Classic Computers, Enduring Ideas
Classic Computers, Enduring Ideas
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
Legacy Update archives deleted Microsoft downloads for legacy Windows versions (95 to 7) and related tools. Users can access these downloads, which may have security risks, via the Internet Archive. Support and contributions are acknowledged, and the site operates independently of Microsoft. Backup data is recommended before using archived software.
Microsoft Download Center Archive Read More »
Zork I, II, and III now open-source under MIT License by Microsoft and Activision to preserve gaming history, allowing study and play. The Z-Machine engine revolutionized gaming with cross-platform compatibility. Source code and documentation available on GitHub, excluding commercial content. Zork remains accessible through commercial platforms and modern interpreters like ZILF. The initiative encourages community contributions for education and exploration, honoring the original creators and preserving a significant cultural artifact.
Preserving Code That Shaped Generations: Zork I, II, and III Go Open Source Read More »
Microsoft’s Z-80 SoftCard allowed Apple II users to run CP/M software by utilizing a secondary Zilog Z80 processor, facilitating memory sharing and enabling coexistence with the existing 6502 processor. The SoftCard remapped memory to avoid conflicts and included a detailed manual for programming, including challenges of managing interrupts and memory addresses.
https://devblogs.microsoft.com/oldnewthing/20251104-00/?p=111758
The Microsoft SoftCard for the Apple II: Getting Two Processors to Share the Same Memory 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 »
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Celebrating 50 Years of Microsoft Read More »
