[cctalk] Re: DOS p-System Pascal: (Was: Saga of CP/M)

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Thu, 9 May 2024, Bill Degnan via cctalk wrote:


Without doing the research before asking, there was the UCSD p-System
Pascal for IBM PC which came out very early in the history of the IBM PC.
It was not very popular.  The SAGE II that had native Pascal (68000) was
not a popular machine.  Waterloo Pascal on the SuperPetPascal never
really made it on the microcomputer platform did it?


   I can't quote numbers, but Borland's Turbo Pascal was quite popular on both 
CP/M machines and IBM PC and clones.



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

[cctalk] Re: Logic Analyzers - HP/Agilent 16700B or 1670G?

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Sun, 20 Aug 2023, Chuck Guzis via cctalk wrote:


On 8/20/23 12:43, Glen Slick via cctalk wrote:

On Sun, Aug 20, 2023, 12:05 PM John H. Reinhardt via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:


Hello all.  I looking around for a Logic Analyzer for doing (mostly) DEC
QBus/UniBus stuff.  Being the way I am I want something with enough lines
to handle the most of the signals so I'm guessing something with roughly
80-ish channels.  I think that lets out all/most of the USB based LA.  I've
looked around and it seems the the HP/Agilent 16700 series (16700B/16702B)
are probably what I want.  I've also seen the 1670G which also seems quite
doable.  I've seen a lot of posts at the EEVblog and it seems I missed
possibly the golden age of 16700 LA by a few years price-wise.


And to think that the old guys had an analogue lab scope and that was
about it.  Personally, I find that setting up a logic analyzer to be a
last resort--all those damned wires to get right, then setting up capture...


   I agree that the logic analyzer is a last resort, but when you need one 
they're indispensable. I had a Telcon Zorba that had a number of problems 
which I worked through with a scope and DMM (shorted diode and bad HOT on the 
video board, bad 8275 CRT controller chip), before I had to break out the LA. 
Along with the source code for the BIOS, I was able to use the LA to find a 
bad 2N3904 in the interrupt chain for the floppy drives, and finally an 8254 
Programmable Interval Timer with a dead counter. Without the LA, it would have 
been a much longer repair process.



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

[cctalk] Re: VCF and System Source Computer Museum swap meet this weekend

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

System Source
338 Clubhouse Road
Hunt Valley, MD  21031

On Tue, 18 Jul 2023, Fred Cisin via cctalk wrote:


Is that somewhere in Maryland?


On Tue, 18 Jul 2023, Mark G Thomas via cctalk wrote:


 Hi,

 I am curious if anyone here might be planning on attending.

 https://museum.syssrc.com/artifact/events/3000/

 The Vintage Computer Federation and the System Source Computer Museum are
 hosting a vintage computer repair workshop on Saturday July 22nd and
 Sunday July 23rd 2023
 ...

 Mark

 --
 Mark G. Thomas , KC3DRE





Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

[cctalk] Re: Getting floppy images to/from real floppy disks.

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Thu, 18 May 2023, Paul Koning via cctalk wrote:





On May 18, 2023, at 3:09 PM, Fred Cisin via cctalk  
wrote:


My advice: buy an old desktop computer.  Buy a standard PC floppy drive (a dual 
drive if possible to give both 3.5 and 5.25 support).


Hmmm.
a modern laptop for connecting to the interwebs.
with sneaker-net of thumb drives to:
a 386 desktop running Win98SE (first version to support USB), with floppy 
drives.


That would work but it doesn't need to be quite that old.  My floppy-writing 
machine is a Gateway Pentium machine, with Ethernet, running Linux.  So when 
I need stuff transferred I just scp it to that machine, then run whatever 
tool I need to do the transfer (rstsflx or dd, depending on what I'm 
manipulating).


   My imaging system hs an Abit KV8PRO motherboard, with an Athlon CPU, 
onboard 10/100/1000 ethernet, 1 AGP 8X/4X slot, 5 PCI slots, SATA and IDE 
drive support, 4 USB ports, and a SCSI card. The onboard floppy controller 
will handle all formats except 128 byte/sector MFM.  I haven't run across 
anything yet that uses that format. I run either Linux or FreeDOS on the 
system, depending on which tools I need. Dave Dunfield's IMD tools work great 
under FreeDOS, and I use Linux to transfer files in and out of the system.



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

[cctalk] Re: windows reports contents of previous floppy

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Tue, 31 Jan 2023, Tony Jones via cctalk wrote:


On Tue, Jan 31, 2023, 3:39 PM Tom Hunter via cctalk 
wrote:


This is not the forum to ask MS Windows questions.



Chris.  Can I ask you stop and consider if you really need to post/reply.
Not every thought that enters ones head needs to be translated into a list
posting   It feels like a stream of consciousness sometimes.


   I second the motion.

[cctalk] Re: [SPAM] LINC-8 sells for $2,150

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   A smaller one.

On Wed, 18 Jan 2023, Bill Degnan wrote:


Didnt they already have a LINC?
B

On Wed, Jan 18, 2023, 12:15 AM Mike Loewen via cctalk 
wrote:



No, it went to the System Source museum in Huntsville, MD.

On Tue, 17 Jan 2023, Bill Degnan via cctalk wrote:


So it must have gone to the LSSM.  It did not go to kennett classic.

Maybe

the "computer church" in Parkesburg bought it.
BIll

On Tue, Jan 17, 2023 at 10:35 PM Wayne S via cctalk <

cctalk@classiccmp.org>

wrote:


Another forum said a museum
 in Pa won it.


Sent from my iPhone


On Jan 17, 2023, at 17:55, Tony Jones via cctalk <

cctalk@classiccmp.org>

wrote:


On Tue, Jan 17, 2023 at 5:52 PM Bill Degnan via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:


That bwas a good price I think.



Yes, just imagine all the cool things you could do with it :-)






Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/




Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

[cctalk] Re: [SPAM] LINC-8 sells for $2,150

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   Correction: Hunt Valley, MD.

On Wed, 18 Jan 2023, Mike Loewen via cctalk wrote:



  No, it went to the System Source museum in Huntsville, MD.

On Tue, 17 Jan 2023, Bill Degnan via cctalk wrote:


 So it must have gone to the LSSM.  It did not go to kennett classic.
 Maybe
 the "computer church" in Parkesburg bought it.
 BIll

 On Tue, Jan 17, 2023 at 10:35 PM Wayne S via cctalk
 
 wrote:


 Another forum said a museum
  in Pa won it.


 Sent from my iPhone


 On Jan 17, 2023, at 17:55, Tony Jones via cctalk 

 wrote:


 On Tue, Jan 17, 2023 at 5:52 PM Bill Degnan via cctalk <
 cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:


 That bwas a good price I think.



 Yes, just imagine all the cool things you could do with it :-)






Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

[cctalk] Re: [SPAM] LINC-8 sells for $2,150

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   No, it went to the System Source museum in Huntsville, MD.

On Tue, 17 Jan 2023, Bill Degnan via cctalk wrote:


So it must have gone to the LSSM.  It did not go to kennett classic.  Maybe
the "computer church" in Parkesburg bought it.
BIll

On Tue, Jan 17, 2023 at 10:35 PM Wayne S via cctalk 
wrote:


Another forum said a museum
 in Pa won it.


Sent from my iPhone


On Jan 17, 2023, at 17:55, Tony Jones via cctalk 

wrote:


On Tue, Jan 17, 2023 at 5:52 PM Bill Degnan via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:


That bwas a good price I think.



Yes, just imagine all the cool things you could do with it :-)






Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

[cctalk] Re: Using Gesswein board with RQDX3

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Wed, 21 Dec 2022, Nigel Johnson Ham via cctalk wrote:

I am trying to do the above. ZRQC comes up and says four drives of unknown 
type.


Has anybody done this?  I figure there must be a configuration that needs to 
be done, but found nothing in the documentation to do it.


   Have you tried contacting Dave Gesswein directly? He's usually very 
responsive to questions, and is a DEC guru.


https://www.pdp8online.com/


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

[cctalk] Re: Win2K+3 on a Dell Poweredge 2600

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Tue, 20 Dec 2022, Fred Cisin via cctalk wrote:


 This beast was given to me by a neighbor. Dual socket 604. Windows 2003
 in some RAID configuration. I understand (or used to understand) RAID
 levels somewhat. But iinm he tells me the OS is "split" over 6 scsi
 drives. Not getting this, but I don't need all the redundancy/striping. I
 want it all on 1 drive. What to use to image what comstitutes 1 volume I
 guess. Norton Ghost? I have an extra scsi drive, I can always restore the
 image to the 1 drive (yes?), before or without alterimg the currently
 embedded stack.


On Wed, 21 Dec 2022, Mike Loewen via cctalk wrote:

   I don't see any relevance at all to this list.


Q: How long will it be before it IS on-topic?


  A: As soon as someone creates a list for such things.


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

[cctalk] Re: Win2K+3 on a Dell Poweredge 2600

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Wed, 21 Dec 2022, Chris via cctalk wrote:

This beast was given to me by a neighbor. Dual socket 604. Windows 2003 in 
some RAID configuration. I understand (or used to understand) RAID levels 
somewhat. But iinm he tells me the OS is "split" over 6 scsi drives. Not 
getting this, but I don't need all the redundancy/striping. I want it all on 
1 drive. What to use to image what comstitutes 1 volume I guess. Norton 
Ghost? I have an extra scsi drive, I can always restore the image to the 1 
drive (yes?), before or without alterimg the currently embedded stack.


   I don't see any relevance at all to this list.


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

[cctalk] Re: what is on topic?

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Tue, 20 Dec 2022, Zane Healy via cctalk wrote:


On Dec 20, 2022, at 2:27 PM, Chris via cctalk  wrote:


Specifically as pertaining to old/vintage/classic/retro compuing discussion, 
what exactly is on topic? On top of my head as a for imstance I have some 
questions pertaining to Windows 2003 and socket 603/604. Something tells me 
that doesn't qualify, so it behooves me to ask.


The original rule, back around ?96/97 was anything older than 10 years was 
on-topic.  I think the idea behind that is still valid, but these days a 10 
year old system isn?t that much different from a current one.  I think at one 
point someone suggested it should be shifted to 20+ years.


   I'm going to play the old fogey card and suggest that we should use a 
specific year as a cutoff, rather than a floating limit. Something like 1986, 
or possibly a little later. As has been mentioned, there are many other 
outlets for discussions about Windoze machines and i386+ systems.



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

[cctalk] Holmes Engineering CP/M

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   I'm still looking for a copy of CP/M for the Holmes Engineering VID-80 
board for the TRS-80 Model III. A manual would be helpful, as well.



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

[cctalk] Re: Minicomputer front panel.

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Fri, 23 Sep 2022, Chuck Guzis via cctalk wrote:


From an over-the-top perspective as the 360/91 and 360/195 panels were,

would it be fair to say that SAGE held first place in this category?


   Yep! We could even single-step.  :-)

http://q7.neurotica.com/Q7/


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

[cctalk] Re: Minicomputer front panel.

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Fri, 23 Sep 2022, Chris Zach via cctalk wrote:

Earlier this spring. I posted about it, and the general opinion was that a 
HP1000 wasn't really worth anything so I just gave it to someone.


