Classic Computers, Enduring Ideas
Classic Computers, Enduring Ideas
Mike’s website highlights his enthusiasm for vintage computers, mainly Apple models, as well as a variety of tech hobbies. He restores, builds replicas, and operates classic machines, sharing his experiences and advice with the community. Mike believes these old computers should be kept running, not just preserved, and provides information, kits, and resources for other hobbyists. His site also covers related interests like repair tips, history, and new ongoing projects.
Tech critic Benj Edwards argues that personal computing, once a symbol of individual control and creativity, has been undermined by surveillance capitalism and DRM, leading to a loss of autonomy for users. He emphasizes the need to reclaim digital freedoms by advocating for systemic reforms such as privacy legislation, Right to Repair laws, and the repeal of restrictive DRM practices. Edwards believes that personal computing can flourish again, provided society prioritizes user rights and addresses the current exploitative business models of tech companies. The call to action includes supporting open-source projects and fostering a movement towards Personal Computer 2.0, emphasizing that true digital freedom is essential for maintaining personal liberties in today’s interconnected world.
The PC Is Dead: It’s Time to Bring Back Personal Computing Read More »
Microsoft has open-sourced the complete source code of its 6502 BASIC interpreter from 1978, which powered early personal computers like the Commodore PET and Apple II. The code, consisting of 6,955 lines, is available on GitHub for free use, modification, and distribution. This historical release aims to preserve knowledge of early computing for future generations, allowing enthusiasts and researchers to study its optimization techniques. Microsoft’s shift to open-source practices under CEO Satya Nadella contrasts with its previous stance against open source in the 1990s.
https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2025/09/microsoft-open-sources-bill-gates-6502-basic-from-1978/
Microsoft Open-sources Bill Gates’ 6502 BASIC From 1978 Read More »
Extreme TL;DR: Internet’s evolution: ARPANET to World Wide Web; rise of user-generated content; Google revolutionizes search; MP3s lead to file-sharing, Napster’s legal troubles; dynamic web sparks blogs & Wikipedia; social media’s rise with MySpace and Facebook; mobile phones transform internet access; backlash against tech monopolies, misinformation, doomscrolling, enshittification, and AI’s threats to web quality.
https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2025/09/a-history-of-the-internet-part-3-the-rise-of-the-user/
A History of the Internet, Part 3: The Rise of the User Read More »
Paul Lefebvre reminisces about his passion for computer magazines from the 80s, owning nearly 700 issues, primarily Atari-related. He fondly recalls reading magazines like ANALOG and Antic, and how they served as a treasure trove of information, akin to the internet today. His collection includes many titles, and he expresses a desire to continue sharing details about them.
https://www.goto10retro.com/p/when-computer-magazines-were-everywhere
When Computer Magazines Were Everywhere Read More »
All 54 lost clickwheel iPod games have now been preserved, thanks to a community effort to bypass Apple’s FairPlay DRM. The project succeeded in obtaining playable copies after locating iPod owners with the games. The last game, Real Soccer 2009, was particularly difficult to archive. Now, users can access the games offline and ensure they remain available for posterity, preserving a slice of early 2000s gaming history.
All 54 Lost Clickwheel iPod Games Have Now Been Preserved for Posterity Read More »
Classic Mac OS System 1 features 8×8 pixel B&W patterns from the Control Panel and MacPaint. Users can preview and download all 38 patterns in various formats and resolutions, including PNG, GIF, and TIFF. Access the design and downloads on the website.
Classic Mac OS System 1 Patterns Read More »
Big Box Collection features 1,009 retro game boxes in 3D, with interactive zooming and rotation. Managed by Benjamin in his spare time, the site is periodically updated, showcasing 3D models for users to explore, including gatefold and sleeve covers. Blog updates announce new additions and developments in the collection. The website celebrates gaming history with a focus on physical box art, aiming to share and preserve it.
BigBoxCollection: High-res 3D Boxes of Over 1,000 Games From 1982 to Today Read More »
Commodore Amiga launched in 1985, designed by Jay Miner after leaving Atari. Initially planned as a game system, it pivoted to a computer due to the industry crash. After financial struggles, Commodore acquired Amiga for $27M. The Amiga 1000, with advanced graphics, launched at a high price, leading to slow initial sales. It saw success with the later, cost-effective Amiga 500 and 2000 models. Despite its innovations, Commodore faced bankruptcy in 1994 amidst industry changes. Comparisons with Atari ST highlight distinct preferences, with the Amiga known for gaming and creative use, while Atari offered lower prices and practicality.
https://www.goto10retro.com/p/40-years-of-the-amiga-from-commodore
40 Years of the Amiga, From Commodore Read More »
DE9, not DB9: Correct terminology for the 9-pin D-sub connector; widely misnamed as DB9 due to historical confusion. SparkFun insists on accuracy with their new DE9 Breakouts, reinforcing the distinction to promote technical clarity.
It’s a DE9, Not a DB9. (But We Know What You Mean) Read More »
