- vcf-midatlantic - lists.vcfed.org

Apple-1 Computer Prototype Board #0 sells for 2.7M
by Christian Liendo 30 Jan '26

30 Jan '26

Shout out to Cory for the video. https://www.rrauction.com/auctions/lot-detail/350902407346003-apple-1-compu…

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InfoAge Museums closed Wednesday, January 27, 2026
by Jeffrey Brace 27 Jan '26

27 Jan '26

Due to the extreme cold and icy conditions on campus the InfoAge Museums (including VCF) will be closed Wednesday January 28, 2026. Take care! Jeff Brace VCF National Board Member Chairman & Vice President VCF East Showrunner VCF Fundraising Manager VCF Evangelist Vintage Computer Federation is a 501c3 charity https://vcfed.org/ <http://www.vcfed.org/> <https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campai…> Virus-free.www.avast.com <https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campai…> <#DAB4FAD8-2DD7-40BB-A1B8-4E2AA1F9FDF2>

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] OT: Post on the forums about "Looking for Table Share"
by Bill Degnan 26 Jan '26

26 Jan '26

Dumb question.. tables already all taken? On Sat, Jan 24, 2026 at 2:14 PM RETRO Innovations via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > On 1/24/2026 11:08 AM, Sentrytv via vcf-midatlantic wrote: > > > > Subject: > > Re: [vcf-midatlantic] OT: Post on the forums about "Looking for Table > > Share" > > From: > > Sentrytv <sentrytv(a)yahoo.com> > > Date: > > 1/24/2026, 11:08 AM > > > > To: > > vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> > > CC: > > vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org>, Bart Hirst > > <bart.hirst(a)vcfed.org> > > > > > > > > This sounds like a really interesting exhibit. It would be a shame that > he would not be able to set up his exhibit because of space or table > availability! > > > > Jeff, are there any spaces available for him? > > I know there’s a waiting list. > > I don’t know this person personally, but it seems very interesting. > Maybe somebody can help. > > I am not an ex exhibitor so I do not have any spaces or tables. > > > > Mike > > > > Sent from: > > My extremely complicated, hand held electronic device. > > > >> On Jan 24, 2026, at 11:49 AM, Bart Hirst via vcf-midatlantic< > vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > >> > >> I saw this on the forums, passing it along (no affiliation) > >> > >> > https://forum.vcfed.org/index.php?threads/looking-for-table-share-at-vcf-ea… > > I replied and PMed. I have 2 tables and can share. I agree it sounds > like a neat exhibit and even if not, international exhibits are no doubt > coveted. > > Jim > > -- > RETRO Innovations, Contemporary Gear for Classic Systems > www.go4retro.com > store.go4retro.com >

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] OT: Post on the forums about "Looking for Table Share"
by RETRO Innovations 24 Jan '26

24 Jan '26

On 1/24/2026 11:08 AM, Sentrytv via vcf-midatlantic wrote: > > Subject: > Re: [vcf-midatlantic] OT: Post on the forums about "Looking for Table > Share" > From: > Sentrytv <sentrytv(a)yahoo.com> > Date: > 1/24/2026, 11:08 AM > > To: > vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> > CC: > vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org>, Bart Hirst > <bart.hirst(a)vcfed.org> > > > > This sounds like a really interesting exhibit. It would be a shame that he would not be able to set up his exhibit because of space or table availability! > > Jeff, are there any spaces available for him? > I know there’s a waiting list. > I don’t know this person personally, but it seems very interesting. Maybe somebody can help. > I am not an ex exhibitor so I do not have any spaces or tables. > > Mike > > Sent from: > My extremely complicated, hand held electronic device. > >> On Jan 24, 2026, at 11:49 AM, Bart Hirst via vcf-midatlantic<vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: >> >> I saw this on the forums, passing it along (no affiliation) >> >> https://forum.vcfed.org/index.php?threads/looking-for-table-share-at-vcf-ea… I replied and PMed. I have 2 tables and can share. I agree it sounds like a neat exhibit and even if not, international exhibits are no doubt coveted. Jim -- RETRO Innovations, Contemporary Gear for Classic Systems www.go4retro.com store.go4retro.com

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OT: Post on the forums about "Looking for Table Share"
by Bart Hirst 24 Jan '26

24 Jan '26

I saw this on the forums, passing it along (no affiliation) https://forum.vcfed.org/index.php?threads/looking-for-table-share-at-vcf-ea…

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DOS Gaming titles available
by Herbert Johnson 23 Jan '26

23 Jan '26

Laura Kid asks: Are they all Windows? What are requirements? Laura, I don't know the seller or what they have. But looking at the titles as dated from 1990 to 1997, some versions of say Paint Shop PRo 7 and so on? Seems to me these are Windows 98 Windows XP era, maybe some MS-DOS games stuff too. Some of the software might need product numbers to enable them but the non-office gaming stuff may only need to run from the original CD. Sounds like a stack of CD's. Recent 64-bit Windows might choke on some of these but I've run things like Paint Shop Pro 9 under Win 10. Or run on an older Windows OS just for their use. But I don't see anything that needs networking/browsing to work, at-a-glance, so an old PC's networking won't be needed. No promises from me. As Degnan's listing says, contact Bill to connect to the seller. My guess is these would fit a flat-rate Priority Mail box if the seller wants to ship. 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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Keep Front Gate open Saturday, Jan. 24
by Jeffrey Brace 23 Jan '26

23 Jan '26

MESSAGE FROM GLORIA: Anyone at InfoAge on Saturday, please make sure when the museums close that the main gate is left open. Wall DPW will come through Sunday and Monday to salt and plow so the gate needs to be open for them. Please pass it on to your volunteers that will be onsite on Saturday. Thanks, Gloria <https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campai…> Virus-free.www.avast.com <https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campai…> <#DAB4FAD8-2DD7-40BB-A1B8-4E2AA1F9FDF2>

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DOS Gaming titles available
by Bill Degnan 23 Jan '26

23 Jan '26

I was contacted by someone with the following available, I assume they're located somewhere in south eastern PA. Let me know and I can pass on your contact info. I do not know anything about the items. Contact me through kennettclassic.com's contact form or my email. Degnan: ECO Quest Mixed Up –Mother Goose nursery rhymes 3D Animated Traveller Science Fiction Adventure PC USA Map Images of CD-Rom Hebrew Print’n Play Barbie Corel Office 7 Corel A to Z Jasc-Paint Shop Pro 7 The Sims House Party Print Shop Deluxe 111 Mammals: A multimedia Encyclopedia CD Rom Languages of the World Time Table of History Great Cities of the World Vol 1 1990 Time Almanac World Atlas Netgear Lotus Smart Suite Dragon Naturally Speaking Home Medical Advisor Orbits Voyage through the Solar System Myst Days of Thunder Visio enterprize Yukon Trail Spanish 1 PGA Tour 96 Strategy Games of the World Compton’s Interactive Encyclopedia Quicken French 1 The Body 101 Dalmations.

