The Retrobits Podcast

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Join us for the Retrobits Podcast! We talk about computing like we did it "back in the day". If it's got 8 bits, paper tape, a cartridge slot, CP/M, BASIC in ROM, or if it's just plain old...the Retrobits Podcast is the place to hear about it. For more info, check our website at http://www.retrobits.com.

Show 148 - My Altair 8800 Adventure, Part I

In Show 148, I talk about my continuing adventure with a generous donation I received of MITS Altair equipment. It's been quite a ride!

Aug 21, 2022 • 36:24

Special - Interview with Evan Koblentz for VCF East 10

See http://www.vintage.org/2015/east/ for more information!

Mar 20, 2015 • 50:44

Show 147 - Jeff Ledger and the Micromite Companion

See http://www.retrobits.com/2014/10/show-147-jeff-ledger-and-micromite.html for show notes!

Oct 4, 2014 • 1:14:56

Show 146 - Building a Modern-Day Retrocomputer

See http://www.retrobits.com for show notes!

May 27, 2014 • 31:39

Show 145 - The Vintage Computer Festival East 9.1

This feed is NOT 404. Welcome to Show #145!  This episode's topic: The Vintage Computer Festival East 9.1! The Vintage Computer Festival (VCF) East 9.1 information page! Tune in to the sometimes rowdy Retro Computing Roundtable Podcast, Next Without For or Chicken Lips Radio for more retro goodness! Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to earl@retrobits.com. The Retrobits Podcast blog can be found at www.retrobits.com.  You can follow the podcast on Twitter @RetroEarl. For onlin

Feb 17, 2014 • 58:30

Show 144: Raiders of the Lost Shrinkwrap

Old Computers. Me Likey. Welcome to Show #144!  This episode's topic: Raiders of the Lost Shrinkwrap! Tune in to the sometimes rowdy Retro Computing Roundtable Podcast - http://rcrpodcast.com/ Next Without For and Chicken Lips Radio coming soon! Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to earl@retrobits.com. The Retrobits Podcast blog can be found at www.retrobits.com.  You can follow the podcast on Twitter @RetroEarl. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check out t

May 23, 2013 • 23:56

Show 143: An Interview with Bob Armstrong of Spare Time Gizmos

Show 143 Give us a listen. We don't byte. Welcome to Show #143!  This episode's topic: An Interview with Bob Armstrong of Spare Time Gizmos! Links for Spare Time Gizmos and the SBC6120: Yahoo! Group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Sparetimegizmos/ SBC6120 on the Spare Time Gizmos page: http://www.sparetimegizmos.com/Hardware/SBC6120-2.htm ELF2K on the Spare Time Gizmos page: http://www.sparetimegizmos.com/Hardware/Elf2K.htm Spare Time Gizmos Wiki documentation for recent things: http://www.spar

Apr 8, 2013 • 35:56

Show 142: An Interview with Kevin Savetz

And, We're Back.  Again!  Yoi otoshi o! Welcome to Show #142!  This episode's topic: An Interview with Kevin Savetz! Here's the site for Kevin Savetz' new book, Terrible Nerd!Tune in to the sometimes rowdy Retro Computing Roundtable Podcast - http://rcrpodcast.com/Want to know more about Reversi?  Check out the Wikipedia page - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ReversiBe sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to earl@retrobits.com. The Retrobits Podcast blog can be found at www.retrobits.co

Dec 30, 2012 • 39:24

Show 141: My Reversi Game Adventure, Part I

And, We're Back. Welcome to Show #141!  This episode's topic: My Reversi Game Adventure, Part I! Tune in to the sometimes rowdy Retro Computing Roundtable Podcast - http://rcrpodcast.com/Hang with us at the Vintage Computer Forums - http://www.vintage-computer.com/vcforum/forum.phpSpecifically, you can find us in the Retro Podcast section on that forum - http://www.vintage-computer.com/vcforum/forumdisplay.php?83-Retro-Podcasts-DiscussionApple2Online – the online resource for Apple II documentat

May 1, 2012 • 25:16

Show 140: The Vintage Computer Festival East 7.0

Hooray, it's Tax Day... (for U.S. listeners...) Welcome to Show #140!  This episode's topic: The Vintage Computer Festival (VCF) East 7.0! In this episode, I'm joined by Evan Koblentz of the Mid Atlantic Retro Computing Hobbyists, who talks about the upcoming VCF East 7.0.You can find information about the VCF East 7.0 here, and also on Facebook!  Also, you can contact Evan Koblentz at evan@snarc.net.MARCH has recently acquired an IBM 1130 mainframe - check out more info on the IBM 1130 at ibm11

Apr 19, 2011 • 37:49

Show 139: My SFD-1001 Drive Adventure

Happy New Year! Welcome to Show #139!  This episode's topic: My SFD-1001 drive adventure! In this episode, I discuss the Commodore SFD-1001 disk drive, IEEE-488 interface technology, and my related Retrochallenge 2011 Winter Warmup entry!Find information on the rebuilding of EDSAC (CNET link) at the U.K. National Museum of Computing site...See a video tour from Robert Scoble of the new Revolution exhibit at the Computer History Museum in Mountain View, California!Visual 6502 - a transistor level

Jan 19, 2011 • 32:36

Show 138: The PDP-8 Minicomputer

Happy Holidays! Welcome to Show #138!  This episode's topic: The PDP-8 Minicomputer! In this episode, I provide an introduction to the PDP-8 Minicomputer, released by Digital Equipment Corporation in 1965.  The PDP-8 was the first commercially-produced and widely available minicomputer, and launched a new era in computing.The new generation of Commodore?  Check out the new Commodore 64 - a modern PC in a C64 replica case...The Diamond operating system - the Atari 8-bit GUI OS!The Retro Computing

Dec 30, 2010 • 25:50

Show 137: The Commodore 64, Part III

A personal computer with 64K of RAM for only $595???? Welcome to Show #137!  This episode's topic: The Commodore 64, Part III! In this episode, I conclude our examination of the Commodore 64, covering the variants of the C64, some popular hardware and software add-ons, and of course, modern day fun."The Woz" recently gave a preview tour of the Computer History Museum's upcoming permanent exhibit - "Revolution: The First 2000 Years of Computing".Check out the Retro Computing Roundtable podcast on

Dec 9, 2010 • 32:22

Show 136: KansasFest 2010 with Ivan Drucker

Bits are bits. Welcome to Show #136!  This episode's topic: KansasFest 2010 with Ivan Drucker! Ivan Drucker, attendee at this year's KansasFest 2010 event, gives us the scoop on sessions, activities, and related fun! (Part III of the Commodore 64 series coming soon!) For info on this and next year's KansasFest, visit www.kansasfest.org! Also, check out KansasFest videos (search for "KansasFest") on vimeo.com. Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to earl@retrobits.com. The Retro

Oct 5, 2010 • 32:30

Show 135: The Commodore 64, Part II

3.2 GHz hexacore, and my GIGO goes faster! Welcome to Show #135!  This episode's topic: The Commodore 64, Part II! In Part II of this series on the Commodore 64, I talk about two of the chips in the Commodore 64 that really set it apart from the competition - the VIC-II graphics chip, and the SID sound/synthesizer. 300 Baud Magazine - what a great title!  Check it out at their website... Linus Åkesson does some great stuff with chiptunes and demos! Results are in for Retrochallenge 2010!  See t

Aug 29, 2010 • 27:16

Show 134: An Interview with Stewart Cheifet, Part II

Five Year Anniversary coming up! Welcome to Show #134!  This episode's topic: An Interview with Stewart Cheifet, Part II! In part II of this interview, Stewart Cheifet and I discuss more about the Net Café television program, the effort to bring Computer Chronicles to the Internet Archive, more about the Internet Archive including its work with NASA, and some parting shots on the computing industry in general.(Note: The Commodore 64 series will resume after this two-parter with Stewart Cheifet.

Jun 25, 2010 • 41:04

Show 133: An Interview with Stewart Cheifet, Part I

Run.  Stop.  Restore. Welcome to Show #133!  This episode's topic: An Interview with Stewart Cheifet, Part I! In part I of this interview, Stewart Cheifet discusses the genesis and some favorite moments from the Computer Chronicles program, which he anchored for two decades.(Note: The Commodore 64 series will resume after this two-parter with Stewart Cheifet.  Stay tuned...)Want a full-featured command-line based mail agent?  Check out Heirloom Mailx!Talk Geek to Me, an Internet Radio program by

Jun 1, 2010 • 45:13

Show 132: The Commodore 64, Part I

Computers for the masses, not the classes... Welcome to Show #132!  This episode's topic: The Commodore 64, Part I! In part I of this series on the Commodore 64, I cover my initial experiences with the machine (back in "the day"), and also provide an overview of the C64 hardware specifications. Have an old 680x0 based Mac?  Interested in them?  If so, be sure to visit the 68K Macintosh Liberation Army site!Commodore reborn, again?  Have a look at the article on The Register, and the website itse

Apr 25, 2010 • 30:48

Show 131: Ten Years Of Retrocomputing

Yay!  We're BACK! Welcome to Show #131!  This episode's topic: Ten Years Of Retrocomputing! In this episode, I discuss some observations on the time that I've spent in the retrocomputing hobby, which coincidentally turns out to be 10 years.  It's been a fun ride, and more fun to come! The SIDStick is a portable SID chiptunes player.  More information at the Gadget Gangster website...Old retro plastics yellowed with age?  Take a look at Retr0bright to see if it might be a solution! Be sure to sen

Mar 16, 2010 • 39:32

Show 130: Enhancing the TRS-80 Model 100

I found the Enter key.  Where's the Exit key?Welcome to Show #130!  This episode's topic: Enhancing the TRS-80 Model 100! In this episode, I cover two add-on products for the Tandy Model 100/102/200 computers - the REX flash module, and the NADSBox SD-card storage system. Both of the products discussed in this episode can be found at the Club100 site! Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check out the Retr

Dec 4, 2009 • 23:11

Show 129: Connecting with the Atari 800

Have you hugged your retro computer today?Welcome to Show #129!  This episode's topic: Connecting with the Atari 800! In this episode, I cover several of the Atari 8-bit add-on products from Atarimax, including the SIO2PC/ProSystem adapter, the Atari Peripheral Emulator for Windows software package, and the MaxFlash 8 Mbit flash memory cartridge!  It's loads of 8-bit modern day fun. The full range of Atarimax products can be found here, at their website...A new game for the Atari 8-bit systems,

Nov 12, 2009 • 31:31

Quick Annoucement - More episodes coming soon!

