- vcf-midatlantic - lists.vcfed.org

4 Kaypros for Sale Near Me - Anyone Want Them?
by Alexander Jacocks 20 May '24

20 May '24

Folks, I got a hit on a local search, and someone is selling 4 Kaypros, very near me: KAYPRO 1 $130 KAYPRO 1 $130 KAYPRO 2 $150 KAYPRO 2X $175 MY FATHER USED THESE YEARS AGO. This is from FB marketplace, and I’m happy to make offers or pick them up, if anyone wants me to. - Alex

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Recovering Macintosh floppies
by Jeffrey Brace 19 May '24

19 May '24

Is there someone coming to the repair workshop that can help someone recover Macintosh files from 3.5" disks? Likely they are word processing files from a Quadra. Please let me know. Thanks! Jeff Brace

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OT / Proposed Earth-Venus-Earth attempt at ISEC
by Martin A. Flynn 19 May '24

19 May '24

Re-sending with clarifying edits at the suggestion of multiple VCF members. Please excuse the repeat bandwidth. ------------------------------------------ A team compromised of CDL Members is providing technology support for a proposed Earth-Venus-Earth communications attempt at ISEC, The InfoAge Space Exploration Center. Link: http://www.isec.space For those not familiar with ISEC, this is the site with the 60 foot dish antenna at 2300 Marconi Road in Wall Township, NJ. ISEC is adjacent to the VCF museum at InfoAge. * * *WHAT IS THE EVE25 PROJECT PROPOSAL?* * Earth – Venus – Earth (EVE) a radio communication attempt via a signal reflected from the planet Venus. * WHEN WILL THE ATTEMPT BE MADE? * * The Weekend of March 23, 2025. This is when Venus will be at closest distance to the Earth * GOALS OF THE EVE25 PROJECT * * Create excitement and awareness around ISEC and promote the ISEC Mission. * Build interest in new members joining InfoAge / ISEC and existing members to participate in science experiments. * Help solicit new donations to ISEC. * OBJECTIVES OF THE EVE25 PROJECT * * Test the ability to send and receive using digital algorithms (i.e Q65 mode) signals via reflection off other of another planet (Venus). * Establish and complete digital QSO with another station. * Use the EVE25 project to teach STEM classes with first hand example and build interest in Astronomy and Science. * Establish connections to other astronomy groups with similar capabilities. * LOCATIONS PARTICIPATING * * The InfoAge Space Exploration Center, ISEC https://isec.space/ * Deep Space Exploration Society, DSES, https://dses.science/ * The Bochum Observatory https://www.sternwarte-bochum.de/ This is an initial query to gauge the interest level of the various member groups (or their individual members ) at InfoAge before posting information about the attempt in the public arena. Please reply off-list if interested to reduce list clutter! Martin Flynn Trustee, W2CDL

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is this cabinet computer related?
by Jeffrey Jonas 18 May '24

18 May '24

A friend has this cabinet. Do you recognize the rails: drawers? computer rack? Thanks -- jeff jonas

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Media Operation- was "Recovering Macintosh floppies"
by Douglas Crawford 17 May '24

17 May '24

Hey folks- I'm sorry I dumped on the group about my frustrations with media recovery/imaging. I also inadvertently hi-jacked Jeff's original post though it was related, I realize now I was trumping his simple request with the general case of media. But if we had what I'm asking for here, he would not have had the need to ask for this specific solution. Its been a year and a half that I wanted the museum to be able to create and recreate the diskette media we use in the museum at will. Jeff has wanted this for years longer! This would support the ongoing operation of the computers on display and the games and applications that we demonstrate on them, and let us add to the complement at will. Lots of different machines. By now I thought things had developed that one system would be able to make any media we wanted, and would surely have a simple GUI interface that museum volunteers without a degree in magnetics. I'm not talking about fancy data recovery- just make disks from images from the web and capture working diskettes we already have. But it has been not forthcoming. I used IMD in the past quite a bit, we now have grease weazel, and an original Applesause. IMD and greaseweazle can't do Apple, neither can do TRS-80. IMD only for DEC robin? Not sure. C= 1541? I found no web use of GW & 1541. So can it? Does it work? Don't know! I have ways to hook up and use a real 1541 drive But its yet another system of software. We need to be able to select an image and put it to a drive. Simple as that. A month ago I tried Applesause to simply capture an Apple II disk image and replicate it to a new floppy. It worked with an Apple IIgs disk so I thought I was good to go. Then I did the same thing for an older Apple DOS disk and after writing the image out, the disk produced wouldn't read in the Apple II. I have to go back over this, it could have been operator error but whatever it was, it was subtle and frustrating. And embarrassing because this was for a project and the "clients" were present waiting to use this copy that I had made from their original only existing copy. I ended up copying the disk on our museum Apple II dual disk system. Right now the only way I know I can make a TRS-80 disk today is on a DOS machine running the TRS emulator which can mount real drives under the emulator. Yet another system to set up and support in the museum? I thought these new imaging systems would be a dream, but I had a lot more success with the old IMD system. They are all great developments, I'm not taking anything away from them, but they weren't really conceived with our use case. It seems they solve specific areas of media problems that were of interest to their creators. And then there are the larger needs of VCF is to provide for mass archiving and restoring of media data. Well in this operation, we can at least expect to have more expertise by the people doing this work. It all is quite complicated and I have a museum to run and grow and I don't have time to work out all the kinks and solve the science problem of the minimum set of tools to cover at least what we work with let alone cover all that we might encounter as we restore warehouse items. So that's the long story why I tire of just having ideas tossed out on what we COULD do. Or "just do this" responses from the sideline. Hence my plea for help by those who like this sort of thing. We really need a media team to set up, document, and maintain a media operation arm of the mid-atlantic operation. If I was doing nothing else I'd love to set it up. -- Douglas Crawford VCF Mid-Atlantic Museum Mgr InfoAge Science & History Museums 2201 Marconi Road Wall, NJ 07719

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Wall, NJ - read a 2708 EPROM?
by Neil Cherry 16 May '24

16 May '24

All my burners can deal with anything 2716 (single voltage) and above. But I have a video card (all TTL) with a 2708 that I want to back up. At the next repair workshop can anyone read the chip? Or do I need to build an adapter. -- Linux Home Automation Neil Cherry kd2zrq(a)linuxha.com http://www.linuxha.com/ Main site http://linuxha.blogspot.com/ My HA Blog Author of: Linux Smart Homes For Dummies KD2ZRQ

