Sunday if you have time. > > >$ SHOW QUEUE/FULL SMTP_COBUCK Server queue SMTP_COBUCK, busy, on >COBUCK::, mounted form DEFAULT /BASE_PRIORITY=4 >/DEFAULT=(FEED,FORM=DEFAULT) /OWNER=[SYSTEM] >/PROCESSOR=MULTINET_SMTP_SYMBIONT /PROTECTION=(S:RWE,O:RWD,G:R,W:R) > > Entry Jobname Username Blocks Status ----- ------- > -------- ------ ------ 785 SMTP-RETURN SYSTEM > 9 Processing Submitted 1-APR-2016 09:19 /FORM=DEFAULT >/PRIORITY=100 File: >_COBUCK$DKA700:[MISSING.VAX_COMMON.MULTINET.SPOOL]SMTP-RETURN.000 > (processing) /DELETE Saturday, with any luck and cooperating weather, I'm hoping to launch a NAR certification rocket, so I won't be at InfoAge. If you'll be there early on Friday, I'll help you clean it up. I was planning to attent VCF on Sunday. If you're willing then, I'm game. In the interim, you can delete the entries in the queue. I'm confident that whatever messages may be in the queue are/were not message you intended to be sent. ;)

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Pre VCF photos...
by Evan Koblentz 11 Apr '16

11 Apr '16

> Here is a directory of photos showing my progress > in reproducing the Cyclops camera from the February > 1975 Popular Electronics article: > > http://wsudbrink.dyndns.org:8080/images/cyclops-latest/ > > Bill S. Looks great!

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] clearing the queue in VMS 5.2 (or thereabouts)
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 11 Apr '16

11 Apr '16

william degnan via vcf-midatlantic writes: >These were bolded my me for emphasis. >Your email software converted to * characters. If you seen an asterisk >around something, assume this is your email program converting for you. > you must have a text email. I went back to your original message. In the message header: Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8 There's no BOLDING supported in that!

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Pre VCF photos...
by Bill Sudbrink 11 Apr '16

11 Apr '16

Here is a directory of photos showing my progress in reproducing the Cyclops camera from the February 1975 Popular Electronics article: http://wsudbrink.dyndns.org:8080/images/cyclops-latest/ Bill S.

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] clearing the queue in VMS 5.2 (or thereabouts)
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 11 Apr '16

11 Apr '16

william degnan via vcf-midatlantic writes: >I have a process that is filling the queue on my MicroVAX using VMS 5.2. >When I run > >$ show queue > >The system returns a huge list of queued up items. I am having trouble >identifying where to turn off whatever it is that is unable to clear the >queue. I am running out of diskspace. I posted the queue here in a >log file: > >http://www.vintagecomputer.net/digital/MicroVAX-3100/show_queue.txt > >This line looks suspect: > >LPD queue on 10.36.1.11 > >My network internally is 10.1.10./ like most Comcast Business >customers. I don't have any LPD anyway, no need to print or connect to >anything. > >I don't want to simply delete the queue in the event I harm something. >Maybe someone can advise with this at VCF East, I will be exhibiting >this machine there. I see SMTP items. Take a look at the actual server queue with: $ SHOW QUEUE/FULL SMTP_COBUCK The entry in the queue might shed some light. It's very likely you have MULTINET SMTP configured incorrectly for your environment.

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clearing the queue in VMS 5.2 (or thereabouts)
by william degnan 11 Apr '16

11 Apr '16

I have a process that is filling the queue on my MicroVAX using VMS 5.2. When I run $ show queue The system returns a huge list of queued up items. I am having trouble identifying where to turn off whatever it is that is unable to clear the queue. I am running out of diskspace. I posted the queue here in a log file: http://www.vintagecomputer.net/digital/MicroVAX-3100/show_queue.txt This line looks suspect: LPD queue on 10.36.1.11 My network internally is 10.1.10./ like most Comcast Business customers. I don't have any LPD anyway, no need to print or connect to anything. I don't want to simply delete the queue in the event I harm something. Maybe someone can advise with this at VCF East, I will be exhibiting this machine there. Bill -- @ BillDeg: Web: vintagecomputer.net Twitter: @billdeg <https://twitter.com/billdeg> Youtube: @billdeg <https://www.youtube.com/user/billdeg> Unauthorized Bio <http://www.vintagecomputer.net/readme.cfm>

