Multi-platform distribution format (Was: Backups [was

[Fred Cisin]

>> and, of course, as a third type, Exatron Stringy-Floppy computer
>> based, but NOT entirely usable.

The department chair at one of the colleges attempted to convert an entire 
TRS80 based student computer lab over to stringy floppy.
He was the same one who later had a lab full of TRS80 model 3s converted 
into model 4s at a slightly higher price per unit than buying model 4s. 
Nodel 3s were still quite in demand in that lab, and the student 
technicians were quite capable of adding memory and disk drives.  The same 
expenditure could have resulted in almost twice as many usable machines, 
plus a few 3s waiting for funding for RAM and drives.
Later, he thought that it would be cool to have all of the 5150 PCs on 
their sides, ("to look more professional"), with the switch on the 
underside.
And, of course, although it meant far fewer machines, all of the AT 
machines used for teaching spreadsheets, word processing, and beginning 
programming HAD TO have color monitors.