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OT / Proposed Earth-Venus-Earth attempt at ISEC
by Martin A. Flynn 15 May '24

15 May '24

The CDL team is providing technology support for a proposed Earth-Venus-Earth attempt at ISEC. While Venus will be at closest distance to the Earth on March 23, 2025, the project intends to operate over the entire weekend. WHAT IS “EVE 25” PROJECT? • Earth – Venus – Earth (EVE) a radio communication attempt via reflection from the planet Venus • Venusbounce – Radio Amateurs Bounce a Signal off Venus GOALS OF “EVE 25” PROJECT • Create excitement and awareness around ISEC and promote the ISEC Mission • Build interest in new members joining InfoAge / ISEC and existing members to participate in science experiments • Help solicit new donations to ISEC OBJECTIVES OF “EVE 25” PROJECT • Test the ability to send and receive using digital algorithms (i.e Q65 mode) signals via reflection off other planet (Venus) • Establish and complete digital QSO with another station • Use “EVE 25” project to teach STEM classes with first hand example and build interest in Astronomy and Sciences • Establish ties to universities and colleges, and ties to other astronomy groups with similar capabilities as the DSES site in Haswell, CO https://dses.science/ Please reply off-list if interested to reduce list clutter! Martin Flynn Trustee, W2CDL

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The velociraptors have chosen (VCF's new video bumper)
by Jeffrey Brace 14 May '24

14 May '24

So I told the velociraptors that I was going to Carvel and asked them what kind of ice cream that they wanted. I even gave them a list of the different ice creams that were available. They told me that they wanted a taco. I said taco wasn't an option, but they insisted. You can't argue with a velociraptor. In any event, the top votes were not taco, but "SID 1" found here: https://youtu.be/PT6eHQH6M8w This is the new bumper that will appear on all VCF videos as the intro and outro. Adrian Wilson created this bumper on the Quantel Paintbox. You can reach him @quantelpaintbox on Twitter and Instagram. This is the "Making of" video: https://youtu.be/niSN84bG3PU The SID that appears at the beginning was created by Aldo Chiummo of Italy who made this for a friend (Dan Roganti) and I in 2014. We were making an 8 player internet game for the C64. Dan passed away a few years ago and I never finished the game. It's nice that at least part of what we did is out in the public. I also think that my other friend Bryan Pope would appreciate this as he loved the C64! Take care! Jeff Brace VCF National Board Member Chairman & Vice President Vintage Computer Festival East Showrunner VCF Mid-Atlantic Event Manager Vintage Computer Federation is a 501c3 charity https://vcfed.org/ <http://www.vcfed.org/> jeffrey(a)vcfed.org

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VCF going to HOPE
by Jeffrey Brace 14 May '24

14 May '24

Doug and I will be getting a table at HOPE. Is there anyone willing to volunteer to help us? It is July 12-14 https://hope.net/ We are still brainstorming what we will do and bring. Thanks! Jeff Brace

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Recovering Macintosh floppies
by Douglas Crawford 14 May '24

14 May '24

How about this group of experts just come to a workshop and set up the quintessential set of media tools for us instead of tossing out theoretical solutions as to what is best. And prove it out, and document it for how to handle all the popular media we might need to deal with. Oh and commit to maintaining it. Thanks. DC On 5/13/2024 4:59 PM, Tony Bogan via vcf-midatlantic wrote: -- Douglas Crawford VCF Mid-Atlantic Museum Mgr InfoAge Science & History Museums 2201 Marconi Road Wall, NJ 07719

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Recovering Macintosh floppies
by Douglas Crawford 14 May '24

14 May '24

Our greaseweasle is working on the PC. I can't remember if the 3.5" drive I installed is low or high density. I have made Amiga disks with it successfully. -- Douglas Crawford VCF Mid-Atlantic Museum Mgr InfoAge Science & History Museums 2201 Marconi Road Wall, NJ 07719

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Recovering Macintosh floppies
by David Ryskalczyk 14 May '24

14 May '24

There is an Applesauce at the museum that may be usable for this. I can’t remember if it has a 3.5” drive that can be connected to it. If these are 1.44 MB “HD” disks, they would be easier to read — those can typically be read with even a USB floppy drive and software such as ddrescue. If not, and these are 400K/800K disks, the Applesauce with appropriate drive would be the best option. 3.5” drives compatible with the unit at the museum are the Apple 3.5” Drive (A9M0106) and the FDHD (G7287) — other drives are not compatible. An A9M0106 with an FDHD internal mechanism installed would also work. Be sure to unplug the Applesauce from USB before changing drives, and only ever connect one drive at a time. To tell the disks apart, the person can look for the HD hole as well as the HD markings on the disk itself. Considering these disks are from a Quadra, they could be either. Once the disks are imaged, I have typically used emulators such as SheepShaver to extract the data. Additionally, LibreOffice can open many legacy formats directly. David > On May 10, 2024, at 8:02 AM, Jeffrey Brace via vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > > OK. No one answered this. Does anyone have working Quadra and is local to > InfoAge? > > Someone is looking to recover files from a 3.5 floppy disk. It is unknown > which software it was made with. > > He needs to: > > > - Print out the files (each is a character study of no more than 10 > print pages) > - Open the files and allow him to use his cell phone to capture each > page to re-type on his PC > - Or provide some other way of capturing the file contents so he can > re-create these data on a modern computer. > > > > Let me know if you are local and can help. > > > Thanks! > > > Jeff > >> On Thu, Apr 25, 2024 at 11:00 PM Jeffrey Brace <jeffrey(a)vcfed.org> wrote: >> Is there someone coming to the repair workshop that can help someone >> recover Macintosh files from 3.5" disks? Likely they are word processing >> files from a Quadra. >> Please let me know. >> Thanks! >> Jeff Brace

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] 47-Ton Cheyenne Supercomputer Sold To Mystery Buyer For $480, 000 (Herbert Johnson)
by David Waybright 13 May '24