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FS: Intel iUP-201 Standalone EPROM Programmer
by Systems Glitch 11 Apr '16

11 Apr '16

Decided to sell my first non-homebrew EPROM programmer, an Intel iUP-201. Looks like this: http://www.tulsa-ads.com/Broken-Arrow-/Children-/Safety-and-Fire-Safety-/In… Mine has a "universal" F27/128 programmer pod in it, which programs: * 2716 * 2732 (Vpp = 25V) * 2732A (Vpp = 21V) * 2758 * 2758S * 2764 * 27128 * 2815 * 2816 Additionally, I've found SEEQ 2K x 8 EEPROMs will program as 2816s. It has a full front panel for editing/modifying ROM contents. You can load a number of small ROMs into memory and program into a single large ROM, or split a large ROM into smaller ROMs. I used it for programming my first 8085 single-board homebrew (the blue protoboard first pictured): http://www.glitchwrks.com/2010/09/02/8085-sbc Works, plastic is yellowed, chipped bezel in the top-right corner of the display area. This listing is pickup-only at VCF East. I'll list it on eBay if no one here wants it. Open to offers on price. Thanks, Jonathan

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] need DOS for leading edge model D
by Systems Glitch 11 Apr '16

11 Apr '16

This is what came with my Model D when it was purchased new by my grandmother: http://filedump.glitchwrks.com/software/vintage/leading_edge/ LE-branded MS-DOS 2.11, I believe those are WinImage raw images. LE word processor is there too, which is a pretty good word processor. I'm told it's a knockoff of Wang's hugely successful offering. Thanks, Jonathan

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museum report
by Evan Koblentz 10 Apr '16

10 Apr '16

Steve A. and I worked for several more hours in the museum today. Big accomplishments: finally hung our banner outside the building (Steve is fearless on an extension ladder!) and got the stanchions/chains set up inside. Steve being immune to gravity: http://vcfed.org/evan/ladder.jpg. Our sign next to the surfer group's sign: http://vcfed.org/evan/vcf_surfers.jpg. We only used the grommets on the corners. I thought we'd need the ones along the middle/edges, but today was very windy and the sign barely billowed at all, so it's probably all set. Perhaps we will install the middle bolts on a warm sunny day. For now the sign is mounted tight, it looks good, and it's definitely not going anywhere. Our homemade stanchions tend to get bumped into and moved off-course by visitors. Easy way to deal with that: we took a fine-tip black Sharpie and traced the bottom of each stanchion base. That way, it's obvious where they go back. We also cleaned more, moved lots of stuff back to the warehouse (including our outdoor-style trash can), and purchased a nice indoor-style can for the museum. Picked up a couple of rolls of blue duct tape, which we'll use to create a walking aisle around museum exhibits. We're not worried about the tape ripping up the gray paint on the floor because we are a developing a creative and fun re-painting plan for the floor this summer anyhow. I stayed up extremely late last night and found a nice (and simple) way to format all the microcomputer signs. Going to print and hang them on Tuesday. The frames we ordered (24 pack for the larger 13x19 frames) arrived; we'll use those for the larger systems and in various other places around the museum. The only major thing that won't be done in time for VCF East is setting up the Android kiosks. That will have to be a summer project.

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Looking for Tektronix 4010 series hardware
by Stephen A Edwards 10 Apr '16

10 Apr '16

A apparently rich friend of mine is looking for a Tektronix 4010-series storage display terminal, preferably a 4014, and possibly also a 4050-series computer. Anybody have or know of one of these big, heavy unique monsters for sale? This is a big too specialized and rare even for eBay, it seems. -Stephen

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OT: printer cartridges
by Evan Koblentz 10 Apr '16

10 Apr '16

Ran out of printer ink around 10ish tonight, so I spent the next hour chatting with the model train guy across the hallway. Cartridges came up. He said, "Doesn't the Walmart 15 minutes from here have them?" I said sure and maybe I'd go there tomorrow. He said, "They're 24 hours." Doh! I had no idea. 20 minutes later I had the cartridge. :)