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InfoAge Closed Sunday January 25
by Jeffrey Brace 22 Jan '26

22 Jan '26

Due to the impending snowstorm all InfoAge Museums will be closed Sunday January 25, 2026. Take care! Jeff Brace VCF National Board Member Chairman & Vice President VCF East Showrunner VCF Fundraising Manager VCF Evangelist Vintage Computer Federation is a 501c3 charity https://vcfed.org/ <http://www.vcfed.org/>

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OT-Just passing this along
by Hopkins, Justin 22 Jan '26

22 Jan '26

I bought a DB25 switch off ebay from a guy in Rochelle Park. Turns out the seller's late father was an electrical engineer and there are "boxes and boxes" of electrical stuff in the house that he has no idea what it is. He put out a few things on ebay, but that is probably 1% of what there is. Here is the description of a few things. Mini-Circuits Attenuator Dynage Power supply TE connectivity 2-221128-1 Pomona BNC to test leads connector Email me off board if you recognize anything and have any interest in it and I'll give you his contact info and he can send you some pictures of whatever else there is. (he is open to getting rid of it in one big lot) There was not any kind of vintage computer stuff except for dual use cables. This message and any attachments are intended only for the use of the addressee and may contain information that is privileged and confidential. If the reader of the message is not the intended recipient or an authorized representative of the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by e-mail and delete the message and any attachments from your system.

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Apple ][ docs and printer
by Bob Roswell 17 Jan '26

17 Jan '26

My friend Michael is moving and is welling to donate the items below! Bob Roswell broswell(a)syssrc.com 410-771-5544 ext 4336 Computer Museum Highlights<http://museum.syssrc.com/> [cid:image001.png@01DC87EF.2E285180] [cid:image002.jpg@01DC87EF.2E285180] [cid:image003.jpg@01DC87EF.2E285180] [cid:image004.jpg@01DC87EF.2E285180] Michael Schweisheimer PWPvideo 267-297-3497 direct 215-837-0999 mobile michael(a)pwpvideo.com<mailto:michael@pwpvideo.com> www.pwpvideo.com<http://www.pwpvideo.com> Sent by ESP

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VCF East 2026 Volunteers needed!
by Jeffrey Brace 12 Jan '26

12 Jan '26

Hey everyone! We are in great need of volunteers for VCF East. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/DK7Q2kT5XWBm8QKz5 In addition to general volunteers we also need managers for: Front Desk A/V Please let me know if you have any questions. Jeff Brace VCF East Showrunner

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80th Anniversary Celebration of ENIAC on Sunday February 15, 2026 in West Chester, PA
by bernieS 11 Jan '26