13 May '24

It's already been proven on LTT that if anyone trys to use this system the repairs, PM, up keep, power, and all other expenses to run it makes it useless compared to todays tech! It's only worth parting out unless the damage has turned it into scrap! Sadly I fear when the hardware goes on ebay because no one will know whether it might have been damaged and that shear volume of hardware on ebay at one time will make the prices drop HARD! Thanks, David Eugene Waybright CompTIA A+, NET+, & Security+ Technician Crestron Certified CIV-E Intelligent Video Engineer, CIV-D Intelligent Video Designer & CIV-S Intelligent Video Specialist Crestron Certified Masters Technology Architect; Core, Flex, DMC-D-4K & E-4K, SCT-R & C, DCT-R & C, TCT-R & C AVMM Engineer; Audio & Shades Technician Extron Certified A/V Associate IT Operations & Secure Infrastructure Specialist Tesla Referral Code: https://ts.la/david55244 Please use my referral for a free demo drive, also $500 Off + 3 mo. FSD on Model 3 & Y, $1,000 Off + 3 mo. FSD on Model S & X, & $500 Off Solar TeslaFi Referral Code: https://www.teslafi.com/signup.php?referred=Dwaybright receive a one-month trial instead of two weeks. Tessie Referral Code: https://share.tessie.com/QpzcnbTb5yb receive one month free when you sign up. ChargePoint Home Pro, CPF25, CPF50, CPH50, CT4000, CP6000, OnRamp, Express 100, 200,& 250 Certified Technician [cid:1866a347-ddb4-4687-876d-24fcefd728dc]<https://outlook.office.com/bookwithme/user/0f52d73c69ad43ffb4490b6e75ed0de2…> Book time to meet with me<https://outlook.office.com/bookwithme/user/0f52d73c69ad43ffb4490b6e75ed0de2…> ________________________________ From: vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic-bounces(a)lists.vcfed.org> on behalf of vcf-midatlantic-request(a)lists.vcfed.org <vcf-midatlantic-request(a)lists.vcfed.org> Sent: Sunday, May 12, 2024 8:00 AM To: vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> Subject: vcf-midatlantic Digest, Vol 72, Issue 12 Send vcf-midatlantic mailing list submissions to vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit https://lists.vcfed.org/mailman/listinfo/vcf-midatlantic or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to vcf-midatlantic-request(a)lists.vcfed.org You can reach the person managing the list at vcf-midatlantic-owner(a)lists.vcfed.org When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific than "Re: Contents of vcf-midatlantic digest..." Today's Topics: 1. 47-Ton Cheyenne Supercomputer Sold To Mystery Buyer For $480, 000 (Herbert Johnson) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Message: 1 Date: Sat, 11 May 2024 11:22:43 -0400 From: Herbert Johnson <hjohnson(a)retrotechnology.info> To: vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> Subject: [vcf-midatlantic] 47-Ton Cheyenne Supercomputer Sold To Mystery Buyer For $480, 000 Message-ID: <081ed6c2-fc30-4cee-8187-b304dab4d347(a)retrotechnology.info> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8; format=flowed There's speculation about what might be done with this computer, what it costs to run, value of parts. Consider how *massive* this system is, running costs, maintenance. Plumbing - pipes with fluids to every board - is a serious problem, it's literally leaking. Seven year old processors and RAM have some value, but thousands of them? storage? transaction costs? Either junking or reuse, is a business proposition that needs like a million dollars capitalization (half to buy, the rest to fund removal & storage and reinstallation, pay for the first month of operation, or months of storage for resale, costs like those). I found two resources online which are informative (doesn't mean every post is fact-based). https://cowboystatedaily.com/2024/05/07/cheyenne-supercomputer-sold-to-myst… The local newspaper has some thoughtful considerations. Actual reportage! How about that. https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=40197277 This is pretty informative, posts from people who actually deinstalled and or run computers or parted-out computers of this class. Since the universe of bidders was small, what some winner might do is hard to predict. Doesn't seem like the sale price was for parting-out, more like for reuse where electricity and labor is cheaper. But anyone with a million dollar budget could have bought this for any oddball reason. Oddball at scale is entirely possible. Word will likely emerge. Regards Herb Johnson -- Herbert R. Johnson, New Jersey USA https://www.retrotechnology.com OR .net preserve, recover, restore 1970's computing email: hjohnson AT retrotechnology DOT com or try later herbjohnson AT comcast DOT net End of vcf-midatlantic Digest, Vol 72, Issue 12 ***********************************************

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Indiegogo Keyboard for your Commodore computer!
by Christian Liendo 13 May '24

13 May '24

Someone is making new Commodore Keyboards https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/keyboard-for-your-commodore-computer#/

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] VCF East 2024 Podcast Episode 1
by Jeffrey Brace 12 May '24

12 May '24

On Sun, Apr 28, 2024 at 11:11 PM Ryan Stapleton via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > Hello All, > > I wanted to share my buddy Rich and my podcast where we talk about VCF > East 2024! > > This is episode 1 of 2 where episode 2 will drop in a few weeks. > > I hope you enjoy! I know we enjoyed the show! > > http://www.rnrdoesstuff.com/podcast/ep-012-vcf-east-2024-part1/ Ryan, I put this on the VCF East main page <https://vcfed.org/events/vintage-computer-festival-east/> which has a link that goes to Podcasts <https://vcfed.org/vcf-east-2024-podcasts/> I will archive these webpages before I update the VCF East pages, but this page won't change because it is already specific. Let me know when Part 2 comes out and I will add it to the Podcasts page. Thanks! Jeff Brace > > > Thank you > -Ryan

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Disk management software for other operating systems
by Gregg Levine 12 May '24

12 May '24

Hello! Let's set a few pointers, for earlier Linux systems, the distribution writers expected the installer to use the Rawrite program to create disks from files from the CD (or DVD) of the distribution if the system couldn't boot from that media. That program ran on MS-DOS, inside the Linux host the tool typically was the dd program. That is to make the images. But on the Apple, it gets more peculiar, a group of enthusiasts wrote a collection of programs to package disks on the PC for sending to an Internet archive called Asimov, and they also wrote a program called Ciderpress to manage the building of disk images from extracted files. (Also to other places.) Has anyone come across a utility that runs on ProDOS to recreate a disk image onto a proper disk size, that runs on the system itself? There are a whole collection of utilities on the Asimov site that will do almost anything, but I figured I'd ask in here first. ----- Gregg C Levine gregg.drwho8(a)gmail.com "This signature fought the Time Wars, time and again."