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] need DOS for leading edge model D
by william degnan 10 Apr '16

10 Apr '16

On Fri, Apr 8, 2016 at 5:05 PM, Joe Herdler via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> wrote: > > > ---------- Forwarded message ---------- > From: Joe Herdler <joe.herdler(a)yahoo.com> > To: Vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> > Cc: > Date: Fri, 8 Apr 2016 21:02:14 +0000 (UTC) > Subject: need DOS for leading edge model D > Hi All, I am in need of a copy of DOS for the Leading Edge Model-D (the > one made by Daewoo). Not sure which version, I think that I used to use 3.3 > when I had my original Leading Edge. This one has a hard drive, but I am > not happy with the op system. I want to wipe the hard drive and install a > fresh DOS so that I can use Lantastic (which I also need advice on as to > what version I should use for DOS 3.3 on my Leading Edge computer. I want > to network several older computers with 10Base2 so that I can keep the > grandkids from plugging their playthings into some cat5 outlet lurking > somewhere on my network. That has been a real issue in the past with my > more modern network. I want to use the AUI port with micro transceivers > (CentreCom AT-10MX type transceivers). Any advice, knowledge most welcome > and if you have a copy of DOS for sale, please let me know. Thank you > much, Joe H Consciousness affects the medium. Think happy, be happy, and > happiness will follow you. > > I checked. I found Epson and Acer-branded DOS 3.3 disks, but no Leading Edge, at least not where I would have expected it to be. If you just want DOS 3.3, there is another way, if you can read the entire thread before giving up: http://www.vintagecomputer.net/browse_thread.cfm?id=60 b -- @ BillDeg: Web: vintagecomputer.net Twitter: @billdeg <https://twitter.com/billdeg> Youtube: @billdeg <https://www.youtube.com/user/billdeg> Unauthorized Bio <http://www.vintagecomputer.net/readme.cfm>

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Museum report
by Evan Koblentz 09 Apr '16

09 Apr '16

Ken G. (a friend of Tony) and Steve A. joined me to work in the museum today. We spent a couple of hours fighting with the 13x19 printer and determined there's a bug in LibreOffice when printing that large in landscape, because it works fine in other apps including MS Office. We also fixed up some display case issues, painted the 3D-printed "k" that was missing from the StorageTek logo, tied away more of the cords/cables, and did some cleaning. I'm pretty much done for tonight due to a couple of the printer starter cartridges being low already (it has black, cyan, magenta, and yellow). Staples opens at 10am tomorrow... I'll look for more cleaning to do and put out more decorations. Steve is coming back tomorrow to help again. He is donating a (third!) extra-long power strip and customizing it tonight by splicing in a 12-foot cord to reach where we need it.

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Help! We need another Friday class
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 09 Apr '16

09 Apr '16

Evan Koblentz via vcf-midatlantic writes: >>> Everyone, >> >> Help! We need another Friday class (and a backup in >case any has to >> cancel). >> >> Who can teach something technical and >interesting without much >> preparation? >> >> Anything but Commodore >64. Seriously. > > How about Commodore 64 humorously? > > > >HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! That is actually pretty funny. Even my wife laughed! :-) >> > > I would go to that class. > > >You guys know what is NOT funny? When we have a real issue to solve and >all I get in response is sarcasm. Lighten up McGraw! It used to be said that humor was the best medicine. I made a joke; it was not sarcasm.