11 Jan '26

Jim Sherrer of Compuseum shares this exciting news about an upcoming celebration of the 80th Anniversary Celebration of ENIAC on Sunday February 15, 2026 in West Chester, PA at the impressive helicopter museum there. He told me MARCH members are invited to attend in person or online! -bernieS *February 15th is the 80th Anniversary of the ENIAC of 1946. * We aim to give you a great celebration! Combination "In Person" and "Virtual" event. *Re: 80th Anniversary Celebration of ENIAC * American Helicopter Museum, West Chester, PA February 15th, 2026 (Sunday) Starting at museum open at 1PM (EST). Video Presentation goes two hours from 2PM-4PM (EST) in their Auditorium, Afterwards is 1 hour duration in person meet and greet. Museum closes at 5PM (EST). This is also a virtual/online/hybrid event on the Zoom Platform. Virtual Registration via Helicopter Museum web site here: https://www.helicoptermuseum.org/event-details/eniac-day-celebration Free online, $20 at door. *Event Title: ENIAC Founders, Families and Futures - 80 Years On * *SPEAKERS * Kickoff By Jim Scherrer, Compuseum, 4 minutes Kathy Kleiman - "Deep Dive Into Proving Ground People" Author- Proving Grounds; Purchase Book here: https://a.co/d/52qkpvl (Confirmed - In person or Virtual) Brian Stuart - "The ENIAC in Context" A deep technical dive into how the master programmer makes the ENIAC satisfy the criteria necessary for universality in the Turing sense and to clarify the relationship between Turing's work and that of Mauchly and Eckert. (Confirmed - In Person) Paul Ceruzzi- "Perspective on ENIAC, 80 years On" Author "A New History of Modern Computing" book along with Tom Haigh. Tom Burick - "How Today's High School Students built a full sized replica of ENIAC, from scratch!" IT Instructor, PS Academy, Arizona (Confirmed, Virtual) Bill Mauchly, "Recollections of My Dad" Bill is from First Family of Computing, on the 80th. - Son of John Mauchly and Kathleen "Kay" McNulty Mauchly (Confirmed, In Person) Chris Eckert: "Recollections of My Dad" First Family of Computing - Son of J. Presper Eckert (Confirmed, Virtual) Gini Mauchly; "How My Mom Programmed the first Computer" First Family of Computing - Daughter of John Mauchly and Kathleen "Kay" McNulty Mauchly (Confirmed, In Person) Naomi Most - "Did my IT career result from my DNA" Granddaughter of Kay McNulty (Confirmed, Virtual) Dr. Tim Bartik, "Recollections of My Mother". Son of Jean Jennings Bartik, 1st ENIAC Programmer (Confirmed, Virtual) Jeffrey Yost - "The ENIAC's Unveiling: Shaping Metaphors and Meanings in Computing" Director, Charles Babbage Institute for Computing, Information & Culture (Confirmed, In Person) Paul Shaffer- "How the ENIAC made Quadrotor Drones Possible; From Vacuum Tubes to Vertical Flight" ENIAC Historian at PENN- (Confirmed, In Person) Ken Chaney - "See PENN's Supercomputer" Associate Director and Technical Lead of the Betty Holberton Data Center - Visitors will see the Betty Holberton supercomputer at PENN (named after Betty Holberton, ENIAC programmer) https://parcc.upenn.edu/systems/betty/ (Confirmed, On Site) Show & Tell- "Audience Participation" Q&A session where audience members can show off their ENIAC equipment or memorabilia using the screen share option. If you have ENIAC equipment or memorabilia you'd like to "show off", please let us know in advance. Wrap Up Where are we going with computing? Thank you from: Jim Scherrer (Compuseum); Paul Kahan (Helicopter Museum) (Confirmed, In Person) SPEAKERS BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH Kathy Kleiman, Senior Fellow, Programs on Tech, Law & Security and Information Justice and Intellectual Property, American University Washington College of Law, Author of "Proving Ground," and Founder of the ENIAC Programmers Project. Twenty years of work at ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) to research the structure and balance of private Internet governance systems, privacy & Internet technologies. Brian Stuart, PhD is a professor of Computer Science at Drexel University. He hold a BS from the Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, an MS from the University of Notre Dame, and a PhD from Purdue University. His primary research for the past ten years has been uncovering the details of the design, operation, and programming of the ENIAC. Bill Mauchly is the son of John W. Mauchly and Kathleen "Kay" McNulty, two pioneers whose work on ENIAC, UNIVAC, and early programming helped define the very foundations of modern computing. As part of the "first family of computers," Bill has carried forward that legacy through a career that bridges advanced technology, digital creativity, and the preservation of computing history. Tim Bartik, PhD is a senior economist at the Upjohn Institute for Employment Research, a non-profit and non-partisan research organization in Kalamazoo, Michigan. His research focuses on state and local economic development policies and local labor markets. At the Upjohn Institute, Dr. Bartik co-directs the Institute's research initiative on place-based policies. Tom Burick - Teacher at PS Academy in Gilbert, Arizona. PS Academy is a private high school for students with autism and other exceptionalities. which offers customized programs, clubs and electives, and ability-based learning with a focus on social skills improvement. Paul Ceruzzi is Curator Emeritus at the Smithsonian Institution's National Air and Space Museum. He has published extensively on topics in the history of computing and aerospace. His most recent publications include "GPS: a Concise History," "Computing: A Concise History"--both part of MIT Press's Essential Knowledge Series, And, with Tom Haigh, "A New History of Modern Computing." Jeffrey R. Yost is Director, Charles Babbage Institute and Research Professor, History of Science, Technology, and Medicine, University of Minnesota. He has published nine books. His four most recent books are Just Code: Power, Inequality and the Political Economy of IT (co-edited with G. Con Diaz, JHU Press); Making IT Work: A History of the Computer Services Industry (MIT Press); Computer: A History of the Information Machine 4th ed. (co-authored, Routledge); and FastLane: Managing Science in the Internet World (co-authored with Tom Misa, JHU Press). He co-edits Studies in Computing Culture book series for Johns Hopkins University (JHU) Press. Paul Shaffer is the ENIAC Historian at the University of Pennsylvania, where he serves as a steward and interpreter of the world's first general-purpose electronic digital computer. He has spent more than three decades championing the ENIAC artifact - researching its history, preserving its story, and translating its technical significance. A helicopter pilot, Paul brings an aviator's perspective on systems, risk, and disciplined procedure to his work in technology and public history. He is also a commercial UAS (drone) instructor. Paul is known for making ENIAC both legible and vivid: not only as a landmark machine, but as a human achievement shaped by ingenuity, constraint, and collaboration. As ENIAC approaches its 80th anniversary in 2026, he continues to help ensure the machine's technical and cultural impact remains accurately understood, widely shared, and meaningfully remembered. REFERENCES & SUGGESTED READING A New History of Modern Computing: Co-Author Dr. Thomas Haigh and Paul Ceruzzi Purchase book here: https://a.co/d/esgXbCS. Proving Grounds; Author: Kathy Kleiman Purchase Book here: https://a.co/d/52qkpvl Computer: A History of the Information Machine. Link to Amazon: https://z.umn.edu/Computer_A_History DONATE TO COMPUSEUM TO HELP FUND THIS AND OTHER EVENTS. Help us make a splash for this 80th Anniversary with a monetary donation at the "Donate Now" button on the web site here: https://thecompuseum.org/home Special Note: This event is Coincident with Americas Semiquincentennial! (250th) Watch Here: https://www.britannica.com/video/how-to-pronounce-semiquincentennial-and-wh… Jim Scherrer, President and Founder *Compuseum, Inc.* Technology Center West Chester, PA 19382-6735 - USA Phone- 610-793-4600 www.theCompuseum.org Info(a)theCompuseum.org X/Twitter: @TheCompuseum Hashtags: #Compuseum #WorldComputerDay Sponsors of World Computer Day at https://worldcomputerday.org/ Sponsors of ENIAC Day at https://eniacday.org/

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OT: Why New Jersey Has No Major City
by Herbert Johnson 10 Jan '26

10 Jan '26

I've lived near Trenton for decades but was not born in NJ. So I see the state as an outsider. I appreciated the video. The second half of the video was about "boroughitis", that I figured out by experience, I didn't realize it was driven by policy. But the first half about the (pre)colonial history was new to me and very informative, made sense. I knew previously, that Ben Franklin referred to New Jersey as "a barrel with two corks at either end", being opposite Phila and NYC. And I also knew before, the geography, more than in the video. The state is split north-south by "hills" and rocky lands north, clay and sand and forest soils to the south. I know in particular, the economic value of the southern farms, clays for pottery, sand for glass - a lot of economic value a century or two ago. Trenton was a world pottery center, from vases down to sinks and toilets. Also pine for construction. Even the Pinelands had "bog iron", washed down from the north into the clays. Not in the video, is the fact that ridges run across the north half of the state, from southwest to northeast. They are the ancient foothills and worn-down Appalachian Mountains (mined for coal and iron, other minerals). Rivers and roads run in those directions. They are physical obstacles to north-south commerce, until powered vehicles and asphalt highways were created, except for the Delaware. The Delaware River cuts through these ridges, from northwest to south east in the north half, as the video called out. In the south half, the Delaware bends to the southwest. Roads in either half follow in parallel, or perpendicular-to, the river. Thus there's no "cardinal directions" in the the state - you can't drive "north", you drive roughly parallel or perpendicular to the Delaware. Thus a compass is useless for travel in most of New Jersey. The video called out greater Newark as a single sprawling metropolitan area of millions, bigger than Chicago - that was a surprise. 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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OT: Why New Jersey Has No Major City
by Jeffrey Brace 10 Jan '26