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47-Ton Cheyenne Supercomputer Sold To Mystery Buyer For $480, 000
by Herbert Johnson 11 May '24

11 May '24

There's speculation about what might be done with this computer, what it costs to run, value of parts. Consider how *massive* this system is, running costs, maintenance. Plumbing - pipes with fluids to every board - is a serious problem, it's literally leaking. Seven year old processors and RAM have some value, but thousands of them? storage? transaction costs? Either junking or reuse, is a business proposition that needs like a million dollars capitalization (half to buy, the rest to fund removal & storage and reinstallation, pay for the first month of operation, or months of storage for resale, costs like those). I found two resources online which are informative (doesn't mean every post is fact-based). https://cowboystatedaily.com/2024/05/07/cheyenne-supercomputer-sold-to-myst… The local newspaper has some thoughtful considerations. Actual reportage! How about that. https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=40197277 This is pretty informative, posts from people who actually deinstalled and or run computers or parted-out computers of this class. Since the universe of bidders was small, what some winner might do is hard to predict. Doesn't seem like the sale price was for parting-out, more like for reuse where electricity and labor is cheaper. But anyone with a million dollar budget could have bought this for any oddball reason. Oddball at scale is entirely possible. Word will likely emerge. Regards Herb Johnson -- Herbert R. Johnson, New Jersey USA https://www.retrotechnology.com OR .net preserve, recover, restore 1970's computing email: hjohnson AT retrotechnology DOT com or try later herbjohnson AT comcast DOT net

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47-Ton Cheyenne Supercomputer Sold To Mystery Buyer For $480, 000
by Christian Liendo 10 May '24

10 May '24

OK, who bought this? Dave, did you get this? https://cowboystatedaily.com/2024/05/07/cheyenne-supercomputer-sold-to-myst…

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Recommended PBS Documentary
by Chris Fala 09 May '24

09 May '24

The title is "Silicon Valley", and is an episode of the PBS series, "American Experience". Below is the link to Prime. This is an excellent history of Silicon Valley, focusing on one of the co-founders of Intel, Robert Noyce. I was reminded of this show when a friend and I were chatting a few weeks ago. I was surprised that he never heard of the "Traitorous Eight" who left Shockley Semiconductor to form Fairchild Semiconductor. I initially saw the documentary when it was free on broadcast TV, then again years later on YouTube, but it has apparently been taken down from free video streaming outlets. It seems that it is only available on Amazon Prime with the PBS Documentary subscription. I don't intend to pay for the subscription but got the free trial and re-watched the documentary a few times. I feel that it is definitely worthwhile. Let me know if you see/saw it and your thoughts, I think it would make for a good discussion. https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B08F3GYY4N/

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Little help? Pickup item Alexandria, Virginia 22315 maybe bring to System Source Event?
by Douglas Crawford 07 May '24

07 May '24

Could someone pick up an item I have there and bring it north- perhaps to system source open house? Thanks!

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] FTGH: bad DSDD 3.5" disks
by James 07 May '24

07 May '24

IIRC, there was a person at VCF East who was selling floppy disk art which I think was metallic gold sharpie drawings from a plotter. Really cool Atari ones. If they aren't on this list Jeff probably knows who they are because they were selling art in consignment. On Sun, May 5, 2024 at 11:27 AM Jonathan Sturges via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > To bolster my stock of DSDD 3.5" floppies, I recently bought a lot on > eBay. But it included roughly 40 disks that won't format cleanly. Would > anyone like these? They don't seem to be good for data but maybe an art or > craft use? Free shipping to any takers in CONUS. > -Jonathan >

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Help us become a premier computing history experience.
by Douglas Crawford 07 May '24

07 May '24

We Need Your Help At The Museum! Are you passionate about history and technology? We're seeking enthusiastic individuals to join our team as volunteer hosts at the VCFs Computing History Museum. We've been busy aligning it with InfoAge's goals by turning it into a place that not only preserves and showcases "the machines", but is embellished with lots of ways to experience the equipment more fully and foster exciting introductions to technology concepts. We need your help! Why Volunteer with Us? Engage with History: you'll have the unique opportunity to delve into the world of vintage computing inspired by our enviable vintage collection, sharing that history and passion for the equipment with visitors of all ages. Exclusive Training: We provide comprehensive training to all our volunteers, ensuring you're well-equipped to lead tours and answer questions with confidence. Flexible Scheduling: The museum operates on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, 12-5. Special School tours, generally on Wednesdays, are earlier. No long term commitment necessary. Come once a week, once a month, once every two months based on your schedule. We'll take whatever you can spare. You can even be an "on call" emergency helper for when we get caught short of help. Travel Support: For those traveling 60 miles or more, we offer a $50 per diem to assist with travel expenses, acknowledging your commitment and effort. Onsite Accommodations: For weekend volunteers, we offer the convenience of an overnight stay onsite for Saturday and Sunday shifts, making it easier for you to be a part of our team without the hassle of daily travel. Join Us for Fun and Learning: Volunteering at the Vintage Computing Museum is a lot about about giving back but it's also about learning and having fun. It's a chance to make new friends, meet industry people, learn about vintage computing as a hobby, and contribute to a community that values technological heritage. Its even more fun if you bring a friend along to help because you can enjoy having access to the whole collection together. Not Sure? Then come hang out on a museum day and see what you think. If you're interested in seeing what this is all about, please contact us at museum(a)vcfed.org with your details and availability. Best Regards! Douglas Crawford VCF Computing History Museum and Learning Center

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Northern VA Vintage Computer Meetup - 30 June 2024
by Tim Gladding 06 May '24

06 May '24

Sign me up. I'll bring some Acorn kit. Gives me an excuse to fit all the upgrades I have on the shelf :) On Mon, May 6, 2024 at 7:43 PM Ryan Stapleton via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > Hello All, > > For those that are in Northern VA or want to travel to Northern VA I am > going to host a Vintage Computer meetup followed by dinner. > > https://www.bluewizard.net/pages/vintagecomputermeetup/ > > Where: > > Chantilly Regional Library > 4000 Stringfellow Rd Chantilly, VA, 20151-2628 > We have the conference room (smaller of the 2 rooms) > > When: > > Sunday 30 June 2024 @ 2-6 PM. > Group dinner afterwards at restaurant TBD. We will pick a local > restaurant to goto afterwards. > > > > Thank you > -Ryan

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Northern VA Vintage Computer Meetup - 30 June 2024
by Matthew Martin 06 May '24

06 May '24

Hey Ryan, I replied on-list that I’ll probably be there, but I wanted to offer my time if you need an extra set of hands setting anything up or stuff like that. I’m not exactly local (Harrisburg, PA) but I’m willing to show up an hour or two early if you need anything. -Matthew Sent from my iPhone > On May 6, 2024, at 7:43 PM, Ryan Stapleton via vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > > > <mime-attachment>

