12 Jun
2009
12 Jun
'09
9:39 a.m.
Warren Wolfe wrote:
Dave McGuire wrote:
Simulation also drives the interest in searching for old software. Bob Supnik's
efforts on finding 18 bit DEC software is an example. There is an incentive for
people trying to chase down stuff in retired field engineer's garages if they
can actually do something with what they find, even though there is no hardware
any more. This is the real reason that I gave up on collecting hardware. You just
get in wars with other collectors about who is going to end up with the artifact,
while the hunt for old software and documentation turns out to be as difficult
and has the advantage of having the possibility of being made generally available
to everyone with an interest in the history of computing all over the world.
Well, for "classic OSs". Some of us
are actually interested in the
hardware. ;)
Well, sure. The hardware is there, although not progressing, either.
But, the end result and purpose of computer hardware is to run
software. At least we've got THAT going for us. If nothing else,
having a functional equivalent emulator allows one to work out software
for the hardware involved, and do it faster, on a "bigger" machine, so
when the hardware comes up, you can just load it up and go... Don't
expect to make me feel guilty about being more easily able to enjoy my
hobby than you. Won't happen. <Grin> Now, bedtime...