10 Jan '26

*"If you go by pop culture alone, you might think the entire state of New Jersey is just one long turnpike exit—a grey, industrial corridor connecting New York City to... well, anywhere else. It’s the butt of every joke about the state. But if you actually look at the map, and I mean really look at the physical reality of the land, you’ll realize that New Jersey isn’t just a paved-over parking lot. It is actually a geographic marvel that, by all rights, shouldn't exist as a single political entity."* This video talks about it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mzohouMgODo&t=36s Enjoy! Jeff Brace VCF National Board Member Chairman & Vice President

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MARCH Workshop this weekend
by Jeff Salzman 10 Jan '26

10 Jan '26

For those arriving at InfoAge for the MARCH Workshop event this weekend, you can open the door to the 9010-D building simply by pulling on the door handle. Even though the door has a code lock, the door is not locked. It's just closed for climate control inside. Jeff Salzman

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Site-wide wireless for VCF East?
by Neil Cherry 10 Jan '26

10 Jan '26

I think this is getting way off track and posting blame isn't going to change the network. I take exception with the understanding of what it takes to build a network. I've built very large networks (Corp 50 type networks). I haven't built exhibition networks. Those are two different things. This network is not designed to handle an expo center network, especially on a campus env. Remember this network was built with volunteers and a lot (if not all) was donated. Not a cheap thing, expecially with 10G fiber between the building. If someone wished to cough up the dollars and volunteers to build an expo network, please step up. -- Linux Home Automation Neil Cherry ncherry(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] Site-wide wireless for VCF East?
by Ian Litchfield 09 Jan '26

09 Jan '26

Forgive any brashness here, but “taking away” the network due to complaints of it being over loaded seems excessive and unwarranted. There are ways to implement network segregation, quotas, QoS, etc. and setup temporary networks for exhibitors or attendees. That being said, shame on those that vindicated IA, which provided a free service and experienced a moment of congestion. Of course 1500 people all going through one pipe is going to be slow. If you go to any major event there are quality and service disruptions.. -Ian L. On Fri, Jan 9, 2026 at 17:03 Martin A Flynn via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > On 1/9/2026 2:38 PM, Dan FitzGerald wrote: > > I am designing my exhibit for VCF East, and would like to know if we > > are going to have site-wide public wifi for the event. Whether we do > > or not will affect what kinds of things I do with my exibit; > > specifically, if I am going to allow for attendees for remote access > > to my personal mainframe system, and whether or not I will attempt any > > cross-site demos of the OfficeVision/VM (PROFS) mail program. > > > > Do you think that this will be possible? > > Dan, > > After InfoAge and myself getting thoroughly beat up for Wi-Fi issues at > a previous VCFe, the decision was made to no longer provide "public" > Wi-Fi at InfoAge. > > InfoAge does provide staff Wi-Fi in the areas that were equipped by the > volunteers from CDL, VCF, and the RTM, however it is definitely not > site-wide. > > Martin Flynn > > >

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Site-wide wireless for VCF East?
by Patrick Finnegan 09 Jan '26

09 Jan '26

It's unfortunate that VCFed can't find a way to provide this for the attendees at the show, even if it's not provided by infoage. There are good options for Wireless and Satellite network uplinks, so you're not even limited to what connectivity the site has to it. Actually, considering that IA is a non profit more or less educational entity, it should look at joining Eduroam... Even hospitals and museums have joined into that. Patrick Finnegan On Fri, Jan 9, 2026, 17:03 Martin A Flynn via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > On 1/9/2026 2:38 PM, Dan FitzGerald wrote: > > I am designing my exhibit for VCF East, and would like to know if we > > are going to have site-wide public wifi for the event. Whether we do > > or not will affect what kinds of things I do with my exibit; > > specifically, if I am going to allow for attendees for remote access > > to my personal mainframe system, and whether or not I will attempt any > > cross-site demos of the OfficeVision/VM (PROFS) mail program. > > > > Do you think that this will be possible? > > Dan, > > After InfoAge and myself getting thoroughly beat up for Wi-Fi issues at > a previous VCFe, the decision was made to no longer provide "public" > Wi-Fi at InfoAge. > > InfoAge does provide staff Wi-Fi in the areas that were equipped by the > volunteers from CDL, VCF, and the RTM, however it is definitely not > site-wide. > > Martin Flynn > > >

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Site-wide wireless for VCF East?
by Dan FitzGerald 09 Jan '26

09 Jan '26

I am designing my exhibit for VCF East, and would like to know if we are going to have site-wide public wifi for the event. Whether we do or not will affect what kinds of things I do with my exibit; specifically, if I am going to allow for attendees for remote access to my personal mainframe system, and whether or not I will attempt any cross-site demos of the OfficeVision/VM (PROFS) mail program. Do you think that this will be possible? -- Regards, Dan FitzGerald Classical Computing Laboratory at IBM Poughkeepse http://www.vm.ibm.com/devpages/DFITZGER Danbury-Area Retrocomputing Enthusiasts (D.A.R.E.) HNET: EVIEVM(DFITZGER)

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] OT I have some CRESTRON equipment that I am willing to get rid of
by August Culbert 09 Jan '26

09 Jan '26

Hi Mike, I'm interested in the Crestron equipment. I have an old copy of the software I can use to program them. I will be at the workshop on Saturday. Thanks! -August On Tue, Jan 6, 2026 at 2:57 PM Sentrytv via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > I will be at the workshop this Saturday up until about 4 PM > If anybody is interested in some old CRESTRON equipment > Including touch panels, processors and accessories please let me know > immediately. > I will have to put these in a container so I can bring them with me if > there is any interest > No picking and choosing winner has to take all. > > Mike Rosen > > Sent from: > My extremely complicated, hand held electronic device. >

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OT: Electronics Auction in Jackson tomorrow
by Joseph Giliberti 09 Jan '26

09 Jan '26

I know this is off topic, but I know there's a lot of people here who might be interested. Tomorrow morning there's a vintage electronics auction being held in Jackson. It might be an opportunity to pick something up to play with at the workshop. https://share.google/Lew1ckOcU9Bck8lJ6 Regards, Joe Giliberti

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] MARCH Workshop - Jan 10-11, 2026
by Jeffrey Brace 08 Jan '26