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Northern VA Vintage Computer Meetup - 30 June 2024
by Bill Degnan 06 May '24

06 May '24

Ryan, What is the occasion? Bill On Mon, May 6, 2024 at 7:44 PM Ryan Stapleton via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > Hello All, > > For those that are in Northern VA or want to travel to Northern VA I am > going to host a Vintage Computer meetup followed by dinner. > > https://www.bluewizard.net/pages/vintagecomputermeetup/ > > Where: > > Chantilly Regional Library > 4000 Stringfellow Rd Chantilly, VA, 20151-2628 > We have the conference room (smaller of the 2 rooms) > > When: > > Sunday 30 June 2024 @ 2-6 PM. > Group dinner afterwards at restaurant TBD. We will pick a local > restaurant to goto afterwards. > > > > Thank you > -Ryan

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Northern VA Vintage Computer Meetup - 30 June 2024
by Matthew Martin 06 May '24

06 May '24

Awesome. I put it on the calendar. I’ll bring some sort of machine, but it’ll be a game-time decision based on what’s working at the time. -Matthew Sent from my iPhone > On May 6, 2024, at 7:43 PM, Ryan Stapleton via vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > > > <mime-attachment>

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Northern VA Vintage Computer Meetup - 30 June 2024
by Bob Flanders 06 May '24

06 May '24

Sounds good. I will schedule it. On Mon, May 6, 2024 at 7:44 PM Ryan Stapleton via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > Hello All, > > For those that are in Northern VA or want to travel to Northern VA I am > going to host a Vintage Computer meetup followed by dinner. > > https://www.bluewizard.net/pages/vintagecomputermeetup/ > > Where: > > Chantilly Regional Library > 4000 Stringfellow Rd Chantilly, VA, 20151-2628 > We have the conference room (smaller of the 2 rooms) > > When: > > Sunday 30 June 2024 @ 2-6 PM. > Group dinner afterwards at restaurant TBD. We will pick a local > restaurant to goto afterwards. > > > > Thank you > -Ryan

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Northern VA Vintage Computer Meetup - 30 June 2024
by Ryan Stapleton 06 May '24

06 May '24

Hello All, For those that are in Northern VA or want to travel to Northern VA I am going to host a Vintage Computer meetup followed by dinner. https://www.bluewizard.net/pages/vintagecomputermeetup/ Where: Chantilly Regional Library 4000 Stringfellow Rd Chantilly, VA, 20151-2628 We have the conference room (smaller of the 2 rooms) When: Sunday 30 June 2024 @ 2-6 PM. Group dinner afterwards at restaurant TBD. We will pick a local restaurant to goto afterwards. Thank you -Ryan

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Vote for VCF's new bumper video
by Jeffrey Brace 06 May '24

06 May '24

VCF is looking for a new bumper to add to the front and back of all their new videos. There are 7 different versions. Vote on the one that you like best! https://forms.gle/Y9Qrj26xokeFXjub6 Voting ends Monday May 6 at midnight EDT Thanks! Jeff Brace VCF National Board Member Chairman & Vice President Vintage Computer Festival East Showrunner VCF Mid-Atlantic Event Manager Vintage Computer Federation is a 501c3 charity https://vcfed.org/ <http://www.vcfed.org/> jeffrey(a)vcfed.org

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8085 SBC rev 4 Mini Documentation
by Jonathan Chapman 06 May '24

06 May '24

All, Finally got the documentation package for the 8085 SBC rev 4 Mini (one of this year's VCF East kits) nailed down: http://filedump.glitchwrks.com/projects/gw-8085sbc-4m/ The above link includes the manual, schematics, GAL equations, and Flash chip image. If you weren't at the workshop, you can buy the bare board, kit, or fully assembled SBC on Tindie: https://www.tindie.com/products/34563/ Thanks, Jonathan

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FTGH: bad DSDD 3.5" disks
by Jonathan Sturges 05 May '24

05 May '24

To bolster my stock of DSDD 3.5" floppies, I recently bought a lot on eBay. But it included roughly 40 disks that won't format cleanly. Would anyone like these? They don't seem to be good for data but maybe an art or craft use? Free shipping to any takers in CONUS. -Jonathan

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Old computer I can learn to repair?
by Herbert Johnson 04 May '24

