January 2026

M8SBC-486 (Homebrew 486 Computer)

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M8SBC-486 is a homemade 486 computer motherboard, built from scratch, aimed at running Linux and DOOM. It’s “kinda PC compatible” with some limitations (e.g., missing DMA impacts sound support). Features include a 4-layer PCB, 5V 486 CPU socket, and support for certain ISA cards and DOS operating systems. The project is experimental and a hobby, reflecting extensive research on older x86 chips. Supported by PCBWay, the project has various compatibility notes for hardware and software. More details can be found on multiple dedicated subpages.

https://maniek86.xyz/projects/m8sbc_486.php

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What Was the Secret Sauce That Allows for a Faster Restart of Windows 95 if You Hold the Shift Key?

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Shift key during Windows 95 restart triggers faster restart via EW_RESTARTWINDOWS flag, allowing a quick resume unless memory fragmentation occurs, leading to a full reboot instead. Assembly code manages memory and state requirements. Fast-restart may fail on consecutive attempts due to driver issues.

https://devblogs.microsoft.com/oldnewthing/20260119-06/?p=111995

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Press Start: How Controllers Shaped Video Game Design—and Where Interfaces May Go Next

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Game controllers have shaped video game interfaces, evolving from simple designs to complex navigational systems. Modern gaming incorporates varied features, enhancing player experience while maintaining intuitive interaction through consistent controller layouts. As technology advances with AR/VR, these navigation principles can inform broader UI design across platforms, emphasizing user engagement and seamless accessibility.

https://www.figma.com/blog/press-start-video-game-navigation/

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Learning Retro Computer Electronics Fault Finding and Restoration

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TLDR: Guide for retro computer repair: focus on safety, visual inspection, mechanical checks, cleaning, power checks, and diagnosing issues without extensive disassembly. Use minimal invasive methods and grow skills through experience while avoiding unnecessary damage. Join communities for support and resources.

https://retrogamecoders.com/learning-retrocomputer-electronics/

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Understanding the Bin, Sbin, Usr/bin , Usr/sbin Split

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Busybox’s directory structure (bin, sbin, usr/bin, usr/sbin) originates from 1970s Unix, where space limitations led to the /usr mount for user files. The split lacks relevancy today due to modern boot processes, shared libraries, and larger storage capacities. Over time, bureaucratic rules developed to justify the structure, but current practice is often arbitrary. Developers like Rob Landley simplify their systems by linking directories for practicality.

https://lists.busybox.net/pipermail/busybox/2010-December/074114.html

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Fav Tech Museums

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Marcin Wichary shares his love for technology history through a photo essay detailing his favorite tech museums. He reflects on the significance of exploring the past for inspiration and learning. He highlights six standout museums visited, like Taiwan’s National Railway Museum and Spain’s Museu de la Tècnica, praising their creativity, craftsmanship, and engaging exhibits. Wichary also mentions other noteworthy museums, offering insights into their unique qualities and experiences, while critically assessing a few he found lacking. His enthusiasm for tech history and importance of well-curated exhibitions resonates throughout the narrative.

https://aresluna.org/fav-tech-museums/

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Analog Audio Tape Cassette Nostalgia

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Tapedeck.org showcases the design and history of audio tape cassettes from the 1960s to the 1990s, highlighting their popularity, especially with the launch of the Sony Walkman. The site invites users to share images of their cassettes and features a collection of nearly 1,000 tapes from various brands. Despite declining use in the West, cassettes remain common in many developing countries.

https://www.tapedeck.org/

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