   That's not the general consensus, at all. There are several HP mini fans on 
this list, and even more on HP-specific lists. If this was the 
Gerber-branded model, it wasn't in good shape and the power supply didn't 
work. I made a cash offer for it, and you wanted three times the amount.



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

[cctalk] Re: TVI-921C

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Wed, 14 Sep 2022, Jonathan Katz via cctalk wrote:


I have a TVI-921C at the museum. I power it on and it beeps
continuously. One long, solid tone that does not stop until I power it
off. How do I start diagnosing this?


   Check the power supply voltages.


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

[cctalk] Re: VCF Swap Meet October 8, 2022 @ InfoAge

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   Is there a spreadsheet for things vendors are bringing to the swap meet?


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Holmes Engineering VID-80

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   Does anyone have the CP/M software for the Holmes Engineering VID-80 board 
for the Model III?



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: The TRS-80 Journey Continues

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Thu, 5 May 2022, Fred Cisin via cctalk wrote:

Although TRS-DOS didn't (until 6.0?, when TRS-DOS became rebranded LDOS), the 
after-market OS's supported DS and 80 track.

I don't remember how you needed to tell the OS that you had DS or 80 track.

But, once the OS knows, then the 55GFR, operating as a 55F, can, of course 
work.

Do you know how to tell your CP/M about DS and 80 track?


   Montezuma Micro CP/M (which Bill mentioned in a previous post) has a CONFIG 
utility to tell it what kind of drive is installed (5" or 8", number of 
tracks, number of sides, step rate). After that, there are literally dozens of 
disk formats to choose from, TRS-80 and many others.



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: The TRS-80 Journey Continues

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Thu, 5 May 2022, Bill Gunshannon via cctalk wrote:


On 5/5/22 13:34, Mike Loewen via cctalk wrote:

 On Thu, 5 May 2022, Bill Gunshannon via cctalk wrote:


 Next step...

 Apparently mu original Tandon floppy has bought the farm.
 Does anyone know what the jumper setting are for a
 TEAC FD-55GFR-149 for the TRS-80 4P?

 I tried the usual (like for a DEC RX-33) but that didn't
 fly.  Every sector fails verify after a format.  I am sure
 it's a jumper thing.


    The FD-55GFR is a 1.2MB drive, double-sided. The Model 4P used 360K
 drives (possibly Teac FD-55A), single-sided as installed at the factory.
 Are you sure that's the model number that was in your 4P?


I know it wasn't.  The original was a Tandon 50.  But the TEAC
FD-55GFR (in various flavors) was used in a lot of systems and
at least one website said they were used in the 4P.  It is an
extremely configurable drive that I have used for numerous DEC
systems (even the infamous RX50!)  I have several of them and
it should work just fine if I can find the magic jumper combination.

bill


   This article talks about settings for the FD-55GFR on page 41:

https://www.tim-mann.org/trs80/doc/TMQ%20Vol%20VII.i.pdf


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: The TRS-80 Journey Continues

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Thu, 5 May 2022, Bill Gunshannon via cctalk wrote:


Next step...

Apparently mu original Tandon floppy has bought the farm.
Does anyone know what the jumper setting are for a
TEAC FD-55GFR-149 for the TRS-80 4P?

I tried the usual (like for a DEC RX-33) but that didn't
fly.  Every sector fails verify after a format.  I am sure
it's a jumper thing.


   The FD-55GFR is a 1.2MB drive, double-sided. The Model 4P used 360K drives 
(possibly Teac FD-55A), single-sided as installed at the factory. Are you sure 
that's the model number that was in your 4P?



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: The TRS-80 Journey Continues

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Wed, 4 May 2022, Bill Gunshannon via cctalk wrote:


On 5/4/22 14:35, Bill Degnan wrote:

 Bill,
 I searched for "montezuma 2.2 hard drive install" on Google:

 
https://oldcomputers.dyndns.org/public/pub/manuals/montezuma_micro_hard_disk_support_for_cpm_2-2.pdf

 I have been through the process a few times, it's pretty
 straight-forward if you use these directions.



Yeah, I have that.  But it requires pieces that are not in my
distribution of MM 2.2 and attempts to find any of it on the
web have proven unsuccessful.  The one floppy image (MMRSHD,DSK)
I found (in more than one place) that is supposed to have it
seems to be corrupted.  If you know where I can find FIXCPM and
the hard drive DRIVERS I would greatly appreciate it.


   The MMRSHD.DSK image is a Montezuma Micro Standard DATA disk (40T, SS, DD, 
200K). I used the 'sdltrs' emulator to extract the files you need. I'll 
contact you directly with a ZIP file.




Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: PCI floppy controller

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Thu, 21 Apr 2022, Charles Dickman via cctalk wrote:


Were there ever any floppy controllers for the (parallel) PCI bus? I
Googled a bunch and haven't found any.

I am trying to outfit a computer for the long haul that can run a bunch of
older software in virtual machines and do things like duplicate floppies in
different formats. The motherboard I have supports all the formats I have
tried, but only supports one drive. It also only has PCI and PCIe slots.


   You might consider going with a different (older) motherboard with a floppy 
controller that supports two drives and single-density (FM). I'm using an Abit 
KV8PRO with a 1.8GHz Athlon CPU, onboard 10/100/1000 ethernet, 1 AGP 8X/4X 
slot, 5 PCI slots, SATA and IDE drive support, and 4 USB ports. The floppy 
controller passes all of Dave Dunfield's TESTFDC tests except the 
double-density 128-byte sector tests. I haven't yet found a need for that 
format. I use this system to image and create 3-1/2", 5-1/4" and 8" diskettes, 
single and double-density.



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Possibly going up to VCF, stuff I would like to sell/get to proper people pdp8/12/HP stuff

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Sun, 10 Apr 2022, Ethan Dicks via cctalk wrote:


On Sat, Apr 9, 2022 at 3:43 PM Chris Zach via cctalk
 wrote:

I'm thinking about going up to VCF in Wall next weekend.


Yes.  There's a "consignment room" and you leave your stuff with
labels and prices and there are volunteers staffing it to collect
money and record sales, etc.  There's a house cut (but I am unsure how
much it is so I don't want to just guess).


   VCF takes 15% of the sale price:

https://vcfed.org/events/vintage-computer-festival-east/vcf-east-consignment/


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

VCF East 2022

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   Exhibitors wanted! Deadline to apply is April 1. Exhibits are NOT limited to 
the shows two main themes.


   "Ever wonder about the roots of today?s technological society?  Did you 
spend Covid nostalgically playing old video games from the past on an emulator? 
Do you want to get hands-on with computers ranging from the 1960s thru the 
early 1990s?


   Come to the Vintage Computer Festival East in Wall, NJ on April 22nd thru 
April 24th, 2022.


   On Friday, April 22nd, there are classes in everything from programming the 
Apple II computer to "learn to solder" sessions for both kids and adults. You 
can even solder together your own Intel based computer with our partner 
GlitchWorks.


   On Saturday and Sunday (April 23rd & 24th), join us for hands-on exhibits of 
vintage and classic computers along with talks from the people who were at the 
beginning of vintage computer history. Learn how vintage computers lead to 
today's world of technology becoming commonplace instead of niche hobby.


   This year we have two themes for our weekend talks: Women in computing and 
Computers for the Masses.


   Talks include a reunion of Commodore employees talking about their days 
working at Commodore Computers as well as the creators of the Commodore Vic-20 
and C64.  Talks by Margaret Morabito, the editor of RUN magazine. Learn the 
history of video game programming starting with the Atari 2600 to modern times 
with Burger Becky a long-time veteran of the video game industry.


   Consignment sales will be open all weekend where our members will be selling 
everything from vintage Apple to Zenith computers and everything in between, as 
well as parts for computers, peripherals, and other vintage computer equipment. 
Who knows, you may find the items to complete your nostalgic journey back to 
the 1980s. Will you find the personal and home computer that you have been 
looking for?


   Learn more about the Vintage Computer Festival East at 
https://vcfed.org/wp/events/vintage-computer-festival-east;

Re: gcobol

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On 3/14/2022 6:53 PM, ben via cctalk wrote:

 Good question. Does any one have card reader hooked up to modern machine?


 paul
 Ben. 



On Mon, 14 Mar 2022, jim stephens via cctalk wrote:

I have a serial Documation M-1000.  Not running at the moment, but adequate 
for such


Two more M-600 parallel, and I think the number for the dinky one is M-150, 
also parallel.
interface would go thru an arduino with 5v board easily to a USB serial or 
whatever (Ethernet maybe)


thanks
Jim


   I have a Documation M-1000L with a USB interface designed by Brian Knittel. 
I've used it to recover FORTRAN and data decks.



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Seeking paper tape punch

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Feb 21, 2022, at 4:26 PM, Guy Fedorkow via cctalk cctalk@classiccmp.org> 
wrote:


Greetings CC-Talk,
   I've been working on a low-budget project to help to introduce
students to history of computing through material we have from MIT's 1950's
Whirlwind project.  The activity would have more of a hands-on feel if we
could use actual paper tape.
   A simple reader is easy enough, but a punch is a bit harder.  We
don't need anything "authentic", or fast, or high performance, just
something fairly reliable.
If anyone can suggest where to find such a machine, could you let
me know?  Fanuc PPR, GNT 4601/4604, and the DSI NC-2400 have been cited as
possible candidates, but I don't see anything that looks like a good match
on ebay.

   Thanks!
/guy fedorkow


   I'll second the GNT 4601. I use it for punching tapes for my HP system, and 
reading old tapes.



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

VCF East

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   Here's the official show flyer for VCF East, October 8-10. Please pass it 
around.


https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GsmXLA2vIsBFWTcmMJLZfq1OQlxmShBU/view


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Tandon Track 0 adjustment

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   What's the recommended method for adjusting the track 0 switch and track 0 
stop on a Tandon TM100-2, if you don't have an alignment disk? I do have a 
scope.



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: CWVG

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Wed, 25 Aug 2021, Dennis Boone via cctalk wrote:


On Wed, 24 Aug 2021, Mike Loewen via cctalk wrote:
>
> Back in the 2007 time frame, Andrew Lynch had written a utility to read
> Vector Graphic hard-sectored diskettes on a Catweasel board.  Called
> "CWVG", does anyone have a copy of the program?

The program doesn't appear to have made it onto vector-archive.org.

I'll add to Jay's comment about 100 tpi floppies: there was a Tandon
model (100-4M?) that did 100 tpi also.  Of both the M and T models are
scarce.


   Indeed, the two Micropolis drives on my Vector 1 are the 1043-2 (master) 
and 1023-II (slave). Both are 100tpi, single-sided. The S100 controller is the 
Micropolis FDC. I haven't had time to find out if they work.


   As a few of the signals on the 34-pin connector are different than the 
Shugart layout, I'm considering making up a custom cable and connecting it to 
my Catweasel MK4+. I have a utility from Andrew Lynch called "cwns", which 
is a modified version of "cw2dmk" to read Northstar hard-sector (10 SPT) 
diskettes. I might be able to modify that to read the VG 16 SPT diskettes, if 
the 1043-2 will work with the Catweasel.


   It's been pointed out that I could write something for the Vector 1 to read 
diskettes and transfer the contents out the serial port. I'd rather attack it 
from the point of my media imaging system, and there is a literal shoebox full 
of diskettes to image.