04 May '24

Caution: lecture. Reading time long, skip if impatient. a real question was asked. Sorry. How to use an oscilloscope, is a tough question now in 2024. It's an experience few people have today, that might have an interest in how some computer-thing works when broken (or not). So why do some people make it *hard*? ;) Traditional responses to "how to use an oscilloscope", is 1) to learn the instrument thoroughly, 2) be sure it's accurate 3) use it for designated purposes like research, repair. 4) oops, better learn digital logic and microprocessor signals too. (whoa, that's so complicated). That's because, computers and oscilloscopes were once expensive things, used by people with detailed knowledge of signals they show and how those signals are produced, and why. That's college-level tech, from the days of simple computers and simple electronics. That's my era. But oscilloscopes now, are just a thing like other electronic things. Old and cheap, new and cheap, buy and try and figure it out. So, I don't think the old-school approach is gonna work. So here's my old-guy approach with try-it in mind. YOu bought a 'scope. Grab anything you have that has a circuit board that's battery powered. Figure out where "ground" is, clip the ground lead there. Now use your scope probe, put it on parts of the circuit. Wadda see on the scope? HOwever: learn what it means to "ground" things and avoid "AC shocks". That's why I suggest battery-powered stuff first. If you don't see anything on your scope, look through whatever oscilloscope manual you can find. The manual for your scope will help BUT it's like "here's how all the knobs work" and not too useful for "why do that?". But look for advice and how-tos. It would not hurt to find old "how to use your oscilloscope books", but there are PDF's of those. also, find some info on whatever you are probing. Know what a schematic is? You'll find out! HOpe you find some for whatever you are messing with. Do that awhile, on different things. Read, test, probe. Now you have experience. Get more information based on what you KNOW now, and then what you want to know. If you want to repair something in particular (computers)? Grab one, any thrift store, your friend's closets and attics, whatever local. Or USB hubs or routers. *DOn't mess with CRT monitors or LCD's or TV's yet. YOu could hurt yourself seriously. Please avoid for now.* Look inside. Now what? The chips are small, the leads smaller, and nobody tells you (or me) what those signals and chips mean. It's a dead end (for most of us) to use an oscilloscope on modern computers. Same applies for Arduinos and Rasp Pi's, other than looking at signals your program produces, where you know (or should) what signals look like and why. This is not your fault. The old 8-bit computers? The simplest old/new vintage computers are little single-boards based on 8-bit processors like those in the C128, Apple II, and other 1980 computers. There's lots of sub-$100 kits for those, today, if you like building kits. The old processor data sheets, describe the signals. Look them up, to get some clues. They use "big" chips, big pins, not the little "surface mount" chips on today's devices, too small to poke at. See, you are learning stuff already, just reading this. I hope! Still, at some point, you'll have to do some homework on how vintage computers work at the chip IC level. That's what the oscilloscope tells you about. It's not your fault or the oscilloscope's. that's what it's supposed to do, the computers do what they are supposed to do. If the computer fails and some signals fail - how would you know failed from good signals? You gotta do your homework eventually. YOu'll break things, using your oscilloscope. Everyone does. Plan B if "all this stuff is too hard"? Well, that "how to use an oscilloscope kit" amounts to a AC to DC power supply running a "five fifty five" or 555 chip oscillator/timer. That's a very famous chip, whole books (not hard to read) about them. Simpler than a processor! A person, Forrest Mims, is an old guy who builds simple circuits, to do *real things*. He's done that for half a century! He's actually important for doing that. His circuits, are still simple. Look them up, see what you can do with computers or without, using simple circuits. Gotta start somewhere with circuits! YOu used to be able to buy breadboard "build 99 circuits" kits with power and a breadboard ready for use - then put chips in it, hook up wires to do things. that's a great learning opportunity. Check Ebay for those old breadboards, repairing them is fun too. https://www.retrotechnology.com/restore/breadbd.html There's several "hackerspace" type companies that still sell learning how-to electronic kits, some that use non-microprocessor "analog ICs" or "digital IC's". try some of those things. It's all online now of course, no local shops. There's actual hackerspaces, look for those near you if you are social and mobile. But the thing is, going with no knowledge is kind of intimidating. Some shops have beginner's days. Or go just to watch, not bug people with questions. Figure out the social scheme of the shop. It's all a process. It takes time, attention, desire and interest. It's a real thing, not a ten-minute thing, that's how such things go. That's the world that an oscilloscope can explore, but you point the probe not the oscilloscope, so you gotta know. I said, this was a real question. Regards Herb Johnson -- Herbert R. Johnson, New Jersey USA https://www.retrotechnology.com OR .net preserve, recover, restore 1970's computing email: hjohnson AT retrotechnology DOT com or try later herbjohnson AT comcast DOT net

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Vote for VCF's new bumper video - The Final Version is Here
by Herbert Johnson 04 May '24

04 May '24

You asked for opinions, got several. Here's mine. Several people of and around my era of now-vintage computing, don't like *any* music and many otherwise don't like noisy-sounds (but keyboard sounds are mostly not objectionable). That's my view also. The point (so I'm told) of the video, is the VCF brand. Not the history of Bell Labs or voice synth or sounds made by an Atari something. Keyclicks, those are so broad in history and so common, they draw attention and then are background. If you are gonna have a movie, and have sound, keyclicks do enough work not too much and not a thing-themselves. For those who crafted all this stuff, my apologies if they are disappointed in my responses. This is a five-second event, shall I write a thesis about it? It's *exactly* impressions, you have mine and what I can make of them. But thanks for the Daisy / Bell Labs callback. I did some homework on the subject, it's surprisingly important. And it's commentary on modern vs. historic responses to almost-human computer behavior. I got informed - but, I was distracted from the VCF brand accordingly. That's not your goal, right? Regards Herb -- Herbert R. Johnson, New Jersey USA https://www.retrotechnology.com OR .net preserve, recover, restore 1970's computing email: hjohnson AT retrotechnology DOT com or try later herbjohnson AT comcast DOT net

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Old computer I can learn to repair?
by Benjamin Krein 04 May '24

04 May '24

I just got my first ever oscilloscope (Zoyi ZT-703s) but I have a problem - I don't have any broken computers! :) Anyone have any old computers that are repairable they want to get rid of? Probably something 8-bit just because I'm an absolute beginner. I'm also thinking something more common just because resources will be easier to find. Here's my wish list but I won't look any gift horses in the mouth! 1. Commodore 128 2. Atari 400(xl)/600/800(xl) 3. Apple IIc(+) I've always wanted an Amiga (500) but I'm not sure if that's getting too complicated or not for the scope I got? I'm in the Philadelphia area. -- - Benjamin Krein

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Vote for VCF's new bumper video
by Bill Degnan 04 May '24

04 May '24

Why not just keep them all and make new ones as needed, always with the consistency of the "typing part"? The author of a given video can then choose from a stable of bumper videos, selecting the bumper that best matches the content? My vote is thus: One with typing only, and a library of versions built up over time with appropriate audio music and effects. Holiday-themed set, manufacturer set, famous computer sounds, advertising, etc. Bill Degnan On Sat, May 4, 2024, 6:49 AM Sentrytv via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > I agree with Jeff > Leave the video as is remove the audio . > > Mike > > Sent from: > My extremely complicated, hand held electronic device. > > > On May 4, 2024, at 1:01 AM, Jeff Galinat via vcf-midatlantic < > vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > > > > I would be fine with omitting the music. Just the logo with the typing > > works for me, but that was not an option. > > Regards, > > Jeff > > > >

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VCF Bumper to videos
by Jeffrey Brace 03 May '24

03 May '24

We had a volunteer create a bumper for our future VCF videos. What does everyone think? https://youtu.be/3c0F9bENQW4 Can anyone identify: 1) The computer starting up 2) The song 3) The keyboard making the clicking sounds? Take care! Jeff Brace VCF National Board Member Chairman & Vice President Vintage Computer Festival East Showrunner VCF Mid-Atlantic Event Manager Vintage Computer Federation is a 501c3 charity https://vcfed.org/ <http://www.vcfed.org/> jeffrey(a)vcfed.org

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Altair @ 50, why front panels are popular
by Herbert Johnson 03 May '24

03 May '24

PYROMATE Digital P45AF Firing System Pyrotechnics Fireworks Displays Module eBay item number:135003938238 plastic suitcase, orange panel toggles/lights The Van Vliet’s Company (111) 100% positive US $2,500.00 BIN B/O “Used but in great condition. All features are working. Contact for any additional information.” Free Standard Shipping. Located in: Riverview, Florida -- Herbert R. Johnson, New Jersey USA https://www.retrotechnology.com OR .net preserve, recover, restore 1970's computing email: hjohnson AT retrotechnology DOT com or try later herbjohnson AT comcast DOT net

