- cctalk - classiccmp.org

flipchip cleaning and pin corrosion inhibition

by Fritz Mueller

Hi folks, I’ve been picking my way through a PDP-8/L restoration lately. I’ve found that everything in the machine is covered with a uniform layer of dark “soot” (enough to blacken your hands while working with it) which I would like to clean up. Perhaps the “soot” is actually from a decomposed air filter, as I don’t imagine this machine was operated in a smoky environment, and there is no smoke odor. I usually use 99 IPA and cleanroom wipes for spot cleaning these sorts of things, but in this case there is so much of it that I feel that would just push the soot around rather than clean it off. I think some sort of actual rinse would be needed here. I’ve been eying the dishwasher, for the subset of flip chips that that are just DIP logic, carbon comp resistors, and ceramic bypass caps, anyway. But I haven’t been brave enough to try that yet... Most of the logic here has date codes to ’68 or ’69, so I’m inclined to treat it gently. Any suggestions for approaches to clean this up? Follow-on question: the majority of the legs on these old DIPs are showing what I’d call “moderate” corrosion — nothing looks like it is in danger of being eaten all the way through, but the process is underway. I was wondering if something like a light shellac or other inhibitor could be brushed over these pins to at least slow their inevitable demise? I did purchase and build out one of Vince’s flip chip tester kits, and have found it super useful for this project. Of the large percentage modules that have test vectors supplied, most have tested fine. Three M216 flip-flop modules and one M113 nand module were flagged for repairs this way. Advice appreciated, as always! cheers, —FritzM.

2 years, 3 months

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One of Paul Allen's Museums

by Zane Healy

It looks like his air museum was acquired by one of the Walmart heirs. https://www.seattletimes.com/business/boeing-aerospace/after-3-years-flying… After 3 years, Flying Heritage Museum to reopen in Everett seattletimes.com I wonder if something like this will happen with the computer museum. Question, were Paul Allen’s museums non-profits? Zane

2 years, 3 months

15
28
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Magazine no longer in print

by Murray McCullough

I read today that “Maximum PC” is no longer in print just in digital. Past issues are available in digitized format but it’s not the same as reading a magazine while in bed! Our hobby is changing. Well, progress must not be stopped… Happy computing. Murray 🙂

2 years, 3 months

11
20
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Schematics for Lear Siegler ADM31?

by John Robertson

I've checked bitsavers.org (Al does a great job!), and a number of forums, but no luck finding schematics for my ADM31 that I am trying to resurrect. The power supply has issues and I need to identify a blown out resistor - the switching supply is a Boschert model 1001 date code 7943 Revision J. John :-#)# -- John's Jukes Ltd. 7 - 3979 Marine Way, Burnaby, BC, Canada V5J 5E3 Call (604)872-5757 (Pinballs, Jukes, Video Games) flippers.com "Old pinballers never die, they just flip out"

2 years, 3 months

9
15
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ESDI drive imaging

by Dennis Boone

I think I know the answer to this, but just in case: Is there a way to image ESDI disks other than to hook them up to their usual host controller and use the host? E.g. for MFM, I'd grab the MFM Emulator board. Cheers, De

2 years, 3 months

5
5
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Mail veracity signing

by Dennis Boone

Folks, A heads up that I've turned on some mail veracity signing functionality in Mailman. One could hope it would just work, and that I made no mistakes in the configuration, but... :) I'm working on this to try to improve deliverability of list traffic. De

2 years, 3 months

6
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Mail veracity signing

by Dennis Boone

Folks, A heads up that I've turned on some mail veracity signing functionality in Mailman. One could hope it would just work, and that I made no mistakes in the configuration, but... :) I'm working on this to try to improve deliverability of list traffic. De

2 years, 3 months

1
0
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HP9825A for sale

by Steve Lewis

There is a gentlemen in New Jersey willing to sell his HP9825A I believe he is the original owner. It has 4 ROM cartridges (that go in the front) and several data cartridges for the slot on the top left. He is asking $2000 but can probably negotiate (as he didn't find any takers in VCF East). As far as he knows, everything still works (LED lights came on when he powered it up a few months ago). I've met this seller and can vouch for him, but I don't know much about this particular item. I have some photos of it at the bottom of this page: https://voidstar.blog/vcf-east-2023-part-3/ I may try a VCF forum topic about it. Just trying to help him find a good home for the equipment. E-mail/reply direct and I can provide some contact info. (BTW not sure if my cctalk posts are working anymore??) -Steve / voidstar

2 years, 3 months

6
10
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Delivery woes

by Dennis Boone

Folks, As I try to track down why various subscribers are getting booted from the list in the last couple of days, I'm noticing that a number of you are subscribed from an address that forwards elsewhere. This works poorly. TL;DR follows, but basically this is brought to you by the fact that modern email sucks almost as much because of the anti-spam processes as because of the spam itself. In the modern world, forwarding is pretty much dead on arrival. Avoid it where possible. I'll be over here swearing right along with you. TL;DR: to be able to deliver any email at all these days, we have to comply with a couple of schemes designed to make it harder to forge mail -- DKIM and SPF. The combined effect of making the necessary declarations in the DNS entries for classiccmp.org is that if you try to forward mail, you look like you're _impersonating_ classiccmp.org. Many large providers (google, yahoo, etc.) refuse such mail. The same anti-spam mechanisms also make it difficult to run a proper RFC compliant mailing list, because then classiccmp.org would be sending mail with _your_ From: address, making classiccmp.org look like an impersonator. Still $w34ring. Cheers, De

2 years, 3 months

2
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Re: VCF East 2023 photos

by Steve Lewis

Glad the photos help. I hope the average general public wasn't too disappointed or discouraged by the crowd on Saturday - but I tried to think of the positive side, of there still being interest in vintage computing at all. A "web cam" preview of the consignment might have helped that line - some were interested in a specific thing, then to wait 45min in line to find it's already gone. But I guess that's just part of the experience. For exhibits, the interior noise/acustics got loud and made hard to engage and ask questions (since you couldn't even hear them across the table). I also felt a little guilty of intentionally getting there early to get a close parking spot. I mean, I don't think there is anything really wrong with that - but if I know I'm going to be there all day, I wouldn't mind parking further away and taking a shuttle bus. In my defense, I knew I'd be getting things from consignment and wanted to drop them back to the car (I just got some of the laptops). Sellam, thanks for the note about the geese!! Honkers, yes, that's very appropriate! But why Honking at 3am!? haha, maybe I don't want to know!? I'm on travel again for the rest of this week, so kind of rushed to get notes up today before heading back to the airport. -Steve On Mon, Apr 17, 2023 at 1:04 PM Brian L. Stuart <blstuart(a)bellsouth.net> wrote: > Thank you very much for posting these pictures. I ended up having to > cancel my plans at the last minute due to covid. Yeah, I had succeeded > in avoiding it for 3 years, but it finally caught up to me. > > BLS > > > > > > > > > On Monday, April 17, 2023 at 05:39:04 PM UTC, Steve Lewis via cctalk < > cctalk(a)classiccmp.org> wrote: > > > > > > Videos are nice, but I still like to make a kind of "scrap book" of events > I've been to. Link is below. > > Also, most exhibitors were occupied interacting with the public and maybe > didn't get a chance to see what else was presented at this VCF. Or, maybe > they didn't get to see what all else the museum and local area had to > present - so seeing photos might give them ideas of things to check out > next time. > > Or, in general, for anyone not able to attend, here are some photos also. > > https://voidstar.blog/vcf-east-2023/ > > > Feel free to use/share, no permission needed. >

2 years, 3 months

5
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Re: cctalk Digest, Vol 245, Issue 1

by AT&T Customer Service

Sorry, I forgot to post the location. I'm in Kent, Washington. USA. disregard the AT&T customer service. Have E-mails in to them. not sure what going on there, but its at&tso anything is possible. Jerry253-569-6041g-wright(a)att.net On Sunday, April 16, 2023 at 10:00:53 AM PDT, cctalk-request(a)classiccmp.org <cctalk-request(a)classiccmp.org> wrote: Send cctalk mailing list submissions to cctalk(a)classiccmp.org To subscribe or unsubscribe via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to cctalk-request(a)classiccmp.org You can reach the person managing the list at cctalk-owner(a)classiccmp.org When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific than "Re: Contents of cctalk digest..." Today's Topics: 1. more shop clearing (AT&T Customer Service) 2. Re: more shop clearing (John Floren) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Message: 1 Date: Sat, 15 Apr 2023 21:41:57 +0000 (UTC) From: AT&T Customer Service <g-wright(a)att.net> Subject: [cctalk] more shop clearing To: "cctalk(a)classiccmp.org" <cctalk(a)classiccmp.org> Message-ID: <107474070.2103532.1681594917020(a)mail.yahoo.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8 I currently have a few Heavy items to move. 1 Data General 6030 Disk drive1 Data General 6100 Disk Drive1 HP 9000 K210 Server with 1 storage enclosure. has drives and is currently working1 CDC 9760 ?? no label on it, looks like 60-62 version1 HP 7970E 9 track This is in its own console. HPIB interface.1 HP 1000 "F" series computer1 HP 2753a Paper tape punch (Tally) 1 HP 7970B 9 Track2 Data General model 10 desk top computers1 Dec PDP 11/44 with 2 RA80 drives in a short Rack. Has not been turned on a a few years. Missing the top cover. Everything is in good looking condition, but only the HP 9000 and 7970e 9 track have been running lately.Most of these are over 150 lbs each except the DG 10s and paper punch. So local pickup - Jerryg-wright(a)att.net ------------------------------ Message: 2 Date: Sat, 15 Apr 2023 22:02:15 +0000 From: John Floren <john(a)jfloren.net> Subject: [cctalk] Re: more shop clearing To: g-wright(a)att.net, cctalk(a)classiccmp.org Message-ID: <qc0RtYD9l2oxKVwGIn70dqLQFtVOC4wS_pxEANMO_ZqMIeuMStEQBqJoh jUsU5fw1eK5B9OZX0PVtPOT6d-vhZEw5c6zHKRLUcv9vi5lJIA=(a)jfloren.net> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8 Local to where? -------- Original Message -------- On Apr 15, 2023, 2:41 PM, AT&T Customer Service via cctalk wrote: > I currently have a few Heavy items to move. 1 Data General 6030 Disk drive1 Data General 6100 Disk Drive1 HP 9000 K210 Server with 1 storage enclosure. has drives and is currently working1 CDC 9760 ?? no label on it, looks like 60-62 version1 HP 7970E 9 track This is in its own console. HPIB interface.1 HP 1000 "F" series computer1 HP 2753a Paper tape punch (Tally) 1 HP 7970B 9 Track2 Data General model 10 desk top computers1 Dec PDP 11/44 with 2 RA80 drives in a short Rack. Has not been turned on a a few years. Missing the top cover. Everything is in good looking condition, but only the HP 9000 and 7970e 9 track have been running lately.Most of these are over 150 lbs each except the DG 10s and paper punch. So local pickup - Jerryg-wright(a)att.net End of cctalk Digest, Vol 245, Issue 1 **************************************