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G'morning
by Evan Koblentz 09 Apr '16

09 Apr '16

Slept off much of my frustration from last night's list issue. Grateful for those of you who sent me private emails of support. Carry on. :)

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A personal note
by Evan Koblentz 09 Apr '16

09 Apr '16

Guys, I'm under a lot of stress with VCF East, the museum, VCF West, and a possibly serious health issue. I would really appreciate it if we can all cut down some of the sarcasm. A lot of people on this list used to tell me to ask for help more often, instead of trying to do it all. So when I do ask, you can imagine how frustrating it is to be met with sarcasm or from people who say, "I'd love to help, but" .... that is noise, we need signal. I run the group because I love it. This is not a complaint, just a personal request. Thank you -- and extra-special thanks to the (many) of you who've stepped up these past few months, including many of you who did so behind-the-scenes because you also love this stuff, not for any credit or glory. Evan

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] final VCF East advertising push
by Evan Koblentz 09 Apr '16

09 Apr '16

> I've begun a daily advertising regimen to the youngin' crowd of retro computer geeks on tumblr. Might get a few bites, who knows. Thanks Alex

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final VCF East advertising push
by Evan Koblentz 09 Apr '16

09 Apr '16

Everyone (really -- EVERYONE!!!), Please tell your friends, family, colleagues, close associates, and everyone else about VCF East. Use email. Facebook. Twitter. LinkedIn. Blogs. Intranets. Old-fashioned breakroom bulletin boards. Post on your favorite retro comp forums. IRC rooms. Yell it from the rooftops. All you have to remember is: - Www.vcfed.org - It's awesomely fun - Benefits non-profits

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Help! We need another Friday class
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 08 Apr '16

08 Apr '16

Evan Koblentz via vcf-midatlantic writes: >Everyone, > >Help! We need another Friday class (and a backup in case any has to >cancel). > >Who can teach something technical and interesting without much >preparation? > >Anything but Commodore 64. Seriously. How about Commodore 64 humorously?

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Kaypro II hard drive controller
by Joseph Oprysko 08 Apr '16

08 Apr '16

Does anyone know where I would be able to get a hard drive controller for the Kaypro II systems? I know of 2 model numbers, WD-1002-HDO and WD-1002-05, from what I have read, they plug into the Z-80 socket, and then you mount your CPU onto the board, and Voila, you have a Hard Drive interface. Also, if anyone would happen to have some copies of software/games (like Infocom games, etc) for the Kaypro II on floppies, if you could bring them to VCF East, I could use some. I have exactly ONE floppy disk for my Kaypro system. So I am a bit limited on using it. Thanks, Joe -- 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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Hey look!
by Evan Koblentz 08 Apr '16

08 Apr '16

Sridhar is making a triumphant and glorious return to VCF East. :) http://vcfed.org/wp/festivals/vintage-computer-festival-east/vcf-east-exhib… Welcome back friend!

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need DOS for leading edge model D
by Joe Herdler 08 Apr '16

08 Apr '16

Hi All, I am in need of a copy of DOS for the Leading Edge Model-D (the one made by Daewoo). Not sure which version, I think that I used to use 3.3 when I had my original Leading Edge. This one has a hard drive, but I am not happy with the op system. I want to wipe the hard drive and install a fresh DOS so that I can use Lantastic (which I also need advice on as to what version I should use for DOS 3.3 on my Leading Edge computer. I want to network several older computers with 10Base2 so that I can keep the grandkids from plugging their playthings into some cat5 outlet lurking somewhere on my network. That has been a real issue in the past with my more modern network. I want to use the AUI port with micro transceivers (CentreCom AT-10MX type transceivers). Any advice, knowledge most welcome and if you have a copy of DOS for sale, please let me know. Thank you much, Joe H Consciousness affects the medium. Think happy, be happy, and happiness will follow you.

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Looking for an IBM PCjr system
by Joseph Oprysko 08 Apr '16

08 Apr '16

Does anyone happen to have a PCjr lying around? It is one of the first systems I owned, and I have a sentimental attachment to it. Unfortunately I do not have one in my collection. (But for some reason I have half a dozen C64 systems, which I never owned back in the day). I'm hoping to make a trade for it, as I have a number of systems in my collection that are duplicates. As well as other systems I don't have a great amount of sentimentality towards. Message me off list if you're interested. -- 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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Help! We need another Friday class
by Evan Koblentz 08 Apr '16

08 Apr '16

Everyone, Help! We need another Friday class (and a backup in case any has to cancel). Who can teach something technical and interesting without much preparation? Anything but Commodore 64. Seriously.