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

CWVG

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   Back in the 2007 time frame, Andrew Lynch had written a utility to read 
Vector Graphic hard-sectored diskettes on a Catweasel board. Called "CWVG", 
does anyone have a copy of the program?



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: ISO Laserjet I/II/III firmware

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   My workhorse printer is an HP 5Si/MX. I use it mostly for music and 
schematics, since it will do up to double-sided 11x17. You can still find NIB 
toner cartridges on Epay, as well as fusers and other parts. It's a beast.


On Thu, 12 Aug 2021, Curious Marc via cctalk wrote:


My LaserJet 6MP is still going strong and is my main lab printer. I like it for 
retro work because it has AppleTalk capability. I plugged my Mac SE into the 
network and it automagically found it! Meanwhile Windows still doesn?t know 
it?s there unless you put its nose right on it ;-)
Marc


On Aug 12, 2021, at 10:10 AM, Ethan Dicks via cctalk  
wrote:

On Thu, Aug 12, 2021 at 10:48 AM Al Kossow via cctalk
 wrote:

I suspect interest in emulating them will die out once they get past the 68000 
models.


I may still have a II, and I definitely still have at least one
(functional) III and a 4Si

I still use my 4M/L all the time - Postscript + LocalTalk + IEEE1284.
It's a great little printer.

-ethan




Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

LSSM quick update

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

  The A/C is in and running!  Tomorrow and Sunday we reassemble the
exhibit floor and clean up the mess, just in time for the 60-person
group tour on Monday.

--
Dave McGuire, AK4HZ
New Kensington, PA

   Thanks to all who contributed to the new A/C!

Re: Large Scale Systems Museum

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   Dave McGuire of the LSSM reports:

"We are THIS CLOSE --> <-- to having the A/C funded!  Soon we will be
able to hack in comfort. :-)"

On Tue, 15 Jun 2021, Pontus Pihlgren wrote:


Wow, my coffee has not kicked in yet :D

I meant to say: Update has cooling problems as well so I know how
frustrating it can be.

Regards,
Pontus

On Tue, Jun 15, 2021 at 08:26:12AM +0200, Pontus Pihlgren via cctalk wrote:

Hi

Donated a (small) amount. I know, from experience with, Update Computer
Club) knows what no cooling and big computers can be like :)

Will you keep us updated on progress?

Good Luck,
Pontus

On Thu, Jun 10, 2021 at 06:56:49PM -0400, Mike Loewen via cctalk wrote:


   https://www.mact.io/

   Hi folks!  We've been away from Facebook for awhile, but we've been
staying busy here.  Now that things are starting to get back to normal from
the disruption of Covid19, we're doing tours again, and we're getting our
volunteer work days rolling again, restoring more and more vintage systems
for you to enjoy.

   However, we're in a bit of a pickle, and we need your help.  Our main
floor air conditioning system has died, and is beyond repair.  It's a
40-year-old power hungry system anyway, so it really just needs to be
replaced.  We have a quote in-hand from a local, reputable A/C contractor
for a brand new, ultra-efficient system, and we're trying to raise funds
for it, about $8500. We're already about halfway there from recent private
donations.  If we're unable to get the rest of the way there, we'll have no
choice but to close for the summer.

   As an all-volunteer, donation-funded nonprofit educational organization,
we depend on your support to keep doing what we do.  Please help us if you
can. We accept donations via PayPal to donati...@mact.io, or via
check/money order made out to Museum of Applied Computer Technology, mailed
to the museum at 924 4th Avenue, New Kensington, PA 15068.

   Any overage will be put toward our utility bills and other operating
expenses. LSSM/MACT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

 Thank you,
 -Dave McGuire
  President/Curator, LSSM/MACT




Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Large Scale Systems Museum

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   https://www.mact.io/

   Hi folks!  We've been away from Facebook for awhile, but we've been staying 
busy here.  Now that things are starting to get back to normal from the 
disruption of Covid19, we're doing tours again, and we're getting our 
volunteer work days rolling again, restoring more and more vintage systems for 
you to enjoy.


   However, we're in a bit of a pickle, and we need your help.  Our main floor 
air conditioning system has died, and is beyond repair.  It's a 40-year-old 
power hungry system anyway, so it really just needs to be replaced.  We have a 
quote in-hand from a local, reputable A/C contractor for a brand new, 
ultra-efficient system, and we're trying to raise funds for it, about $8500. 
We're already about halfway there from recent private donations.  If we're 
unable to get the rest of the way there, we'll have no choice but to close for 
the summer.


   As an all-volunteer, donation-funded nonprofit educational organization, we 
depend on your support to keep doing what we do.  Please help us if you can. 
We accept donations via PayPal to donati...@mact.io, or via check/money order 
made out to Museum of Applied Computer Technology, mailed to the museum at 924 
4th Avenue, New Kensington, PA 15068.


   Any overage will be put toward our utility bills and other operating 
expenses. LSSM/MACT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.


 Thank you,
 -Dave McGuire
  President/Curator, LSSM/MACT

Re: Bendix G-15 and Control Data 160 console on ebay

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Wed, 6 Jan 2021, Van Snyder via cctalk wrote:


I hope it ends up in a proper museum and hopefully it can be
displayed in running condition.


The Computer History Museum in Mountain View, CA has one, but it's not
in operating order.I don't know whether they have a mag tape drive.


   The VCF museum at Infoage in NJ also has a G-15 on display. Not 
operational.


http://q7.neurotica.com/IMG_5176.JPG


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: personal history of personal computers

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   Andy Molloy had a Canon Cat at VCF East in 2006. Unfortunately, it smoked.

http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/VCF-East2006/dscn4151-f.jpg

On Mon, 4 Jan 2021, dwight via cctalk wrote:


There was a little known 68K machine. It was the Canon Cat. Although, it was 
generally not intended as a development machine, in its short life, several 
applications were developed.
It was primarily sold as a word processor ( quite powerful one at that ). It 
had Forth running under the word processor. One could do both assembly and 
other things once one understood how to access the Forth.
If you should ever get one, don't use the disk drive until you talk to me.
It has a common problem that if you don't understand it will destroy the drive.
Dwight



From: cctalk  on behalf of Fred Cisin via cctalk 

Sent: Monday, January 4, 2021 11:35 AM
To: General Discussion: On-Topic and Off-Topic Posts 
Subject: Re: personal history of personal computers

On Mon, 4 Jan 2021, Liam Proven via cctalk wrote:

I suppose that the 68K only trickled down to the home/consumer market
after about 5 years. The original Mac was circa $2.5K and the Lisa was
around $10K -- *not* home computer prices for most people, even in the
USA.


And yet, . . .
I remember an Apple Lisa ad that showed a toddler playing with it on the
living room rug.  (Probably rolling the mouse around and making "VROOM!
VROOM!" noises, pretending that it was a car)
Similar ads for Macintosh and IBM PC.
The marketing people TRIED to portray them as home computers.
You can place an infant on a Cray Couch; that still doesn't make that a
home computer.

YES, a fully loaded IBM PC, complete with buying a full suite of software
from IBM WAS comparable in price to a complete Macintosh.   However, the
ENTRY point was lower.  You could buy a minimal machine and expand it
yourself.
My first TRS-80 was $400, because I used my own monitor and cassette.  And
then later, my own disk drives.
My first 5150 was less than $1500, because I used my own monitor, memory,
disk drives, and printer.


Segmented memory was a kludge, and not the only kludge.  Remember that a
DMA transfer could not straddle a 64K boundary!  Many programs, even
MS-DOS, failed to take that into account adequately!  It was not hard to
handle that particular one - just test for it, and rearrange your larger
data structures accordingly.


BUT, by building through a series of kludges, it was truly trivial to port
software as the machines progressed.  At time of release, IBM had
pre-planned to have VisiCalc and Easy-Writer.
Porting Wordstar to the PC was fast and easy; it took them longer to edit
the documentation (using a word processor?).
Porting SuperCalc (a major VisiClone) was very quick.


The opposite approach, of NO KLUDGES, resulted in much better product.
But, it took longer, AND, it meant a serious delay for software, since
any low-level software would then also need to be rewritten from scratch.
To avoid the PR nightmare of a machine with no software, Apple decided
that when the Macintosh would be released, it would come with four
significant software packages.  It ended up being scaled back to the four
being Mac-Write, Mac-Paint, Mac-Write, and Mac-Paint.  But, it came with
some usable software.
It took a long time before after-market software, even spreadsheets, were
available for the Macintosh.

--
Grumpy Ol' Fred  ci...@xenosoft.com



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Rod Coleman's personal history of founding, building & running SAGE

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   I also had the opportunity to visit the UGC, but after operations had moved 
aboveground. The followup to SAGE, the AN/FYQ93 (ROCC, SOCC, JSS) equipment
was still in place, but powered down. This was in 2007. I had previously 
worked on both SAGE and the ROCC at McChord AFB as a computer maintenance 
tech.


On Sat, 2 Jan 2021, Paul Berger via cctalk wrote:

North Bay is not on the DEW line the DEW line is above the arctic circle and 
while North Bay may seem like the far north to some it is a long way below 
the arctic circle is actually at about the level of the Pine Tree Line.  CFB 
North Bay was the SAGE site for the 22nd NORAD region.  The SAGE site was 600 
ft under ground in a cavern carved out of solid rock.  I had the good fortune 
of going on a tour of the underground while the AN/FSQ-7 computers where 
still operating.


Paul.

On 2021-01-02 10:08 p.m., Nigel Johnson via cctalk wrote:

 For one exciting moment there I thought that you were talking about the
 Semi-Automatic Ground Environment - which a friend of mine was a tech on
 in North Bay, ON, part of the DEW line!

 I was getting ready to up stakes and hop off to Philadelphia!

 cheers,

 Nigel



 Nigel Johnson, MSc., MIEEE, MCSE VE3ID/G4AJQ/VA3MCU
 Amateur Radio, the origin of the open-source concept!
 Skype:  TILBURY2591 nw.john...@ieee.org



 On 2021-01-02 8:44 p.m., Bill Degnan via cctalk wrote:

 On Sat, Jan 2, 2021, 7:11 PM Liam Proven via cctalk
 
 wrote:


 This may be old news -- it was new to me, though.


 https://suddendisruption.blogspot.com/search/label/Booting%20Sage%20Computer

 I'm not really familiar with SAGE machines. They were not as
 well-known in the UK, I think, being upmarket from the Apple ][ and
 IBM PC, both of which were eye-wateringly expensive by UK standards of
 the time.

 Also, they were terminal-based things and even back then I was
 interested in boxes with graphics. :-)


 There is a SAGE II at Kennett Classic.  When I give tours I like to
 compare
 and contrast the SAGE with the IBM PC, Motorola 68000 vs Intel 8086.

 If anyone is in the Philadelphia area stop by and we can fire them up.
 Pascal.

 Bill






Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Regional accents and dialects (Was: The best hard drives??

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   Why don't you guys take this to another list, where someone might actually 
see its relevance?



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Vintage Computer Federation Swap Meet 11/7/2020

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   I remember that one. I traded you a sandwich for a TRS-80 Model II. :-)

On Tue, 3 Nov 2020, Bill Degnan via cctalk wrote:


Fun fact  - we *did* have a swap meet when we were MARCH, in Wilmington, in
the mid-late 2000's.  We rented a hall and there was a pretty big crowd.  I
don't have any pictures but I remember selling an HP85 to Bill Sudbrink for
$25.  A good deal then.
Bill

On Tue, Nov 3, 2020 at 11:33 PM Jeffrey Brace via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:


The Vintage Computer Federation is having its first Swap Meet event. This
swap meet is for vintage computers, radios, TVs, ham radios and related
items.