2 years, 3 months

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Re: HP9825A for sale

by Craig Ruff

> On Apr 17, 2023, at 11:00, cctalk-request(a)classiccmp.org wrote: > For the HP, I think it's a fair asking price because of all the cables, > manuals, and accessories that he's got -- he's got all the SerialIO > stuff, so it would be a fun project (to me) to try to write a terminal > program and get that calculator on the internet :) The price seems high to me also, but if someone is willing to pay for it. The tape drive will almost certainly need work. That said, I did write a terminal program for a 9825T in college, but it was only usable because I had a 9871A printer on which to display the output. It was a pain to use, but better than waiting for a terminal in the university's computer center.

2 years, 3 months

3
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VCF East 2023 photos

by Steve Lewis

Videos are nice, but I still like to make a kind of "scrap book" of events I've been to. Link is below. Also, most exhibitors were occupied interacting with the public and maybe didn't get a chance to see what else was presented at this VCF. Or, maybe they didn't get to see what all else the museum and local area had to present - so seeing photos might give them ideas of things to check out next time. Or, in general, for anyone not able to attend, here are some photos also. https://voidstar.blog/vcf-east-2023/ Feel free to use/share, no permission needed.

2 years, 3 months

3
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more shop clearing

by AT&T Customer Service

I currently have a few Heavy items to move. 1 Data General 6030 Disk drive1 Data General 6100 Disk Drive1 HP 9000 K210 Server with 1 storage enclosure. has drives and is currently working1 CDC 9760 ?? no label on it, looks like 60-62 version1 HP 7970E 9 track This is in its own console. HPIB interface.1 HP 1000 "F" series computer1 HP 2753a Paper tape punch (Tally) 1 HP 7970B 9 Track2 Data General model 10 desk top computers1 Dec PDP 11/44 with 2 RA80 drives in a short Rack. Has not been turned on a a few years. Missing the top cover. Everything is in good looking condition, but only the HP 9000 and 7970e 9 track have been running lately.Most of these are over 150 lbs each except the DG 10s and paper punch. So local pickup - Jerryg-wright(a)att.net

2 years, 3 months

2
1
0 0

Sgi tezero for sale

by devin davison

I have a sgi tezro for sale. My last sgi machine, i used to have crimson and onyx2 desksides. The front plastic is a little torn. It has a dallas battery problem. I recall getting it to boot by manually typing in the boot info, but it may require soldering to fix the battery. Open to offers. My last sgi machine, i think it's time for me to let it go. As I clean up more, I might be able to find the console cable and see if it still boots, but I'm unsure what its operating condition is as it sits. Located in FL. --Devin D.

2 years, 3 months

5
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8086 history

by Murray McCullough

45 years ago this month Intel revealed the 8086 processor which became x86 technology that formed the backbone of PC technology. The 8-bit era came to an end about 7 years later. For classic computing a new era began. Happy computing. Murray 🙂

2 years, 3 months

3
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Store with "vintage" computers and parts

by wrcooke＠wrcooke.net

This place may be of interest. Most of the stuff they have for sale probably isn't of much interest here, but there are a few gems. The link takes you to one, which is how I found it. https://www.bryanipad.shop/product/microlog-corporation-atr-6800-vintage-ra… Not affiliated in any way. Just thought it might be of interest. Will

2 years, 3 months

24
43
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Wireless phone

by Murray McCullough

On April 3, 1973 the first wireless phone call was made and Moore’s Law has now led to the smart-phone being ubiquitous to our lives: Computer technology and cell phone technology marching hand-in-hand. Happy computing and talking about it! Murray 🙂

2 years, 3 months

8
8
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Raleigh Ham Fest This Weekend

by Bill Degnan

There's a ham fest in Raleigh NC this weekend, anyone like/dislike it/going? https://www.rarsfest.org/ My son goes to NC State for CompSci, he might go if he can. Bill

2 years, 3 months

1
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Beaglebone Black Industrial

by Bill Gunshannon

Does anyone here know if the Beaglebone Black Industrial is he same as the regular Beaglebone Black? I have a couple of the MFM Emulator boards to build and will need a couple Beaglebones for them. bill

2 years, 3 months

4
8
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DEC M8340 board

by Tom Hunter

Does anyone have a surplus DEC M8340 board with PCB etch level E and revision F (as imprinted on the handle)? If yes, please reply to thunter6600(a)gmail.com. Thanks and best regards Tom Hunter

2 years, 3 months

1
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NCD-17c and NCD-19 X terminal cap lists?

by Chris Hanson

Does anyone have a list of replacement capacitors to use for NCD X terminals, specifically the 17c and 19? A couple searches online don't turn up anything. I just got my NCD 17c up and running—I showed a pic or two on discord://classiccmp/#terminals a couple days ago—and now while I hear the HV power up the low voltage power seems kaput and the system never comes on. And my NCD 19 won't power up either. I can certainly take them apart and make lists, and I will if need be, but I was hoping maybe someone had already done so so I could get an order in ASAP. The power supply for these things is in the display portion, which makes me a bit nervous just generally… :) -- Chris

2 years, 3 months

2
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Re: WICAT Systems

by Paul McJones

Some models (e.g., the 150) supported Multibus. In the early 1980s at Tandem Austin we used one with a SUN graphics board in a Multibus slot to prototype a 68000 workstation we were building (but that never became a product). Al Kossow has lots of information about Wicat in bitsavers. Here’s a brochure for the 150: http://www.bitsavers.org/pdf/wicat/brochures/System_150_Brochure.pdf

2 years, 4 months

1
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WICAT Systems

by Steve Lewis

Is anyone familiar with WICAT Systems? I came across their ad in BYTE Nov 1981 (page 84), with a claim of "first family of microcomputers with mainframe capability" It is a 68000 based system (like the Lisa?), one configuration offers 400x300 monochrome graphics. Ad also claims 1.5MB main memory and a multi-user operating system ("UNIX/V7 and a CP/M Emulation also available") called MCS. Address mentions Orem, Utah. Haven't come across a price sheet, but I imagine they were quite expensive ($6000+ would be my guess). From the images, looks to me the main problem is a lack of an expansion bus (and overall not a very appealing-looking system). Was just curious if anyone had witnessed one ever running. -Steve

2 years, 4 months

3
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Earliest version of 3b2/400 sim

by KenUnix

Hi, Does anyone know the oldest version of the SIM 3b2/400 is and where I can get it? Thanks, Ken -- WWL 📚

2 years, 4 months

2
2
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Re: cctalk Digest, Vol 233, Issue 1

by badbob

Message: 1 Date: Sun, 2 Apr 2023 11:26:58 -0400 From: KenUnix <ken.unix.guy(a)gmail.com> Subject: [cctalk] Earliest version of 3b2/400 sim To: CCTALK <cctalk(a)classiccmp.org> Message-ID: <CAJXSPs_duQJNrpdf=gy1iZyPta5-wpoDJ-CUdJyhqdqL281gKw(a)mail.gmail.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8" Hi, Does anyone know the oldest version of the SIM 3b2/400 is and where I can get it? Thanks, Ken -- Found this toohttps://loomcom.com/3b2/emulator/ - 2017-12-27: HD135 and HD161 are now both recognized names forthe Maxtor XT-2190 disk drive. - 2017-12-27: Fix for CPU traps. The UNIX debugger sdb should nowwork correctly under System V Release 3. - 2017-12-17: Minor compiler warning fix. - 2017-12-16: Fixed a FIFO overflow bug in the CONTTY device. - 2017-12-15: Critical MMU bugfix. - 2017-12-13: Improved support for multiple hard disk drives, aswell as adding support for additional hard disk geometries. - 2017-12-09: Added support for the secondary on-board serialterminal (CONTTY). RMS

2 years, 4 months

1
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Re: cctalk Digest, Vol 233, Issue 1

by badbob

1. Earliest version of 3b2/400 sim (KenUnix) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Message: 1 Date: Sun, 2 Apr 2023 11:26:58 -0400 From: KenUnix <ken.unix.guy(a)gmail.com> Subject: [cctalk] Earliest version of 3b2/400 sim To: CCTALK <cctalk(a)classiccmp.org> Message-ID: <CAJXSPs_duQJNrpdf=gy1iZyPta5-wpoDJ-CUdJyhqdqL281gKw(a)mail.gmail.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8" Hi, Does anyone know the oldest version of the SIM 3b2/400 is and where I can get it? Thanks, Ken This is what I have found after searching, which implies around or before Nov 2017, AT&T 3B2 400 emulated Posted on November 24, 2017 https://virtuallyfun.com/2017/11/24/att-3b2-400-emulated/ WWL 📚 End of cctalk Digest, Vol 233, Issue 1 **************************************

2 years, 4 months

1
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DEC RSX BACKUP.SYS (bup?) files

by Chuck Guzis

I've got a few RX50 floppies that are *part* of a couple of backup sets. I don't have the complete sets, so the backup utility (BUP?) won't process the set in bits and pieces. Is the BACKUP.SYS file format documented anywhere? This is the file that starts out "JOURNAL", a few nulls, then "MICRORSX" Any help would be appreciated! TIA, Chuck