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help for a HP86b in Italy
by Herb Johnson 08 Apr '16

08 Apr '16

I was contacted by someone in Italy, who is trying to get an HP86b computer and its GP-IB connected floppy drive back into operation. He has limited technical skills, and limited English. But he seems to be finding the right Web sites with information on the computer. The HP seems to be operating but not recognizing the drive; he'd cleaned the drive to get the gunky grease out. What he lacks, is some local help in his native Italy. USA discussion groups speak in colloquial English, hard to read and write. They won't be patient as he learns to describe actions in English. Myself, I've not worked much with these, I'd have to (re)learn them to help, which is not my priority. Who is working with these old HP desktop computers in Europe, these days? Herb Johnson -- Herbert R. Johnson, New Jersey USA http://www.retrotechnology.com OR .net

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Museum security
by Evan Koblentz 08 Apr '16

08 Apr '16

Guys, A member recently contacted another member, who in told informed me of the first member's security concerns (that someone could in theory take something small from our new space). There has NEVER been anything stolen from us. Obviously in a large collection things get misplaced from time to time, and once in a while somebody will move something without permission or without communicating it to someone else, etc., but we've NEVER had anything involving thievery occur. But if anyone is wondering, we DO have security plans: - We're going to set up the usual chains and/or ropes in front of all exhibits ahead of the show next week. We already have the stanchions in place. - The new space has a single entrance/exit (not counting emergency exits), unlike the old space which was four separate rooms each with its own door to the hallway, so it's less likely for someone to take something without us noticing (although that's never happened.) - There will be copious and prominent "Please don't touch" signs all around the new space. - There's going to be a chain and a "Staff only" sign separating the exhibits from the workshop area. - Post-show, I'd like to install sheets of plexi on the fronts of shelving carts that involve any machine with a front panel. - Also for post-show, we (the board) are considering ideas for creating some kind of walkway boundaries, perhaps with carpet runners or paint, which would encourage people to "stay within the lines" so to speak. (We're also considering a very creative way of painting the lines so that each part of the museum has its a unique "zone" with different themes.) - We may install an alarm and/or security cameras when resources allow. - Electric shock collars for all visitors. :)

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Museum security
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 08 Apr '16

08 Apr '16

Evan Koblentz via vcf-midatlantic writes: >>> - Electric shock collars for all visitors. :) > > >http://img4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20110424164520/memoryalpha/en/images/d/d… > >Also for certain club members.... Only if it's 208Vac 3-phase!

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Museum security
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 08 Apr '16

08 Apr '16

Evan Koblentz via vcf-midatlantic writes: >Guys, > >A member recently contacted another member, who in told informed me of >the first member's security concerns (that someone could in theory take >something small from our new space). > >There has NEVER been anything stolen from us. > >Obviously in a large collection things get misplaced from time to time, >and once in a while somebody will move something without permission or >without communicating it to someone else, etc., but we've NEVER had >anything involving thievery occur. > >But if anyone is wondering, we DO have security plans: > >- We're going to set up the usual chains and/or ropes in front of all >exhibits ahead of the show next week. We already have the stanchions in >place. > >- The new space has a single entrance/exit (not counting emergency >exits), unlike the old space which was four separate rooms each with its >own door to the hallway, so it's less likely for someone to take >something without us noticing (although that's never happened.) > >- There will be copious and prominent "Please don't touch" signs all >around the new space. > >- There's going to be a chain and a "Staff only" sign separating the >exhibits from the workshop area. > >- Post-show, I'd like to install sheets of plexi on the fronts of >shelving carts that involve any machine with a front panel. > >- Also for post-show, we (the board) are considering ideas for creating >some kind of walkway boundaries, perhaps with carpet runners or paint, >which would encourage people to "stay within the lines" so to speak. >(We're also considering a very creative way of painting the lines so >that each part of the museum has its a unique "zone" with different >themes.) > >- We may install an alarm and/or security cameras when resources allow. > >- Electric shock collars for all visitors. :) http://img4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20110424164520/memoryalpha/en/images/d/d…

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] museum report
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 08 Apr '16