FREE FOR BUYERS!

VENDORS $20 FOR 1ST SPACE, $10 FOR EACH ADDITIONAL SPACE

DATE: November 7, 2020 (RAIN DATE: November 8, 2020)
TIME: 9AM to 6PM
ADDRESS:
Huge Parking lot on Monmouth Boulevard, Wall, NJ between Watson Road and
Taft Street
Across from InfoAge Museum and Brookdale College
GPS location: 40.1848793,-74.0630848
Google Maps:

https://www.google.com/maps/place/40%C2%B011'05.6%22N+74%C2%B003'47.1%22W/@40.1832946,-74.0661625,17z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0x0!8m2!3d40.1848793!4d-74.0630848
Satellite Map:
http://vcfed.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Swap_Meet_Map.png
Flyer ?
http://vcfed.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Swap_Meet_Flyer-1.png
Flyer ?
http://vcfed.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/VCF_Swap_Meet_2020_Flyer.pdf

WEBSITE: http://vcfed.org/wp/vcf-swap-meet

If you are interested in renting a space, please fill out this

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSftdpkFQo0CBCatGfqt1OICP-_g22n8nAjEdjiBl96u_6NQ7A/viewform

--
=
Jeff Brace
Vice President & Board Member
Vintage Computer Festival East Show-runner
Vintage Computer Federation is a 501c3 charity
http://www.vcfed.org/
jeff...@vcfed.org
cell: 732-759-1783





Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Morrow MD3 terminal emulation.

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Wed, 29 Jul 2020, Jeffrey S. Worley via cctalk wrote:


I've got a Morrow Microdecision 3 on the bench and gather it often
shipped with the MD-60 terminal, but for the life of me I can't find
what emulation that terminal uses.

Lacking the native terminal, what emulation should I be using?


   I'm not sure about the MD3, but on later models the INIT.COM utility is 
used to set the terminal emulation. Choices are:


Terminals That Work Conveniently With the Micro Decision
Any Morrow model (MDT-60 or MT-70 recommended)
ACT 5A
ADDS Viewpoint
DEC VT52 or VT100
Hazeltine 1420 or 1500
Heath H19 (same as Zenith Z19)
IBM 3101
Lear Siegler ADM-3A, ADM-5, ADM-22, and ADM-31
Qume 102
SOROe IQ~120
Teleray
Televideo 910, 912C/920, and 925/950
Yisual 200
Wyse
Any ANSI standard terminal


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Future of cctalk/cctech

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   Dave McGuire hosts mailing lists on neurotica.com.

On Tue, 16 Jun 2020, Chris Zach via cctalk wrote:

I'd prefer not seeing it on google groups. Although we all know Google will 
be around forever, the recent shafting by Yahoo makes me think a member with 
a good server would be a lot more reliable.


I could probably gen a mailman instance here on iguana, I know I have mailman 
on Alembic but that's a NextStation and is a bit old


C

On 6/16/2020 5:32 PM, Brielle via cctalk wrote:

 On 6/16/2020 6:21 AM, Al Kossow via cctalk wrote:

 With Jay retiring, what are the hosting plans for these mailing lists?



 I've got the ability to host mailman lists or a site if the need is there
 - just ask.

 I believe some of you know me already from various other places.





Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: LK201 emulation

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On 2020-05-17 17:13, Paul Koning via cctalk wrote:

Gentlepeople,

I've been having problems with broken LK201s, so as a workaround I created 
an adapter that connects to a standard PC USB keyboard and makes it look 
like an LK201.  It's based on an Arduino (specifically, Adafruit Trinket M0, 
an amazingly tiny yet powerful small microprocessor).


It's working at this point, though it needs a few small software tweaks to 
make it complete.  I'm going to turn my breadboard into something slightly 
more polished.


Question to the list: is this something that would be of interest to others? 
If yes, I can make the design available.  Perhaps the PCB layout and parts 
list.  I don't think I want to get into building units for others, though.


   I would be interested. I have one dead LK201, one flaky LK201 and a dead 
LK401. PCB and parts list okay, I can build it myself.



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Bob Davis and old computer stuff

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   Unfortunately, those blurry cell phone pictures are almost useless. I did 
spot what appears to be an M-class HP 21MX system in DSC_0249.JPG. Someone 
should rescue that one.


On Sat, 25 Apr 2020, Chris Zach via cctalk wrote:


Ok, I've uploaded pictures to https://www.crystel.com/bob/

There are a bunch of 8 inch floppies and old hard disks down there.

We have to move fast though, this needs to be cleaned out. How can people 
help me on this?


C


On 4/25/2020 6:12 PM, Josh Dersch wrote:

 I've recently been working on archiving a huge pile of PERQ floppies.  I'd
 be more than happy to help archive any media, including the scanning of
 documentation.  I know that Bob had an extensive collection, and some of
 this is likely to be the only copies of such media left in existence.

 Also, it would be great to get images of the hard drives in those PERQs. 
 I can assist with that as well.

 - Josh


 On Sat, Apr 25, 2020 at 3:04 PM Chris Zach via cctalk
 mailto:cctalk@classiccmp.org>> wrote:

 Well I'm the one who was his friend for many years and when he died I
 kept in touch with his mom. She's clearing out the house and I went
 over
 today to tag and review some stuff.

 There appear to be at least two Perqs, several boxes of floppies, junk
 all over the place, a couple of Sun VMEs, what might be part of a Sun
 3/50, big weird boards, at least 3 pdp11 q bus boxes, and the like. I
 tagged the Perqs, brought home some boxes of floppies and said I would
 see if anyone would help.

 She really misses him and would like his stuff to go somewhere that
 people will care about it and remember him. He was a good egg, and his
 death was a very tragic accident.

 I took some pictures, but what of his stuff is important and what is
 not? Who is willing to help me get this stuff somewhere where people
 can
 care about it?

 C





Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Scanning docs for bitsavers

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Wed, 27 Nov 2019, Noel Chiappa via cctalk wrote:


   > From: Jay Jaeger

   > CCITT Group 4 lossless compression

That's very good indeed. I scan text pages in B+W at slightly less resolution
(engineering prints I do higher, they need it), but compressed they turn out
to be ~50KB per page, or less - for long documents (e.g. the DOS-11 System
Programmer's Manual), that produces a reasonably-sized file.

   > The software I have been using i[s] Irfanview.

That's what I use too; it has tons of useful features, including being able
to drive my single-sided page-feed scanner and being able to number the
even-sided pages correctly. The one I use for this is the 'batch mode'; I can
do the entire document into CCITT 4 in one operation.


   For scanning software, I highly recommend VueScan:

https://www.hamrick.com/

   There are Linux, Windows and Mac versions, and it supports thousands of 
scanner models, including some very old ones. VueScan can also do CCITT G4 
compression, and directly create PDF files. If you but the pro version, 
updates are free. I've been using it for years.



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: 50 yrs. ago today

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Tue, 29 Oct 2019, Murray McCullough via cctalk wrote:


The first inter-computer  communication happened 50 years ago today. L.
Kleinrock part of that historic moment, said, and I paraphrase here,
ARPANET was the instrument that was to enable computers to talk to each
other remotely. He sent ?LO? because the system crashed(how surprising was
that!) This was the precursor to the inter-net, moving from the intra-net.

Happy computing all!


   You may want to reword that statement ("first inter-computer 
communication"). The SAGE Direction Center computers were talking to each 
other (cross-tell) in 1958, via Bell 101 modems.



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Identification of an HP minicomputer

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   Not a single reference, but these two directories should provide most of 
what you need:


http://www.bitsavers.org/pdf/hp/1000/

http://hpmuseum.net/exhibit.php?hwdoc=108

   The CE Handbook, Loader ROMS, Interfaces, and Standard Memory manuals will 
all be useful.



On Mon, 12 Aug 2019, Guy Sotomayor Jr wrote:


OK, thanks.

Is there a sheet somewhere that I can use to decode all of these part numbers?

TTFN - Guy


On Aug 12, 2019, at 4:25 PM, Mike Loewen via cctalk  
wrote:


  Sorry, I mistyped.  12746A is a 64KB (32KW) memory module.

On Mon, 12 Aug 2019, Guy Sotomayor Jr wrote:


Except that I don?t have a 12745A memory board, I believe it?s a 12746A which I 
think I saw was a 16K board.

Thanks.

TTFN - Guy


On Aug 12, 2019, at 4:07 PM, Mike Loewen via cctalk  
wrote:


 2102B is the Standard Performance Memory Controller
 12745A is a 64KB (32KW) memory board
 12897B is a DCPC (Dual Channel Port Controller)
 12992B is a 7905/7906/7920/7925 disc loader PROM
 12892B is a Memory Protect board
 12944B is the Power Fail Recovery System

On Mon, 12 Aug 2019, Guy Sotomayor Jr wrote:


Thanks all!

The trick was opening up the front panel (I?m used to keylocks that are only 
electrical and not just physical).

Here?s the HP label with the options:
CPU 2103
MEM BP 1713
IO BP 1727
Accessories
12992B
12944B
2102B
12897B
12892B
12746A

In opening the panel on the front card cage, I saw that it only had 16K of 
memory.  :-(

I?ll see about firing it up and if that goes well (anyone have suggestions for 
this type of mini?) I?ll see if I find more memory and suitable peripherals.

Thanks.

TTFN - Guy



On Aug 12, 2019, at 3:29 PM, Mike Loewen via cctalk  
wrote:


The original M-Series machines were the 2105A and the 2108A (9-slot), which sound like 
what you have.  The early machines didn't say "M-Series" on the front panel, 
and had a different lock than the later models:

http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/HP/2108A/HP2108A-8L.jpg (my model 2108A)

Early models had the power switch on the back panel, while later models had it 
behind the front panel.

It sounds like you might have a later model M. It would be helpful to see a 
closeup of the read card cage (with readable labels), as well as the front card 
cage.  The front card cage is accessed by unlocking the panel and removing the 
cover on the right side over the card cage.  That's where the memory boards 
live.

On Mon, 12 Aug 2019, Guy Sotomayor Jr via cctalk wrote:


It?s a 9-slot variant that says HP-1000 M-Series on the front panel.  From what 
I can tell the front panel appears to be the same as any of the other HP-1000 
series.

What I?m trying to figure out is what the actual CPU configuration is without 
disassembly (which I still need to figure out) so that I can actually examine 
the boards.

Thanks.

TTFN - Guy


On Aug 12, 2019, at 2:59 PM, Norman Jaffe via cctalk  
wrote:

Can you provide a picture of the front panel?
2113 implies a 21MX-E; the nine-slot version is a 2109 while the fourteen-slot 
would be a 2113.
This might help - https://www.hpmuseum.net/display_item.php?hw=109 .

From: "cctalk" 
To: "cctalk" 
Sent: Monday, August 12, 2019 2:52:18 PM
Subject: Identification of an HP minicomputer

Hi,

I have sitting in my pile of stuff an HP minicomputer that I?m trying to 
identify (at least in terms of exactly what it is and what sort of 
configuration it might have).