08 Jan '26

Hello Mike, Yes. There are a lot of items that need to be worked on. I'm not sure which you feel most comfortable with: NeXT Cube (I'm not sure the problem. Ask Doug Crawford) New Games for Commodore PET onto SD Card SGI monitor Mac Plus needs files put back on floppy. There are too many others on our Trello list. Consult with Doug Crawford or me when you arrive. Thanks! Jeff On Tue, Jan 6, 2026 at 9:24 AM Sentrytv via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > Jeff does the group ( warehouse) have anything they need worked on? (small > items of course!) > > Mike Rosen > > Sent from: > My extremely complicated, hand held electronic device. > > > On Jan 6, 2026, at 7:17 AM, Jeff Salzman via vcf-midatlantic < > vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > > > > Coming up in just a few days, the first MARCH Workshop of 2026. > > > > Signup sheet is here: > > > > > https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1wZfxlcyORhpSiPJso0Qc-MMWypN_m6muR7O… > > > > General Workshop details can be found here: > > > > Repair Workshops @ InfoAge – Vintage Computer Federation > > <https://vcfed.org/repair-workshops-at-infoage/> > > > > Note that the new location on the InfoAge campus for the Workshops is in > > Building 9010D, and details on that building location are on the Workshop > > details page above. > > > > See you there! > > > > Jeff Salzman > > VCF-MidAtlantic Steering Committee > > MARCH Workshop Manager > >

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] VAX stuff just listed on ebay
by Vince Besse 07 Jan '26

07 Jan '26

Is that the VAX 4000 and various accessories lot? On Wed, Jan 7, 2026, 11:41 AM Hopkins, Justin via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > Just an FYI. > I am not far from that ebay listing that just came up for sale and can > bring it to MARCH this weekend if someone from Central or South Jersey > doesn't want to drive up here to get it. > > This message and any attachments are intended only for the use of the > addressee and may contain information that is privileged and confidential. > If the reader of the message is not the intended recipient or an authorized > representative of the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any > dissemination of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have > received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by > e-mail and delete the message and any attachments from your system. >

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RE: [vcf-midatlantic] VAX stuff just listed on ebay
by Hopkins, Justin 07 Jan '26

07 Jan '26

I also can bring one of my RS-232 terminals with me if someone wants to test it out Saturday. From: vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic-bounces(a)lists.vcfed.org> On Behalf Of Hopkins, Justin via vcf-midatlantic Sent: Wednesday, January 7, 2026 11:53 AM To: vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> Cc: Hopkins, Justin <Justin.Hopkins(a)broadridge.com> Subject: Re: [vcf-midatlantic] VAX stuff just listed on ebay This message and any attachments are intended only for the use of the addressee and may contain information that is privileged and confidential. If the reader of the message is not the intended recipient or an authorized representative of the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by e-mail and delete the message and any attachments from your system.

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VAX stuff just listed on ebay
by Hopkins, Justin 07 Jan '26

07 Jan '26

Just an FYI. I am not far from that ebay listing that just came up for sale and can bring it to MARCH this weekend if someone from Central or South Jersey doesn't want to drive up here to get it. This message and any attachments are intended only for the use of the addressee and may contain information that is privileged and confidential. If the reader of the message is not the intended recipient or an authorized representative of the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by e-mail and delete the message and any attachments from your system.

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[DC area] Urgent: Need 2 SGI Granite Keyboards + Mice for MagFest this Weekend
by Alexander Jacocks 07 Jan '26

07 Jan '26

Does anyone have a pair of SGI granite keyboards and mice that I could borrow or buy, in the DC area? I need them for an O2+ and an Indy that will be in the vintage computer area @ MagFest this weekend. Please contact me directly if so. Thanks! - Alex

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] OT I have some CRESTRON equipment that I am willing to get rid of
by Chris Fala 06 Jan '26

06 Jan '26

I wish I had a use for it, that stuff is very interesting and made well. On Tue, Jan 6, 2026 at 2:57 PM Sentrytv via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > I will be at the workshop this Saturday up until about 4 PM > If anybody is interested in some old CRESTRON equipment > Including touch panels, processors and accessories please let me know > immediately. > I will have to put these in a container so I can bring them with me if > there is any interest > No picking and choosing winner has to take all. > > Mike Rosen > > Sent from: > My extremely complicated, hand held electronic device. >

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OT I have some CRESTRON equipment that I am willing to get rid of
by Sentrytv 06 Jan '26

06 Jan '26

I will be at the workshop this Saturday up until about 4 PM If anybody is interested in some old CRESTRON equipment Including touch panels, processors and accessories please let me know immediately. I will have to put these in a container so I can bring them with me if there is any interest No picking and choosing winner has to take all. Mike Rosen Sent from: My extremely complicated, hand held electronic device.

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Kennett Classic @ the Computer Church Feb 7th
by Bill Degnan 06 Jan '26

06 Jan '26

For those of you who are interested in reconnecting with Kennett Classic people or visiting the computer museum in Parkesburg, PA ... here is a copy and paste from our latest emailer. Next Event - Kennet Classic at the PA Computer and Technology Museum Saturday February 7th 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM. The PA Computer Technology Museum, also known as the "Computer Church" is located in Parkesburg, PA. The museum will be open to the public for tours following a presentation of the 2026 museum agenda. This will be a great opportunity to see the collection and learn more about the museum and volunteer opportunities. Bill Degnan will run a "How to Troubleshoot a MITS Altair" workshop demonstration after the museum news keynote. Around 3PM or so we'll conclude at the nearby Victory Brewing Company Parkesburg to meet and socialize. Contact me if you're planning to go to the event. Kennett Classic 2026 Calendar https://www.kennettclassic.com/calendar-2026/ Have a nice day Bill

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] MARCH Workshop - Jan 10-11, 2026
by Sentrytv 06 Jan '26

06 Jan '26

Jeff does the group ( warehouse) have anything they need worked on? (small items of course!) Mike Rosen Sent from: My extremely complicated, hand held electronic device. > On Jan 6, 2026, at 7:17 AM, Jeff Salzman via vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> wrote: > > Coming up in just a few days, the first MARCH Workshop of 2026. > > Signup sheet is here: > > https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1wZfxlcyORhpSiPJso0Qc-MMWypN_m6muR7O… > > General Workshop details can be found here: > > Repair Workshops @ InfoAge – Vintage Computer Federation > <https://vcfed.org/repair-workshops-at-infoage/> > > Note that the new location on the InfoAge campus for the Workshops is in > Building 9010D, and details on that building location are on the Workshop > details page above. > > See you there! > > Jeff Salzman > VCF-MidAtlantic Steering Committee > MARCH Workshop Manager