2 years, 4 months

1
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TREK7 is back! - TREK7 FORTRAN Multi-User Game (PDP-10/VAX) Revived

by Hans-Ulrich Hölscher

The Star Trek simulation game TREK7 was written in FORTRAN by Donald M. Ecclestone in the early 70ties for the PDP-10. The game was ported to VAX computers running VMS in 1978 by the author with the help of Dan Gahlinger. For some years TREK7 fell into a deep slumber until in 1993 Dan Gahlinger decided to revive it, but some severe bugs remained, hindering any successful round of game. Last year I began to work on the problems still present in TREK7. After detecting and fixing more than 60 bugs (mostly caused by transcription errors) step by step, the game is playable again now. Dan Gahlinger backed out of the project and I am the maintainer of TREK7 now. For details see: https://gunkies.org/wiki/TREK7 Former TREK7 players please give me a shout! Ulli The VAXorcist

2 years, 4 months

9
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MIT Lisp Machine and ucode recovered

by Eric Moore

Originating in 1960, Lisp is second only to Fortran as the oldest programming language still in use today. Historically used for research, artificial intelligence, and mathematics, Lisp remains relevant in these fields, as well as in quantum computing research and other cutting-edge applications. In the mid-1970s, researchers sought high-performance, single-user, interactive machines due to the constraints of running their code on large multi-user mainframes. Such machines would allow for more efficient and flexible research and development. Richard Greenblatt at the MIT AI Lab spearheaded the development of the first dedicated Lisp machines, including the successful CONS machine and later CADR machines. MACSYMA, a symbolic mathematics program written in Lisp which consumed significant resources on the PDP-10 running ITS, was a key motivator for the Lisp Machine's creation. LispM hackers in residence, including Daniel Weinreb (DLW), David Moon (MOON), Richard Stallman (RMS), John L. Kulp (JLK), Mike McMahon (MMcM), and others, were responsible for the overall system development. Kulp designed the legendary Space Cadet keyboard, known for its unique key arrangements and symbols, and Moon and Weinreb wrote the first and second Lisp Machine editors (EINE, ZWEI) respectively. Brad Parker developed the first working CADR simulator (usim), which emulates the MIT CADR, and with the Lisp Machine microcode running on top, allows users to explore the historic system and its unique features. Until recently, only up until system 78 of the LISP operating system and microcode from MIT could be emulated. Alfred M. Szmidt (AMS) received copies of backup tapes containing systems 98 and 99, dating from 1983 and 1984, respectively, and was able to get them running after a decade of effort. The bootstrap process was an impressive hack, due to the Lisp Machine's use of network booting and a mixture of compiled and uncompiled code. Szmidt has now iterated the distribution to system 100 with all of his fixes included. This marks the first time in 35 years that anyone can use this environment, designed to support AI and computational research at the cutting edge. The windowing and graphical feel of the environment stand out, and the Lisp machine and CADR processor allow users to dive deep into the operating system's inner workings. The line between compiled and source code is thin, and users can open and read almost everything. The CADR machine served as the foundation for commercial products sold by LISP Machines, Inc., founded by Richard Greenblatt, and Symbolics, founded by MIT AI Lab ex-administrator Russell Noftsker. The emulator provides a glimpse into the height of 80s MIT hacker culture by booting to MIT System 100. Find more information and try the system out yourself via AMS's announcement post: https://tumbleweed.nu/r/bug-lispm/forumpost/7475d8a3db Or visit https://tumbleweed.nu/lm-3 -Eric

2 years, 4 months

3
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3.5' 1.44 & 720K compatible Read/Write FDDs

by D. Resor

Is there a list of floppy disk drives which could read and write both 3.5" 1.44mb and 720k diskettes? A product line of musical instruments (General Music/Ahlborn-Galanti) I service use 3.5" 720K DD floppy disk drives. I've never had any problems formatting or backing up data files prior on other instruments. Tuesday, I attempted to format a floppy disk using the instrument's internal FDD prior to backing up the data files. After the format an error appears "corrupted data". Which could mean so several different things from a bad floppy drive, etc. I currently have one box of Sony MFD-2DD 3.5" 720K Double Density Floppy diskettes which were bought new a few years ago, kept in their box, and stored in a dust free place. I've used them prior for the same purpose with no problems. I'd like to be able to verify at home that the diskettes haven't all suddenly gone bad. Thanks Don Resor

2 years, 4 months

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Call for Speakers - VCF Southwest (VCFSW) coming to Dallas in June!

by Eric Moore

Hello Vintage Computer Enthusiasts! VCF SouthWest (VCFSW) is returning to Dallas after a long hiatus! We will be gathering June 23rd to 25th, details at https://www.vcfsw.org/ We are seeking speakers, exhibitors, vendors, sponsors, and volunteers! We already have some great speakers and panels lined up, and are looking for people with stories to tell about computing in Texas especially. Details and a sign up form are on the website for signing up as an exhibitor or vendor, and speakers can contact the organizers at vcfsouthwest(a)gmail.com Vendor and exhibitor tables are $50 each, and we have a limited number of tables available inside. After the inside tables are sold, we will consider selling outdoor vendor spaces if there is demand. Sponsor packages are available, starting at $250. This includes prime vendor space if desired, and placement of the sponsors logo and promotional materials proportionate to the amount of the sponsorship. Please contact us with any questions, ideas, or concerns. Thank you for being awesome and supporting the vintage computer community!

2 years, 4 months

1
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ATA-3 50-pin IDE

by Steve Lewis

Is anyone familiar with the 50-pin IDE interface, which I think is called ATA-3? It is from around 1997-2002. Normally IDE is 40-pin, or in laptops might be a 44-pin. But in a COMPAQ Presario 1220, I've come across its hard drive that is using this 50-pin interface (two rows of 25-pin that are quite small/tightly spaced - moreso than even PCMCIA). I believe it is different (electrically) than the 1.8" 50-pin interface. I ordered a CF-to-50-pin adapter that is intended for those 1.8" drives, and it won't work on this ATA-2 port (system won't boot with it inserted). However, all my CF cards are larger than 2GB - so I'm not sure if that was the issue (don't think so, I think even with 8GB or larger it would still at least try to boot). The 2GB drive in this Presario (with the "weird' 50-pin IDE) contains Windows ME and Office 2000. That's cute, but I'm not so interested in that - I was hoping to image that drive for archive, then install something else (OS2). But I can't find any "ATA-3 to normal 40-pin IDE" adapter. I think the "6 extra pins" on this 50-pin (relative to normal 44-pin laptop drives of those days) -- 2 of those pins (5-6) aren't used (maybe a kind of key) and the 4 others (1-4) are vendor specific. So I may just be out of luck here in upgrading or replacing this drive with a more modern solution. But wanted to run it by the crew here before giving up. Thanks, -Steve / v*

2 years, 4 months

7
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Looking for IBM 2723

by Peter Ekstrom

Hey all, So, being the new owner of a AS/400 9401-150, I am looking for a 2723-9406 LAN card for it. Does anyone have one they wouldn't mind parting with by chance? -Peter

2 years, 4 months

1
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Re: LS120, LS240, Floptical Drives and DD, HD, ED, and ?TD? drives

by Ali

> Most likely, the 3-mode drive. 8x1024 sectors on each track, giving a > capacity of about 1.23MB. Many PCs of the era could also handle the > drives, which would change spindle speed from 300 to 360 RPM. 3 mode > drives were manufactured right up until the end, but usually were > configured as 2-mode (720/1.44) unless jumpering changes were made to > the drive. Chuck, Yes, R. Stricklin (Bear) verified it as such. So have you ever seen a Tri Density drive? Or was it just a paper announcement that never made it out of the lab? I'd figure if anyone may have seen one it would be you ;) -Ali

2 years, 4 months

3
15
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Need a 1.2mb 5.25 floppy

by Chris Zach

Oi. So after finally getting things going I started copying the Pro/380 OS files to a bunch of 1.2mb floppies. Great. However after a bit I started getting errors, and found that the disks were getting gouges in the tracks. Sure enough disassembly of my 1.2mb Teac showed that debris had become embedded in the disk head and cleaning is not possible. Terrific. Tossing the drive, this is not the first time I have had this problem with these disks so I am dumpstering all of the old floppies and just bought 40 new ones in sealed boxes. However I'm now in need of a 1.2mb floppy drive. Anyone have a good working spare that I can beg/borrow/buy in the MD area? Thanks! CZ (I really should have pitched these disks; they came from a basement with an oil heater for 20 years and are quite honestly garbage. Only thing worse were disks from Solarex which literally had silicon dust on them that chewed any drive. Oh well, live and learn)

2 years, 4 months

11
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Re: Sun/Tronic House

by Smith, Wayne

I did some research as to where Dean and Molly (Mary Alice) Hendrickson lived and the address I come up with is 20 Interlaken Road, Greenwich, CT 06830. There is no street view on Google but from the satellite photo it looks like it could be the same house as I seem some of what appear to be similar curved features on the roof. From: Tarek Hoteit via cctalk [mailto:cctalk@classiccmp.org] Sent: Friday, March 24, 2023 10:23 PM To: cctalk(a)classiccmp.org Cc: Tarek Hoteit Subject: [cctalk] Sun/Tronic House Hi. I came across an article about the "Sun/Tronic House" in the July/August 1981 issue of Computers and Programming magazine. The article references the Apple 2 as the computer that controls everything in the house that also relies on solar energy. The house, per the article, is (or was) in Greenwich, Connecticut. I also found a photo of the house at https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://www.1000bit.it/storia/apple/suntronic_h… I am curious to know if the house and the Apple IIs are still there. Anyone has a clue? (A copy of the magazine is at https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://archive.org/details/sim_computers-and-p… 1_4 page 38). -- Regards, Tarek Hoteit