Hi there Retrocomputing fans! I wanted to post a quick note and let everyone know that more episodes of Retrobits are on the way soon!  I've had some challenges dragging on my heels the last few weeks, but things are getting back to normal. Thanks for staying tuned!  Chat with you soon... - Earl

Nov 3, 2009 • 0:47

Show 128: An Interview With Chuck Peddle, Part IV

Part IV!Welcome to Show #128!  This episode's topic: An Interview With Chuck Peddle, Part IV! In this final, part IV of the interview series with Chuck Peddle, he discusses being among the first to bring hard drive technology to personal computing, portable hard drive systems, industry trends, and his current endeavors with flash memory.  He ends with a tribute to many of the engineers and industry players that he worked with throughout the years. Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedb

Sep 2, 2009 • 43:38

Show 127: An Interview With Chuck Peddle, Part III

This just in at the news desk - computers are cool!Welcome to Show #127!  This episode's topic: An Interview With Chuck Peddle, Part III! In part III of this interview series, Chuck Peddle discusses further market considerations for the Commodore 8-bit machines, and leaving Commodore to produce business-class personal computers at Victor/Sirius. Look for Part IV, the conclusion, sometime around August 31st! Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online di

Aug 22, 2009 • 33:43

Show 126: The Vintage Computer Festival East 6.0

We will serve no bits before their time.Welcome to Show #126!  This episode's topic: The Vintage Computer Festival East 6.0! In this episode of Retrobits, Evan Koblentz, producer of the Vintage Computer Festival East, and President and Co-Founder of MARCH (the Mid Atlantic Retro Computing Hobbyists), joins us to discuss the Vintage Computer Festival East 6.0 event!More information on the Vintage Computer Festival can be found at www.vintage.org...And here is a flyer (PDF format) for this year's

Aug 18, 2009 • 22:31

Show 125: An Interview With Chuck Peddle, Part II

Hi again!Welcome to Show #125!  This episode's topic: An Interview With Chuck Peddle, Part II! In this episode, Chuck Peddle, lead creator of the 6502 microprocessor and the Commodore PET, continues our conversation on the early history of the 6502 and Commodore computers, and the market dynamics of the day!  It's a great conversation. A modern-day Commodore 64 laptop, created by the famous "Ben Heck", is auctioned for $6,000 for charity!Juiced.GS, the last remaining print magazine for the Apple

Aug 11, 2009 • 37:30

Show 124: KansasFest 2009 Special Report

Press Enter to exit...Welcome to Show #124!  This episode's topic: KansasFest 2009 Special Report! In this installment of Retrobits, Ken Gagne, Editor-In-Chief of Juiced.GS and longtime KansasFest attendee joins us from KansasFest 2009, an annual Apple II convention event.For more information on KansasFest, head over to www.kansasfest.org!Check out Sheppyware, home of much Apple goodness, including the Sweet16 Apple IIGS emulator...A Twitter client for the Apple IIGS?  And more, at ryansapplesof

Jul 29, 2009 • 34:20

Show 123: An Interview With Chuck Peddle, Part I

Hi there!Welcome to Show #123!  This episode's topic: An Interview With Chuck Peddle, Part I! In this episode, I'm happy to bring you the first part of an interview with Chuck Peddle, lead designer of the 6502 microprocessor, Commodore PET, and many other innovations in the computing industry.  In Part I, Chuck talks about his early history in computing, distributed intelligence, and the development and launch of the 6502. Enjoy! Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@g

Jul 20, 2009 • 34:50

Show 122: A Brief History Of Programming

High level languages sold here.  No assembly required.Welcome to Show #122!  This episode's topic: A Brief History Of Programming! The Carte Blanche expansion card for the Apple II uses an FPGA chip and can have many personalities!For a brief history of Fortran, have a look at this document on the ibiblio.org site...Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check out the Retrobits Podcast forum on the PETSCII F

Jun 9, 2009 • 29:42

Show 121: The Forth Programming Language, Part II

: podcast prepare record upload listen ;Welcome to Show #121!  This episode's topic: The Forth Programming Language, Part II! Check out www.zophar.net, an interesting emulator resource!Don't miss out on the Commodore Vegas Expo (CommVEX) 5.0, happening July 25-26 2009 at the Plaza Hotel, Las Vegas, NV...Looking for Atari retro resources and discussions?  Then hop on over to AtariAge!The book "Starting Forth" by Leo Brodie is a Forth language classic, and Thinking Forth is the excellent sequel!An

May 21, 2009 • 29:47

Show 120: The Forth Programming Language, Part I

No computers were harmed in the making of this podcast.Welcome to Show #120!  This episode's topic: The Forth Programming Language, Part I! Check out the excellent Commodore 64 laptop project by Ben Heck!To the moon Alice!  Here's an emulator for the Apollo AGC system, the computer for the Apollo spacecraft...Computers are in movies all over the place, including many of our retro computer favorites.  For full coverage, check out the "Starring the Computer" site!The Breakpoint 2009 demo party is

Apr 21, 2009 • 29:33

Show 119: Retro Roundup

This podcast produced with WYHIWYG (what you hear is what you get).Welcome to Show #119!  This episode's topic: Retro Roundup! The 8-bit TV Computer - 6502 based, Famicom/NES compatible, programmable, on the Maker Shed site...Playpower is promoting the use of the 8-bit TV Computer as an educational game development system!  After having a look at their site, check out this Wired article on what Playpower is up to...Have a look at the Rare and Old Computers blog, where you can see information on

Apr 2, 2009 • 29:39

Show 118: The Commodore PET 2001

(A)bort, (R)etry, (S)mash with large hammer? _Welcome to Show #118!  This week's topic: The Commodore PET 2001! Check out the Wiki page for the N8VEM single board computer, an exciting new CP/M system with lots of activity going on!The VICE Emulator supports the Commodore PET series very well.  Give it a try...Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check out the Retrobits Podcast forum on the PETSCII Forums

Mar 4, 2009 • 30:52

Show 117: The Texas Instruments Compact Computer 40

"TI's new Compact Computer. It takes over your work, not your desk."(an ad from 1983)Welcome to Show #117!  This week's topic: The Texas Instruments Compact Computer 40! Radio Shack catalogs of the past!  Too cool!The Ultimate Commodore 64 presentation - video and notes...Tex*In Treasures - a great place to find your TI 99/4A and TI CC-40 gear!Here is some general info on the CC-40 from 99er.net...and from Wikipedia......and more detailed technical info at this FTP site! Be sure to send any comm

Jan 22, 2009 • 24:58

Show 116: The Apple II, Part 3 (the Apple IIGS)

The Apple IIGS - a computer with appeal.Welcome to Show #116!  This week's topic: The Apple II, Part 3 (the Apple IIGS)! A Commodore 65 prototype recently sold for over $9,000 on eBay!  Read about the elusive C65 at the Secret Weapons Of Commodore site...Club100 is a long-time resource for owners of Tandy Model 100, 102 and 200 computers - while you're there, check out the NADSBox, the New Age Digital Storage system for the Model "T" computers!Apple II Adventures is a fun new blog with info and

Dec 22, 2008 • 32:15

Special Message: November 15, 2008

Sorry for the delay!  All work and no play makes my podcast late...I'm caught in a work transition, and have been working a ton of hours.  The timing is a bit unfortunate, as I just got myself back in the driver's seat for my weekly schedule again.  However, this is only going to last for two more weeks!!!Thanks for listening, and I will chat with you all soon!  Hopefully I'll be able to put together an episode during this crunch time, but if not, at the latest in a couple of weeks when I'm out

Nov 15, 2008 • 1:06

Show 115: The Retro Spirit, Part II

"What kind of man owns his own computer?"(Apple II ad, 1980)Welcome to Show #115!  This week's topic: The Retro Spirit - Part II! Check out the Pandora project - a handheld computing/gaming unit designed by the community!The One Laptop Per Child "XO" is an example of modern day innovation in personal computing...here is the Wikipedia page...Rob Barnaby, developer of WordStar, visits the Digibarn! Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions o

Oct 23, 2008 • 26:15

Show 114: The Retro Spirit

I don't really want to "surf" the web.  The idea of the web crashing down on me is, honestly, frightening...Welcome to Show #114!  This week's topic: The Retro Spirit - Part I! Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check out the Retrobits Podcast forum on the PETSCII Forums page! Our Theme Song is "Sweet" from the "Re-Think" album by Galigan. Thanks for listening! - Earl This work is licensed under a Creat

Oct 14, 2008 • 30:52

Show 113: The Apple II Part 2

Computing is as computing does.Welcome to Show #113!  This week's topic: The Apple II - Part 2! A first-person perspective game on the Apple II, written in low-res graphics?  Yep, here's a YouTube video, and here's a link to the site where you can actually pick up the game (HBCC)!Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check out the Retrobits Podcast forum on the PETSCII Forums page! Our Theme Song is "Sweet"

