Classic Computers, Enduring Ideas
Classic Computers, Enduring Ideas
The collection focuses on plugs and sockets for domestic and heavy-duty applications, including both modern and classical items. Excluded are devices for less than 100 volts, direct current plugs and sockets, and materials for heavy industrial applications.
Museum of Plugs and Sockets: Home Page Read More »
Paul Brainerd (1947-2026), founder of Aldus Corporation and pioneer of desktop publishing, died at 78 after battling Parkinson’s disease. He co-created PageMaker, revolutionizing printing for non-professionals and empowering many with desktop publishing tools. Following Aldus’s merger with Adobe in 1994, Brainerd focused on environmental philanthropy, founding the Brainerd Foundation, IslandWood, and supporting various initiatives in the Pacific Northwest and New Zealand. A respected leader and innovator, he significantly impacted both technology and conservation efforts throughout his life.
C64GraphicsExplorer is a macOS app for exploring modern Commodore 64 art, utilizing CRT simulation and pixel inspection. Users can view curated artwork, analyze creation techniques, and input their images for palette mapping. Features include a gallery of C64 graphics, authentic CRT effects, pixel magnification, mode detection, and adjustable pixel grids. It supports macOS Sequoia 15.0+ on Apple Silicon and maintains user privacy.
C64 Graphics Explorer — View C64 Graphics the Authentic Way Read More »
“Sleep Indicator Light,” first seen on the iBook G3 in 1999, evolved through Apple products to signify sleep status with a breathing animation. Despite its artistic touch, it was phased out in the 2010s. The light served practical purposes, but its organic design is missed, highlighting the importance of meaningful details in tech.
https://unsung.aresluna.org/just-a-little-detail-that-wouldnt-sell-anything/
“Just a Little Detail That Wouldn’t Sell Anything” Read More »
Diode: Build, program, and simulate hardware online. Featured projects include NAND Gate, Motor, Arduino LED Toggler, and others. Sign up for free.
Diode — Build, Program, and Simulate Hardware Read More »
The piece discusses the historical context of “thick” vs. “thin” clients in computing, highlighting a shift towards thin clients re-emerging through AI interactions. In the past, thick clients (like PCs) dominated, but with AI, the focus on networks for processing has made complex local UIs less relevant, as chat-based interfaces allow for easy interaction regardless of device capability. Future AI advancements suggest an increased reliance on cloud computing due to better model performance and lower costs for shared resources. However, rising memory shortages could impact technology availability and prices, as demand surges from AI developments. Overall, the trend leans towards minimal local compute reliance due to enhanced cloud capabilities.
The Commodore 64 game Seawolves uses several unique coding techniques to achieve its effects. These include synchronized NMIs and IRQs for efficient screen management, real-time torpedo rendering using “splits,” and real-time animations for implosions and ocean waves. The game also employs clever sprite manipulation, such as FLD shunting and upward Y-scroll correction, to overcome sprite rendering limitations.
9 Exotic Coding Tricks Used in the C64 Game, Seawolves Read More »
“Wall Street Raider,” a complex financial simulator, evolved over decades from Michael Jenkins’ original concept at Harvard Law to a nearly abandoned codebase. Multiple attempts to modernize it failed until 2024, when software developer Ben Ward successfully reimagined the game, preserving its depth while updating its interface. Their collaboration revitalizes a legacy that has inspired many in finance. Now, it’s set for a Steam release, ensuring its educational impact continues.
The Story of Wall Street Raider Read More »
Flashpoint Archive is a community initiative preserving web games and animations, aiming to safeguard internet history as it rapidly evolves. Launched in December 2017, it has preserved over 200,000 games through various plugins and technologies. The project offers flexible software for navigating and playing preserved content, including a launcher and secure playback tools. Started by BlueMaxima to address the loss of web games, Flashpoint is now a major effort involving many contributors, operating as a non-profit to enhance digital preservation and accessibility.
Flashpoint Archive Read More »
Sega partnered with Nintendo and Namco to create the Triforce arcade system, leveraging GameCube technology to revitalize the arcade scene in the face of declining interest. The Triforce, featuring unique game storage and innovative save options, aimed to create persistent player engagement through personalized high-quality arcade experiences. Despite the collaboration, Nintendo did not develop games for it, leading to only nine titles being released, including notable arcade adaptations of popular franchises like Mario Kart.
https://dolphin-emu.org/blog/2026/02/16/rise-of-the-triforce/
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