2 years, 4 months

2
1
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LS120, LS240, Floptical Drives and DD, HD, ED, and ?TD? drives

by Ali

In the golden age of the floppy before its downfall caused by CD-R, CD-RW and flash USB a number of new technologies were introduced to allow for cheap removable storage (Yes MO drives existed but they were expensive). Many of the tech were a great step forward. For example the LS-240 drives from Panasonic/3M (Imation) allowed reading and writing to 120MB, 240MB, 1.44MB, and 720KB disks. They were also compatible with weird formats like IBM's XDF and even allowed the storage of 32MB on a standard 1.44MB floppy disk. To be backwards compatible they used a separate read/write head for regular floppies. However, none of the formats with backward compatibility read or wrote to 2.88MB ED disks. Anybody know why? Was it a licensing issue or the perception that ED compatibility wasn't really required or desired? Or was it technical? I am not sure if ED drives already made use of two read/write heads (one for 720/1.44 and one for 2.88) or just one? If it is the former one could see how it would be hard to have three separate read/write heads in one unit... On a separate note: was a TD (Triple Density) drive ever produced? Apparently the technology existed all the way back in 1989 and would have give 12.5MB on a standard physical sized (3.5") floppy: https://www-computerwoche-de.translate.goog/a/hitachi-maxell-bietet-nec-neue -12-5-mb-floppy-an,1155888?_x_tr_sl=de&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=wap p (original in German) -Ali

2 years, 4 months

7
12
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Unix System V r1 -> Unix System V r3

by KenUnix

Hi, Has anyone been successful in communicating using cu or some other method to transfer files between two SIMS running Unix V ? If so I would appreciate some help. Thanks, Ken -- WWL 📚

2 years, 4 months

1
0
0 0

Looking for EPROMs

by rescue

Looking for MCM68764 and I could probably use some TMS2532 as well. I'm also always on the lookout for blank bipolar proms (chips stargin with 82S, and compatables). Anyone have any of these they don't need. New, used, needing erasing, doesn't matter. If you have any, let me know how many you have (of each if you have both type) and what you are looking to get for them. If you need more standard/bigger EPROMs, I can trade too.... have a number of 2764, 27256, have some 27128 I think too, and maybe some 27512 ? I'd have to go digging. Thanks, -- Curt

2 years, 4 months

6
5
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looking for cable for Sun Sbus Expansion

by rescue

I have 2 Sbus Expansion chassis, one Sun, and one Integrix (IIRC). I have the expansion chassis and the sbus controllers, but on both cases I do not have the cables. By looking at it, I believe they probably both use the same cable. Anyone out there have one or two cables to spare ? Thanks, -- Curt

2 years, 4 months

1
0
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QIC tape restorations (IBM 5100)

by Steve Lewis

I've come across three original QIC tapes for the IBM 5100. DC300 I think, original IBM labels. They are in fair condition (the tape material itself seems fine, they are all on their reels), but the "rubbers" used to actually actuate the reels is degraded. I came across an article once on how to restore those (I think it involved gluing the rubber band directly to the ends of the media?) The three tapes are labeled as follows: 5721-XM3 THE IBM 5100 PROBLEM SOLVER LIBRARY TAPE PART NO. 1608361 E.C. NO 829643 DATE 7/29/76 (this one is in a form fitted sealed ziploc-like bag, which I haven't opened; the early magazine ads for the 5100 reference this solver library -- I assume it is a mix of BASIC and APL) 5721-EAB THE IBM 5100 BASIC COMPUTER AIDED INSTRUCTION TAPE PART NO. 1608376 E.C. NO 829482 DATE 11/13/75 VERSION 1 MOD 0 FEAT 9021 PROGRAM NO. 5721-EAB CARTRIDGE 3 OF 3 (what does FEAT mean? and sadly, I don't have cartridge 1 or 2, but I assume this is probably some BASIC code that runs some kind of tutorial about the system) TAPE PART NO. 1608705 E.C. NO 829637 DATE 1/10/77 DIAGNOSTIC CARTRIDGE. DO NOT ALTER THE CONTENTS OF THIS TAPE. (I believe when accessing the built in DCP, it has options to load and run additional diagnostics that would be contained on this tape -- I think "IMF" stuff, so it would be in native PALM machine code) Anyone interested in a restoration or any contacts to folks who have worked on QIC tape before? I have a working IBM 5100 (with working internal tape and external 5106), but I absolutely haven't tried to insert or use these tapes, and I have 0 experience in trying to extract data from raw media. I don't mind shipping them off to an expert - such as anyone who maybe can copy the data content to a new tape? (which I know is probably some specialized equipment - I probably can't self fund that, but I am interested to know what the options here might be) -Steve / v*

2 years, 4 months

2
1
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VAX books available

by Todd Pisek

I have the following 2 books available for the taking: VAX architecture Reference Manuals-1987 Version 4.4 VAX/VMS Internals & Data Structures Email tpisek at pobox dot com

2 years, 4 months

1
0
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Re: LS120, LS240, Floptical Drives and DD, HD, ED, and ?TD? drives

by Ali

>It’s a 1.2 MB format (360 RPM) as used in the>Japanese market.Ahh so it is a triple mode drive not a triple density drive. Thanks!

2 years, 4 months

1
0
0 0

Fortran question for Unix System-5 r3

by KenUnix

Fortran question for Unix System-5 r3. When executing fortran programs requiring "input" the screen will show a blank screen. After entering input anyway the program completes under Unix System V *r3*. When the same program is compiled under Unix System V *r1* it works as expected. The user sees the prompt. Sounds like on Unix System V *r3* the output buffer is not being flushed. I tried re-compiling F77. No help. Is it possible to check the runtime libraries to see if fflush is missing? Fortran program follows: PROGRAM EASTER INTEGER YEAR,METCYC,CENTRY,ERROR1,ERROR2,DAY INTEGER EPACT,LUNA C A PROGRAM TO CALCULATE THE DATE OF EASTER PRINT '(A)',' INPUT THE YEAR FOR WHICH EASTER' PRINT '(A)',' IS TO BE CALCULATED' PRINT '(A)',' ENTER THE WHOLE YEAR, E.G. 1978 ' READ '(A)',YEAR C CALCULATING THE YEAR IN THE 19 YEAR METONIC CYCLE-METCYC METCYC = MOD(YEAR,19)+1 IF(YEAR.LE.1582)THEN DAY = (5*YEAR)/4 EPACT = MOD(11*METCYC-4,30)+1 ELSE C CALCULATING THE CENTURY-CENTRY CENTRY = (YEAR/100)+1 C ACCOUNTING FOR ARITHMETIC INACCURACIES C IGNORES LEAP YEARS ETC. ERROR1 = (3*CENTRY/4)-12 ERROR2 = ((8*CENTRY+5)/25)-5 C LOCATING SUNDAY DAY = (5*YEAR/4)-ERROR1-10 C LOCATING THE EPACT(FULL MOON) EPACT = MOD(11*METCYC+20+ERROR2-ERROR1,30) IF(EPACT.LT.0)EPACT=30+EPACT IF((EPACT.EQ.25.AND.METCYC.GT.11).OR.EPACT.EQ.24)THEN EPACT=EPACT+1 ENDIF ENDIF C FINDING THE FULL MOON LUNA=44-EPACT IF(LUNA.LT.21)THEN LUNA=LUNA+30 ENDIF C LOCATING EASTER SUNDAY LUNA=LUNA+7-(MOD(DAY+LUNA,7)) C LOCATING THE CORRECT MONTH IF(LUNA.GT.31)THEN LUNA = LUNA - 31 PRINT '(A)',' FOR THE YEAR ',YEAR PRINT '(A)',' EASTER FALLS ON APRIL ',LUNA ELSE PRINT '(A)',' FOR THE YEAR ',YEAR PRINT '(A)',' EASTER FALLS ON MARCH ',LUNA ENDIF END Any help would be appreciated, Ken -- WWL 📚

2 years, 4 months

1
0
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Death of G. Moore

by Murray McCullough

Legendary discoverer of Moore's Law Gordon Moore passed away. Whether it truly is a 'law' is debatable but its effect on microprocessor development is hard to deny. Our industry/hobby or interest was built on a technology G. Moore helped to develop. Happy computing! Murray 🙂

2 years, 4 months

3
2
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Personal Calculator “Entertainment”

by Michael Mulhern

Another recent acquisition is for all your handheld calculator enthusiasts. From 1975 here is “How To Entertain With Your Pocket Calculator” Click to: https://archive.org/details/htewypc Michael. -- *Blog: RetroRetrospective – Fun today with yesterday's gear…….. <http://www.jongleur.co.uk/blogs/>* *Podcast*: *Retro Computing Roundtable <http://rcrpodcast.com/>* (Co-Host)

2 years, 4 months

1
0
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Systron-Donner Block Programming

by Michael Mulhern

If anybody is interested in Systron-Donner Corporation, this booklet on “Block Programming For Physical Systems” was in a recent acquisition. Available at: https://archive.org/details/bpfps Michael. -- *Blog: RetroRetrospective – Fun today with yesterday's gear…….. <http://www.jongleur.co.uk/blogs/>* *Podcast*: *Retro Computing Roundtable <http://rcrpodcast.com/>* (Co-Host)

2 years, 4 months

2
1
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Sun/Tronic House

by Tarek Hoteit

Hi. I came across an article about the "Sun/Tronic House" in the July/August 1981 issue of Computers and Programming magazine. The article references the Apple 2 as the computer that controls everything in the house that also relies on solar energy. The house, per the article, is (or was) in Greenwich, Connecticut. I also found a photo of the house at https://www.1000bit.it/storia/apple/suntronic_house.asp I am curious to know if the house and the Apple IIs are still there. Anyone has a clue? (A copy of the magazine is at https://archive.org/details/sim_computers-and-programming_july-august-1981_… page 38). -- Regards, Tarek Hoteit

2 years, 4 months

2
1
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RIP Gordan Moore

by Frank Tuccio

With great sadness, the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation announces the passing of our founder, Gordon Moore. https://www.moore.org/article-detail?newsUrlName=in-memoriam-gordon-moore-19 29-2023 Frank Tuccio frank(a)tuccio.net

2 years, 4 months

2
1
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Vermont Research Solid State Storage

by Jonathan Katz

Hi everyone! Does anyone have documentation for a Vermont Research K2 Solid State Storage device? Looks like it emulates a CDC Lark. But it may also be configurable for other devices? Thanks! -- -Jon +44 7792 149029

2 years, 4 months

1
0
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Cards in the PDP-11/05 just sold on eBay

by steven＠malikoff.com

G'day all, Just followed the sale of the 11/05 on eBay (#175655196586) that ended a short time ago. It's a remarkably clean and complete machine and am not surprised at the hammer price. I was curious what the quad-height card with two ribbon cables coming out the sides was? It appears to have a couple leads as well, presumably going to the single-height board. Some sort of TTY interface? I presume non-DEC from the nylon handles. Steve