As far as I can tell, it?s an HP-1000 M-Series minicomputer (that should 
hopefully get us *some* details). The ?asset tag? lists the part number as 
2113023-108. Looking at the back there?s space for 9 I/O cards (5 are occupied).

So my question is which of the several CPUs could this be and how do I tell 
(for example) what the configuration is (e.g. how much memory, etc).

Yes, I have looked on bitsavers, but short of disassembling the box to look at 
the (at least) 2 boards that are below the I/O slots, I can?t tell what?s there 
and I?d like to see if there?s a way to determine what this is without 
resorting to disassembly.

Thanks.

TTFN - Guy





Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/





Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/





Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/





Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Identification of an HP minicomputer

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   Sorry, I mistyped.  12746A is a 64KB (32KW) memory module.

On Mon, 12 Aug 2019, Guy Sotomayor Jr wrote:


Except that I don?t have a 12745A memory board, I believe it?s a 12746A which I 
think I saw was a 16K board.

Thanks.

TTFN - Guy


On Aug 12, 2019, at 4:07 PM, Mike Loewen via cctalk  
wrote:


  2102B is the Standard Performance Memory Controller
  12745A is a 64KB (32KW) memory board
  12897B is a DCPC (Dual Channel Port Controller)
  12992B is a 7905/7906/7920/7925 disc loader PROM
  12892B is a Memory Protect board
  12944B is the Power Fail Recovery System

On Mon, 12 Aug 2019, Guy Sotomayor Jr wrote:


Thanks all!

The trick was opening up the front panel (I?m used to keylocks that are only 
electrical and not just physical).

Here?s the HP label with the options:
CPU 2103
MEM BP 1713
IO BP 1727
Accessories
12992B
12944B
2102B
12897B
12892B
12746A

In opening the panel on the front card cage, I saw that it only had 16K of 
memory.  :-(

I?ll see about firing it up and if that goes well (anyone have suggestions for 
this type of mini?) I?ll see if I find more memory and suitable peripherals.

Thanks.

TTFN - Guy



On Aug 12, 2019, at 3:29 PM, Mike Loewen via cctalk  
wrote:


 The original M-Series machines were the 2105A and the 2108A (9-slot), which sound like 
what you have.  The early machines didn't say "M-Series" on the front panel, 
and had a different lock than the later models:

http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/HP/2108A/HP2108A-8L.jpg (my model 2108A)

 Early models had the power switch on the back panel, while later models had it 
behind the front panel.

 It sounds like you might have a later model M. It would be helpful to see a 
closeup of the read card cage (with readable labels), as well as the front card 
cage.  The front card cage is accessed by unlocking the panel and removing the 
cover on the right side over the card cage.  That's where the memory boards 
live.

On Mon, 12 Aug 2019, Guy Sotomayor Jr via cctalk wrote:


It?s a 9-slot variant that says HP-1000 M-Series on the front panel.  From what 
I can tell the front panel appears to be the same as any of the other HP-1000 
series.

What I?m trying to figure out is what the actual CPU configuration is without 
disassembly (which I still need to figure out) so that I can actually examine 
the boards.

Thanks.

TTFN - Guy


On Aug 12, 2019, at 2:59 PM, Norman Jaffe via cctalk  
wrote:

Can you provide a picture of the front panel?
2113 implies a 21MX-E; the nine-slot version is a 2109 while the fourteen-slot 
would be a 2113.
This might help - https://www.hpmuseum.net/display_item.php?hw=109 .

From: "cctalk" 
To: "cctalk" 
Sent: Monday, August 12, 2019 2:52:18 PM
Subject: Identification of an HP minicomputer

Hi,

I have sitting in my pile of stuff an HP minicomputer that I?m trying to 
identify (at least in terms of exactly what it is and what sort of 
configuration it might have).

As far as I can tell, it?s an HP-1000 M-Series minicomputer (that should 
hopefully get us *some* details). The ?asset tag? lists the part number as 
2113023-108. Looking at the back there?s space for 9 I/O cards (5 are occupied).

So my question is which of the several CPUs could this be and how do I tell 
(for example) what the configuration is (e.g. how much memory, etc).

Yes, I have looked on bitsavers, but short of disassembling the box to look at 
the (at least) 2 boards that are below the I/O slots, I can?t tell what?s there 
and I?d like to see if there?s a way to determine what this is without 
resorting to disassembly.

Thanks.

TTFN - Guy





Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/





Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/





Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Identification of an HP minicomputer

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   2102B is the Standard Performance Memory Controller
   12745A is a 64KB (32KW) memory board
   12897B is a DCPC (Dual Channel Port Controller)
   12992B is a 7905/7906/7920/7925 disc loader PROM
   12892B is a Memory Protect board
   12944B is the Power Fail Recovery System

On Mon, 12 Aug 2019, Guy Sotomayor Jr wrote:


Thanks all!

The trick was opening up the front panel (I?m used to keylocks that are only 
electrical and not just physical).

Here?s the HP label with the options:
CPU 2103
MEM BP 1713
IO BP 1727
Accessories
12992B
12944B
2102B
12897B
12892B
12746A

In opening the panel on the front card cage, I saw that it only had 16K of 
memory.  :-(

I?ll see about firing it up and if that goes well (anyone have suggestions for 
this type of mini?) I?ll see if I find more memory and suitable peripherals.

Thanks.

TTFN - Guy



On Aug 12, 2019, at 3:29 PM, Mike Loewen via cctalk  
wrote:


  The original M-Series machines were the 2105A and the 2108A (9-slot), which sound like 
what you have.  The early machines didn't say "M-Series" on the front panel, 
and had a different lock than the later models:

http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/HP/2108A/HP2108A-8L.jpg (my model 2108A)

  Early models had the power switch on the back panel, while later models had 
it behind the front panel.

  It sounds like you might have a later model M. It would be helpful to see a 
closeup of the read card cage (with readable labels), as well as the front card 
cage.  The front card cage is accessed by unlocking the panel and removing the 
cover on the right side over the card cage.  That's where the memory boards 
live.

On Mon, 12 Aug 2019, Guy Sotomayor Jr via cctalk wrote:


It?s a 9-slot variant that says HP-1000 M-Series on the front panel.  From what 
I can tell the front panel appears to be the same as any of the other HP-1000 
series.

What I?m trying to figure out is what the actual CPU configuration is without 
disassembly (which I still need to figure out) so that I can actually examine 
the boards.

Thanks.

TTFN - Guy


On Aug 12, 2019, at 2:59 PM, Norman Jaffe via cctalk  
wrote:

Can you provide a picture of the front panel?
2113 implies a 21MX-E; the nine-slot version is a 2109 while the fourteen-slot 
would be a 2113.
This might help - https://www.hpmuseum.net/display_item.php?hw=109 .

From: "cctalk" 
To: "cctalk" 
Sent: Monday, August 12, 2019 2:52:18 PM
Subject: Identification of an HP minicomputer

Hi,

I have sitting in my pile of stuff an HP minicomputer that I?m trying to 
identify (at least in terms of exactly what it is and what sort of 
configuration it might have).

As far as I can tell, it?s an HP-1000 M-Series minicomputer (that should 
hopefully get us *some* details). The ?asset tag? lists the part number as 
2113023-108. Looking at the back there?s space for 9 I/O cards (5 are occupied).

So my question is which of the several CPUs could this be and how do I tell 
(for example) what the configuration is (e.g. how much memory, etc).

Yes, I have looked on bitsavers, but short of disassembling the box to look at 
the (at least) 2 boards that are below the I/O slots, I can?t tell what?s there 
and I?d like to see if there?s a way to determine what this is without 
resorting to disassembly.

Thanks.

TTFN - Guy





Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/





Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Identification of an HP minicomputer

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   The original M-Series machines were the 2105A and the 2108A (9-slot), which 
sound like what you have.  The early machines didn't say "M-Series" on the 
front panel, and had a different lock than the later models:


http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/HP/2108A/HP2108A-8L.jpg (my model 2108A)

   Early models had the power switch on the back panel, while later models had 
it behind the front panel.


   It sounds like you might have a later model M. It would be helpful to see a 
closeup of the read card cage (with readable labels), as well as the front 
card cage.  The front card cage is accessed by unlocking the panel and 
removing the cover on the right side over the card cage.  That's where the 
memory boards live.


On Mon, 12 Aug 2019, Guy Sotomayor Jr via cctalk wrote:


It?s a 9-slot variant that says HP-1000 M-Series on the front panel.  From what 
I can tell the front panel appears to be the same as any of the other HP-1000 
series.

What I?m trying to figure out is what the actual CPU configuration is without 
disassembly (which I still need to figure out) so that I can actually examine 
the boards.

Thanks.

TTFN - Guy


On Aug 12, 2019, at 2:59 PM, Norman Jaffe via cctalk  
wrote:

Can you provide a picture of the front panel?
2113 implies a 21MX-E; the nine-slot version is a 2109 while the fourteen-slot 
would be a 2113.
This might help - https://www.hpmuseum.net/display_item.php?hw=109 .

From: "cctalk" 
To: "cctalk" 
Sent: Monday, August 12, 2019 2:52:18 PM
Subject: Identification of an HP minicomputer

Hi,

I have sitting in my pile of stuff an HP minicomputer that I?m trying to 
identify (at least in terms of exactly what it is and what sort of 
configuration it might have).

As far as I can tell, it?s an HP-1000 M-Series minicomputer (that should 
hopefully get us *some* details). The ?asset tag? lists the part number as 
2113023-108. Looking at the back there?s space for 9 I/O cards (5 are occupied).

So my question is which of the several CPUs could this be and how do I tell 
(for example) what the configuration is (e.g. how much memory, etc).

Yes, I have looked on bitsavers, but short of disassembling the box to look at 
the (at least) 2 boards that are below the I/O slots, I can?t tell what?s there 
and I?d like to see if there?s a way to determine what this is without 
resorting to disassembly.

Thanks.

TTFN - Guy





Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: STOP IT : "half-dollar"/"50 cent piece" Was: Recovering the ROM of an IBM 5100 using OCR

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   ENOUGH ALREADY!  Surely there must be better lists to carry on this 
conversation.


On Mon, 1 Jul 2019, dwight via cctalk wrote:


Not every thing makes sense to go metric. Clearly bold sizes are better off in 
fractional sizes. Also for wrenches. I have to have 13, 14 and 15 mm wrenches. 
A 9/16 would have covered the entire range. I have a spot on my car that I need 
a 23mm offset box wrench. What a pain.
Dwight

From: cctalk  on behalf of Fred Cisin via cctalk 

Sent: Monday, July 1, 2019 2:10 PM
To: General Discussion: On-Topic and Off-Topic Posts
Subject: Re: "half-dollar"/"50 cent piece" Was: Recovering the ROM of an IBM 
5100 using OCR

Now that the dollar coin is a different color than the quarter, they don't
end up mixed.  But, the replacement of the Washington quarter, that even
included when they were silver, with the commemorative quarters means they
are now all different designs, and the Susan B. Anthony dollar coins no
longer have more of a difference of appearance from quarters than a
Canadian quarter.



A "Dime" is one tenth of a dollar.  Or ten cents.  Or $10 worth of drugs.
The coin is 17.91mm diameter, and the smallest coin in circulation.
A "Nickel" is five cents.  or $5 worth of drugs.
The coin is 21.21mm, and is between a penny and a quarter in size.

