- cctalk - classiccmp.org

Are there any useful OCR programs for scanning old listings and producing text with proper formatting

by Marc Howard

Marc Howard <cramcram(a)gmail.com> [image: Attachments]May 10, 2023, 8:58 PM (15 hours ago) to cctalk-owner I have some listings I want to convert to ASCII. They're line printer output from a computer that existed from the mid-sixties to the early 70's (Agage AGT series). I can't find any OCR package that can take scanner output (either PDF or JPEG) and convert it to text with roughly the same number of spaces between words as was there originally. Seems like it would be an easy task. The input is non-proportional text from line printer output (actually it might have been printed on a Diablo hytype). And yet all I get is most of the characters with either no or single spacing between words. And it misses quite a bit of scanned characters at that. Anyone have any good experiences trying to do this? I've attached a PDF scan if you have a way to do a test run. Thanks, Marc Howard

2 years, 3 months

3
3
0 0

KIM-1 stuck bits from $280 to $29f

by Cameron Kaiser

Odd fault on my Rev D KIM-1 popped up while writing code this afternoon (initially I thought I had a bug in my paper tape transmitter) - between $0280 and $029f, the upper 5 bits are stuck at zero. The rest of the address range seems fine. In particular, $0080-$009f, $0180-$019f and $0380-$039f work correctly. This doesn't smell like a bad RAM chip to me or I would think there would be a bad bit throughout the entire 1K, so I suspect this is a data bus problem but I'm not sure where to start looking. Any guesses from the group? -- ------------------------------------ personal: http://www.cameronkaiser.com/ -- Cameron Kaiser * Floodgap Systems * www.floodgap.com * ckaiser(a)floodgap.com -- require "std_disclaimer.pl"; -----------------------------------------------

2 years, 3 months

5
9
0 0

Altair 8800 question

by Mike Douglas

I have a reproduction of the metal nameplate strip that looks very close to the original if you want one. $10 plus shipping. Mike D

2 years, 3 months

1
0
0 0

Did Intel's Insite User Program Library survive?

by Veit, Holger

Hi all, The PDF at https://www.bitsavers.org/pdf/intel/insite/1983_Insite_Users_Program_Librar… lists various old user submitted software which could have been ordered from Intel those days. Is there anything of that archived and downloadable somewhere? Regards Holger

2 years, 3 months

3
2
0 0

OT: A list member in Japan?

by William Sudbrink

Is there a list member in Japan or soon traveling to Japan? I want to acquire something (not really vintage computer related) and the seller does not take paypal and I can't get funds to them. Thanks, Bill Sudbrink -- This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. www.avast.com

2 years, 3 months

2
1
0 0

Altair 8800 question

by W2HX

I see some altairs have a metal escutcheon on the bottom with the stylized words "MITS ALTAIR 8800 COMPUTER" whereas others, the front panel is just the dark faceplate top to bottom. What is the difference? Would one have been a kit and the other sold fully assembled? Or maybe later units vs earlier units? 73 Eugene W2HX Check out my Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@w2hx/videos

2 years, 3 months

10
12
0 0

Kennett Classic May 20th hack-a-thon and Swap

by Bill Degnan

Kennett Classic May 20th hack-a-thon and Swap May 20th, 2023 | 9AM – 11PM 115 S. Union St. Kennett Square, PA (Hack-a-thon is in our large workspace "The Garage" across the street from the museum) Plenty of room for everyone, tables, chairs and power supplied. REGISTER NOW TO ENSURE YOUR SPACE Here is the URL for the EVENT REGISTRATION: https://www.kennettclassic.com/spring-hack-a-thon-may-20th-2023/ $5 / person (family) $10 / vendor Kids free. HACK-A-THON Any vintage computers (older than 20 years) you wish to restore, demo or sell during the day Hacking? Bring Your Tools (power strip, soldering irons, volt meters, screw drivers, spare parts) Dolly or cart to bring items in from the parking lot area. VENDORS Spaces for people who want to sell their items or exhibit/demo their projects. EXHIBITORS / DEMOS welcome! GENERAL PUBLIC There will be a pretty steady stream of visitors from the local community too. We have a growing vintage computing community in the South Eastern PA / North Delaware / North MD area. Saturdays are usually the busiest days at the museum, and downtown in Kennett. The museum will be open as usual for a Saturday, 12-5. Visit our event page for more details, contact, directions https://www.kennettclassic.com/spring-hack-a-thon-may-20th-2023/ EVENT MAILING LIST https://www.kennettclassic.com/contact.cfm Bring the Family! Things to do in Kennett Square https://www.kennettclassic.com/while-at-kennett-classic-food/ We're Nearby Longwood Gardens https://www.longwoodgardens.org Thank you. Bill Degnan Kennett Classic 484 732 741 https://www.kennettclassic.com Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/6130337163716721