2 years, 4 months

2
1
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WTB: Working IBM 9401-150

by Peter Ekstrom

Hello everyone, First time posting here... I am wondering if anyone knows of someone looking to get rid of a working (preferably) IBM AS/400e 9401-150? For local pickup it would need to be around the Atlanta, GA area in the US. Thanks! -Peter

2 years, 4 months

4
6
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Wanted PDP-11 Paper Tape Software Source Tape Images

by Martin Bishop

Can anyone point me to the source paper tapes for the classic Paper Tape Software programmes packages ? The IOX, ODT, FPMP and loader/dumper source paper tapes [e.g. DEC-11-XIOXA-A-PA1 & 2] are on bit savers, but those for the assemblers / linkers seem not to be. That the assembler / linker sources were distributed is attested by the 1970's software catalogs; from their evident rarity I infer purchases were uncommon. While any archive of -PA tapes is of interest, those I'm particularly seeking are: - DEC-11-UPLAA-A-PA1 to 12 PAL-11A (8k) (V007A) Source PTs [~= ASXA] - DEC-11-ASPA-PA1 to 11 PAL-11A (4k) (V002A) Source PTs [~= ASPA] - DEC-11-XIXLA-A-PA1 & 2 IOX LPT (V004A) Source PTs - DEC-11ULKSA-A-PA1 to 6 Link11S (V002A) Source PTs - also PAL11S sources, however they are not listed in the catalogs Equally, listings would be of value, e.g.: - DEC-11-ASPA-LA PAL-11A (V002A) (4k) Listing Electronic copies are all I require, although if someone has a cupboard full of untranscribed physical paper tapes I could oblige. Yours in anticipation of being able to, hopefully, add the EIS instructions to PAL-11A's repertoire. Martin

2 years, 4 months

3
3
0 0

Nuking an MFM drive with a magnet, format/servo gone?

by Chris Zach

Question: I just used a strong magnet to wipe an old Maxtor MFM drive (magnet on outside of case). Now the drive will not even seek properly on start up, just endlessly moves the heads.. Is the drive now toast? Do MFM drives have embedded servo information on the platter formatted by the factory? CZ

2 years, 4 months

13
19
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LSI-11 Console-ODT

by jos.fries＠kpnmail.nl

For my LSI-11 simulator I developed an as accurate as possible implementation of the Console-ODT functionality as described in the "LSI11 PDP11/03 Processor Handbook" and the "Microcomputer and Memories Handbook". As might be expected from these handbooks, the description of the ODT functionality is not a complete specification and consequently during the development several questions arose on the reaction of ODT on the user input, such as: - What is the reaction on commands like "R0/<CR>RS/4@"? Will the last opened location be opened or the contents of the last opened location? - What is the reaction on a RUBOUT at the prompt? - What will be the value of the opened location when e.g. three digits are entered and these three digits are then rubbed out and the location is closed? Will the value of the last opened location be unchanged or will it be zero? - An address and a GO command can be separated by a semicolon. What is the reaction if characters other than the "G" are typed after the semicolon? - Etc., etc... Is there someone in (the vicinity of) the Netherlands with a functioning LSI-11 who would allow me to try out these commands or could anyone point me to someone who could facilitate that? I developed a complete test script for all LSI-11 ODT commands and "all" relevant situations and ideally I would like to carry out this test script to get a complete specification of the Console-ODT functionality. Regards, Jos

2 years, 4 months

5
4
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Sun E3500 Peripheral Power Supply?

by Henry Bent

Hi all, I picked up the pieces of a few Sun E3500s a while back but it looks like I don't have enough for a complete system - I am missing the front Peripheral Power Supply, 300-1358 ( https://dogemicrosystems.ca/pub/Sun/System_Handbook/Sun_syshbk_V4.1/Devices… ). I know there's one on eBay right now but I have extras of most other parts for these machines - rear power supplies, cooling modules, FC-AL boards, SBUS boards, etc. and would ideally like to arrange some sort of mutually beneficial swap. Let me know if you're interested and we can work something out. Shipping is probably not going to be prohibitively expensive but if there is someone local I'm in the greater Cleveland, OH area. -Henry

2 years, 4 months

1
0
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PDP-11/05 early print set for download

by steven＠malikoff.com

G'day all, I have just uploaded the engineering drawings for the early PDP-11/05, the one with the solid (no slots) Mazak lower bezel and the M7261 with the unpopulated region. The latest date I can find in this print set is October 1973, Drawing release 11/05-49. You can view or download it from https://archive.org/details/pdp-11-05-engineering-drawings-oct-1973 It is 147Mb in size, sorry about that but I didn't want the quality to drop too much (the raw scans were ~350Mb). Regards, Steve.

2 years, 4 months

7
8
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DEC Prom MRV11-C and MXV11-B2 ROMS

by Douglas Taylor

Is it possible to use the MXV11-B2 Roms in an 18 bit MRV11-C Prom board? Clearly they work in the 22 bit version, MRV11-D, but I don't have one of those. The intention is to put together a small PDP-11 in an H9281-AB backplane (18 bit) with an 11/23 or 11/73 CPU, Ram, disk controller, etc.

2 years, 4 months

1
0
0 0

Re: Knockoffs, was: Low cost logic analyzer

by Jonathan Chapman

> But, as some who worked > to bring a product to market only to see people on forums say "Skip > buying it from Jim for $$$$, you can build the same thing by yourself > for $ from AliExpress parts or buy this eBay knockoff for 2X$", I will > admit that is somewhat infuriating. If the hobby community is not > willing to pay a bit of premium to support those who bring out the > products that benefit the community, the designers will get disgusted > and leave. Agree 100%. We stopped running XT-IDEs for a while due to the proliferation of knockoffs and the total indifference of a good portion of the community -- some folks even get hostile when you suggest they maybe not buy knockoffs that can't even abide by the terms of the open-source project license! I'd designed a universal "bolts to any existing XT-IDE and doesn't eat a slot" CF adapter that never got run. After posting a development picture of the prototype, one of the knockoff folks ripped the design off before I had even received my quote from Keystone for the custom ISA brackets. No way was I going to spend on a run of 500x custom brackets when someone was already ripping off the idea. There are other things that we've chosen not to run for the same basic reason, and others that won't get open sourced. > Thus, I'd say if a Saleae is something to pursue, try to buy > one from them, to support their awesome GUI, and then drop by eBay and > grab 2 or 4 of the knockoffs to put in your toolbox or travel debugging > rucksack. I'll go further and say don't buy knockoffs, period. It's nice to support the designers in some capacity, but buying knockoffs fuels the ecosystem that creates knockoffs. With our stuff, it's never been that a single knockoff operation eats our lunch, it's that there's a zillion of them that run maybe 100 boards and disappear. Death by a thousand cuts. They charge $1-5 less while running the cheapest possible boards, stuffing with salvaged chips, etc. Meanwhile, we're having to pay for runs of boards with hard gold plating and buy genuine parts from Mouser. Thanks, Jonathan

2 years, 4 months

13
24
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VMS V4.2 MUP (Mandatory Update) wanted!

by Hans-Ulrich Hölscher

The mandatory update for VMS V4.2 is still missing in my collection. Because of that, VMS V4.2 is not fully usable, neither can layered software be installed nor can it be upgraded to VMS V4.3. Who can help???

2 years, 4 months

4
6
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mainframe vs mini

by Steve Lewis

Not to open a huge can of worms.... but... I always considered a mainframe to basically be a "fully decked out" minicomputer. A minicomputer has a core CPU and memory (or racks of memory), then is "decked out" with data storage (racks of wall-sized tape decks), printers, pick-your-typewriter input (or two, or three), and maybe cabinets for serial IO or modem of some sort. So, sometimes I say mainframe when I really mean minicomputer (generally because mainframe just sounds cooler than "mini-computer" -- that is, mainframe clearly conveys the notion of "some big ass computer" whereas minicomputer just needs more clarification). What do you guys think? Or is a mainframe one of those giants so large, you walk inside its CPU? Or, is it like this... computer (a whole building, generally at least two story to support ac ducting and raised floor maintenance -- are these exclusively mainframes?) minicomputer (a single floor or room of a building or possibly a full top of a desk - and, these are NOT mainframes?) microcomputer (half a deck top or smaller, memory and accessories mostly self contained - doesn't necessarily have to have a microprocessor, but typically does) nanocomputer (modern MCU ? like Raspbery Pi) Also - on "personal computer", it's generally implied "digital electronic computers" so we don't have to dwell too much on rocks and beads as computers. Glad we didn't call them "coordinated electron pumpers" :) -Steve

2 years, 4 months

25
67
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domesticating the computer - call for last inputs

by Steve Lewis

Ok, I think we have a good narrated composition! It is still Unlisted since there are a few more things to finalize/decide. But unless we spot any major flaw in the rendering, this should be wrapped up over the next day or so. There are a few somewhat subtle easter eggs added. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPrHfUrhjQk <Domesticating the computer: how the appliance computer came to be - YouTube <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPrHfUrhjQk>> One question is: should this be set to "Yes it is for kids"? My understanding is Enabling that prevents Comments being enabled, but I'm not sure if there is any other benefit. But yes, this is NOT a documentary and is intended more for a middle/high school audience. Other decisions are things like final thumbnail and writing up the Description, credits, etc. And - recall - this wasn't intended as a "full history of computing", the focus was on the 1970s. But there is a brief segment towards the end that honors some pre-1970s work. Also, this may be the only "history of personal computer" related video that doesn't mention the word Gates or Wozniak [ that wasn't exactly intentional! ;) actually the original intent was to avoid any names at all, it wasn't a biography - but a few do end up mentioned ] Thanks for all the feedback and criticism - it won't be perfect for everyone, but I think it is far better than what we started with. My "technical review team" has included: Dennis Roberson (SCAMP/IBM 5100 lead engineer) Dan Bricklin (VisiCalc) Scott Adams (Adventure and many other games) Ken Williams (Sierra OnLine) -Steve