08 Apr '16

Jeff Galinat via vcf-midatlantic writes: >On 4/8/2016 6:24 AM, Brian Schenkenberger via vcf-midatlantic wrote: > >What did you notch that with? A tree saw? A holesaw would have made a > >nice rounded corner cut. ;) Brian, We worked with the tools I had. I >had a circular saw & sawsall. Sorry if our work has not met your high >standards. Mock our efforts if you must, but you have not been in >attendance for these work sessions. In my book, that means you don't get >to criticize. There is still a lot of cleaning & setting up to do, >including sweeping & mopping the floors. We will be working Sunday, I >trust you you be stopping by to assist us? Regards, Jeff Galinat Where were you for the huge Jamesburg rescue? The Toms River rescue? And myriad others? Don't sling the shit when you're not there to wade through it (Jamesburg) with the others. Evan's called on me many times to employ my SUV and my trailer as the transport for much of what sits in the storage area. I've gone above and beyond the call of duty several times, despite requests NOT TO MOVE OR LIFT objects when I had my torn elbow ligamants; yet, there I was stuck moving and lifting. I spent 2 years of my life in plaster with 34 broken bones on the mend and another year learning to walk again. I live in constant pain from that -- exaccerbated now by my age -- and I have been there to move and lift a lot of crap about at the museum. So, please don't shower me with your self-indignation because you were there with your sawsall. It's stuff like this that keeps me from participating in the requested efforts.

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] museum report
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 08 Apr '16

08 Apr '16

Evan Koblentz via vcf-midatlantic writes: >{...snip...} >Brian: I know you're teasing about the way we trimmed the plywood. >Martin= : Nice of you to offer but our need was immediate. I was kidding. However, my comment WRT aesthetics holds. If there's a tool not available, there's this list -- use it and ask. I'm not far. If I have something needed, I'd offer it. I might not be in a position to rocket over to InfoAge to deliver it but I'd certainly try to get you what you may need.

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] museum report
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 08 Apr '16

08 Apr '16

Evan Koblentz via vcf-midatlantic writes: >Jeff G. and I got to the museum at 8am today. JG stayed to about 4pm, >then I worked solo for a while; Jeff B. stopped by around 8:30pm and >helped for a while. Then I helped him with his VCF East exhibit until >10. How late did he stay after I left? You'd have to ask him! > >Jeff G. and I spent the first two hours planning and re-making the the >PDP-8 storage cart. Didn't want to rush this time. :) We cut a thick >piece of plywood for the entire width of the top shelf, lowered the >shelf one inch to the posts stick up at each corner, and notched the >plywood for the posts so the wood can't slide out. It worked quite well. >See this picture: http://vcfed.org/evan/8top.jpg ... one of these days What did you notch that with? A tree saw? A holesaw would have made a nice rounded corner cut. ;) >I'll shop for black rubber or plastic caps to fit into the poles. You >can see the complete bottom shelf, added for stability, in this picture: >http://vcfed.org/evan/8front.jpg. What's thin inside/outside diameter? There's a well stocked hardware store here which has such caps. I just purchased some for the legs of my currnet high power rocketry launch rail project. Let me know the sizes and I get a set for you before VCF. >Oh and we replaced the VT-100 with a DECwriter III aka LA-120. Cleaned >that up and it looks almost new (from a few feet away): >http://vcfed.org/evan/la120.jpg. Where's the tractor and printhead/platten cover?

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] museum report
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 08 Apr '16

08 Apr '16

Jeff Galinat via vcf-midatlantic writes: >On 4/8/2016 6:24 AM, Brian Schenkenberger via vcf-midatlantic wrote: > >What did you notch that with? A tree saw? A holesaw would have made a > >nice rounded corner cut. ;) Brian, We worked with the tools I had. I >had a circular saw & sawsall. Sorry if our work has not met your high >standards. Mock our efforts if you must, but you have not been in >attendance for these work sessions. In my book, that means you don't get >to criticize. There is still a lot of cleaning & setting up to do, >including sweeping & mopping the floors. We will be working Sunday, I >trust you you be stopping by to assist us? Regards, Jeff Galinat When all you possess is a hammer, all your problems look like nails. ;) It's just that, IMNSHO, aesthetics *do* matter.

