IBM PC parts - test-drb@ccmp.vtda.org

3 May 2000

...
 > The day I am told I've ruined the value of
%common-machine by repairing
> it is the day I leave this hobby. Permanently! Computers were designed to
> run programs, and run programs they shall ! 

And they have no idea of what they speak.

...
 replaces the tires and battery when shot. It adds
little
value to have a bad original battery in a car that won't
start. Trashed seat covers will not win many shows but 

The key on a restored care is id the battery a new white
plastic cased one or something old looking with external
terminals on the top.  It's the difference between restored
and working.

...
  I think that restoring an old computing machine to
working
condition is the highest achievement that any computer collector
can achieve. If others don't feel that way, they should be
collecting beanie babys. 

I happen to agree.  While im not into museum restoration
myself having things work is important and I do try to use
exact parts often due to my junkbox depth as old or older
than original.  While static displays have a place working
examples of the real or by replication are far more interesting.
Computing is not only about machines.  It's about software
and the people that designed, built and supported them as well.

Allison