I'm broadly aware but I can never remember which is 5¢ and which is 10¢.


Think of the "dime" as a "deci"

"nickel and dime" is used to mean small and irrelevant.
"nickel" and "dime" are also slang for $5 and $10 respectively, except in
casinos, because while the casinos still had coin slot machines they had
nickel ones, and did NOT confuse those with $5 chips.  But, without the
little paper-cup bucket of coins, what's the appeal of scanning a card,
and then, if the machine malfunctioned and you won, it prints out a piece
of paper to take to the cashier cage?


Yeah, but we reformed and decimalised it all about 50y ago, and now,
as an olde pharte, all the old units and multiples are arcane and
weird even to me. I have only the dimmest memories of seeing shillings
and things like that. I barely understand feet and inches and don't
really grasp pounds, ounces and so on at all. I have never used
Fahrenheit.


Oh, but we are proud of our unremembered heritage, and fiercely resist
change.  We still use Fahrenheit.  And efforts to "go metric" have made
little headway.

--
Grumpy Ol' Fred  ci...@xenosoft.com

Re: VCF Southeast Photos

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On 1 May 2019, at 21:10, Jason T via cctalk  wrote:

Last weekend I made an unannounced visit out to Roswell, GA to visit
our brothers-and-sisters-in-hoarding at the Vintage Computer Festival
Southeast.  They were hosted by the new location of the Computer
Museum of America, not yet open to the public.  The show was a solid
representation of the hobby, with a wide range of micros, minis and
workstations as well as a few calculators and computing ephemera.  On
the museum side, I've never seen so many Crays in once place - and
they're not even done yet!


   If you haven't visited Dave McGuire's Large Scale Systems Museum in New 
Kensington PA yet, it's well worth a stop.  Not QUITE as many Crays, but a 
host (pun intended) of DEC, IBM, Sun, SGI, HP and other big iron, many of 
which are in operating condition.  Plus, a second floor of microcomputers, and 
a third floor of workstations coming soon.


https://www.facebook.com/lssmuseum/


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Storage for 1/2" open reel tape

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Fri, 5 Apr 2019, Chuck Guzis via cctalk wrote:


On 4/5/19 2:58 PM, Grant Taylor via cctalk wrote:

On 4/5/19 3:20 PM, Chuck Guzis via cctalk wrote:

See how each reel of tape hangs from a slot in a horizontal bar? Those
white-and-black strips wrapped around the tapes are what I'm referring
to as being deteriorated.


How does that come off the reel?

Does the reel slide out?  Does it unlatch?  Do you have a picture of one
without the tape reel in it?


The IRS facility photo used the IBM style; not flexible, but rather a
two-part sliding rigid plastic arrangement.  I think that the IRS also
used a robotic "picker.

I'd have to take a photo of one, I think, though if you have a very
ancient Wright-Line catalog, it's probably in there.


   There's a good picture of the IBM autoloading tape seal on this page:

http://www.columbia.edu/cu/computinghistory/media.html


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: 6809 Monitor

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Tue, 2 Oct 2018, tim lindner via cctalk wrote:


Does anyone have source to a 6809 monitor program?

I'm looking for something I can make work in a CoCo.

Functionality I'm looking for is something that will let me read and
write to memory.


   If you're up for a disassembly challage, there's a BIN file in Don Maslin's 
archive for CBUG.  Not sure if it's a ROM image or an executable.


https://amaus.org/static/S100/people/don%20maslin/AARDVARK_Tape_Backups/maslin_c_d_10apr97/ddrive/sydex/tandy/


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Manual for Documation TM200 punched card reader

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Sat, Sep 22, 2018 Guy Dunphy wrote:

Thanks for the link. So far I'd only tried google, assuming anything 
relevant on bitsavers would show up. It didn't, which is interesting. My 
search was only very brief though. I'd been doing an initial eval on the 
reader in the evening, then read the post about Mr Hollerith's house. So 
hadn't yet done any serious searching.


The unit was made in April 1977. Someone else mentions the TM200 is not the 
same as the M200, so I have some reading to do.


   From outward appearences, it looks to be the same as the Wang 2244A, and 
the Wang Model 2200 Systems Mainteance Manual confirms that it is a TM200:


http://www.wang2200.org/docs/system/2200_SystemsMaintenanceManual(redone).03-0025-0.1975.pdf


   A reference manual and data sheet are available on the Wang 2200 site:

http://www.wang2200.org/docs/peripheral/2234A_2244A_CardReaderRefManual.700-3330C.11-80.pdf
https://www.wang2200.org/docs/datasheet/2244A_CardReader_DataSheet.700-3524B.1-79.pdf

   No schematics, though.


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: SAGE memory plane

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Sun, 16 Sep 2018, Al Kossow via cctalk wrote:


ebay https://www.ebay.com/itm/232927847019

https://secretsofcoldwarradar.omeka.net/exhibits/show/cold-war-radar-technology/item/4

can someone identify exactly what this box was called, when it was deployed, 
and what training manual they are referring to?


   In the T.O. (http://www.bitsavers.org/pdf/ibm/sage/3-32-0_Central_Computer_System_Vol1_Feb59.pdf), 
that cabinet is called "core memory 1", or 256² ferrite core array". We  just 
called it "Big Mem".  Here's a picture of the cabinet from McChord's 
SAGE:


http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/SAGE/BigMem.jpg

   I'll have to look through my references to find out when it was deployed. 
That training manual doesn't seem to be on Bitsavers.  :-)  It would be nice 
to find it.



we have a couple
http://www.computerhistory.org/collections/catalog/102633198

and they keep getting mis-identified.


   I have one, as well:

http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/SAGE/Coreplane-1L.jpg


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Making a bootable LIF CD for the 9000/382

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Fri, 6 Jul 2018, Al Kossow via cctalk wrote:


Digging through some HP docs, CD-ROM boot was only possible on 8.0 and up.

Does HPDrive simulate a 9144 or 45?


   HPDrive will emulate a 9144A.


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: IBM junk

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Fri, 22 Jun 2018, Donald via cctalk wrote:


Collected stuff for over 10 years.  Moving from 2300 sq. ft. to 1400.  It
had to go. Praise the computer gods I found someone that wanted it all.


   Did you get rid of the SAGE pluggable units, as well?

JUNK283 - JUNK285

   And the display scope parts?

JUNK420

   I used to work on SAGE, and have an interest in parts and pieces.


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: how fast were drum memories?

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   The manual says 125A per phase (3-phase, 208V) starting current.

   I remember spin-down as 20 minutes, but that was a long time ago.  :-)

On Fri, 11 May 2018, Paul Anderson wrote:


The good old days...

I recall the Q-7 drums would take about 15 minutes to come to a stop when
turned off, and would power up in seven seconds or less. Surge current was
around 115 amps?

Paul

On Thu, May 10, 2018 at 3:46 PM, Mike Loewen via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:


On Thu, 10 May 2018, Al Kossow via cctalk wrote:

On 5/10/18 10:37 AM, Al Kossow via cctalk wrote:





On 5/10/18 9:29 AM, Paul Koning via cctalk wrote:

One that comes to mind is the DEC RS04.  It spins at roughly 3600 rpm (a

hair less, so obviously a 2 pole induction motor running off 3-phase 60 Hz
power).


Vermont Research drums (model 1175B) spun at 3450 rpm 3ph 220v, The HP
2773 on the 2000A TSB was from VR so I expect RPM
would be similar for most drums of similar diameter.



Just checked, and the LGP-30 and RPC-4000 drums are both listed as 3600
rpm



   The drums on the SAGE system (12 on each side), are listed as follows:

Diameter:   10.7"
Width:  12.5"
Weight: 105 lbs (cylinder, only), 450 lbs for entire drum assembly
Speed:  2914 rpm
Heads:  Up to 12 R/W bars, with up to 40 heads on each bar, 1
erase bar
6 pairs, one for Compuuter-to-Drum (CD), one for
Other-than-computer-to-Drum (OD)
Head spacing 0.3" apart on each bar
Drum Layout:2048 registers on 33 channels (tracks), 6 fields
Channel spacing is 0.050"
Access Time:Maximum 20ms, average 10ms
Write Current:  110ma

   The R/W bars are arranged in pairs (CD and OD) so that I/O devices can
access the drum independently of the computer.

   More than you ever wanted to know about SAGE drums (thanks, Al!):

http://bitsavers.org/pdf/ibm/sage/3-42-0_Drum_System_Sep58.pdf

   Here's one of the earlier style R/W heads:

http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/SAGE/DrumHead-1L.jpg


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/





Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: how fast were drum memories?

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Thu, 10 May 2018, Al Kossow via cctalk wrote:


On 5/10/18 10:37 AM, Al Kossow via cctalk wrote:



On 5/10/18 9:29 AM, Paul Koning via cctalk wrote:


One that comes to mind is the DEC RS04.  It spins at roughly 3600 rpm (a hair 
less, so obviously a 2 pole induction motor running off 3-phase 60 Hz power).

Vermont Research drums (model 1175B) spun at 3450 rpm 3ph 220v, The HP 2773 on 
the 2000A TSB was from VR so I expect RPM
would be similar for most drums of similar diameter.


Just checked, and the LGP-30 and RPC-4000 drums are both listed as 3600 rpm


   The drums on the SAGE system (12 on each side), are listed as follows:

Diameter:   10.7"
Width:  12.5"
Weight: 105 lbs (cylinder, only), 450 lbs for entire drum assembly
Speed:  2914 rpm
Heads:  Up to 12 R/W bars, with up to 40 heads on each bar, 1 erase bar
6 pairs, one for Compuuter-to-Drum (CD), one for
Other-than-computer-to-Drum (OD)
Head spacing 0.3" apart on each bar
Drum Layout:2048 registers on 33 channels (tracks), 6 fields
Channel spacing is 0.050"
Access Time:Maximum 20ms, average 10ms
Write Current:  110ma

   The R/W bars are arranged in pairs (CD and OD) so that I/O devices can 
access the drum independently of the computer.


   More than you ever wanted to know about SAGE drums (thanks, Al!):

http://bitsavers.org/pdf/ibm/sage/3-42-0_Drum_System_Sep58.pdf

   Here's one of the earlier style R/W heads:

http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/SAGE/DrumHead-1L.jpg


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Old newsreader source code

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Tue, May 8, 2018 at 12:23 PM, Seth Morabito via cctalk 
 wrote:

I'm experimenting with setting up UUCP and Usenet on a cluster of 3B2/400s, 
and I've quickly discovered that while it's trivial to find old source code 
for Usenet (B News and C News), it's virtually impossible to find source 
code for old news *readers*.



I'm looking especially for nn, which was my go-to at the time.


   I have a copy of nn-6.4.16 along with patches 17 and 18, archived from my 
old BBS directories.  Shoot me a note off-list if you them.


   I recall using 'trn' as my goto reader, back in the day.


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

HP 3000/37 console

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   Does anyone know if a non-HP terminal will work as the console for a HP 
3000 Series 37?  The power-on self-test uses ENQ/ACK to speed sense, but the 
manual also implies that it will sense speed from a .  On my 37, the TIC 
self-test passes up to the point where it talks to the terminal, but fails to 
to speed sense.