Aug 9, 2008 • 22:18

Show 112: The Apple II - Part I

I'm back!Welcome to Show #112!  This week's topic: The Apple II - Part I! Want to build a digital computer with not much more than paper clips?  Have a look at these plans from June 1967...New development on the VIC-20?  Absolutely!  And check out the Denial site, a fantastic resource for the VIC-20!Up for a retro challenge?  Then check out Retrochallenge 2008 - happening next month!  Sign up soon... Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussio

Jun 26, 2008 • 26:42

Show 111: The Epson HX-20 computer

Binary - you either like it, or you don't.Welcome to Show #111!  This week's topic: The Epson HX-20 portable computer! Have a look at this BBC article and video regarding the reunion of the creators of the BBC Micro!Using a PX-8 laptop as a terminal for Mac OS X?  Leave it to Byte Cellar...Back In Time Live Stockholm 2008 is coming up in September!  If you are into the Commodore 64 music scene, check out the website for more info!For a user-supported information resource on the Amstrad CPC, have

Apr 3, 2008 • 25:33

Show 110: My Scott Adams Adventure Adventure

There are two ways to write error-free programs; only the third one works.Welcome to Show #110!  This week's topic: My Scott Adams Adventure Adventure! Check out the Scott Adams official site, where you can download Scott Adams adventure games to play on your Windows system!Or, play the games directly online at the ifiction.org website... Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check out the Retrobits Podcast

Mar 14, 2008 • 25:16

Show 109: Building Blocks

Binary - for those who try a bit harder.Welcome to Show #109!  This week's topic: Building Blocks! An Apple //c, new in the box?  And now it's opened?  Here are the pictures...Jump aboard the Mac Mothership for a variety of Apple historical info! Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check out the Retrobits Podcast forum on the PETSCII Forums page! Our Theme Song is "Sweet" from the "Re-Think" album by Gali

Feb 19, 2008 • 26:48

Show 108: Book Review - What The Dormouse Said

DOWN WITH CYBERCRUD!!!Welcome to Show #108!  This week's topic: Book Review: What The Dormouse Said Vintage Technology Magzine, exploring vintage computers, calculators, watches, and more!Want to put a breadboarded circuit directly into a card slot of your Apple II?  Then have a look at the LittleProto II...Here is the Amazon link to "What The Dormouse Said".And here is the YouTube link to Doug Englebart's "Mother of all demos" (video will play when link is clicked).Be sure to send any comments,

Feb 1, 2008 • 20:36

Show 107: Windows 3.0

C:\>WINWelcome to Show #107!  This week's topic: Windows 3.0! If you're a Spectrum enthusiast, then be sure to check out the update of the Free Unix Spectrum Emulator (FUSE), hosted at SourceForge!Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check out the Retrobits Podcast forum on the PETSCII Forums page! Our Theme Song is "Sweet" from the "Re-Think" album by Galigan. Thanks for listening! - Earl This work is li

Jan 22, 2008 • 25:25

Show 106: Random Bits

HAPPY Y2K8!Welcome to Show #106!  This week's topic: Random Bits (a variety show)! JoyBubbles, one of the first phone "phreaks", passed away in August of 2007.  Here's a New York Times article about him, as well as the Wikipedia page.See Philo Farnsworth, the inventor of electronic TV, in his only personal TV appearance (warning, YouTube video will start playing immediately).  Here's the Wikipedia page on Farnsworth - he was one impressive inventor!The SIMH simulator can simulate a lot of system

Jan 10, 2008 • 30:19

Show 105: The 68000 Microprocessor

Happy Birthday C64!  Many happy returns...Welcome to Show #105!  This week's topic: The 68000 Microprocessor! The Commodore 64 gets some mainstream press on CNN!  Happy birthday C64!And to commemorate 25 years of the C64, here is page including a video (warning, 200 Mb) for a Computer History Museum celebration event which included, among other notable figures, Jack Tramiel!  Here's a YouTube posting of the same video.Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. Fo

Dec 20, 2007 • 26:54

Show 104: The Unix Operating System

cat retrobits.txt > /dev/listenerWelcome to Show #104!  This week's topic: The Unix Operating System! RetroGamer Magazine caters to the vintage gamer - have a look at their web site!A Computer Called LEO - a business thinking about automation - in the 1930s?  Here's an Amazon link for the book...Virtual II, an Apple II/II+/IIe emulator for Mac OS, has just released a new version!Haven't heard about the SCO/Linux controversy?  You can read about it at Wikipedia...Wikipedia also has a very compreh

Nov 30, 2007 • 32:13

Show 103: The Commodore Amiga

Amiga gives you a creative edge.  (From a 1985 ad...)Welcome to Show #103!  This week's topic: The Commodore Amiga! How did we view computers in the 1960s?  Not too much differently than today!  See for yourself in this YouTube video...(will start playing on launch of the URL).The Computer History Museum will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Commodore 64 in December - the lineup includes Jack Tramiel, founder and CEO of Commodore.  More info here on the Museum's events page.The full-blown,

Nov 13, 2007 • 32:28

Show 102: An Interview with Bil Herd, Part III

Beware the Chickenhead!Welcome to Show #102!  This week's topic: An Interview with Bil Herd, former Commodore Engineer (Part III)! Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check out the Retrobits Podcast forum on the PETSCII Forums page! Our Theme Song is "Sweet" from the "Re-Think" album by Galigan. Thanks for listening! - Earl This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Al

Oct 31, 2007 • 58:03

Show 101: An Interview with Bil Herd, Part II

All Hail the Chickenhead!Welcome to Show #101!  This week's topic: An Interview with Bil Herd, former Commodore Engineer (Part II)! Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check out the Retrobits Podcast forum on the PETSCII Forums page! Our Theme Song is "Sweet" from the "Re-Think" album by Galigan. Thanks for listening! - Earl This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share A

Oct 24, 2007 • 34:46

Show 100: An Interview with Bil Herd, former Commodore Engineer (Part I)

Long live the Chickenhead!Welcome to Show 100!  Thanks for another great year! This week's topic: An Interview with Bil Herd, former Commodore Engineer (Part I)! Links discussed on today's show:Two entertaining videos on YouTube - witness PDP 11 programming along with some campy acting!  Also, check out this British computer history documentary, with the tagline GIGO - we all know that acronym...Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on

Oct 16, 2007 • 45:21

Show 099: The 2007 State Of The Podcast

Remember, wherever you went, there you were.Welcome to Show 099!  This week's topic: The 2007 State Of The Podcast! Links discussed on today's show:z80pack 1.14 is released - a Z80 cross-development / simulator package with simulation of many virtual CP/M machine components!Missed the Vintage Computer Festival East 4.0?  Videos clips are on YouTube...Gamasutra has a nice article on Star Raiders, "Video Game's First Space Opera"!Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gma

Oct 10, 2007 • 24:37

Show 098: My Koala Pad Adventure

We're BACK!!!Welcome to Show 098!  This week's topic: My Koala Pad Adventure! Links discussed on today's show:Check out the nicely scanned 1984 review of the Epson PX-8 on the Byte Cellar blog site!Happy 30th birthday, Atari 2600!  Here's an article at Retro Thing commemorating the occasion...Vintage Computer Festival 10.0?  Really?  Yep, have a look! Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check out the Retr

Oct 2, 2007 • 23:23

Show 097: Ethernet

I pressed the End key, and it was all over.Welcome to Show 097!  This week's topic: Ethernet! Direct link to the Retrobits Podcast Forum (until the URL is repaired)...Have a look at the site for the Dick Smith System 80 (a TRS-80 clone, but with a style of its own!) Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check out the Retrobits Podcast forum on the PETSCII Forums page! Our Theme Song is "Sweet" from the "Re-

Sep 12, 2007 • 30:24

Show 096: Retro Computer Style

Beauty is only case-deep.Welcome to Show 096!  This week's topic: Retro Computer Style! Direct link to the Retrobits Podcast Forum (until the URL is repaired)...There's a new Commodore free online magazine - Commodore Free!  Have a look - downloadable PDF, text, or D64 (disk image) versions available. Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check out the Retrobits Podcast forum on the PETSCII Forums page! Our

Aug 28, 2007 • 26:28

Show 095: Retro Computer Restoration

Relax...it's only 1s and 0s...Welcome to Show 095!  This week's topic: Retro Computer Restoration! Direct link to the Retrobits Podcast Forum (until the URL is repaired)...These Sharp pocket computers sure are fun - like the Sharp Pocket Computer PC-1211...An Amiga cooked up in an FPGA circuit?  Cool!  Check out the Minimig!Writing games for a retro computer is good for you.  Entering a contest is even better, like the Minigame Compo...The VAXMAN has an awesome museum of large systems - wow, the

Aug 14, 2007 • 37:05

Show 094: The Sharp PC-1500 Pocket Computer

Programmer - an organism that turns coffee into software.Welcome to Show 094!  This week's topic: The Sharp PC-1500 Pocket Computer! Direct link to the Retrobits Podcast Forum (until the URL is repaired)...Want to learn about the Mattel Aquarius?  Here's a page that could get you started...Have a look at Emma's GameIntro video blog, video game intros with many retro/vintage titles!Sites with info on the PC-1500: the Pocket Computer Museum site, the Sharp PC-1500 computer (TRS-80 PC-2) resource p

Jul 31, 2007 • 32:29

Show 093: The IBM System/360

When you get to the point where you really understand your computer, it's probably obsolete.Welcome to Show 093!  This week's topic: The IBM System/360! Direct link to the Retrobits Podcast Forum (until the URL is repaired)...Check out what's happening at KansasFest, and all the other great stuff, at the A2Central.com portal!A very interesting piece of history - an article describing the design motivations behind one of the most successful computer architectures ever - the System/360.  (PDF form