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Commodore equipment needed for VCF
by Jeffrey Brace 07 Apr '16

07 Apr '16

So I'm quite surprised that no one stepped forward to lend me Commodore equipment. I was able to borrow from VCF and find equipment on my own. I was able to get enough C64 and backups. I was able to get enough monitors with one to spare, but wish all of them are not 1702. I would need 2 more. I have enough power supplies, cables etc. Oh well. Should be good enough, but not perfect! Jeff Brace

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museum report
by Evan Koblentz 07 Apr '16

07 Apr '16

Jeff G. and I got to the museum at 8am today. JG stayed to about 4pm, then I worked solo for a while; Jeff B. stopped by around 8:30pm and helped for a while. Then I helped him with his VCF East exhibit until 10. How late did he stay after I left? You'd have to ask him! Jeff G. and I spent the first two hours planning and re-making the the PDP-8 storage cart. Didn't want to rush this time. :) We cut a thick piece of plywood for the entire width of the top shelf, lowered the shelf one inch to the posts stick up at each corner, and notched the plywood for the posts so the wood can't slide out. It worked quite well. See this picture: http://vcfed.org/evan/8top.jpg ... one of these days I'll shop for black rubber or plastic caps to fit into the poles. You can see the complete bottom shelf, added for stability, in this picture: http://vcfed.org/evan/8front.jpg. We used the rest of the day to go on a computer-cleaning binge. We attacked every system with baby wipes and/or paper towels and/or 409 spray and/or Goo Gone and/or scrubbing sponges. The results are dramatic! I didn't take before/after pictures, but many of the systems were yellowed and dirty... and now they're only yellowed. :) Many others were simply dirty and now they're surprisingly clean. A good example if the Prime 6550. The metal panels were almost gray and nasty before; now they're nearly white. The bottom vents were yellowed and hideously covered in grime; now they're only yellowed and kind of bright. Check it out: http://vcfed.org/evan/prime.jpg. Oh and we replaced the VT-100 with a DECwriter III aka LA-120. Cleaned that up and it looks almost new (from a few feet away): http://vcfed.org/evan/la120.jpg. So what's left? I'm almost done make the files for all the signs; hoping to bring those in and print them on our new printer this weekend. Have to put up ropes and/or chains around the exhibits, put our sign outside the building, hang a bunch of pictures etc. (if there's time), clean up the workshop area, tie back a bunch of cables, and then declare the new museum "good enough" to open in beta mode for VCF East next week. Anyone who thinks we could have done more with the resources/time available should have donated more resources or their time. :)

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Giving away 0.35 metric tons of books
by Herb Johnson 07 Apr '16

07 Apr '16

Here's my Web page about mold on diskettes. They can be cleaned for use; they MUST be cleaned for use. http://www.retrotechnology.com/herbs_stuff/clean_disks.html Bill Degnan has used UV light, or just sunlight, to clean books and magzines. I put books out in full sunlight with the pages separated by sticks, to permit air flow. Really helps get that musty smell out. I've found it very useful, to buy zip-lock bags for individual books or bunches of diskettes. And I use "recycling trash bags" which are transparent, for storing box-sided items, which can be closed with a tie-wrap. these work both ways of course; keep mold in or out, keep moisture out. Mold thrives where there is moisture. My exhibit at VCF-East, will represent what happens to S-100 systems stored in moisture. Herb Johnson -- Herbert R. Johnson, New Jersey USA http://www.retrotechnology.com OR .net

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Secrets, schmeecrets! Apple 1 + Kenbak-1
by Evan Koblentz 07 Apr '16

07 Apr '16

So...... come to VCF East ... TELL YOUR FRIENDS .... there will be TWO real Apple 1s on display, one or maybe both will be up and running (thanks to Apple 1 master Corey C. for hooking us up with these) ... oh and a real Kenbak-1 (display only, not running) will also be there.