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Repair workshop who’s going?
by Jeffrey Brace 03 May '24

03 May '24

Let me know or sign up. Take care! Jeff Brace VCF National Board Member Chairman & Vice President Vintage Computer Festival East Showrunner VCF Mid-Atlantic Event Manager Vintage Computer Federation is a 501c3 charity https://vcfed.org/ <http://www.vcfed.org/> jeffrey(a)vcfed.org

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Big personal collection at home
by Jeffrey Brace 03 May '24

03 May '24

An editor at an architecture and design magazine asked if I could refer him to any collector that has a notably large vintage computing collection preferably in the NYC metro area. This is not a museum that he's looking for, but someone's private residence. If you have any ideas, then send me an email with the person's contact info and I will let him know. Thanks! Jeff Brace VCF National Board Member Chairman & Vice President Vintage Computer Festival East Showrunner VCF Mid-Atlantic Event Manager Vintage Computer Federation is a 501c3 charity https://vcfed.org/ <http://www.vcfed.org/> jeffrey(a)vcfed.org

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Fwd: ENIACtion ['] IEEE Milestone Event for Grace Hopper's A-O Compiler at UPenn May 7th
by Jeffrey Brace 02 May '24

02 May '24

---------- Forwarded message --------- On Tuesday Morning, May 7th, an IEEE Milestone Plaque will be unveiled at the Engineering School of the University of Pennsylvania in honor of Grace Hopper's development of the A-O Compiler and Automatic Programming. The building where the plaque will be placed is where Rear Admiral Hopper had worked on this effort. Details about how to register to attend in-person or view the ceremony online are at: <https://events.seas.upenn.edu/event/ieee-grace-hopper-milestone-celebration/> <https://events.seas.upenn.edu/event/ieee-grace-hopper-milestone-celebration/> . *IEEE Milestone Plaque Citation* A-O Compiler and Initial Development of Automatic Programming, 1951-1952 During 1951-1952, Grace Hopper invented the A-O Compiler, a series of specifications that functioned as a linker/loader. It was a pioneering achievement of automatic programming as well as a pioneering utility program for the management of subroutines. That A-O Compiler influenced the development of arithmetic and business programming languages. This led to COBOL (Common Business-Oriented Language) becoming the dominant high-level language for business applications. *About Grace Hopper *Rear Admiral Grace Hopper was a mathematician, computer scientist, systems designer and the inventor of the compiler. Her outstanding contributions to computer science benefited academia, industry and the military. In 1928 she graduated from Vassar College with a B.A. in mathematics and physics and joined the Vassar faculty. While an instructor, she continued her studies in mathematics at Yale University where she earned an MA in 1930 and a Ph.D. in 1934. Grace Hopper is known worldwide for her work with the first large-scale digital computer, the Navy’s Mark I. In 1949 she joined Philadelphia’s Eckert-Mauchly, founded by the builders of ENIAC, which was building UNIVAC I. Her work on compilers and on making machines understand ordinary language instructions lead ultimately to the development of the business language, COBOL. Grace Hopper served on the faculty of the Moore School for 15 years, and in 1974 received an honorary degree from the University. --

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Repair Workshop 2024, 5/4 & 5/5
by Jeffrey Brace 02 May '24

02 May '24

Click here to sign up <https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1DTry5ca1BK6jlGIVPkLOnar18a6dvyW9DGi…> *WHERE:* 1) CDL's Hackerspace and classroom in building 9059 (Most people use this one) 2) 9032-A is *not *available this time. *TIME:*Saturday START time == 10 A.M. END time == 11PM. Sunday START time == 10 A.M. and END == 5 P.M. *COST:* $15 per person, per day. $25 per night for those wanting to stay overnight in the visitor center's bunk beds *OVERNIGHT*: Bring your own pillow, blankets, soap etc. We provide a bed frame and an uncovered mattress. There are showers and a kitchen for your use. - You can send: * Via PayPal to @VintageComputerFed or paypal(a)vcfed.org. * Venmo: @VintageComputerFederation * Cash, credit card, Apple Pay, etc. in person. We have a Square Device. *EQUIPMENT:* - VCF will provide a table and you can use any available electrical outlet. - Bring your own tools, power strips, power cords, and supplies etc. - If you need particular tools that you don't own or particular parts, please let others know that you need something. They may have what you need. Let them know ahead of time. - Let everyone know what project you are working on ahead of time to inspire collaboration. *DRINKS*: You should bring your own. We have a refrigerator in CDL to keep them cold. VCF will buy some water and soft drinks for member use. *FOOD*: *Saturday afternoon*: Everyone is on their own. *Saturday Night Dinner at around 7PM*: We often go out to dinner together. MJ's in Tinton Falls seems the new prefered spot. *Sunday Morning*: We usually meet at a diner around 9AM *Sunday Afternoon*: Everyone is on their own. *PARKING:* Park in the main parking lot, unless you are unloading. Don't park on the lawn. Also don't park where there are "no parking signs" There is now a dedicated fire lane. *PHONE:* (732) 722 - 5015 *EMAIL: *repairworkshops(a)vcfed.org Have fun everyone! :-D

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] VCF Bumper to videos
by Neil Cherry 02 May '24

02 May '24

On 5/1/24 18:11, Sentrytv via vcf-midatlantic wrote: > REALLY > All all of this hubbub over 10 seconds of video and sound? "I'm particulary glad that these lovely children were here today to hear that speech. Not only was it authentic frontier gibberish, it expressed a courage little" -- Linux Home Automation Neil Cherry kd2zrq(a)linuxha.com http://www.linuxha.com/ Main site http://linuxha.blogspot.com/ My HA Blog Author of: Linux Smart Homes For Dummies KD2ZRQ

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] VCF Bumper to videos
by Andrew Diller 01 May '24

01 May '24

Are you really asking that? I know you didn't just join this list lol > On May 1, 2024, at 6:11 PM, Sentrytv via vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > > > REALLY > All all of this hubbub over 10 seconds of video and sound? >

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Do we have any room for this? SGI Cheyenne for sale.
by Christian Liendo 30 Apr '24