2 years, 4 months

2
2
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IBM RT PC Manuals free for shipping

by steve shumaker

Any interest here before I post them to EPay? Available for shipping cost from 95549: IBM RT PC AIX OS Communications Guide 59X7668 IBM RT PC AIX OS Messages Reference 59X9115 IBM RT PC INED 59X7643 These are the classic early slipcase style manuals. They are in pristine condition. All three are 1985 "First Editions" of the pub. I received them in an auction lot of of documents and have no need. Combined weight is ~13lbs. Steve

2 years, 4 months

1
0
0 0

PSU of a 11/23SD??

by Holm Tiffe

Hi all, I have to repair an PSU of a 11/23 n a BA11 Box with an H9720 Backplane (with an KDJ-11A) that has run an CNC milling machine until 2 weeks before now. :-) This is a Fidia machine..never heard about it before. The problem is that a big 19000µF 40V capacitor in the PSU has failed and that I think because of that the 2nd of the two Nidec fans has finally failed. I'm in the process of cleaning the goo from the PSU-PCB, found a burnt 5A fuse and now I'm checking the Semiconductors... The problem is here that the Transistors (and diodes) have uncommon types printed on, an TO220 is named SJE2677, another one is labeled 12652-00 RCA..and so on. I've found a label with "0H780-B" on the PSU.. H780 PSU? Where can I get some schematics from that beast? It is a secondary switcher ist seems. Regards, Holm -- Technik Service u. Handel Tiffe, www.tsht.de, Holm Tiffe, Goethestrasse 15, 09569 Oederan, USt-Id: DE253710583 info(a)tsht.de Fax +49 37292 709779 Tel +49 37292 709778 Mobil: 0172 8790 741

2 years, 4 months

2
2
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List migration

by Dennis Boone

Friends, The process of migrating the cctalk and cctech mailing lists to a new host in Chicago is underway. This evening, I've moved the list mail handling to the new server, and this message will be the first live test. Assuming this works, you shouldn't have to change anything to post to the list. The green web pages, the old "pipermail" list archives, and web access to archives of new postings from this point still require a little work, which I hope to complete in the next day or two. I will eventually import the old pipermail archives into the new posting archive, but that may take a little longer. The new hosting is provided by the Chicago Classic Computing group. Many thanks to Jay West for hosting the lists for 20 years! /Dennis Boone

2 years, 4 months

16
19
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SmallTalk books claimed

by Todd Pisek

They’re gone

2 years, 4 months

1
0
0 0

SmallTalk 80 books available

by Todd Pisek

I have the following books free to a good home: SmallTalk-80: The Language & its Implementation SmallTalk-80: The Interactive Programming Environment SmallTalk-80: Bits of History, Words of Advice Email tpisek at pobox dot com

2 years, 4 months

1
0
0 0

Power supply for DEC VK100 GIGI?

by Robert Armstrong

A friend gave me a DEC VK100 (aka GiGi) recently. It's in really nice shape, but it is missing the power supply. Before I try to kludge something up with an ATX supply, I thought I'd ask if anybody knows where I might find an official replacement. Thanks, Bob

2 years, 4 months

4
5
0 0

Solaris books claimed

by Todd Pisek

They have a new home

2 years, 4 months

1
0
0 0

Solaris Internals & Performance books

by Todd Pisek

I no longer have a use for the following 2 books. Free for the taking. Solaris Internals: Solaris 10 and Opensolaris Solaris Performance and tools Email me at: tpisek at pobox dot com

2 years, 4 months

1
0
0 0

Visiting the computer history museum (chm)

by Tarek Hoteit

Hello. I am visiting the Computer History Museum in California next week. I always wanted to check it out and spend a day there, but something else happens. Any recommendations of what is a must see at the museum and anything else classic computing nearby in one day only (March 15)? Regards, Tarek Hoteit

2 years, 4 months

16
25
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Persci 299 drives - park heads/lock?

by Bill Degnan

I am working on an unknown status Persci 299 drive and one of the two drives is locked closed. Is this a "park" of some kind or is the drive broken? If it's a parked drive (only the drive 0 side) how do you unpark the drive? I can't seem to find any info on this. If I find anything I will post my findings. Thanks in advance Bill

2 years, 4 months

2
2
0 0

DEC DF03-AA Modem Documentation

by pbirkel＠gmail.com

The DEC DF02 (300 Baud) and DF03 (300/1200 Baud) modems appear to be singularly lacking in online documentation. In the case of the DF03 those would be: EK-ODF03-IP - DF03 Illustrated Parts Breakdown EK-ODF03-PS - DF03 Modem Pocket Service Guide EK-ODF03-UG - DF03 Modem Users Guide Similarly for the DF02. (Note that the actual designations may use a zero rather than a capital letter O in the 4th position; references are inconsistent.) Does anyone have access to these documents? The only, and only slightly, useful technical documentation I've found are within the KC780 documentation (EK-KC780-TM-007_Jul84.pdf), which illustrates the required settings of the two pairs of DIP switches (or jumpers) on each of the two DF02/03 internal modules but doesn't define any of those settings. The functionality of the front panel push-button switches is not described either. Leads, experience, etc. appreciated, thank you, paul

2 years, 4 months

1
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Low cost logic analyzer

by Paul Koning

Gents, I've been doing logic debugging (on a fairly primitive software defined radio I designed back in 1999) with an old Philips logic analyzer. It's not bad, certainly fast enough (I need 100 Msamples/s, it can do twice that) and it's more than wide enough (I need 32 channels). But its capture memory is microscopic so I struggle to see more than one or two transactions, and I need to see more than that. Some poking around shows various USB-connected logic analyzers for quite low prices, and a number of them seem to have suitable specs. I also ran across sigrok.org which seems to be an open source logic analysis framework that can drive a bunch of those devices. Nice given that too many of them only come with Windows software. I suspect there are others that have not too expensive logic analyzers and might be able to offer up suggestions or product reviews. paul

2 years, 4 months

12
18
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NextStep/Intel, 486's and Pentium overdrive, thoughts.

by Chris Zach

As part of fixing the Pro/380 I dug out and decided to get running my two Intel systems. These are Compaq Deskpro/XE systems. One is a 4100 which has an Intel 486/100 (25mhz, quad clock), the other I upgraded with a Pentium P524T overdrive chip at 83mhz (33mhz external clock). The P524T was an interesting duck: It's a 5 volt pentium, 32 bit external bus but they did double the amount of 64 bit on-chip cache so it can perk along quicker than one might think. Not many were sold, but I have one and there you go. It even has a little fan on the heat sink that is powered off the chip. Cute. The Deskpro/XE's were great systems, slimline, Compaq business audio, QVision video interface with 2mb of RAM, IDE drive, and oddly enough a 3 slot ISA bus. Most of the system ran at native 32 bit, so you just ran a slow network card in the ISA. They also had up to 32mb memory, and an optional memory cache card to speed things up. The systems had issues, both on-board batteries were dead, resulting in me having to find, download, run (not easy) and extract a setup floppy for this model as you can't do the system settings without it. Not quite an EISA config, but similar levels of stupidity in the ISA world. And one of them does not seem to see the ISA bus, but not a big deal as it will just be a DOS floppy maker. Anyway, finally got one of them running and decided to do some benchmarks. Booting NextStep 4.2, and tried out a few basic tests. Findings: For general booting and such the Pentium does not offer that much of an advantage. Time to go from login window to system quiet with 20mb memory (I load several apps by default) is: 486/100-121 seconds Pentium: 120 seconds Installing and removing the 256k cache card (an option I have one of) doesn't change the time much at all, maybe a second. Boosting memory to 32mb brought that number down to 84 seconds. Moral: Memory matters. Then I figured I would try a CPU intensive app: Good old NeXT Mandelbrot. While a true NeXT slab will kick the rear of any Intel chip (due to the on board DSP56001) I figured I would put the Pentium up against the 486/100 and running the 486 at 33mhz external bus (133mhz) in insane overclock mode.`So rendering the "Valley of Fear" (a complex subset) resulted in: Pentium, no external cache: 36 seconds. Pentium, external cache: 34 seconds. Not bad, cache really doesn't do a whole lot here. 486/100, no cache: 90 seconds. Wow, that is slow. 486/133, no cache: 65s. Faster, but very slow. So the addition of the Pentium makes a huge difference on floating point CPU intensive apps. I'm also guessing the extra large cache makes a difference as well for highly iterative loads. With this done I can continue looking for a 5.25 floppy to see about making more PRO disks.

2 years, 4 months

2
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Vintage den

by Murray McCullough

Hi, Has anyone seen the latest on ArsTECHNICA journal on Brian Green’s “deluxe home vintage computer den”? Does it bring back many fond memories of the 70s and 80s. 🙂 Happy computing. Murray 🙂

2 years, 4 months

3
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Re: Tarek Hoteit ->Visiting the computer history museum

by Murray McCullough

I attended the Vintage Computer Faire at the Computer History Museum many a yr. ago. The museum wasn't opened yet then collecting many computer artifacts including the Cray-1. I also met Steve Wozniak who gladdened the heart of this Canadian nerd/geek/computer enthusiast. I'm looking forward to visiting the museum again in the not-too-distant future. There are computer museums here in Canada; one has Kenbak-1s.