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: old vintage stuff for pretty cheap

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   I was about to say something similar.  Those items have been on Ebay for 
years, some of them still up for auction, such as this:


https://www.ebay.com/itm/192514501391?ViewItem==192514501391

   The pictures are the same (what few of them actually display), and the 
pries are nowhere close


On Thu, 3 May 2018, Michael Lee via cctalk wrote:

Caution to anyone looking at this site, at a quick glance it appears to be a 
scam site, just using ebay items and descriptions for product info.



On 5/3/2018 12:48 PM, Electronics Plus via cctalk wrote:

 https://www.acrosups.top/vintage-computing-c-29/

 Don't pay attention to where it says Old Price.

 Click on the item and see the discounted price.

 Free shipping over $15.



 Not affiliated with seller, etc.



 Cindy Croxton

 Electronics Plus

 1613 Water Street

 Kerrville, TX 78028

 830-370-3239 cell

 sa...@elecplus.com

 AOL IM elcpls





 ---
 This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
 https://www.avast.com/antivirus





Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Maxtor full-height 5.25" drives of death

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Fri, 9 Feb 2018, js--- via cctalk wrote:


A tangential question out of curiosity: who here has 5.25" MFM drives they're 
extremely surprised are still working, and which model(s)?


I'll start.  I've quite a few MFM drives, but the ones that really surprise 
me are (2) Seagate ST-506, and (2) IMI CM-5412.   My surprise is b/c these 
are amongst the earliest of models.


   At the risk of jinxing my drives, I have a Tandy 6000HD with two 
operational Tandon TM503 drives.  The only thing done was to reformat.



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Modems & Xerox

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Thu, 1 Feb 2018, Murray McCullough via cctalk wrote:


I started accessing BBSs back in the early 70s with a 300 baud modem.

From there it went to 1200; 2400; 9600; 28.8K and 56Kilobaud. All on

dialup! Now at 5 Mbits/sec. here in Ontario. An American friend has
250Mb/s download. Yikes!  The classic computer era taught us patience
didn?t it? BTW, one had to have a private phone line not a party line
for a modem to work. Making our hobby more expensive!


   What sort of BBS were you accessing in the early '70s?


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: TESTFDC

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Sat, 27 Jan 2018, Adrian Graham via cctalk wrote:


Now where did I put that 8? drive...


  I'm using a Tandon 848 on mine.


My pair are Tandons, they?re in a CPT8500 word processor which I?d also like to 
get going at some point. Any tips on coaxing them back into life?


   Nothing specific to the drive, but I think well of the FDADAP 8" floppy 
disk adapter to connect the drive to the controller:


http://www.dbit.com/fdadap.html


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: TESTFDC

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Sat, 27 Jan 2018, Adrian Graham via cctalk wrote:

I?d like to thank whoever it was who added the Abit K8V Pro/Winbond W83627HF 
with its test results to the TESTFDC page for writing SSSD disks. I?ve been 
trying to get a similar setup going for a fortnight now and last week found 
this motherboard on e*ay for Not Many UK Pounds. Coupled with a scrap 
Athlon64 system from work and a scratched Windows98 CD I eventually got it 
going earlier and can now read/write single density floppies meaning I can 
archive the disks I got with my Research Machines 380Z :D


   I'm also using the K8V Pro for my imaging system.  I've successfully made 
bootable disks for all sorts of SD and DD systems.



Now where did I put that 8? drive...


   I'm using a Tandon 848 on mine.


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: HP 2108A key

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Tue, 16 Jan 2018, Tim Riker via cctalk wrote:


On 09/21/2017 08:52 AM, Fred Cisin via cctalk wrote:

On Thu, 21 Sep 2017, Mike Loewen via cctalk wrote:

  Mike Thompson at the RICM is going to look for a number on the key
for their 2108A, this weekend.


Ask if he can snap a few good close-up pictures of it.  While
measurement from a picture isn't reliable, it doesn't have to be, if the
picture is clear enough to decide whether a given cut is a 2 cut or a 3
cut.



Did this get resolved? I have an HP-2108A with key as pictured here:

https://rikers.org/gallery/hardware-hp2108a/20050415_132446


   Yes, it did.  Dennis Boone has the techninal details.

Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

-


From cctalk@classiccmp.org Mon Sep 25 18:21:35 2017

Date: Mon, 25 Sep 2017 17:21:27 -0400
From: Dennis Boone via cctalk <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
Reply-To: Dennis Boone <d...@msu.edu>, "General Discussion: On-Topic and Off-Topic 
Posts" <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
To: "General Discussion: On-Topic and Off-Topic Posts" <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
Subject: Re: HP 2108A key

 > I received a key that was made based on the Chicago Lock H2007 key in
 > Christian's picture:

 > It works!

 > I've asked our resident keymaster to post any specifications needed
 > to duplicate this key.

The key is an H2007.  This is one of the Chicago double-sided types.
The keyblank is an Ilco 1041G, aka CG1, which looks like this:

http://mysecuritypro.com/images/products/highres/cg1large.jpg

Note that there are other similar blanks in which the center land is
offset one way or the other, but on this one it's centered.

One easy way to get one is on ebay: H2007 is one of the relatively
common numbers, once used in alarms or elevators or some such.  Most
real locksmiths (i.e. not the key booth at Ace or Home Despot) will have
the means to originate such a key, and can work from "Chicago
double-sided H2007 CG1".  Many of said serious locksmiths will want you
to prove you own the lock.  I think I remember hearing that Jay carried
one of his HP minis into such a place once... ;)

TL;DR:

The tricky bit to cutting them is that when Chicago designed them, they
developed several hundred unique curves instead of a set of numbered cut
depths.  However, manufacturers of numerical key machines have worked it
out, probably by pretending there are a large number of cut positions.

There are two ways these days to originate one: copy the appropriate
master key (they come in sets from whoever now owns Chicago, or used
from ebay occasionally) onto the appropriate blank; or use a numerically
controlled key machine.

I can originate most of these Chicago keys from my set of masters, if
people are stuck.  I think I can also produce the 4T1427 panel lock key,
and with a little testing the tubular XX2946, XX2247, XX2065 (since we
have cut depths for these).  I've been trying to get to the point where
I can produce most ccmp related keys, and am interested in expanding
that capability, if people have needs or additional data.

De

Re: Playing with HP2640B

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Tue, 5 Dec 2017, Mattis Lind wrote:


2017-12-05 16:51 GMT+01:00 Mike Loewen via cctalk <cctalk@classiccmp.org>:


On Tue, 5 Dec 2017, Mattis Lind wrote:

2017-12-05 16:26 GMT+01:00 Mike Loewen via cctalk <cctalk@classiccmp.org>:


On Tue, 5 Dec 2017, Mattis Lind via cctalk wrote:


While going through the HP2640B I found two boards which I cannot find


relevant schematic and description for, the 02640-60009 Display Memory
Access Module and the 02640-60088 Display Timing Module. Anyone has more
info on these?



   The manual for the 02640-60088 is here:

http://www.hpmuseum.net/document.php?hwfile=2542





Looking more into this document revelas that it covers three boards
02640-60009, 02640-60088 and 02640-60112.

Now I had the idea of dumping the character ROM as well. But what is a AMD
27S82? I cannot really find a datasheet online. From the schematics above
it looks not too much off from standard 2716 EPROM with pin 19 (A10) as E3
, pin 21 (VPP)  as /E1. But my Data I/O 29B does not seem to be compatible
with 27S82 and as  pin 21 is active low it gives that a 2716 setting in the
programmer (reader) won't work.

Does the 27S82 have any equivalents that I could look up instead in the
device list?


   I couldn't find that part number either, but I dumped the PROMs on my 2647A 
Control Memory PCAs, which use an AMD AM9216BDC PROM.  It appears to be set up 
the same way as you describe.  I hand-wired an adapter to plug into my 29B, 
and told it that I was reading a 2716.  The datasheet for the AM9216BDC is in 
the AMD MOS/LSI Data Book:


http://bitsavers.informatik.uni-stuttgart.de/components/amd/_dataBooks/1980_AMD_MOS_LSI_Data_Book.pdf


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Playing with HP2640B

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Tue, 5 Dec 2017, Mattis Lind wrote:


2017-12-05 16:26 GMT+01:00 Mike Loewen via cctalk <cctalk@classiccmp.org>:


On Tue, 5 Dec 2017, Mattis Lind via cctalk wrote:

While going through the HP2640B I found two boards which I cannot find

relevant schematic and description for, the 02640-60009 Display Memory
Access Module and the 02640-60088 Display Timing Module. Anyone has more
info on these?



   The manual for the 02640-60088 is here:

http://www.hpmuseum.net/document.php?hwfile=2542



Thanks! Those numbers fooled me. Some time the number seems to correspond a
bit between the number on the board and some times not.


   The Data Terminal Technical Information Package contains a cross-reference 
for PCAs and Module numbers.  Unfortunately, it doesn't list the 02640-60009.


http://www.hpmuseum.net/document.php?hwfile=2541


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Playing with HP2640B

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Tue, 5 Dec 2017, Mattis Lind via cctalk wrote:


While going through the HP2640B I found two boards which I cannot find
relevant schematic and description for, the 02640-60009 Display Memory
Access Module and the 02640-60088 Display Timing Module. Anyone has more
info on these?


   The manual for the 02640-60088 is here:

http://www.hpmuseum.net/document.php?hwfile=2542


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: HP 21mx/whatever processor works with doublesided key... i forgot model#

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Thu, 19 Oct 2017, Ed via cctalk wrote:


Progress!

HP 21mx/whatever   processor   works  with double  sided  key... (I forgot
model#)


   2108A, perhaps?


Now  to replace the   fuse holder on the back... that  is  mushed.


   So is the one on my 2108A.


It has ... of all things  3  tty  boards in it? what  is  with that? Multi
user without  a  mux?


   My 2113E has 3 BACI cards, because I don't own a MUX.  Anyone have a 
spare 12792A?



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: HP 2108A key

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Fri, 22 Sep 2017, Christian Corti via cctalk wrote:


On Thu, 21 Sep 2017, Sam O'nella wrote:

 Should be easy but my mobile google fu is failing. Didn't Jay and a few
 others know if a vintage computer key database/site somewhere? Would that
 possibly have or benefit from getting afterwards? null


Ok, I went into our storage and made some pics:
http://computermuseum.informatik.uni-stuttgart.de/dev_en/hp1000/keys.html

In total, there are three different keys used on the 21MX, 1000M and 1000E/F.

Christian


   I received a key that was made based on the Chicago Lock H2007 key in 
Christian's picture:


http://computermuseum.informatik.uni-stuttgart.de/pics/hp1000/keys/P1080975.JPG

   It works!

   I've asked our resident keymaster to post any specifications needed to 
duplicate this key.


   Thanks to everyone involved, for their help.


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: HP 7970E - interest to split?

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Mon, 25 Sep 2017, Anders Nelson via cctalk wrote:


Hi there, here's an eBay auction for two HP 7970E tape drives that appear
to function:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/VINTAGE-HP-7970e-DUAL-Tape-Drive-Cabinet-Reel-to-Reel-Player-/192204691239

I'm curious if anyone is looking for one of these drives. I'm not sure if I
want to pull the trigger on something expensive I won't use until I have
free time, but I imagine stuff like this is only getting more rare. I have
a Remex paper tape reader in seemingly perfect condition I intend to use
with an emulated PDP-8/e (using Rod Smallwood's repro front panel), but
it'd be awesome to be able to save stuff too.