Jul 24, 2007 • 28:01

Show Break: July 15, 2007

Hi there...  The Retrobits Podcast is taking a break this week.  Be sure to tune in next week for more retrocomputing goodness!  And thanks for listening! - Earl

Jul 17, 2007 • 0:14

Show 092: A Close Encounter - The CompuColor II

The only problem with troubleshooting is that sometimes trouble shoots back.Welcome to Show 092!  This week's topic: A Close Encounter - The CompuColor II! Direct link to the Retrobits Podcast Forum (until the URL is repaired)...Gamasutra's History Of Zork can be found here...And, an alternate history of Zork, written by Tim Anderson and Stu Galley, from The New Zork Times, 1985!Jason Scott, creator of the BBS Documentary, is making a documentary, called "Get Lamp" on text-based interactive fict

Jul 9, 2007 • 22:23

Show 091: The Users Group

"...you might like to come to a gathering of people with likeminded interests.  Exchange information, swap ideas, talk shop, help work on a project, whatever..." - excerpt from the original Homebrew Computer Club newsletter, March 15, 1975Welcome to Show 091!  This week's topic: The Users Group! Direct link to the Retrobits Podcast Forum (until the URL is repaired)...Here's info on the Vintage Computer Festival Midwest 3.0, coming up July 14th and Sunday, July 15th! Be sure to send any comments,

Jul 2, 2007 • 29:53

Show 090: Random Bits

Never trust a computer you can't throw out a window.  -Steve WozniakWelcome to Show 090!  This week's topic: Random Bits (a variety show)! Direct link to the Retrobits Podcast Forum (until the URL is repaired)...ADTPro (Apple Disk Transfer Pro) goes 1.0!  Read about it here!Need a USB-based solution for connecting your 8-bit Atari system to your PC?  They've got just the thing at AtariMax...Only a few lucky people were original owners of a Kenbak-1, recognized by many as the first personal compu

Jun 25, 2007 • 17:54

Show 089: A Book Review - "iWoz"

I keep hitting the "Home" key, but I'm still not home.Welcome to Show 089!  This week's topic: A Book Review - "iWoz" If you're having trouble getting to the PETSCII Forums (including the Retrobits Forum), here's an alternate link...SNOBOL?  Yep, back when we used Fortran and loved it, SNOBOL was moving strings ahead, getting us ready for more sophisticated string processing in languages and tools to come.  Have a look at the SNOBOL4 site for some more info! Be sure to send any comments, questio

Jun 12, 2007 • 26:24

Show 088: My OS/2 Adventure

Is it the espresso or OS/2 Warp Connect?(from a 1995 IBM marketing ad...)Welcome to Show 088!  This week's topic: My OS/2 Adventure! Can you find retrocomputing items on the Freecycle mailing list?  You can, I did!  Plus, it looks to be a very good resource in general!  Changing the world, one gift at a time...The history of OS/2 is long and respectable.  Have a look! Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, c

Jun 7, 2007 • 29:48

Show 087: Retro Project Time

A floppy saved is a floppy earned.Welcome to Show 087!  This week's topic: Retro Project Time! Steve Wozniak - always a treat to see him speak.  Here's a recent presentation by the Woz himself, on YouTube.Want to see the insides of an ASR 33 teletype?  I thought you did!  Digibarn has just the video for you. Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check out the Retrobits Podcast forum on the PETSCII Forums pa

May 28, 2007 • 34:57

Show 086: My Favorite Terminals

10 Characters Per Second - Terminal Velocity.Welcome to Show 086!  This week's topic: My Favorite Terminals! Zork, on a cell phone?  Yep, check it out here...Erik Klein's Vintage Computers site - a great resource, and be sure to check out the forums!Wikipedia's page on the ASR33 terminal (be sure to check out the bigger picture that they link to...)Another good info resource on the ASR33, on the PDP8.net site!The DECwriter II LA36 - now that's my kind of printing terminal.  Here's some DECwriter

May 14, 2007 • 25:00

Show 085: PC Support Memories

Warning: OHS Error at line 10 (Operator Head Space)Welcome to Show 085!  This week's topic: PC Support Memories! Check out the RetroMacCast, a great show where great old Macs live again! Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check out the Retrobits Podcast forum on the PETSCII Forums page! Our Theme Song is "Sweet" from the "Re-Think" album by Galigan. Thanks for listening! - Earl This work is licensed und

May 7, 2007 • 39:37

Show 084: Book Review - Basic APPLE BASIC

FOR retrobits = 1 to 84: NEXT]_Welcome to Show 084!  This week's topic: A Book Review: Basic APPLE BASIC! Gaby's Homepage for CP/M and Computer History - a source for information on CP/M and more!A remake of Colossus - The Forbin Project?  Really?  Will the humans get to win this time? Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check out the Retrobits Podcast forum on the PETSCII Forums page! Our Theme Song is "

Apr 30, 2007 • 29:42

Show 083: WordStar

Show Complete - Ctrl-K D XA>_Welcome to Show 083!  This week's topic: WordStar! Star Voyager - an NES game that looks like, hmmm, Star Raiders?  See for yourself...Here's are some TI 99/4 videos, including a programming video presentation for the aspiring 99er!Want some help getting your Lisa Emulator up and running?  Have a look at this step by step guide...if you need StuffIt Expander, check here...WordStar.org has some interesting history and other resources for modern WordStar users! Be sure

Apr 25, 2007 • 29:26

Show 082: Star Raiders

Is that a Zylon behind you?  LOOK OUT!Welcome to Show 082!  This week's topic: Star Raiders! Which of the top 6 best buys in personal computing (from January 1982) is right for you?  Have a look at this old article from Popular Mechanics to find out!Star Raiders, one of the top ten most important games of all time, has a tribute page here, and Wikipedia page here... Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, che

Apr 16, 2007 • 31:35

Show 081: Yad Sloof Lirpa

To err is computer.Welcome to Show 081!  This week's Topic: Yad Sloof Lirpa! No topics or links were discussed in this week's podcast.  Why?  Heh, you've got to listen to find out... Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check out the Retrobits Podcast forum on the PETSCII Forums page! Our Theme Song is "Sweet" from the "Re-Think" album by Galigan. Thanks for listening! - Earl This work is licensed under a

Apr 2, 2007 • 14:25

Show 080: The UNIVAC I

"Where a calculator on the Eniac is equipped with 18,000 vacuum tubes andweighs 30 tons, computers in the future may have only 1,000 vacuum tubes andperhaps weigh 1-1/2 tons" - Popular Mechanics, March, 1949Welcome to Show 080!  This week's Topic: The UNIVAC I!Topics and links discussed in the podcast... What are the 10 worst PCs of all time?  See what PC World thinks...Wikipedia has a page on the UNIVAC I - thanks as always for their great info...also check out the page on the innovative mercur

Mar 26, 2007 • 27:02

Show 079: The Commodore 16

A chocolate VIC-20?  Yum!Welcome to Show 079!  This week's Topic: The Commodore 16! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Commodore Gaming plans to release a new line of super-powered gaming systems - check it out at their web site...Retro Roundup - a one-stop site for retro computing and gaming news!Atari 2600 programming?  You bet!  With Batari BASIC...Commodore 16.com and Plus/4 World - two great sites with Commodore 16 and Plus/4 information, games, forums, the works!Want to emulate a

Mar 19, 2007 • 30:45

Show 078: Book Review - 10 Starter Programs From Family Computing

There's no key like Home.  There's no key like Home.Welcome to Show 078!  This week's Topic: A Book Review - 10 Starter Programs From Family Computer! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Check out Evan Koblentz's new blog on ComputerWorld!And new episodes of the Boring Beige Box Podcast! Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check out the Retrobits Podcast forum on the PETSCII Forums page! Our The

Mar 12, 2007 • 24:25

Show 077: Retro Roundup

$110 per megabyte.  That's when we walked to school uphill.  10 miles.  In the snow.Welcome to Show 077!  This week's Topic: Retro Roundup! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Aprigliano's blog entries on his father and the (formerly) mysterious CDC machine can be found here, and the Commodore 129 remix of the Bach tune that Commodore used in the 80s can be found here...DTACK Grounded?  A helicopter?  No, a 68000 information newsleter, of course, with archives here... C4 Expo 2007 info

Mar 5, 2007 • 25:41

Show 076: The Commodore SuperPET and APL

Faster than a speeding mainframe!  More powerful than a uniprocessor!  It's the SuperPET!Welcome to Show 076!  This week's Topic: The Commodore SuperPET, and the APL Programming Language Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Wikipedia's page on APL, some good info and links here... Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check out the Retrobits Podcast forum on the PETSCII Forums page! Our Theme Song i

Feb 26, 2007 • 26:34

Show 075: The Year 1975

World's First Minicomputer Kit to Rival Commercial Models... "Altair 8800"  (1975...what a year!)Welcome to Show 075!  This week's Topic: The Year 1975! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... A new full-color book for the Commodore 64 is available for pre-order - have a look at this site for more details.  Brought to you by the same folks as the ZX Spectrum Book!Check out online videos of some PET programs in action!I love to hear Woz tell the tales of the old days - here is a show on IT C

Feb 12, 2007 • 23:38

Show Break - February 4, 2007

Hi there, Retrobits is taking a break this week. Be sure to tune in next week for more retrocomputing goodness!