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MARCH Workshop - Jan 10-11, 2026
by Jeff Salzman 06 Jan '26

06 Jan '26

Coming up in just a few days, the first MARCH Workshop of 2026. Signup sheet is here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1wZfxlcyORhpSiPJso0Qc-MMWypN_m6muR7O… General Workshop details can be found here: Repair Workshops @ InfoAge – Vintage Computer Federation <https://vcfed.org/repair-workshops-at-infoage/> Note that the new location on the InfoAge campus for the Workshops is in Building 9010D, and details on that building location are on the Workshop details page above. See you there! Jeff Salzman VCF-MidAtlantic Steering Committee MARCH Workshop Manager

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Request for Punchards with custom message
by Jeffrey Brace 05 Jan '26

05 Jan '26

Does anyone have the time, working machine and cards to print 250 cards with the words "UNPRODUCTIVE STRUGGLE" on them? They are needed by Jan. 15 in California. Before you ask: VCF's punch card machine is broken. Dave McGuire can't Mike Loewen can't System Source can't Take care! Jeff Brace <https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campai…> Virus-free.www.avast.com <https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campai…> <#DAB4FAD8-2DD7-40BB-A1B8-4E2AA1F9FDF2>

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We want you to volunteer at VCF East 2026!
by Jeffrey Brace 05 Jan '26

05 Jan '26

Hey everyone! We are in great need of volunteers for VCF East. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/DK7Q2kT5XWBm8QKz5 In addition to general volunteers we also need managers for: Front Desk A/V Please let me know if you have any questions. Jeff Brace VCF East Showrunner

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Volunteer for VCF East 2026!
by Jeffrey Brace 03 Jan '26

03 Jan '26

Hey everyone! We are in great need of volunteers for VCF East. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/DK7Q2kT5XWBm8QKz5 In addition to general volunteers we also need managers for: Front Desk A/V Please let me know if you have any questions. Jeff Brace VCF East Showrunner

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who was first ...
by Jeffrey Jonas 02 Jan '26

02 Jan '26

An interesting article: https://computerhistory.org/blog/the-neverending-quest-for-firsts/ links to https://computerhistory.org/blog/programming-the-eniac-an-example-of-why-co… Visitors to the Computer History Museum frequently want to know: what was the first computer? The first personal computer? In his recent post, “Programming the ENIAC: An Example of Why Computer History is Hard <https://computerhistory.org/blog/programming-the-eniac-an-example-of-why-co…>,” Computer History Museum Board Chair Len Shustek notes that one of the difficulties of computer history, and indeed, history of technology in general, is the question of “firsts”: what was the “first” X, or in alternate form, “who [first] invented X?” The problem is that for many of these “firsts,” there is no simple answer, because as Len pointed out, “What ‘first’ means depends on precise definitions of fuzzy concepts.” What seem to be questions with easy, factual answers quickly devolve into debates over semantics ...

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MARCH Workshop - JAN 10-11, 2026
by Jeff Salzman 02 Jan '26

02 Jan '26

Coming up in a little over a week, the first MARCH Workshop of 2026. Signup sheet is here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1wZfxlcyORhpSiPJso0Qc-MMWypN_m6muR7O… General Workshop details can be found here: Repair Workshops @ InfoAge – Vintage Computer Federation <https://vcfed.org/repair-workshops-at-infoage/> Note that the new location on the InfoAge campus for the Workshops is in Building 9010D, and details on that building location are on the Workshop details page above. See you there! Jeff Salzman VCF-MidAtlantic Steering Committee MARCH Workshop Manager

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] AI Computer Museum Docent - BETA - DEMO
by Ralph Broom 02 Jan '26

02 Jan '26

Bob, impressive beta! I talked with it about a few things I know pretty well and have had to explain to others. I noticed it sometimes reads the markdown literally ("hash"). Other verbal tics will be more tricky. Some technical terms have slang pronunciation the speech engine wouldn't know about. It got SCSI correct about half the time, and started off with a great deconstruction of the term. C64 "SID" and "VIC" chips it always initialized. TRS-80 was "eight-zero", etc. Maybe a table? The voice and inflection are very good. I noticed that for longer responses it starts speaking slowly and sped up as it went until it was quite fast. Speaking of fast, the responses to questions began very quickly after my speech stopped. This is great, as many voice models have a noticeable processing delay before responding. This felt more naturally conversational. It handled interruptions well. A simple prompt injection failed, great! I didn't try hard. I asked for exhibit information responses in a few languages which it did well. The speech model had a noticeable American accent! Curiously it responded immediately in Spanish, but took about 20 seconds to start in Japanese. I asked a question in Dutch but it didn't understand so English inputs only at this time? I'm wondering if you've got the LLM to prefer local knowledge you've given it before going to its training or the web. A couple of times it stopped speaking in the middle of a sentence. I don't know if it thought it detected a speech interruption. Made me consider when this is used on a phone speaker in the museum with other unrelated speakers around it. I think this will be a great addition to the museum. Regards, Ralph Broom On 2026-01-02 07:00, vcf-midatlantic-request(a)lists.vcfed.org wrote: > 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. AI Computer Museum Docent - BETA - DEMO (Bob Roswell) > 2. who was first ... (Jeffrey Jonas) > > > ---------------------------------------------------------------------- > > Message: 1 > Date: Fri, 2 Jan 2026 02:28:06 +0000 > From: Bob Roswell <broswell(a)syssrc.com> > To: vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> > Subject: [vcf-midatlantic] AI Computer Museum Docent - BETA - DEMO > Message-ID: > <CY4PR0401MB3586D6F293D1175602B08EF7B0BBA(a)CY4PR0401MB3586.namprd04.prod.outlook.com> > > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" > > > I wrote a voice chatbot that is somewhat guided to be a knowledgeable docent at our computer museum. > This is available for testing for the next few days: (If it does not crash) > > https://museum.syssrc.com/docent > > Privacy - > You will need to give microphone and video permissions. The video is not in use, but I have not figured out how to make the WEBRTC component not ask for camera privileges. Your voice will NOT be saved, but I will have a speech to text transcript of your speaking, and the answers the AI gave. I won't know who you are except your IP address will show up in my logs. > > I'd love any feedback! So far, I am amazed at what it can do, but remember it is an AI, and can and does make stuff up. > > Tech Stack: > Pipecat (Framework) > DeepGram: Text To Speach > Cartesia: Speech To Text > OpenAI: Large Language Model > Python scripts that I wrote based on Pipecat examples > > I'll also be curious to see what my bills are! If it goes crazy, I will need to shut it off! > > > > Bob Roswell > broswell(a)syssrc.com > 410-771-5544 ext 4336 > > Computer Museum Highlights<http://museum.syssrc.com/> > > [cid:image001.png@01DC7B64.5C0834E0] > > > > ------------------------------ > > Message: 2 > Date: Fri, 2 Jan 2026 03:57:28 -0500 > From: Jeffrey Jonas <jeffrey.scott.jonas(a)gmail.com> > To: vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic(a)lists.vcfed.org> > Subject: [vcf-midatlantic] who was first ... > Message-ID: > <CAOCNM4SVNENsYTk4+1vTDg32pKqc5Rg7cLkVoUAa-RXEV7vDkw(a)mail.gmail.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8" > > An interesting article: > https://computerhistory.org/blog/the-neverending-quest-for-firsts/ > links to > https://computerhistory.org/blog/programming-the-eniac-an-example-of-why-co… > > Visitors to the Computer History Museum frequently want to know: what was > the first computer? The first personal computer? In his recent post, > ?Programming > the ENIAC: An Example of Why Computer History is Hard > <https://computerhistory.org/blog/programming-the-eniac-an-example-of-why-co…>,? > Computer History Museum Board Chair Len Shustek notes that one of the > difficulties of computer history, and indeed, history of technology in > general, is the question of ?firsts?: what was the ?first? X, or in > alternate form, ?who [first] invented X?? The problem is that for many of > these ?firsts,? there is no simple answer, because as Len pointed out, > ?What ?first? means depends on precise definitions of fuzzy concepts.? What > seem to be questions with easy, factual answers quickly devolve into > debates over semantics ... > > > End of vcf-midatlantic Digest, Vol 92, Issue 2 > ********************************************** >