2 years, 4 months

1
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Mad Magazine latest issue about computers

by Tarek Hoteit

The latest issue of Mad Magazine (April 2023) is titled “MAD Takes Apart Technology”. The pages include reprints of past articles that relate to computers, such as “if computers are so brilliant” (Oct 1985), “13 things you never want to hear from a computer guy” (May 2005), various y2k, and some 50s/60s tech humor. I posted the cover photo here: https://ne.thote.it/@tarek/110018157647679272 Regards, Tarek Hoteit

2 years, 4 months

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[holm@freibergnet.de: Re: PSU of a 11/23SD??]

by Holm Tiffe

Oh yes, that's looking good :-) Thank you very much Mattis! BTW: Some years before I helped to repair and administering the east german copy of an 11/780.. the Robotron RVS K1840. The console Processor of this beast was an Robotron K1620, the slowest PDP-11 ever made but it was enough to load the microcode :-) The 1620 used two 5,25" Floppies instead of the 8" one in the 11/780. Best regards, Holm Mattis Lind wrote: > That is a BA11-M box with a H780 supply. The schematics can be found in the > KC780 document since the front end processor of the 11/780 is a PDP-11/03 > with a RX01 drive. > In the end of this document there is a schematic: > > http://bitsavers.org/pdf/dec/vax/780/MP00534_KC780_Nov77.pdf > > Good luck! > > /Mattis > > Den mån 13 mars 2023 kl 10:57 skrev Holm Tiffe via cctalk < > cctalk(a)classiccmp.org>: > > > > > Hi all, > > > > I have to repair an PSU of a 11/23 n a BA11 Box with an H9720 Backplane > > (with an KDJ-11A) that has run an CNC milling machine until 2 weeks > > before now. :-) This is a Fidia machine..never heard about it before. > > > > The problem is that a big 19000µF 40V capacitor in the PSU has failed > > and that I think because of that the 2nd of the two Nidec fans has > > finally failed. > > I'm in the process of cleaning the goo from the PSU-PCB, found a burnt > > 5A fuse and now I'm checking the Semiconductors... > > > > The problem is here that the Transistors (and diodes) have uncommon > > types printed on, an TO220 is named SJE2677, another one is labeled > > 12652-00 RCA..and so on. > > I've found a label with "0H780-B" on the PSU.. H780 PSU? > > Where can I get some schematics from that beast? It is a secondary > > switcher ist seems. > > > > Regards, > > Holm > > -- > > Technik Service u. Handel Tiffe, www.tsht.de, Holm Tiffe, > > Goethestrasse 15, 09569 Oederan, USt-Id: DE253710583 > > info(a)tsht.de Fax +49 37292 709779 Tel +49 37292 709778 Mobil: 0172 8790 > > 741 > > > > -- Technik Service u. Handel Tiffe, www.tsht.de, Holm Tiffe, Goethestrasse 15, 09569 Oederan, USt-Id: DE253710583 info(a)tsht.de Fax +49 37292 709779 Tel +49 37292 709778 Mobil: 0172 8790 741 ----- Ende weitergeleitete Nachricht ----- -- Technik Service u. Handel Tiffe, www.tsht.de, Holm Tiffe, Goethestrasse 15, 09569 Oederan, USt-Id: DE253710583 info(a)tsht.de Fax +49 37292 709779 Tel +49 37292 709778 Mobil: 0172 8790 741

2 years, 4 months

1
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Age of Tape Formats?

by Zane Healy

I’m working on a project, and I need to know the age of various tape formats. For example when were 6250bpi 700’ 9-Track tapes or DC600A cartridges introduced? Is there any good resource online that documents this? Wikipedia is of some help, but the older you go, the spottier it is. Zane

2 years, 4 months

17
45
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80 Micro Aug 1980 page scan

by Steve Lewis

Anyone here have a physical copy of 80 Microcomputing (TRS-80 themed) issue from August 1980? There is a better quality scan of a page I'm trying to get. Thanks, Steve

2 years, 4 months

6
9
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domesticating the computer (take #12)

by Steve Lewis

We're going to stick to the original title of "Domesticating the Computer" - since that's more in tune with the intended theme. TAKE #11: (reference, revision listed below) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aLHcUbVO_G0 And here's the narration situation. My daughter said she'd try it, and she did :) But here's the problem, she has those painful metal braces. Point in fact, she got them tightened yesterday and in general speaking for very long isn't her favorite thing right now. So she's requested to just stick to being in the Art department (recall, she did the background art and overall arrangement and selection of the systems). But, I still wanted to share this Take#12 to show she is real and is involved in the project :) And also that there were a few visual updates planned. TAKE #12: (daughter narration) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2flzdzM-ZKM Here is a summary of some of the visual updates... 01:11 added the ComputerWorld article referencing Pillsbury Farms and Datapoint, in case there were any doubters about that. [ the article is from '73 and by that time they had been using the system for a couple years - I think the original sales contract is in a museum down in San Antonio still ] (she botched the Odyssey audio - and this is a casual draft, so it's just blanked out) 02:16 added a visual reference to Apollo program (since yes there are some people who didn't catch what that means) 05:03 updates to the "factory" photos (found shot of Tandy's wave soldering machine) [ I still am aware and agree the use of the word "motherboard" here isn't quite right -- but, acceptable anachronism? ] 05:21 (just wanted to point out - some complained I didn't mention the Sphere, which recently a runnable board was revived and demonstrated; can't fit em all, and the Sphere is mentioned at the bottom here as one of the "early competitors") 07:32 looking for more "zip-loc bag" examples (Scott Adams has spoken and confirms he used "baby bottle liners" - it's a small technicality that I may just address visually on screen); I'm hoping Ken and Roberta might have photos of some of their old HiRez adventure in bags, but I suspect that all burned in their house years ago ('91 or so?) (I wanted a small segment to explain why Zork couldn't be made available on cassette tape-- I content that Zork itself motivated the purchase of many early disk drives :) but that'll be for another day ) 07:49 minor updates for VisiCalc presentation (it's so neat that in '79, it had effectively Freeze Panes, split window, and could do Plotting!) Dan confirms that yes, "software patent" (lack of it) was an issue at the time 09:46 adjusted to give "credit" of 86-DOS to Paul Allen and Tim Patterson. 13:50 the census report of 8% of "households of computer" is an important part of the theme (...some bloopers at the end...) I now have two (separate) folks who can maybe help with the narration. If that comes together, then I'll add a note to a review of that in the description or comments of TAKE #11 and TAKE #12. -Steve (voidstar)

2 years, 4 months

1
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delphi, before 1990

by Steve Lewis

Hey all, was Delphi accessible as a bulletin board before 1990? I'm only finding logos and info about Delphi post-1990. But for early 1980s, what as Delphi? Was it a telnet-sort-of-thing only accessed only from universities? I've searched through early BYTE and PC Mag and just not finding any advertisements about it. -Steve

2 years, 4 months

3
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Why the Floppy Disk Just Won't Die

by Jim Brain

https://www.wired.com/story/why-the-floppy-disk-just-wont-die/ Take what you want from the article, but I thought the end paragraph, noting that Tom Persky of floppydisk.com is 73 and is only planning to handle things for 5 more years. After that, he thinks the company will not transfer to anyone. Interesting thoughts there. Jim -- Jim Brain brain(a)jbrain.com www.jbrain.com

2 years, 4 months

13
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Re: mainframe vs mini

by Kevin Anderson

I always thought of the distinctions this way (from my basis of exposure from late 1970s through the 1980s) and from a higher educational setting primarily: Mainframe = repairs required multiple technicians, some possibly there full-time; regular operator(s) present, and a locked door located between you and the machine; entire specialized room with raised flooring, extra-high amperage specialized power sources and wiring, and significant air conditioning Minicomputer = Vendor still provides a technician (just one) for repairs, who drives in out in a station wagon; only a part-time operator only; an user can be located in the same room; 240-volt wiring, but not particularly outlandish Microcomputer = Computer can sit on a desk or in a "normal" room; broken computer taken by user to someplace to be repaired or self-repaired; typically one user, and only 120-volt household or office power needed. Supercomputer = a really fast and specialized version (primarily focusing on high-speed mathematical computations) of a mainframe. Kevin Anderson

2 years, 4 months

11
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IBM PS/2 Model 80 (8580-071) restoration

by Grant Taylor

Hi, I acquired an IBM PS/2 Model 80 (8580-071) today and am looking for advice on what I should do to check it out before, during, and after applying power for the first time. I'll try to get some pictures if anyone is interested. The label near the power switch says that it's an 8580-071. I have no idea how that compares to the hardware that's in it. There are two full size (5¼) hard drives, the controller card. I don't know what type of drives they are yet, they look to be MFM / RLL like in that they have the common cable and a per drive cable. There is a video card that has a daughter-card in the same slot like a thick sandwich. There is another card that I don't recognize. The card doesn't have any external connectors and it looks like it takes multiple (approximately 4"x4") daughter-cards. I am wondering if this is a memory expansion of some sort. There are two of what I believe are the memory boards between the back hard drive and the power supply. The battery is still in the system, but I didn't see any corrosion and it's away from the motherboard. There is also the degrading black foam used for air ducting. Blech. Q: What things should I do as part of checking out this system. I'd like to eventually power it up and see what is on the drives (if they will spin). I need to physically clean it with a damp rag and get some pictures of the system. Please share any pro-tips / gotchas / etc. that you think I could benefit from knowing. Thank you and have a good day. -- Grant. . . . unix || die

2 years, 4 months

9
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on the origin of home computers

by Steve Lewis

Greetings, We're making final touches on a short history-video we've been making about home computers (my daughter, in middle school, has been helping). If anyone has time/interest to do a review, the draft listing is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9mgSVJZoFc Unless anyone spots a gross technical error, we're hoping to render the final sometime this weekend or sometime this month. Thanks, Steve

2 years, 4 months

20
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VAXstation II GPX on ePay

by Zane Healy

I wouldn’t normally post anything on eBay, but this looks like something someone should grab. I’ve no clue who the seller is, it’s in Massachusetts. https://www.ebay.com/itm/295558572706 DEC Digital Equipment Corp VaxStation II GPX system with boards & T K70 untested ebay.com It is currently at $300. It could also be converted to a PDP-11 with the right boards. My PDP-11/73 started life as a MicroVAX II, and the BA123 is a great chassis. Of course it’s big and heavy. Zane

2 years, 4 months

2
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bryanipad.shop site....

by rescue

Recently rejoined the list.... saw someone mention that site.... way too good to be true.... and with a bit of poking around .... looks like most if not all are scraped right from eBay. One item has the eBay price on the bryanipad.shop site crossed out and the lower price added..... I spent too much time on that site before vetting it.... Should have realized the pizza slice logo in the top left was a clear indicator to run away (faster) :-)

2 years, 4 months

2
1
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Why the Floppy Disk Just Won't Die

by RETRO Innovations

https://www.wired.com/story/why-the-floppy-disk-just-wont-die/ Take what you want from the article, but I thought the end paragraph, noting that Tom Persky of floppydisk.com is 73 and is only planning to handle things for 5 more years. After that, he thinks the company will not transfer to anyone. Interesting thoughts there. Jim -- RETRO Innovations, Contemporary Gear for Classic Systems www.go4retro.com store.go4retro.com