30 Apr '24

https://gsaauctions.gov/auctions/preview/282996 Cheyenne Supercomputer - Water Cooling System Components of the Cheyenne Supercomputer Installed Configuration: SGI ICE™ XA. E-Cells: 14 units weighing 1500 lbs. each. E-Racks: 28 units, all water-cooled Nodes: 4,032 dual socket units configured as quad-node blades Processors: 8,064 units of E5-2697v4 (18-core, 2.3 GHz base frequency, Turbo up to 3.6GHz, 145W TDP) Total Cores: 145,152 Memory: DDR4-2400 ECC single-rank, 64 GB per node, with 3 High Memory E-Cells having 128GB per node, totaling 313,344 GB Topology: EDR Enhanced Hypercube IB Switches: 224 units

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Do we have any room for this? SGI Cheyenne for sale.
by Ethan O'Toole 30 Apr '24

30 Apr '24

> It cost 35 million to build in 2017 and the bid is 8300 bucks...oy vey. When I was picking up mine some guy was in the room while we were preparing the system to move. Guy said "We paid $8 million 5 years ago, he bought it online for scrap for $5200" or something like that. I think mine was made in 1997 and I bought it in 2001 but could be wrong (air cooled J90 series.) Crazy amount of depreciation fast.

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OT: Help InfoAge's YouTube channel qualify to get monetized
by Jeffrey Brace 29 Apr '24

29 Apr '24

Please subscribe to InfoAge's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@infoagemuseum About 3 years ago in April 2021, I turned on monetization for the VCF YouTube channel <https://www.youtube.com/@vcfederation>. We get about $50 per month to support the organization. I'm hoping to get that same level of support for InfoAge's YouTube channel. But first we need to: 1) Get 1000 subscribers. (Currently we have 121)/ 2) Get 4000 hours of viewing time. If you subscribe to their channel, then you can help with #1. #2 will take time as I help them add content to the channel that people want to watch. Thanks! Jeff Brace VCF National Board Member Chairman & Vice President Vintage Computer Festival East Showrunner VCF Mid-Atlantic Event Manager Vintage Computer Federation is a 501c3 charity https://vcfed.org/ <http://www.vcfed.org/> jeffrey(a)vcfed.org

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] VCF East 2024 Podcast Episode 1
by Jeffrey Brace 29 Apr '24

29 Apr '24

On Sun, Apr 28, 2024 at 11:11 PM Ryan Stapleton via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > Hello All, > Hello Ryan! Thanks so much for sharing! Jeff Brace > > I wanted to share my buddy Rich and my podcast where we talk about VCF > East 2024! > > This is episode 1 of 2 where episode 2 will drop in a few weeks. > > I hope you enjoy! I know we enjoyed the show! > > http://www.rnrdoesstuff.com/podcast/ep-012-vcf-east-2024-part1/ > > > Thank you > -Ryan

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OT / MAC spoofing at Camp Evans
by Martin A. Flynn 29 Apr '24

29 Apr '24

Hi Folks, Please check your mobile devices that you are not using the MAC privacy option when on the Camp Evans network. https://support.apple.com/en-us/102509 We are seeing connected devices at all sorts of strange hours, with MAC addresses that are not listed in the IEEE master list. No desire to use the ban hammer on legit users / devices Martin Flynn

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Altair 8800 50th birthday...
by Herbert Johnson 29 Apr '24

29 Apr '24

> On Thu, Apr 25, 2024, 12:34 PM William Sudbrink v wrote: > >> Based on what I have read, along with a few discussions I have had with >> people involved in the early S-100 "scene", around now is the 50th >> birthday (or conception day) of the Altair 8800. Certainly, next year >> could properly be called its 50th birthday.Anyway, I'm thinking about >> "painting the show blue" with Altairs and IMSAIs for the next few >> vintage computer festivals. >> >> Anyone else interested? - Bill S. > On 4/25/2024 1:54 PM, Neil Cherry via vcf-midatlantic wrote: >> Not a bad thing. And swtpc 6800 also 50 yrs >> On 4/25/24 13:09, Bill Degnan wrote: >> Yea, a little love for the SWTPCs! :-D I'm sympathetic to Bill Sudbrick, to celebrate MITS Altairs and IMSAIs. I was in EE college when I copied the Popular Electronics MITS Altair articles, to make transparencies of the PC boards layouts they published. I've supported S-100 for three decades plus. S-100 systems were produced for twenty years, hundreds of companies. So recognition of them as leaders is a good idea. But leaders of *what*? - there's some better idea to celebrate, reflect upon. Neil and Bill Degnan also have a point. The SS-50 was also a popular architecture in the era. It also led to dozen of companies' products. But why mention SS-50 and S-100 together? There's some better idea in mind that suggests why. I'm thinking this through. I'll say more on my Web site. But my short argument for the better idea, is something like this. These mid-1970's computers, were part of a new idea about computing. Standard busses, open architectures, established and open operating systems - based on then-new 8-bit microprocessors. Circuitcard-based systems expandable at the cost of a single circuit board, or the cost of a few chips on a board. Microprocessors were inside powerful chips that were a lot easier to program, cheaper to produce in volume. Hardware costs falling, and dramatically. And all this "cheaper faster better" brought millions of people into computing, using computers themselves - more productivity, falling costs. All of that is kind of a package, that started to happen about fifty years ago. We take computers and micros for granted today, like fish in water. But *little of that was true* fifty years ago. I was *there*, I know this. (But there's a counter argument, for earlier computers. That's OK! Bring it on! They all make the same case, points of progress to a result, that's my point! ;) And by the way? I and my 1970's colleagues, we won't be "here" for personal accounts on the 75th anniversary. Some of us already left the building. So don't dally on one brand a year. I think those are better ideas to have some celebrations about. Not just a blue birthday cake on one day, or a row of IMSAIs and Altairs at one event (there aren't that many kinds). That's what I'm thinking about. Thanks to Bill Sudbrink for starting the idea of using the MITS Altair 8800 50th birthday. but I'd call it a trail marker. Regards Herb Johnson -- Herbert R. Johnson, New Jersey USA https://www.retrotechnology.com OR .net preserve, recover, restore 1970's computing email: hjohnson AT retrotechnology DOT com or try later herbjohnson AT comcast DOT net

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VCF East 2024 Podcast Episode 1
by Ryan Stapleton 28 Apr '24

28 Apr '24

Hello All, I wanted to share my buddy Rich and my podcast where we talk about VCF East 2024! This is episode 1 of 2 where episode 2 will drop in a few weeks. I hope you enjoy! I know we enjoyed the show! http://www.rnrdoesstuff.com/podcast/ep-012-vcf-east-2024-part1/ Thank you -Ryan

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