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FS: Applied Microsystems EM-188 Intel 8080 8085 Diagnostic Emulator
by Systems Glitch 07 Apr '16

07 Apr '16

link: http://www.ebay.com/itm/272125508235 ** NOTE: This unit is missing the emulator pods! ** Picked it up at either a hamfest or university surplus auction, I don't remember which. I've been searching for 8080 or 8085 pods for this unit for several years. I'm calling it a loss, so it's time to sell it. Perhaps someone has the pods and can make use of it. It does power on, and you can see from the pictures it has six TIL311 displays in it. I believe it also has a number of 6116 2K x 8 static RAMs inside -- I opened it up at one point in the past. This would've been an excellent tool for vintage computer debugging, if I could've found the pods. The emulator lets you observe and control the data and address bus states, as well as internal state of the CPU. If you're going to be at VCF East this year, I can drop it off in person and avoid shipping. That will of course be a *major* consideration if anyone wants to submit Best Offers :) Thanks, Jonathan

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Giving away 0.35 metric tons of books*
by Alexey Toptygin 07 Apr '16

07 Apr '16

*some restrictions apply :-) Evan Koblentz pointed me to a rescue here in the triangle, NC area back in August 2015. Some items were set aside for VCFed, but there were A LOT of books and other media that were up for grabs. Because I'm a sucker, I took and then carefully cleaned and catalogued them all. The master list is here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/19UYeJlhiVYVExCAO2NSzcAkBww0kEeAYrEG… There really are 17 boxes, and they really do weigh 780lb or approximately 0.35 metric tons. They're mostly books (from the 80s and 90s), but there are some floppies, some boxed sets, and even a small box of VHS tapes. The previous owner stored all this stuff in abysmal conditions, so there was a lot of mold (and some dead insects and some live insects, and... you know how it goes). I cleaned every item as much as possible. Some items had to be disposed of for safety reasons. That which made it into the cataloging stage is at least scanable, but if it says 'mildewed' on it, and you have a mold allergy, you don't want it. I don't know if any floppies are readable, and unless the catalog says it comes with media, I haven't got the media. Luckily most items survived relatively intact. You can have anything in the spreadsheet free of charge provided: 1) You are willing to take WHOLE BOXES at VCF East XI, you let me know by Weds 4/13/16, and they fit in my car when I pack for VCF. OR 2) You want to come to Durham to pick them up at a prearranged time after VCF OR 3) You are willing to wait until the next VCF East, and let me know far enough in advance that I can set items aside for you. If you want single items, and you don't want to wait until VCF East 2017, I'll do my best to mail them to you after this VCF is over, but you'll need to pay for shipping. I would prefer not to ship whole boxes; they're sturdy moving boxes but they weigh 40-60lb each and I'm pretty sure if you drop them hard enough the contents won't like it. I'm in Durham, NC 27701. I don't want any of this to go to recycling, so I'll try to hold it for at least a year or the next VCF East after this one. After that, all bets are off. Let me know if you are interested in any of this stuff, or if you have questions; in case the mailing list(s) eat it, my email is alexey.toptygin at gmail dot com. Thanks!

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Wanted to borrow: Hayes Smartmodem 1200
by Mike Loewen 06 Apr '16

06 Apr '16

I'd like to borrow a Hayes Smartmodem 1200 (external) for my VCF exhibit, preferably in working order. Is anyone able to help? The Hayes was introduced in 1982, which is appropriate for my exhibit (1982 Office Suite). Thanks! Mike Loewen mloewen(a)cpumagic.scol.pa.us Old Technology http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

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VCF East - Weather looking good from here
by Dan Roganti 06 Apr '16

06 Apr '16

Weather looking good from here for VCF East extended forecast shows clear skies, a little warm might need shorts and sandals this year :) http://www.accuweather.com/en/us/belmar-nj/07719/daily-weather-forecast/217…

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] VCF East - Weather looking good from here
by VAXman＠tmesis.org 06 Apr '16

06 Apr '16

Dan Roganti via vcf-midatlantic writes: >Weather looking good from here for VCF East extended forecast shows >clear skies, a little warm might need shorts and sandals this year :) >=E2=80=8B >http://www.accuweather.com/en/us/belmar-nj/07719/daily-weather-forecast/217= >4853?day=3D11 Just remember, it's weather forecasting. ;)

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