2 years, 4 months

2
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domesticating the computer

by Steve Lewis

(I think I prefer the original title of the video my daughter and I have been working on - but still open to opinions about it) Here is TAKE #10 (still AI narrated and a draft, but I found some Census data that may be interesting and had some other revisions that I hope some folks like!) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_eaolOAcvmg In the Description of the above, I have a note on where to get the image link if anyone is interested in that. Thanks again for the support and encouragement. Over the next week I hope to try out a Live Narration and wrap this up. -Steve summary of changes 0:28 expanded note on CRT (more time to press pause if you want to read) 5:04 new assembly line image, from actual TRS-80 "factory" (still using term "motherboard") 5:55 Apple2 date set to April (going with "announcement dates") revised "BYTE" quote (to be a little better organized) 6:46 revised intro of Z80 6:55 added Kildall image 7:12 revised intro of 6502 7:41 revised VisiCalc presentation (in 1979 he had split window, plotting, and freeze panes!) 9:42 clarify credit of suggesting 86-DOS to Paul Allen (instead of Bill) 10:11 minor revisions in Tandy 1000 presentation 12:31 revised wording of Alto description 13:35 shortend PC-5000 description slightly 13:47 added census report 13:55 (forgot delay in showing critters) 14:04 added online services note 14:22 (more personal computers! extra points if you can name them)

2 years, 4 months

1
0
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FD-55 360kB HLS spares for sale?

by Jim Brain

The USB FDC controller ICs finally arrived and I am working to clear the project desk to build a dev board. As part of testing, I'm wondering if anyone has any working FD55B drives for sale with the HLS? I am the market for 1-2 more, and I thought it'd be nice to get one for this project instead of trying to liberate one of my drives from a working machine. I see the links on eBay (a few untested HLS variants and a working non HLS one available), but would prefer a working HLS B. Jim -- Jim Brain brain(a)jbrain.com www.jbrain.com

2 years, 4 months

1
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Re: on the origin of home computers

by Murray McCullough

A lot has been written about the origins of the microcomputer. I wrote a book on the topic. Many thanks for mentioning Canada. Whether one is playing games or doing something else micro-computing is usually associated with a microprocessor as CPU. Anything earlier is a minicomputer or something else. Yet this is not the point of the video. Let’s enjoy what has been created and give encouragement to the creators. Kudos to them. Murray 🙂

2 years, 4 months

4
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Re: IBM PS/2 Model 80 (8580-071) restoration

by Gregory Beat

It has been a long-time (almost 40 years now) since I worked part-time at an IBM dealer, BUT attended ALL the IBM hardware training (and later as an early corporate PC center manager), including the wonderful OS/2 presentations. I also selected that IBM model for my father’s business software, which required IBM hardware in late 1980s. Most of my documents went to on-line resources, like Tomáš Slavotinik (Ardent Tool). Start with reading Tomáš reference documents … to understand what you have. Ardent Tool of Capitalism maintained by Tomáš Slavotinik current as of 3 March 2023 IBM PS/2 model 80 [8580] : “Wrangler” https://www.ardent-tool.com/60_65_80/ 8580-071 Type 1 Planar https://www.ardent-tool.com/8580/Planar_T1.html — The Diagnostic Disk and Support information for that model can be found there. That Disk and a Fresh battery (as required) is a Good Start. greg chicago == Hi, I acquired an IBM PS/2 Model 80 (8580-071) today and am looking for advice on what I should do to check it out before, during, and after applying power for the first time. I'll try to get some pictures if anyone is interested. The label near the power switch says that it's an 8580-071. I have no idea how that compares to the hardware that's in it. There are two full size (5¼) hard drives, the controller card. I don't know what type of drives they are yet, they look to be MFM / RLL like in that they have the common cable and a per drive cable. There is a video card that has a daughter-card in the same slot like a thick sandwich. There is another card that I don't recognize. The card doesn't have any external connectors and it looks like it takes multiple (approximately 4"x4") daughter-cards. I am wondering if this is a memory expansion of some sort. There are two of what I believe are the memory boards between the back hard drive and the power supply. The battery is still in the system, but I didn't see any corrosion and it's away from the motherboard. There is also the degrading black foam used for air ducting. Blech. Q: What things should I do as part of checking out this system. I'd like to eventually power it up and see what is on the drives (if they will spin). I need to physically clean it with a damp rag and get some pictures of the system. Please share any pro-tips / gotchas / etc. that you think I could benefit from knowing. Thank you and have a good day. -- Grant. . . . unix || die

2 years, 4 months

1
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Re: Age of Tape Formats?

by Chuck Guzis

On 3/8/23 06:19, Paul Koning wrote: > I wouldn't exclude those, certainly not if they are relevant to the evolution of the technology. Are X1 tapes (and Eliott tapes if they are the same format, which I don't know) in some way anticipating LINCtape and DECtape? Are they an independent invention of roughly the same concept? For that matter, would you exclude DECtape on the grounds that it's single vendor? I hope not. For that matter, I suspect the Uniservo I format is specific to Univac, yet you can't very well exclude that from a history of magnetic tape data recording. I view "captive formats" such as DECtape to be evolutionary dead ends. Consider, for example, the Datamatic 1000 tapes--I doubt that more than a handful of people here have ever heard of the system. A captive format. Or the early Uniservo metal tapes? Or the tapes used in the IBM 2321 Data Cell or 3850 MSS? Captive formats and evolutionary dead-ends. How about the stuff that never made it out of the lab? Such as the CDC SCROLL? I suspect that I may be one of few who even have heard of the beast--yet it was included in our forward-looking boilerplate in STAR proposals. How about the 9 track 1/2" 3200 fci tapes? Not mentioned yet. Quarter-inch cartridge tapes were quite varied. Although looking the same at first glance, there were significant differences. Consider the Alphamat...Zetamat 3M series of quarter inch tapes. (e.g. DC600HC). No optical sensing of BOT/EOT/media type holes--all done with preformatting. Those were popular with ADIC crowd--I have a couple of those drives in the eventual case that someone digs a tape up from the trash heap of history. How about the adapters that allowed use of VHS cassette equipment for backup? All dead-ends. Before disks were affordable, or even available, half-inch tape was used as primary storage. Consider the 7090 IBSYS shops--all tape operations. --Chuck

2 years, 4 months

7
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NOS Tapes 3 X 3M DC 600A 60MB Cartridges (1991)...(speaking of tapes)

by John Robertson

Anyone interested in 3 tapes - has Olympics logo - still in original wrapping? Ether pick up at my shop or pay for postage and handling... John :-#)# -- John's Jukes Ltd. 7 - 3979 Marine Way, Burnaby, BC, Canada V5J 5E3 Call (604)872-5757 (Pinballs, Jukes, Video Games) flippers.com "Old pinballers never die, they just flip out"

2 years, 4 months

1
0
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Using Flashfloppies on Professional 350 and 380--SOLVED

by Chris Zach

Ok, after banging my head against the wall for awhile this evening it looks like I have two flashfloppy drives working on my Pro/380. Well enough to boot from and install 3.2 options. The keys are these: 1) Use a flat 34 pin ribbon cable with three plugs in a straight line. I tried using one with the traditional flip, got frustrated at the extra complexity, and reterminated it as straight through all the way. 2) Set one drive to unit 0 (J2 installed) and the second to unit 1 (J3 installed) 3) This is the kicker: RX50's are Shugart drives. You have to go into the configuration and set the drives to Shugart. IBMPC doesn't work properly with the disk ready and disk swap signal, I stumbled on this when I found that flipping the disk image while it was seeking produced a brief access. Hah. 4) I set the ff.cfg also to read only to avoid stepping on the images by accident. So far it seems to be working, saw both drives in the file manager (I had built a minimum system with the floppies I had) and now I'm reformatting the RD53 drive and doing a full install. Should be as simple as turning the knob and hitting resume. Thanks to Bjoren for letting me know it kind of worked for him years ago which gave me the knowledge that it could work. One issue I can see is that since both "drives" use the same head, stupid software could assume that since drive 0 was seeked to track 30 then drive 1 should be at track 30 and thus no need to change tracks. So far I haven't seen this happen, but we shall see. Interesting. CZ

2 years, 4 months

7
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Re: on the origin of home computers

by Tarek Hoteit

:) it makes sense, Sellam, to inform her rather than she telling us, but again she and others her age are the future. She will do it her way just like we, at her age, did it our way. Funny: i just remembered a quote from Goonies - “this is our time” It is their time Regards, Tarek Hoteit > On Mar 8, 2023, at 12:22 PM, Sellam Abraham via cctalk <cctalk(a)classiccmp.org> wrote: > > On Wed, Mar 8, 2023 at 11:55 AM Will Cooke via cctalk <cctalk(a)classiccmp.org> > wrote: > >>> On 03/08/2023 11:59 AM CST Tarek Hoteit via cctalk < >> cctalk(a)classiccmp.org> wrote: >>> We probably need to get more advice from her on what we all, old-school >> timers, should do to help keep the legacy going on ! >>> Regards, >>> Tarek Hoteit >> That statement may be the most important one on this list in a long, long >> time. >> Will > > Huh? That makes less than zero sense. > > We're already doing what we're doing. She should be asking US what SHE > should do to preserve the legacy we've carried on to her and her generation. > > I mean, is anyone actually serious about asking Greta how to save the > planet? > > Don't abdicate your responsibilities as an experienced adult over to > inherently naive children. > > Sellam

2 years, 4 months

1
0
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Spurious spam filters

by Paul Koning

The notion that mailing lists can filter spam by sender email address is fundamentally broken, at least when the addresses filtered are those of major ISPs. The mistake is that the fact a particular ISP customer sends spam doesn't mean that the millions of other customers do. Since the antispam "service" currently used by the cctalk list doesn't understand this, can it be leaned on to fix their mistake? If not, could it be scrapped? Unfortunately, this sort of wrongheaded behavior goes back decades; one wonders what's wrong with the people who run these so-called services. paul

2 years, 5 months

1
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2025

2024

2023

2022

cctalk