Feb 5, 2007 • 0:14

Show 074: The Apple Lisa

Gooey and Whizzywhig.  Don't they sound like ice cream flavors?Welcome to Show 074!  This week's Topic: The Apple Lisa! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... A Commodore 64 PDA?  Excellent!  Can it sync with my e-mail system?  No, but it is way cool!Visit a website hosted by a real Lisa 2!  No kidding!For a great multimedia resource on the Lisa, have a look at the Graphical User Interface Gallery site!Want to read the Lisa user's manual?  You can, but watch out - this is a 60+ Mb PDF down

Jan 29, 2007 • 25:29

Show 073: Retro Roundup

SHOW = RND(0) * TOPICSWelcome to Show 073!  This week's Topic: Retro Roundup (Variety Show)! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Visit a website hosted by a real Lisa 2!  No kidding!  This is a bonus link, I didn't talk about it on the show...  By the way, this is a hint at next week's podcast...Why is my vintage computer turning yellow?  Find out from this fantastic write-up on vintagecomputing.com!Want to turn your retro computer into a information kiosk?  Now you can!  Check out star

Jan 24, 2007 • 17:35

Show 072: An Interview With Rob O'Hara, Part II

It's sunny and cold here!  Perfect weather for a podcast...Welcome to Show 072!  This week's Topic: An Interview with Rob O'Hara, Author of Commodork: Sordid Tales From A BBS Junkie, Part II! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... The official site for the book "Commodork: Sordid Tales From A BBS Junkie"!BBSMates - where you can rejoin your lost comrades from the BBS generation! Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits

Jan 15, 2007 • 45:59

Show 071: An Interview With Rob O'Hara, Part I

Yippee, it's a New Year!  Happy 2007!Welcome to Show 071!  This week's Topic: An Interview with Rob O'Hara, Author of Commodork: Sordid Tales From A BBS Junkie, Part I Topics and links discussed in the podcast... The official site for the book "Commodork: Sordid Tales From A BBS Junkie"! Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check out the Retrobits Podcast forum on the PETSCII Forums page! Our Theme Song is

Jan 8, 2007 • 43:41

Show 070: The HP 41C Programmable Calculator

A show on a calculator?  Yep, it all adds up.Welcome to Show 070!  This week's Topic: The HP-41C Programmable Scientific Calculator! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... What's Dan Bricklin, creator of VisiCalc, up to these days?  Find out in an online interview at LowEndMac.com!Check out the HP41 page on The Museum of HP Calculators for a good write-up on the 41!The HP41.org site has emulators, software, manuals and more! HAPPY HOLIDAYS AND A FANTASTIC NEW YEAR!  See you in 2007! Be s

Dec 18, 2006 • 30:29

Show 069: Perspectives On Networking

What we have here is a successful way to communicate.Welcome to Show 069!  This week's Topic: Perspectives On Networking! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Check out the 8bitsunplugged blog, another happy retrocomputing spot on the World Wide Web...Apple II Forever?  You bet!  Computer Chronicles had it right all along... Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check out the Retrobits Podcast for

Dec 11, 2006 • 32:37

Show 068: The World Of Commodore 2006

Our friends up north are having a party!  (Well, they're north of me...)Welcome to Show 068!  This week's Topic: The World Of Commodore 2006, from Toronto, Canada! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... The "Atari Landfill" legend - fact or fiction?  You decide!  All the details uncovered (unfortunately, none of the cartridges can ever be "uncovered"...)Have a look at the DOS section of the Paterson Technology site, and take a look at this page for info on the humble beginnings of MS-DOS

Dec 3, 2006 • 24:15

Show 067: Retro Mix

It's Retro Deja Vu all over again...Welcome to Show 067!  This week's Topic: Retro Mix (a variety show)! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Want to test your Amiga skill and cunning?  Then take the Amiga Quiz!  Let us know how you do.  I scored a 37%.  It's not pretty, but I confess it anyhow.When you're ready to hook up your Commodore drives to your Windows or Linux system, make sure you look at the OpenCBM software package!About Woz, by Woz - iWoz, the new autobiography.  I must re

Nov 27, 2006 • 20:43

Show 066: Great Inventions In Computing

"If you would understand anything, observe its beginning and its development."  (Aristotle)Welcome to Show 066!  This week's Topic: Great Inventions In Computing! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Play the adventure that started it all - The Colossal Cave Adventure!Commodore 128 fan?  Then check out Commodore 128 Alive...PBS had a show on the Transistor called "Transistorized" - their site has lots of info on that device that changed the world!The 4004 (Wikipedia page and Intel page

Nov 20, 2006 • 31:28

Show 065: The C Programming Language, Part II

Floating point numbers keep it real.Welcome to Show 065!  This week's Topic: The C Programming Language, Part II! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... The World of Commodore 2006 is coming on Dec 2, 2006 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada!  Check out the info at the TPUG web site.If you want to try C/C++ (or C#, or VB.NET), have a look at the free Visual Studio 2005 Express Editions from Microsoft.Another great option for C/C++ on Windows and DOS is OpenWatcom!If C for the 6502 is your goal,

Nov 13, 2006 • 38:15

Show 064: The C Programming Language

Integers just don't get the point.Welcome to Show 064!  This week's Topic: The C Programming Language! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... The October edition of the 1 MHz podcast is out.  Don't miss it!Wikipedia, as usual, a good place to start - this time, on the C Programming Language.Here's an article written by Dennis Ritchie on the history of C.  Nothing like getting your history straight from the source!Here's some info on the book: The C Programming Language - note the various

Nov 6, 2006 • 31:09

Show Break - October 29, 2006

Hi there, Retrobits is taking a break this week. Be sure to tune in next week for more retrocomputing goodness! Coming up next week - The C Programming Language! - Earl

Oct 31, 2006 • 0:14

Show 063: The Joystick

What if computers programmed us?Welcome to Show 063!  This week's Topic: The Joystick! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Want to take your retro hobby into your virtual reality world?  Now you can buy retro computer models for Second Life.  No, really.The DECWriter printing terminal.  Whether it's black and white or color, it's prettay.  It's so prettay...Now you can play Centipedes anywhere you've got Java and a web browser.  Check out Atari's Games site!If you need a CompactFlash

Oct 23, 2006 • 29:04

Show 062: The PDP-11 Minicomputer

RSTS PDP - find out what it means to meWelcome to Show 062!  This week's Topic: The PDP-11 Minicomputer! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... It's not retro, but you can hook it up to retro stuff (that's one of my main purposes)...the Propeller 32-bit 8 core microcontroller!  Electronics super-fun...Another interactive fiction environment - have a look at Eamon, and the many games available for it!The Wikipedia page on the PDP-11 - a good starting point.  And one for RSTS as well...Her

Oct 16, 2006 • 30:41

Show 061: Retro Mix

1 cup retro, 2 tbsp computer nostalgia.  Stir and enjoy.Welcome to Show 061!  This week's Topic: Retro Mix (A Variety Episode) Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Play Zork online?  Sure!The Emergency Chicagoland Commodore Convention was held Sep 30, 2006.  Pictures and descriptions are here and here...A self aware computer that doesn't take over the world or threaten global thermonuclear war?  KITT is just such a hero!If you look over, and the car next to you doesn't have a driver, m

Oct 9, 2006 • 21:48

Show 060: Zork - The Great Underground Empire

You are standing in a thick forest.  There is a podcast playing.Welcome to Show 060!  This week's Topic: Zork - The Great Underground Empire! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Wikipedia link list - Zork, Infocom, and Interactive Fiction.  Check it out!The American Radio Relay League - find out about hamfests (where you might find some cool retro computers), and the ham radio hobby in general...An Apple I, for only $666.66?  Not any more.  But have a look at the vintage ad, it's grea

Oct 2, 2006 • 30:52

Show Break: September 24, 2006

Hi there,  I'm still under the weather, so I will be taking a break this week from the show.  Thanks for listening, and please do check back next week. Chat with you soon, - Earl

Sep 25, 2006 • 0:14

Show 059: Colossus - The Forbin Project

ASR33s and Global Domination.  It's all here on Retrobits.Welcome to Show 059!  This week's Topic: The movie - Colossus, The Forbin Project! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... See the Wikipedia page for the movie "Colossus - The Forbin Project"...Also, have a look at their page for the IBM 1620, the panels of which were used extensively in the film! Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check ou

Sep 18, 2006 • 21:24

Show 058: The Oric Atmos

PRESS PLAY ON RETROBITS  Welcome to Show 058!  This week's Topic: The Oric Atmos! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Want to learn TI 99/4 BASIC?  How about a series of videos of the TI 99/4 running the BASIC tutorial?  See it now at Google Video...MMM, tasty, Mac on a Stick.  Wait, no, it's not food, it's a classic Mac emulator and OS small enough to fit on a USB memory stick!  Yum!  (It's not food I said!)Here's a video podcast of Amiga demos, and links to the software also!  Check

Sep 11, 2006 • 25:28

Show Break - August 27, 2006

August 27, 2006... Hi there... Retrobits is taking a break this week.  Be sure to tune in next week for more retrocomputing goodness!  And as always - thanks for listening!

Aug 28, 2006 • 0:14

Show 057: The Future of Vintage Computing

Retro in the future.  That's a time twister for ya.Welcome to Show 057!  This week's Topic: The Future of Vintage Computing! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Here's a video containing an interview with Jack Tramiel - this is during his Atari (post-Commodore) days, promoting the new Atari ST line.  Interesting.  Stoic.  (Note - link is to Google Video - it will start playing immediately after clicking...) Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. Fo

Aug 21, 2006 • 25:47

Show 056: Paper Tape and Punch Cards

We used to program computers by punching them out.Welcome to Show 056!  This week's Topic: Paper Tape and Punch Cards! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Two Apple II podcasts!  Woo hoo!  Check out the maiden voyage of A2Unplugged, and don't miss 1 Mhz, the Apple II Podcast, now with four monthly episodes to catch up on!  Good stuff...Bought a PX-8, and wish you could word process?  New in box Portable Wordstar, Calc and Scheduler can now be purchased from Star Technology.  I don't k

Aug 14, 2006 • 27:47

Show 055: Retro Mix

Add mixed retro.  Stir and Serve.Welcome to Show 055!  This week's Topic: Retro Mix (A Variety Episode)! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Check out A2Central for info on the recent KansasFest 2006, and all your Apple II needs!Also check out the official KFest site - it's never too early to plan for 2007...Here's a presentation on SymbOS by the creator (Google Video - note that the intro is in Spanish, but the presentation is in English).The History Of Computing project - from 30,00

Aug 9, 2006 • 31:15

Show 054: The Tandy Model 100 Portable Computer

Your retro computer runs on 4 AA batteries?  Cool!Welcome to Show 054!  This week's Topic: The Tandy 100 Portable Computer! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Here's a Bill Gates interview on the Smithsonian Institution website, very interesting reading!  The Model 100 BASIC and ROM are some of the last products that Bill Gates programmed himself...Wikipedia's page on the TRS-80 Model 100 line is a good place to start...Follow that up with the old-computer.com page for the Model 100.