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AI Computer Museum Docent - BETA - DEMO
by Bob Roswell 01 Jan '26

01 Jan '26

I wrote a voice chatbot that is somewhat guided to be a knowledgeable docent at our computer museum. This is available for testing for the next few days: (If it does not crash) https://museum.syssrc.com/docent Privacy - You will need to give microphone and video permissions. The video is not in use, but I have not figured out how to make the WEBRTC component not ask for camera privileges. Your voice will NOT be saved, but I will have a speech to text transcript of your speaking, and the answers the AI gave. I won't know who you are except your IP address will show up in my logs. I'd love any feedback! So far, I am amazed at what it can do, but remember it is an AI, and can and does make stuff up. Tech Stack: Pipecat (Framework) DeepGram: Text To Speach Cartesia: Speech To Text OpenAI: Large Language Model Python scripts that I wrote based on Pipecat examples I'll also be curious to see what my bills are! If it goes crazy, I will need to shut it off! Bob Roswell broswell(a)syssrc.com 410-771-5544 ext 4336 Computer Museum Highlights<http://museum.syssrc.com/> [cid:image001.png@01DC7B64.5C0834E0]

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Stewart Cheifet died Dec. 28, 2025
by Jeffrey Brace 31 Dec '25

31 Dec '25

https://obits.goldsteinsfuneral.com/stewart-cheifet He came to VCF East years ago: https://youtu.be/Ncnje4DdRxE. I had tried to get in touch with him the last 5 years without success. I wonder if he was going through some illness. He will be missed! I know him best for his hosting of Computer Chronicles. Jeff Brace

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20 tables left for VCF East 2026!
by Jeffrey Brace 31 Dec '25

31 Dec '25

Tables are going fast! Register here for exhibitor tables: https://forms.gle/XZSjtMRjKMRTxFNn9 Register here for vendor tables: https://forms.gle/XmhAWvjN94r6jdVFA Jeff Brace VCF East Showrunner

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Looking for help on dealing with monitor cataracts on VR201 monitors.
by Herbert Johnson 30 Dec '25

30 Dec '25

> [Dave Shevett] I have 3-4 DEC VR201 monitors that have the dreaded cataracts problem. > I am extremely nervous working on CRTs > I'm happy to work with someone (supervised repairs) or give these to > whomever wants to fix them. Goal is to get my Pro-380 and my DECmates up > and running with a clean video again soon goo --> CRT face 0) Lots of people are scared of messing with CRTs. Lots of reasons, mostly around unfamiliarity. I'm scared to provide advice - "I did what you said and lost [anatomy, fluids] when the CRT [imploded, broke, shocked me]". So anything I say is full of "hold me harmless" statements, I'm scared of legal action. 1) Slightly confusing request from Dave. If you want clean video monitors, why would you "give these [away]" after some one fixes them while you watch and supervise? Maybe you mean "I will provide them locally to someone for (help with?) repair so I can get them back as repaired for use". Anyway, please clarify your terms of work and exchange. Would not hurt to give your general location, doesn't seem like shipping is part of the intentions. 2) As far as people who respond but don't know what Dave is talking about. Here's some reference info, but rather than lecture here, I'll point to lectures on my WEb pages: https://www.retrotechnology.com/restore/adm3a.html Look for "Comments about CRT repairs" for some discussion. This is a problem across many terminals of the era. Buried on the page is a link of one way to repair: https://www.retrotechnology.com/restore/adm3a_nick.html .. but do more homework than I have done. There's lots of way to remove the gooey faceplate from the CRT, research will find examples. Or, obtain another CRT without faceplace, but it has to be (mostly mechanically) compatible. Besides, if the old CRT is functional why obtain another? But it may not be, the screen brightness fades with use (homework). I'm not responsible for any of this information, hold me harmless from any consequences. But the subject interests me, and in fact I have a few of these DEC VR2XX moldy monitors myself. Regards Herb Johnson -- Herb Johnson, New Jersey USA http://www.retrotechnology.com or .net preserve and restore 1970's personal computing email: hjohnson @ retrotechnology dot com or try later at herbjohnson @ comcast dot net -- 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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OrangePC Octopus Cable
by Andrew Mattera 30 Dec '25