2 years, 3 months

1
0
0 0

do you have any western electric 498a diodes or know where I can get? Thanks ed sharpe

by ED SHARPE

do you have any western electric 498a diodes or know where I can get? Thanks ed sharpe Sent from AOL on Android

2 years, 3 months

3
2
0 0

Current Loop Schematics

by Jonathan Katz

Hi everyone! I'm working on a project where I need to build an RS-232 to Current Loop adapter. I've seen some schematics on-line and the parts list seems pretty small, but does anyone have a specific set of instructions and schematics that they trust? Or does anyone in the UK have a spare adapter they'd like to send me? :D Thanks! -- -Jon +44 7792 149029

2 years, 3 months

5
4
0 0

Re: Current Loop Schematics

by Mike Douglas

If it’s specifically to interface to a model 33 Teletype, here’s a design that works well and is pretty simple. https://altairclone.com/teletype.html Mike

2 years, 3 months

1
0
0 0

3D Printing

by Bill Gunshannon

Are there any 3D printing experts hanging around here? I need help. I want to print things like a bracket to mount my FreHD in a disk bay. Some other things, too. The problem is the STL file wants to print these items vertically instead of laying flat on the table. Needless to say by the time it gets to the part where it wants to print the faceplate the object is unstable or, in some cases, completely tipped over. Is there any way to change the orientation of an object on the table using just the STL file? I have a Creality Ender 3 printer and their slicer software. bill

2 years, 3 months

4
4
0 0

DEC RL device

by W2HX

Can anyone tell me what I picked up at a NH hamfest this weekend for $20? I see it says RL01/RL02. I have two RL02 drives and some platters. None of which I have gotten around to trying. Other than a copious amount of pine needles, what can this be used for? Or maybe the right question is, should I not use it for fear of destroying an RL platter? https://w2hx.com/?prefix=x/VintageComp/Platter-Device/ 73 Eugene W2HX Subscribe to my Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@w2hx/videos

2 years, 3 months

7
7
0 0

Looking for datasheet of RTC M3001 ...

by Bernd Kopriva

Hi, a friend of mine is currently working on a FPGA implementation of the CERES-3 workstation (cpu-ns32k.net/TRIPUTER.html#Ceres). He currently lacks of information of the RTC chip M3001 which was manufactored by Swiss company Microelectronic-Marin. Does anyone have a pointer to the datasheet ? Thanks Bernd

2 years, 3 months

6
9
0 0

Re 516s

by -Gary

I have at least 5 in my stock. I could easily part with one or two. I would rather trade rather than get cash. Do you have anything to offer in trade? -Gary

2 years, 3 months

1
0
0 0

Anyone have an sn74s516?

by Ken Seefried

I'm interested in recreating MMI application note AN-114 which describes adding an sn74s516 mult/div/acc chip to a 68000. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to find an sn74s516 in the couple of years I've been looking. Does anyone have some they'd be willing to part with? KJ

2 years, 3 months

2
1
0 0

Media permanence

by Chuck Guzis

I saw a clip of this project on DW News: https://www.memory-of-mankind.com/ They're recording works for posterity on ceramic tiles. How's that for preservation? --Chuck

2 years, 3 months

1
0
0 0

websites as subdomains under classiccmp.org

by Tarek Hoteit

I learned today about Dave’s Old Computer website http://dunfield.classiccmp.org/ which is listed as a subdomain under classiccmp.org. I wasn’t aware of subdomain sites. Can any one list any other ones or is a list of sites available ? Regards, Tarek Hoteit

2 years, 3 months

2
2
0 0

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

13
20
0 0

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
0 0

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
0 0

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, 4 months

9
15
0 0

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, 4 months

5
5
0 0

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, 4 months

6
5
0 0

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, 4 months

1
0
0 0

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, 4 months

6
10
0 0

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, 4 months

2
1
0 0

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, 4 months

5
4
0 0

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, 4 months

3
2
0 0

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, 4 months

3
2
0 0

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, 4 months

3
4
0 0

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, 4 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, 4 months

5
5
0 0

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, 4 months

3
2
0 0

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, 4 months

24
43
0 0

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, 4 months

8
8
0 0

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, 4 months

1
0
0 0

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, 4 months

4
8
0 0

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, 4 months

1
0
0 0

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, 4 months

2
3
0 0

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
0
0 0

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
2
0 0

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
0 0

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
0
0 0

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
0
0 0

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
0
0 0

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
18
0 0

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
4
0 0

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

4
5
0 0

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
0
0 0

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
8
0 0

2025

2024

2023

2022

cctalk