Jul 30, 2006 • 36:12

Show 053: The 6502 Microprocessor, Part II

65,536 memory locations - it's like a dream come true.Welcome to Show 053!  This week's Topic: The 6502 Microprocessor, Part II. Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Want to see a cool prototype?  Here's the Commodore 65 page at the Secret Weapons of Commodore...The Atari Archives site has a few books on Atari 8 bit (w/6502 of course) assembly language programming!Check out Issue #1 of the C=Hacking magazine - more 6502 info that you can shake a stick at.6502 cross-compilation (write i

Jul 24, 2006 • 34:52

Show 052: The 6502 Microprocessor, Part I

Special bonus feature today!  Don't touch that dial...Welcome to Show 052!  This week's Topic: The 6502 Microprocessor, Part I. Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Once again, Wikipedia doesn't dissapoint - check out their info on the 6502 Microprocessor...ClassicCmp is a resource for enthusiasts of classic computer hardware, software, and documentation!New stuff for your CoCo?  Have a look at Cloud-9!Sample chapters on MOS Technology and the TIM/KIM systems (under the bonus section),

Jul 17, 2006 • 27:33

Show 051: My PX-8 Virtual Disk Drive Adventure!

Another retro adventure.  It's a fun hobby!Welcome to Show 051!  This week's Topic: My PX-8 Virtual Disk Drive Adventure! This week I cover the trials and tribulations of setting up a floppy disk emulator program for the Epson PX-8 laptop.  It involves soldering and creative software trickery.  What more could you ask for in a retro computing project? Topics and links discussed in the podcast... A while back I did a book review on Digital Retro.  It's a great book, and here's the webpage for t

Jul 10, 2006 • 35:00

Show 050: The 2006 State of the Podcast

I can tell you - time flies when you're having fun!Welcome to Show 050!  This week's Topic: The 2006 State of the Podcast! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... A new PX-8?  Sweet!  Check out the PX-8 page on Star Technology...Are you an Apple II extreme coder?  Need a challenge - a contest, perhaps?  Have a look at the Call A.P.P.L.E. 2006 Apple II Programming Contest! Thanks to all of you for a great podcast year!  Looking forward to lots more fun to come!Be sure to send any comments,

Jul 3, 2006 • 31:48

Show 049: The Epson PX-8 Laptop Computer

CP/M in a laptop?  And they said it couldn't be done...Welcome to Show 049!  This week's Topic: The Epson PX-8 Laptop Computer! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Programmable calculators are fun!  I loved mine way back when.  Here's a website for TI calculator enthusiasts - programs, connectivity, and more!Intellivision Lives!  Indeed it does.  I can't wait to play Sea Battle again...Want a review on the latest retro computer game?  Oldschool Gaming may have what you need...Here's t

Jun 26, 2006 • 29:20

Show 048: Book Review - Digital Retro

I can't run Linux on my Atari 800.  But it plays a mean game of Missile Command.  'Nuff said...Welcome to Show 048!  This week's Topic: Book Review: Digital Retro! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Here's the site for the book Digital Retro!Pictures from the C4 Expo - you missed the fun?  Here are some pictures.  Read 'em and weep...And this is a direct link to the Z80 inside - whoa, they popped the top off that chip!The Apple II Game Server is being actively worked on - stay tuned!

Jun 19, 2006 • 23:27

Show 047: The Z80 Microprocessor

This witty comment intentionally left blank.Welcome to Show 047!  This week's Topic: The Z80 Microprocessor! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Apple history abounds, courtesy of The Apple Computer History Weblog, and the Apple II History site!Obsolete Technology?  We love it!  Check out the Obsolete Technology Website at oldcomputers.net.Computer Collector Newsletter is now Technology Rewind.  Congratulations on the new site!How many computers used the Z80?  Well, at least more than

Jun 14, 2006 • 26:19

Show 046: Live from the C4 Expo in Cincinnati, Ohio

My other computer is a Commodore :-)Welcome to Show 046!  This week's Topic: Live from the C4 Expo in Cincinnati, Ohio! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Need more retrocomputing listening goodness?  Well, then, head over to the Boring Beige Box!Issue #25 of Retrogaming Times - hot off the presses!Commvex v2 is coming up in July, and - it's Vegas, Baby!  And, the World of Commodore 2006 is this December in Toronto!  Alas, so much retrocomputing, so little time...Have a look at The C

Jun 5, 2006 • 24:26

Show 045: The IBM PC Junior

It would take about 250 Atari 800s to hold this podcast MP3 file.(Honestly, I compressed it as much as I could.)Welcome to Show 045!  This week's Topic: The IBM PC Junior! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... The Apple Game Server - load software onto your Apple II with just a serial connection to your PC!The Cincinnati Commodore Computer Club is having their C4 Expo on June 3rd and 4th, 2006.  Better hurry and make those reservations!SymbOS, a multitasking operating system for the Ams

May 29, 2006 • 26:28

Show 044: Retro Assortment

LOAD "RETROBITS",8,1RUNWelcome to Show 044!  This week's Topic: Retro Assortment (Variety Show)! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Do kids still program?  Join in on this discussion forum topic at the PETSCII Forums, and let us know!Speaking of which, here's a programming environment designed for kids - the Kids Programming Language.The Commodore16.com site revived my excitement for one of my favorite computers, the Commodore 16.What do you do with that old, non-functional Commodore

May 22, 2006 • 26:17

Show 043: The Floppy Disk Drive

This week, take your favorite floppy drive out for a spin.Welcome to Show 043!  This week's Topic: The Floppy Disk Drive! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Do you know what types of computers these are?  If so, please drop a line to the e-mail address below - we'd like to find out!Wikipedia - did I mention to check them out?  And this week, have a look at their page on the Floppy Disk. Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions

May 14, 2006 • 34:24

Show 042: The TRS-80 Model I

Ever wonder what the "TRS" in "TRS-80" stands for?  Tune in, you'll find out here!Welcome to Show 042!  This week's Topic: The TRS-80 Model I microcomputer! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Do you know what types of computers these are?  If so, please drop a line to the e-mail address below - we'd like to find out!Here's Peter Jenning's site, with info on his creation Microchess, and also great history on VisiCalc.Want to know more about Microchess?  Well, go straight to the source

May 8, 2006 • 31:15

Show 041: The Logo programming language

The past is a wonderful present.Welcome to Show 041!  This week's Topic: The Logo programming language! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... The Arpanet documentary on Google Video is back!  This is retro about retro.  Sweet!Another retrocomputing podcast!  Check out the Boring Beige Box, it's a great listen!Wikipedia to the rescue again - here's their article on the Logo Programming Language.There are magazine reviews of Logo for the Commodore and Atari at the Atari Magazines site - h

May 1, 2006 • 24:40

Show 040: My Classic Mac Adventure

To Mac, or not to Mac.  That is the question.Welcome to Show 040!  This week's Topic: My Classic Mac Adventure! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... A PICAXE - what's that?  It's a microcontroller - a programmable single-chip processor with cool inputs and outputs.  Have a look!Information on the Macintosh SE/30 from old-computers.com.Watch out for classic Macintosh CRTs - if you open your Mac Plus, SE, SE/30, etc. up, there are high voltages!  Luckily, there are ways to discharge the

Apr 24, 2006 • 31:34

Spring Break this week - be back in a week! Stay tuned!

Spring Break!Hi!  I'm celebrating the Easter holiday with my family today, and taking a one-week spring break from the podcast.  But stay tuned, as I'll be back next week with more retrocomputing goodness. I'd like to take the opportunity to thank all of you who listen to Retrobits.  It's a lot of fun to connect with so many people who have an interest in the bits and bytes of ye olde. In the meantime, jump on over to the forum (link below) and join in!  See you soon, and have a GREAT week. Be

Apr 17, 2006 • 0:40

Show 039: Random Access

Variety is the spice of life!Welcome to Show 039!  This week's Topic: Random Access (A Variety Show). Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Check out the home page for The Woz himself!  Great information and links, plus answers to frequently asked questions!Man, the videos just keep on coming.  Here's one from the 1984 Apple Shareholder's Meeting.  This video is hosted on the Mac Essentials site (note, mostly German language).  See Sculley and Jobs on the same stage, and hear about thei

Apr 10, 2006 • 32:24

Show 038: The Apple III

The Apple /// Personal Computer System.  The Most Powerful Professional Computer System In Its Class.Welcome to Show 038!  This week's Topic - you guessed it: The Apple III personal computer! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... The Amstrad CPC 6128, reborn in new hardware, and with a cool new OS?  Oh yeah!  That's some modern day fun!Keep those (Atari) XL's/XE's humming, with these fine utilities...Oscar's Vintage Computer Collection has some great stuff on CP/M computers, including o

