December 2025

One Too Many Words on AT&T’s $2,000 Korn Shell and Other Usenet Topics

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Usenet offers insights into the Unix and BSD systems of the 1980s, reflecting the high costs of early computing, AT&T’s pricing for software, and the collaborative spirit of users. Unix evolved from a Bell Labs experiment into a foundational system influencing modern OS like Linux and macOS. The article examines the culture, economic aspects, and hardware/software struggles of the era, including the Korn shell’s high price and the need for standardization amid diverse Unix variants.

https://blog.gabornyeki.com/2025-12-usenet/

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Typewriter Plotters

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Typewriter plotters utilize ballpoint pens to draw text and graphics. Panasonic produced multiple models, such as the RK-P400C with RS-232 for computer control and the RK-P440, requiring an external interface. Other manufacturers included Silver Reed, Smith Corona, and Brother, with each offering unique features. These devices operated with colored pens and were portable, appealing to retro computing enthusiasts. Basic plotters were also integrated into calculators and music keyboards, while some early personal computers had built-in plotters as accessories.

https://biosrhythm.com/?p=2143

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In 1995, a Netscape Employee Wrote a Hack in 10 Days That Now Runs the Internet

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In 1995, Netscape’s Brendan Eich developed JavaScript in 10 days to create interactive web applications. Officially released later that year, it has since become dominant, powering 98.9% of websites, server backends, and beyond. Initially called Mocha, it was rebranded to JavaScript to leverage Java’s popularity. Despite its quirks and early industry conflicts, JavaScript has evolved into the most used programming language, now facing a trademark issue with Oracle, which has led to a petition for the name’s public use. JavaScript’s success continues, marking its 30th anniversary as a foundational web technology.

https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2025/12/in-1995-a-netscape-employee-wrote-a-hack-in-10-days-that-now-runs-the-internet/

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Maxduino Review: Tape Cassette Emulator for Multiple Retro Computers

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MAXduino: Tape cassette emulator for retro computers (ZX Spectrum, Amstrad CPC, MSX, etc.). Supports audio file formats (TAP, TZX, WAV). Cost: €24,90. Simplifies tape loading for multiple devices. Easy to use with SD card for file access. Common issues involve volume and audio settings. Focused on compatibility and original hardware coding.

https://retrogamecoders.com/maxduino-review/

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