   I believe these drives were originally attached to the 2117F in this 
auction:


Ebay 401311487499

   I zoomed in on the first photo and it appears that the upper drive is a 
7970E and the lower is a 7970B.  The tape controller board sets in their 
2117F are 13183 (7970E) and 13181 (7970B), which is why I think these two 
items belong together.  The 7970B was nominally 800bpi NRZI, while the 
7970E was 1600bpi PE.  However, each drive had options, so it's impossible 
to say what capabilities are there without seeing the option numbers.


   If someone wanted to pick up both items, you'd have a nice setup.


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: HP 2108A key

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   Mike Thompson at the RICM is going to look for a number on the key for 
their 2108A, this weekend.



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

On Thu, 21 Sep 2017, Dennis Boone via cctalk wrote:


If we can id the Chicago double-sided key Mike _does_ need, I can
probably make it.

The CCL 4T1427 key, which is NOT what Mike needs, would be cut on an
Ilco S1003A blank, cuts 1427 bow-to-tip.

The CAT99 key I see referenced in the list archives (might open a cab
back door) would be on an Ilco S1000V, cuts 5 bow-to-tip.

De

RE: HP 2108A key

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   The key is for this switch on the front panel of the 2108A:

http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/HP/2108A/HP2108A-8L.jpg


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

On Thu, 21 Sep 2017, Ed Sharpe via cctalk wrote:


what is the key# does mike need???

Sent from AOL Mobile Mail

On Wednesday, September 20, 2017 Jay West via cctalk <cctalk@classiccmp.org> 
wrote:
No, that key won't work. The one Mike is looking for is dual sided key and 
controls a switch (off, on, standby, etc.). Yours the key is just a latch.

I had a ton of those A machines, but guess I traded them all off. Wouldn't 
surprise me, I standardized on the newer power supplies and E-series.

-Original Message-
From: cctalk [mailto:cctalk-boun...@classiccmp.org] On Behalf Of Jay Jaeger via 
cctalk
Sent: Wednesday, September 20, 2017 4:13 PM
To: General Discussion: On-Topic and Off-Topic Posts <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
Subject: Re: HP 2108A key

Well, I don't think you checked with *this* Jay. ;)

Would the key from an HP 2112B likely work? It looks very much like the
2108A, just a tad larger (more cards). I have an HP 2112B, and it has
its key.

See a photo at :

http://webpages.charter.net/thecomputercollection/hp/hp2112b.htm

The key is 1 1/2" long, and has the number 4T1427 stamped on it.

JRJ


On 9/19/2017 6:38 PM, Mike Loewen via cctalk wrote:


Does anyone have a key for a HP 2108A? This is one of the original
21MX M-series machines. The key is NOT the same as for the E and
F-series machines.

I already checked with Jay.


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us Old Technology
http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

HP 2108A key

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   Does anyone have a key for a HP 2108A?  This is one of the original 
21MX M-series machines.  The key is NOT the same as for the E and F-series 
machines.


   I already checked with Jay.


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

4116 DRAM @ VCFMW

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   If any VCF Midwest attendees have some spare 4116 dynamic RAM, I could 
use a couple.  Anything 200ns or faster should work.  Please reply 
off-list.  Thanks!



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: HP 7970B Capstan?

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Mon, 4 Sep 2017, Chuck Guzis via cctalk wrote:


I've got an HP 7970 tape drive here that's a little dicey on its reading
(haven't tried writing yet).  One thing that I noticed today was that
the surface of the capstan is a bit powdery--wipe it with an alcohol
swab and you get a lot of black schmutz.

It wasn't very soft and it occurred to me that it might be slipping, so
I cleaned it off and treated it with some methyl salicylate (oil of
wintergreen).  It's a bit softer now, but I'm wondering, for those of
you who still have functioning drives, how soft or "sticky/grippy" is right.

Any ideas?


   The rubber on my 7970E capstan is not tacky, but fairly firm.  I've 
used Techspray Rubber Roller Rejuvenator successfully on keypunch rollers 
to make them a bit "grippier" - maybe it would help?


https://www.techspray.com/roller-rejuvenator


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: SPARCstation 20 and dual CPUs

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Fri, 4 Aug 2017, systems_glitch via cctalk wrote:


Indeed, you'll need 2.25R if you want to use some Ross HyperSPARC modules.
I don't know if the ROM image is available on the Internet nowadays, but
I've got a 2.25R ROM in one of my SS10s, I could dump it for you if you
can't find it elsewhere.


   There's a Ross 2.25r image on this page:

http://home.earthlink.net/~reif/

   Not sure if it's the right one for a SS20.


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Wanted: keyboard for HP 264x terminal

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   I need a keyboard, preferably working, for a HP 264x series terminal. 
Contact me off-list if you have a spare.  I'm in Central PA.



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Repurposed Art (ahem...)

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   It wasn't the LIS collectors that did that, it was 20th Century Fox 
back in the '60s.  I'm not aware of a single LIS collector that ever had 
access to a B205.


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/


On Tue, 18 Jul 2017, Ed via cctalk wrote:


or lost  in space collectors that  rip the   b205  front panel  from the
machine and leave the rest  to  be destroyed in fire or  flood...



In a message dated 7/18/2017 11:27:44 A.M. US Mountain Standard Time,
cctalk@classiccmp.org writes:

Keyboard  collectors are a great evil in this world. I liken them to  ivory
poachers.

On Tue, Jul 18, 2017 at 10:03 AM, Fred Cisin via  cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:


Re-purposed art or  vandalism?

 http://www.ebay.com/itm/253015301943




On  Tue, 18 Jul 2017, Eric Christopherson via cctalk wrote:


It  (literally) looks like something out of Pee-Wee's  Playhouse.



Earlier than that.
The seller  may have grown up with Peewee Herman,
but that kind of painting  decoration, with such color schemes and
disjointed themes, wasn't all  that uncommon in the late sixties.






--
Ian Finder
(206) 395-MIPS
ian.fin...@gmail.com

Re: Through-hole desoldering (was Re: IBM 5110 - Where does the character set live? And other questions.)

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Thu, 13 Jul 2017, Peter Cetinski wrote:


On Jul 13, 2017, at 1:23 PM, Mike Loewen via cctalk <cctalk@classiccmp.org> 
wrote:


  I used a Pace rework station in the USAF, vacuum desoldering and hot air - 
very nice, but pricey.



Wow, where were you stationed?  In the late 1980s I was at Beale AFB 
working on SR-71 cameras and we used solder wick and manual suckers!


   McChord AFB in Tacoma, WA from '83 - '86.  We did a lot of in-house 
repair on the boards from the Hughes Air Defense computer system 
AN/FYQ-93.  We would also repair boards from other bases who weren't able 
to fix them.  :-)



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Through-hole desoldering (was Re: IBM 5110 - Where does the character set live? And other questions.)

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Thu, 13 Jul 2017, systems_glitch via cctalk wrote:


I've heard the Pace stations are *very* good. Never personally used one,
they're above what I was willing to spend, even used!

Thanks,
Jonathan


   I used a Pace rework station in the USAF, vacuum desoldering and hot 
air - very nice, but pricey.



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: File recovery help needed (Alabama)

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Thu, 22 Jun 2017, Mike Loewen via cctalk wrote:

  I was contacted by a faculty member at the University of Alabama 
(Tuscaloosa) who is looking for help in recovering files from some 5-1/4" 
diskettes.  The diskettes are from the 1989-1892 time frame, and most likely 
contain WordPerfect files.  If there's anyone in the area who would be 
willing to help, contact me off-list and I'll put you in touch with him.


   Thanks to all who responded to my help request.  We have it covered.


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: File recovery help needed (Alabama)

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Thu, 22 Jun 2017, Sam O'nella wrote:

The assumptions pouring in could use a quick follow up. Date joke aside, 
did they already try reading them? My guess would be yes hence the 
recovery request possibly needing flux or more advanced recovery.


   The gentleman with the disks does not have a machine with a 5-1/4" 
drive, hence the request.



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: File recovery help needed (Alabama)

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Thu, 22 Jun 2017, Warner Losh via cctalk wrote:


On Thu, Jun 22, 2017 at 3:39 PM, Fred Cisin via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:


CORRECTION:
OpenOffice claims to READ WP files, but not SAVE to those formats.


Which brings it all down to:
"How do you read 5.25" MS-DOS disks?"



kryoflux is how I've read the ones that I've found...


   Guys, let's not let this degenerate into a disk tool debate.  It's 
quite likely that these are vanilla 1.2MB MSDOS diskettes, easily read 
by anyone with a system with the requisite drive.  I could do it myself, 
but I thought I'd see if there's anyone closer (I'm in PA).



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

File recovery help needed (Alabama)

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   I was contacted by a faculty member at the University of Alabama 
(Tuscaloosa) who is looking for help in recovering files from some 5-1/4" 
diskettes.  The diskettes are from the 1989-1892 time frame, and most 
likely contain WordPerfect files.  If there's anyone in the area who would 
be willing to help, contact me off-list and I'll put you in touch with 
him.  Thanks!



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

HP 13181 tape interface

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   The VCF museum at Infoage is looking for a HP 13181 board set to 
connect a 7970B tape drive to a 2117F processor.  Does anyone have a spare 
set they'd be willing to part with?



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Anyone remember ZOSO disks?

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Tue, 30 May 2017, Jason T via cctalk wrote:


Looks like this guy was the original Caps-Lock Warrior (though likely
out of technical necessity more than style).  Thanks for posting this;
I'd never heard of him.


   I think he was relate to the BOFH.  :-)


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Bulk tape eraser

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

   Looking for recommendations for a bulk tape eraser for SDLT and DLT IV 
tapes.



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

Re: Tandon TM-100-1 electronics repair

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Thu, 27 Apr 2017, Ethan Dicks via cctalk wrote:


Additionally, for a testing framework to poke signals through the
drive for debugging during the repair, what's a good platform?  A PC
running MS-DOS?  The TRS-80 Model 4 itself?  Besides doing
directories, are there any good bits of software anyone can recommend
for exercising floppy drives on a sub-system-by-subsystem basis?
(move the heads, do a read, do a write...)


   You should check out a couple of disk utility programs for the Model 4:

Super Utility 4/4P

http://tim-mann.org/trs80/su4a.zip (CMD version)
https://fjkraan.home.xs4all.nl/comp/trs80-4p/dmkeilImages/util/97-0005.ace 
(bootable version)
http://tim-mann.org/trs80/doc/su4man.pdf

Hyperzap 3.2C

https://fjkraan.home.xs4all.nl/97-0002.ace

   If you hook up a working drive to boot from, one of those should help 
to exercise/exorcise the bad drive.  :-)



Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/

RE: Did we miss the 20th anniversary of classiccmp?

[Mike Loewen via cctalk]

On Fri, 21 Apr 2017, Jay West via cctalk wrote:


And yes, many are here just for the relationships and comradery that has 
developed over decades of the lists existence.

But that being said... we should have had a party or something *grin*.


   We could have the party at VCF MW in September.  :-)


Mike Loewen mloe...@cpumagic.scol.pa.us
Old Technology  http://q7.neurotica.com/Oldtech/