Apr 3, 2006 • 25:49

Show 037: The ARPANET

HTTP.  FTP.  SMTP.  NNTP.  Many letters, one heritage... Welcome to Show 037!  This week's Topic: The ARPANET! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Electronics that act like a physical disk drive - awesome idea.  Check it out at the Semi-Virtual Diskette site! It's Vegas, Baby!  And Commodore fun!  The Commodore Vegas Expo (CommVex) 2.0 will be held on July 29 and 30, 2006... An Internet Pioneer Ponders the Next Revolution - an interview with Robert Taylor on nytimes.com! Here's a t

Mar 27, 2006 • 30:06

Show 036: The Dot Matrix Printer

I keep hitting the Control key, but I'm still not in control. Welcome to Show 036!  This week's Topic: The Dot Matrix Printer! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Old Skool Arcade, Modern Day Fun - In Portland, my home town!  Check out the Ground Kontrol site... Need to fix up your Commodore computer?  Have a look at Ray Carlsen's homepage! More TI 99/4A links - a Yahoo! group, and the TI 99ers online User's Group! A Wikipedia article on the Dot Matrix Printer... Be sure to send a

Mar 20, 2006 • 29:16

Show 035: The TI 99/4A Microcomputer

It's not 8 bits, but it's retro.  And it talks... Welcome to Show 035!  This week's Topic: The Texas Instruments 99/4A Microcomputer! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Use your old DOS PC as a Commodore hard drive.  How?  With 64HDD... A 21st century recreation of a 1960s educational computer toy?  Now, that's retro!  Check out the DigiComp I v 2.0 from Minds-On Toys. If you're like me, and you think an Altair looked cooler than your modern-day LAN party case, have a look at the

Mar 13, 2006 • 30:45

Show 034: Retro Du Jour (updated)

One retro computer, over easy.  Would you like some chips with that? Welcome to Show 034!  This week's Topic: Retro Du Jour! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Have a look at The Giant List of Classic Game Programmers, The Source for Video and Computer Game History since 1997! Peter Naur wins ACM'S Turing Award for his work on ALGOL 60 (Wikipedia Link). If you've got time, they've got videos - extensive Computer History Museum footage at Google Video!  Lots of topics, great info

Mar 6, 2006 • 20:24

Show 033: The Commodore 64 Demo Scene, Part II

SID!  VIC-II!  6510!  64K!  It's demo writer heaven...part II... Welcome to Show 033!  This week's topic: The Commodore 64 Demo Scene Part II! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... The Music Animation Machine, software originally produced on an Atari 800! Lots of Atari info this week - have a look at the website for the documentary, Once Upon Atari. And, check out the Tech Roundup episode with a look at the Game On video game exhibit! Bo Zimmerman's site has an extensive archive o

Feb 27, 2006 • 28:36

Show 032: The Commodore 64 Demo Scene, Part I

SID!  VIC-II!  6510!  64K!  It's demo writer heaven... Welcome to Show 032!  This week's topic: The Commodore 64 Demo Scene Part I! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... PDP-10 lives!  Of course, we had no doubt.  Check out PDP Planet, the portal into Paul Allen's collection of DEC systems! If you get an account on the PDP-10, you'll need documentation, which you can find at the Manuals for DEC 36-bit Computers site.  This site links to bitsavers.org, an extensive and impressive pr

Feb 20, 2006 • 42:00

Show 031: A Book Review - Fire In The Valley

01001000 01001001 ! Welcome to Show 031!  This week's Topic: A book review - Fire In The Valley, The Collector's Edition Topics and links discussed in the podcast... 8 bit parallel processing?  Leave it to the Apple II enthusiasts!  Have a look at the AppleCrate! Yes, you can build your own computer.  And I mean from scratch.  Check out the Magic-1 Homebrew CPU, and be sure to look at the "my other projects" page as well. It's The Woz!  In person, on video, at an event hosted by the Comp

Feb 13, 2006 • 24:29

Show 030: The IBM PC Part II

(A)bort, (R)etry, (I)gnore? Welcome to Show 030!  This week's Topic: The IBM Personal Computer, Part II! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... A binary wristwatch, eh?  That's a "bit" unique! Here's an article on SID music and music makers from Cyclic Defrost. Want to see a video of an original IBM 5150 rendering full screen video with color graphics and sound?  And they said it couldn't be done... Here are Wikipedia articles on the IBM PC, and the CGA color graphics adapter. Be

Feb 6, 2006 • 40:42

Show 029: The IBM PC, Part I

640KB.  RAM heaven. Welcome to Show 029!  This week's Topic: The IBM Personal Computer, Part I. Thanks to my son, Joshua, for helping me out with this week's podcast! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Digital Retro - a book with info and pictures about a wide variety of retro computers.  Check it out!  Is your favorite in there?  Some of mine are... A non retro link?  Sure, why not?  The BoltTalk podcast and blog covers the San Diego Chargers, a US professional football team.

Jan 30, 2006 • 34:33

Show 028: Random Bits and Bytes

Just flew in from LA, and boy are my arms tired... Welcome to Show 028!  This week's Topic: Random Bits and Bytes! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Always wanted to use a Cray?  Give it a try! Check out the Commodore Article Index - lots of interesting reading! The NorthWest Classic Games Enthusiasts Expo 2006 - how about that, a retro event up my way!  (Seattle, WA) Ads from old computers - they're fun to look at!  Have a look at some at the Computer History site. GameBase 64 -

Jan 24, 2006 • 13:32

Show 027: BASIC

10 PRINT "Hello, Retrobits Listeners!" 20 GOTO 10 Welcome to Show 027!  This week's Topic: The Beginner's All-Purpose Symbolic Instruction Code (or BASIC, for short...) Topics and links discussed in the podcast... More Commodore news - here's an interview with Bil Herd on the Commodore Plus/4 World website! Check out the Vintage Computing and Gaming website for "adventures in collecting, playing, and hacking vintage computing and gaming devices." If you're in the US and interested in prod

Jan 15, 2006 • 35:34

Show 026: Book Review - On The Edge

Happy New Year! Welcome to Show 026!  This week's Topic: A Book Review: On The Edge - The Spectacular Rise And Fall Of Commodore! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Check this out - an Atari Paddle Controller with 13 Built-in Games from Jakks Pacific! The galleries of GUIs, have a look at various GUIs in all their point and click glory, here, and here. Classic Computers Of The Past 2006 Calendar, your time may be running out to grab one of these beauties! The web site for the mai

Jan 9, 2006 • 31:31

Happy Holidays 2005!

Happy Holidays! Just a reminder that I'm on vacation this week, and I wanted to wish you and yours the happiest of holidays, and a safe and prosperous 2006! See you next year with more retrocomputing fun! Earl and the Evans Family

Dec 26, 2005 • 0:53

Show 025: Variety Show!

Happy Holidays and a Wonderful New Year! Welcome to Show 025!  This week is a variety show! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Commodore Returns? Not quite, but the brand name and logo live on! Check it out at the Commodore web site. Have a look at the Space-Time Productions Single Board Computer, a Z80 single board system from 1982! (Link revised Feb 2006) Need a multitasking OS with windowing UI for your Amstrad CPC? Well, you are in luck, check out the SymbOS web site for mo

Dec 20, 2005 • 27:32

Show 024: The Tandy MC-10 Micro Color Computer

Four thousand and ninety-six bytes of RAM.  Don't spend it all in one place! Welcome to Show 024!  This week we cover the Tandy MC-10 Micro Color Computer! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... See photos from the World Of Commodore show here and here! Wikipedia has a page on the MC-10.  I love that site! And old-computers.com has a great MC-10 page also! Charlie’s TRS-80 MC-10 web page has software and links for the MC-10. The trs80mc10club can be found on Yahoo! Groups (membersh

Dec 12, 2005 • 29:31

Show 023: Recollections Of Big Iron

Big Iron and Small Iron, living together in peace.  It's a wonderful world. Welcome to Show 023!  This week's topic: Recollections Of Big Iron. Topics and links discussed in the podcast... The IBM 1130 site has great information about this older system, including an emulator and some MP3s of a fun presentation.  Check it out! Have a look at a Teletype ASR33.  Wish you could hear the sound they made! With the SIMH emulator, you can visit many systems of the past, including a PDP-11 running

Dec 5, 2005 • 29:21

Show 022: VisiCalc - The Killer Application

VisiCalc was great!  That sums it up. Welcome to Show 022!  This week's topic: VisiCalc - The Killer Application Topics and links discussed in the podcast... An Atari 800 laptop?  Believe it!  Brought to you by the hardware genius of Benjamin Heckendorn. Check out Dan Bricklin's own web site, with info on VisiCalc, and a host of other information! Thanks to NerdTV for interviewing Dan Bricklin, and for making their show available under a Creative Commons license. Be sure to send any commen

Nov 28, 2005 • 27:33

Show 021: Assembly Language

Retro is in!  News at 11! Welcome to Show 021!  This week we cover Assembly Language, the Happy Place for many 8-bit programmers. Topics and links discussed in the podcast... More episodes of the C64 Take Away Podcast!  Excellent! Be sure to send any comments, questions or feedback to retrobits@gmail.com. For online discussions on Retrobits Podcast topics, check out the Retrobits Podcast forum on the PETSCII Forums page! Our Theme Song is "Sweet" from the "Re-Think" album by Galigan. Thank

Nov 21, 2005 • 40:57

Show 020: The Bad, The Worse, And The Ugly

These show notes brought to you by the mighty Atari 800. Welcome to Show 020!  This week: The Bad, The Worse, And The Ugly... Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Cyber1.org is a group of people dedicated to the preservation of the world's first computer-based community, PLATO. Check out this episode of Computer Chronicles: First of a two-part series on on-line services such as CompuServe, the Source and DowJones, featuring Steve Case, at the time VP of Marketing at QuantumLink, a

