My third Lenovo ThinkPad has a new lease on life.
Continue reading Reviving the W541 with OpenIndianaTag: thinkpad
Top 5 Most Wanted (Vintage) Computers: 2020 Edition
A couple years ago, I listed my top five choices for vintage computer models I’d like to own. I thought I’d do a follow-up and see what has changed.
So, let’s look at my choices.
5. Apple II

The Apple II maintains its position in fifth place. The computer is the epitome of the early personal computing industry. Introduced in 1977 by the fledgling Apple Computer, this computer needs very little introduction. (Click here to learn more.)
The Apple II is plentiful and easy to find; they were mass-produced over a span of 16 years with many different models (Apple II, II Plus, IIe, IIc, IIgs.) However, the Apple II can be somewhat difficult to use.
4. IBM PC or PS/2

The IBM PC is a landmark computer in computing history. Introduced in 1981, it started the entire PC and “PC-Clone” industry, using Intel processors and Microsoft’s MS-DOS (eventually Windows.) After several iterations of the original IBM PC, IBM introduced the PS/2 (Personal System/2) series in 1987 as a replacement for the original PC, introducing new standards and ports.
The PC or PS/2 is a must for any vintage computer collection. The original IBM PC can run early versions of MS-DOS (and PC-DOS) whereas the PS/2 can run newer versions and even early Windows versions. Like the Apple II, the PC is based around MS-DOS – a command-line interface, making it somewhat difficult to use.
3. IBM ThinkPad (pre-2000)

The ThinkPad has long been heralded by many as one of the best Windows laptops on the market. Having owned a couple (and typing this on one), I can agree.
While I have the IBM ThinkPad T42, I’d like to have a portable IBM ThinkPad that can run earlier versions of Windows between 3.11 and 98.
2. 486 Gateway 2000

My second choice is a PC-Clone that was my first computer: a 486-based Gateway 2000 running Windows 3.11.
Besides the nostalgia of being my first computer, the Gateway 2000 can run many of the popular games and software of the early 1990s. With Windows 3.11, it is easy to use and features a graphical user interface. However, Windows 3.11 still has the MS-DOS underlay, so I can go into MS-DOS when I want to.
Unfortunately, Gateway 2000 models (prior to the 1997 name change) are somewhat rare and expensive.
1. Macintosh SE/30

Strangely, #1 in my original post is now my first choice.
Instead of generalizing it as just “Compact Macs” (like I did in 2018), I’ve narrowed it down to the Macintosh SE/30. The SE/30 is old enough that it has that “early Mac” charm, but new enough that it can run many of the games and software of the era. The SE/30 has the Motorola 68030 processor, which places it above the SE and many other Macs of the era.
Unfortunately, vintage Macs are not plentiful in my area… and are expensive when they come up for sale.
New Computer: ThinkPad W541 (First Impressions)
After the ThinkPad T450 died an early and unfortunate death in early October, a replacement computer was sourced.
Continue reading New Computer: ThinkPad W541 (First Impressions)T450 & Pinnacle Update: 10/31/2018
Happy Halloween!
Continue reading T450 & Pinnacle Update: 10/31/2018T450 Display Issues
The ThinkPad T450 I purchased back in July has been working flawlessly… until now.
Continue reading T450 Display IssuesNew ThinkPad: ThinkPad T450 (First Impressions)
After a week of waiting, I finally received my refurbished ThinkPad T450… which will be serving as my new daily driver. Continue reading New ThinkPad: ThinkPad T450 (First Impressions)
Computer Updates – 4/6/2018
It’s been a while since the last update. So, how have things been going? Continue reading Computer Updates – 4/6/2018
A Look At: Pale Moon (Web Browser)
Since the T420 went down, I’ve been scrambling to find a way to at least use the T42 for some things… Continue reading A Look At: Pale Moon (Web Browser)
Top 5 Most Wanted Computers
Just like people who collect cars, movies, pyrex, and tupperware, there are always things you want to collect within that hobby. And while there are quite a few models of computers I’d like to eventually own – I’ll include my top five (reasonable) choices here and talk about them a little bit. Continue reading Top 5 Most Wanted Computers
Update: 2/5/2018
Recently, the ideas have been flowing like a river… Continue reading Update: 2/5/2018