30 Dec '25

Hi all, I am in possession of an OrangePC expansion card for Macintosh, basically a Pentium based PC on a card. however I believe I'm missing the octopus cable. If anyone out here knows what I'm talking about and has this cable, I would be very grateful if you would let me probe the connections for five minutes to possibly recreate these cables. There will be no damage done to the cable, and you won't even notice the procedure was done. it's completely non-invasive. Thanks, Andrew Mattera

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Looking for help on dealing with monitor cataracts on VR201 monitors.
by Dave Shevett 29 Dec '25

29 Dec '25

I have 3-4 DEC VR201 monitors that have the dreaded cataracts problem. In short the glue on the front of the crt has deteriorated, and the front of the screen is all blotchy and icky. The monitors work, it just looks terrible. I am extremely nervous working on CRTs (I did field repairs on Wang OIS and WPS terminals all through the late 80s, and absolutely hated doing the ole "ground the anode to the chassis" bit (scary), but in this case you also need to disassemble the tube frame and scrape / heatgun off all the goo, while still making sure the tube isn't going to implode. I'm happy to work with someone (supervised repairs) or give these to whomever wants to fix them. Goal is to get my Pro-380 and my DECmates up and running with a clean video again soon (hopefully before VCF-east). Thanks! -d

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Oregon Trail Hallmark ornament
by bernieS 28 Dec '25

28 Dec '25

Here's a link to a YouTube video of the Oregon Trail Hallmark ornament in operation. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gPA2sWnrDmc (Start at 3:30 in the video if you want to skip the unboxing part.) The display appears to be a LED backlit lenticular image, which requires viewing from different lateral angles to switch between two surprisingly high-resolution images: the Oregon Trail menu screen, and the status message, "You Have Died from Dysentery". It's a clever design. Power consumption from the (3) 1.5V LR44 'button' batteries is kept to a minimum this way. Some people have hacked these Hallmark 'Keepsake' ornaments by instead attaching (3) AAA or AAA batteries hardwired to the battery terminals. Three such batteries--especially if they're long-life lithium cells--would likely keep the ornament illuminated for weeks or longer. Hallmark has long been innovatively incorporating electronics technology into its greeting cards, holiday ornaments, and other products. In the early 1990's they introduced the first greeting card with a digital audio recorder/playback device incorporated into a surprisingly thin greeting card for $7.95 retail. The idea was you could record ten-second audio message to your loved one in a greeting card, which when opened would play to them loud and clear. Clever! Phone phreaks and hackers quickly recognized this as a golden opportunity and removed the tiny electronics module from the card and used it to record Automated Coin Totalling System (ACTS) coin-deposit audio signals emanating from the handset earpiece on payphones of local exchange carriers--or better yet from the handset of a phone you called and then depositing more quarters because the ACTS tones were attenuated in the payphone earpiece but were loud and clear in the called party's phone which allowed better recording quality. Then the user could make payphone calls and play back the recorded coin-deposit tones into the handset's microphone by pressing the module's momentary switch to spoof the phone company's ACTS system after it verbally prompted them to "Please Deposit 25 Cents For The First 5 Minutes" (or much more money for Long-Distance calls) in lieu of depositing coins. Such a device, in its various incarnations spanning more than three decades while ACTS was in use, was called a Red Box by the phreak/hacker community. The so-called Hallmark Red Box was hands-down the least expensive and simplest way to create a Red Box, and was popularized by an article entitled "A Gift From Hallmark" that was published in 2600 Magazine back then. I'd read in an electronics trade publication that Hallmark bought millions of digital audio recording chips from Information Storage Devices, Inc. for use in a talking greeting card they planned to release on a certain date. On that day I bought one as soon as the Hallmark store nearest me opened. Phone company payphones by design never returned change for unused call minutes. Cheating callers out of their change was more profitable. With many millions of payphone calls made each day around the U.S. back then, these unearned profits quickly added up to millions of dollars per week for local phone companies and A&T. Some people would keep a running total of how much money the phone company stole from them this way and use their 'credits' to make payphone calls with their Red Box. This led to controversy about who was actually defrauding whom. Thanks for the memories, Hallmark! -bernieS

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Hello Computer? (Star Trek IV Scotty talking to Mac 512k)
by Jeffrey Brace 28 Dec '25

28 Dec '25

Apparently for 40 years people have been speculating how the creators of Star Trek IV (1986) put what was on the screen of the Mac 512k in the scene where Scotty talks to the computer to create transparent aluminum ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QpWhugUmV5U) . Hint: It wasn't real Macintosh graphics. It seems that Ron's Computer Videos investigated and solved the mystery! Check it out here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JHqiiPGPHFY Enjoy! Jeff Brace <https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campai…> Virus-free.www.avast.com <https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campai…> <#DAB4FAD8-2DD7-40BB-A1B8-4E2AA1F9FDF2>

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Oregon Trail Hallmark ornament
by Jeffrey Jonas 27 Dec '25

27 Dec '25

It's just 2 screens alternating (probably projection, not LCD) https://www.hallmark.com/ornaments/keepsake-ornaments/the-oregon-trail-orna…

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InfoAge & VCF Museums Closed Dec. 27, 28, 31, 2025
by Jeffrey Brace 26 Dec '25

26 Dec '25

Due to the upcoming snowstorm InfoAge and VCF museums will be closed this coming weekend Sat & Sun, Dec. 27 & 28. They will also be closed on Dec. 31 for New Year's Eve. Reopening on January 3, 2026. Take care everyone and see you in the new year! Jeff Brace VCF National Board Member Chairman & Vice President VCF East Showrunner VCF Fundraising Manager VCF Evangelist Vintage Computer Federation is a 501c3 charity https://vcfed.org/ <http://www.vcfed.org/> <https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campai…> Virus-free.www.avast.com <https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campai…> <#DAB4FAD8-2DD7-40BB-A1B8-4E2AA1F9FDF2>

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Re: [vcf-midatlantic] Merry Christmas Everyone
by Brian L 25 Dec '25

25 Dec '25

Merry Christmas! Passing along some brief appreciation.. Thank you to everyone who participated in VCFE this past year, and to all the familiar faces who showed up to Festivus a few weeks back. Wishing good health to everyone in the New Year!

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Merry Christmas Everyone
by Christian Liendo 25 Dec '25

25 Dec '25

I wasn't able to be there and I hope to be at VCFE. So I couldn't say be before. I hope you guys have a great day. It will be nice to see you all again.

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