Nov 14, 2005 • 31:57

Show 019: The ZX Spectrum +3

Is it "Zee", or "Zed"?  I am having letter anxiety. Welcome to Show 019!  This week's topic: The ZX Spectrum +3! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... QuantumLink Reloaded was on display at the Vintage Computer Festival 8.0! There is now a Retrobits Podcast Discussion Forum, courtesy of Jeff Ledger and the PETSCII Forum!  Thanks Jeff! The World Of Spectrum has a file archive, technical docs, links, and more! If you want to run a Spectrum emulator straight from your Java-enabled web

Nov 7, 2005 • 27:01

Show 018: Retro Books and Movies

[Insert witty retro reference here.] Welcome to Show 018!  This week's topic: Retro Books and Movies! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Computer Collector Newsletter, a weekly newsletter for vintage computer collectors! Interesting in buying a ZX81 kit, a ready to build retro computer?  Zebra Systems might just have what you need! Ah, the sounds of music from 8-bit chips...  Check out Chiptunes on the flat four site! The Spectacular Rise and Fall of Commodore...I'm picking up my

Oct 31, 2005 • 29:18

Show 017: Mix and Match

Formatting is such sweet sorrow... Welcome to Show 017!  This week is a Mix and Match - various topics covered, including a sound byte [sic] from Nerd TV! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Some links from Computer Chronicles, the long-running technology show now available on archive.org, including... The Apple II The Commodore 64, and BBSing A VIC-20 music composition contest using VIC Tracker?  Excellent, I've gotta try to do this... Here's a nice website for the KIM-1, the

Oct 24, 2005 • 25:18

Show 016: Abandonware

No - attaching floppy disks to the filing cabinet with a magnet is not - I repeat, not - a good way to store them. Welcome to Show 016!  This week we cover Abandonware. Topics and links discussed in the podcast... The Retroputing site - preventing the fossilization of classic computers!  Features the Particles BBS. Wikipedia to the rescue again, with a great article on Abandonware.  Check out the text, and their links. Check out the official world archive for the Sinclair ZX Spectrum and t

Oct 17, 2005 • 29:07

Show 015: The Bulletin Board System Part II

Double Sided.  Double Density.  Guaranteed. Welcome to Show 015!  This week's topic: The Bulletin Board System, Part II! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... I got my Atari Peripheral Emulator software and CD archive from Atarimax!  Yee hah, Atari madness for me. I'm learning Atari Player/Missile Graphics in BASIC from the book archive on AtariArchives.org. Phillip was able to attend the Classic Gaming Expo UK recently - looks like fun! At that Classic Gaming Expo, a lucky person h

Oct 10, 2005 • 33:21

Show 014: Retrobits Behind The Scenes

8 bit computers aren't slower.  They're just more relaxed. Welcome to Show 014!  This week we go "behind the scenes" at Retrobits! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Syndicomm Online members get access to exclusive forums, which include bulletin boards, chat rooms, and file libraries. Membership also includes an email address, personal web site, and optional business features such as DNS service and full-service hosting. http://www.syndicomm.com Not much by way of links this week!

Oct 2, 2005 • 45:03

Show 013: QuantumLink Reloaded

My Commodore 64 boots faster than your P4 @ 3 GHz.  No contest. Welcome to Show 013!  This week's topic - QuantumLink Reloaded! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Syndicomm Online members get access to exclusive forums, which include bulletin boards, chat rooms, and file libraries. Membership also includes an email address, personal web site, and optional business features such as DNS service and full-service hosting. http://www.syndicomm.com Also check out the A2Central website f

Sep 26, 2005 • 36:46

Show 012: Emulators vs The Real Thing - The Ultimate Face-off!

MMMMM  MMMMM  MMMMM  MMMMM  MMMMM M   M  M        M    M   M  M   M MMMMM  MMM      M    MMMMM  M   M M  M   M        M    M M    M   M M   M  MMMMM    M    M  MM  MMMMM MMMM   MMMMM  MMMMM  MMMMM M   M    M      M    M MMMM     M      M    MMMMM M   M    M      M        M MMMM   MMMMM    M    MMMMM ====================================== ====================================== ====================================== Welcome to show #012!  This week's topic: Emulators versus The Real T

Sep 19, 2005 • 34:00

Show 011: The Atari 800 Home Computer

Welcome to show #011, featuring the Atari 800 Home Computer! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Demo Scene, including NTSC stuff for us North American folks...at the Driven site. The full text of all 88 issues of ANTIC is available at Atari Magazines site. The Analog project is in progress at Digital Analog archive. See the Obsolete Technology Website, and make sure to check out the Atari 400/800 page! As I've come to expect, Wikipedia has a great page on the Atari 8 bit systems. T

Sep 12, 2005 • 32:50

Show 010: Variety And Retro Retail

Almost to level 5 on Jumpman...what?  I've gotta do my podcast?  Where's that pause button? Welcome to show #010!  Double digits!  This show is a variety program, followed by a brief recollection of my career as a teenage computer salesperson. Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Here's the correct link to Jeff Ledger's Guide to TelBBS!  Thanks Jeff! E-mails came in from Alan, Thurston, Brian, Mike and Jeff!  Excellent, thanks!  You made my day. This episode contains a promo for T

Sep 5, 2005 • 34:51

Show 009: The Bulletin Board System, Part I

Aren't you glad you don't have to download this show at 300 baud? Welcome to show #009!  Today we're focusing on computerized Bulletin Board Systems! Topics and links discussed in the podcast... Jeff Ledger's Guide to TelBBS will get you back in the BBS game in no time.  Miss the old BBS days?  They're back...  Be sure to check out the various links from this web page. The BBS Documentary is one of the finest historical accounts of a computing phenomenon that I've ever seen.  Hats off to

Aug 29, 2005 • 44:48

Show 008: The CP/M Operating System

64 bits?  Why, back in my day, we had to push our 8 bit computers uphill, 5 miles, in the snow... Welcome to show #008!  The star of today's show is the CP/M Operating System. Topics and links discussed in the podcast... E-mails came in from Thurstan, Alan, JagMod, Mike, Chuck and Ryan!  Excellent, and fun reading!  Thanks, the e-mails make my day. Wikipedia has a great entry on CP/M, including technical info and some links.  I am starting to use Wikipedia a lot. The "Unofficial" CP/M Web Si

Aug 22, 2005 • 31:30

Show 007: Connecting Old and New Computers

AT DT retrobits podcast CONNECT 9600 Welcome to show #007!  Today's podcast focuses on making the connection between retro computers and modern-day PCs. Topics and links discussed in the podcast... E-mails came in from Alan, Ryan and Dave with Libsyn - thanks!  Always great to get e-mails regarding the show. The C64 Take Away Podcast is, in their words, "Your regular fix of Commodore 64 tunes, remixes, news and whatever takes our fancy. Produced and presented by Jan Lund Thomsen of Remix.Kwe

Aug 15, 2005 • 30:21

Show 006: The Commodore 128

Who says 128K of RAM isn't enough? This is show #006!  Today's podcast focuses on the Commodore 128 computer, a wonderful example of advanced 8-bit technology. As always, here are the links discussed in the podcast... The Lamp and other Apple II publications are available at A2Central.  The parent site is definitely worth checking out as well! Want to see great pictures of retro computers, including many international models?  Have a look at the Home Computer Museum. Do a Google search for

Aug 8, 2005 • 31:22

Show 005: Even Older Languages

Hello, lovers of computers old and new... This is show #005!  Thanks for sticking around - hope you enjoy the program. In addition to covering your e-mails and some interesting links, this show discusses a couple of my favorite (even older than show #003) computer languages, Fortran and COBOL.  If you'd like to dust off your old programs and give them a whirl, have a look at the links below! Braeburn provides articles about the history of computing and technology in general.  They have a r

Aug 1, 2005 • 25:28

Show 004: Potpourri

Hi there everybody! Show #4 - We're on a roll... This episode of the Retrobits Podcast is a grab bag.  There are several things I wanted to talk about, none of which would make up a central theme, so this show is "potpourri".  Here are the URLs referenced in the show: The Denial website/forum focuses on the VIC-20.  Missed this one during the VIC-20 show (#001).  Thanks to folks for pointing out this great resource! Computer Chronicles, a television program that ran from the 80s until the

Jul 25, 2005 • 33:05

Show 003: Languages, Yesterday and Today

Greetings, Retrocomputing Fans! Happy to have you here for show #3! This episode of the Retrobits Podcast focuses on a couple of popular languages from the 80s, and open-source languages in active development that carry on and extend the legacy of those languages.  Here are some of the URLs referenced in the show: The magazine New Scientist had a great article on vintage computing. Blake Patterson scribes the Byte Cellar Blog on retro computing.  Interesting stuff, and a very well-decorate

Jul 17, 2005 • 26:20

Show 002: Retrocomputing! July 9, 2005

Hello again! Glad to have you back for show #2! This episode of the Retrobits Podcast centers on the high-level view of vintage computing.  We talk about why people like retrocomputing, and how folks participate in the hobby.  Some specific websites and resources are discussed, and here is some follow-up information: The Contiki OS is a full-fledged operating system, TCP/IP stack, and web browser designed for memory-constrained systems. It's an interesting look at the way people are stretching

Jul 10, 2005 • 40:03

Show 001, June 30, 2005

Hi there! Glad to have you aboard.  This is the Blog entry for Show #001, our first effort!  I hope you find the show interesting. Here are some show notes: This episode of the Retrobits Podcast focuses on the VIC-20 computer.  The history, technology, and cultural backdrop of the computer is covered.  In addition, several programs and websites are discussed.  Here's a list of the websites referenced in the show: The VIC-20 site at Old Computers dot Com (Site Home Page)Rick Melick's VIC-20 Tribu

Jul 2, 2005 • 49:53