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The Feature Creep

Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: Boston, MA
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"How computers Work" 1970's style

06/29/2005 1:02 PM

Wonder how far we've come in computing. The Ladybird book "How Computers Work" from 1971 has been scanned in. It is a children's book, but it is a fascinating read. The detailed explanation on haw punch cards were read was especially interesting. As for kitsch value the "personal business computer that would be hard pressed to fit in a modern cube is hilarious.

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Guru
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#1

Well Written

06/29/2005 1:17 PM

For those who believe that the written word been "dumbed down" over time, this so-called children's book offers a measure of proof. The descriptions are clear but complex.

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The Feature Creep

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#4
In reply to #1

Re:Well Written

06/29/2005 2:46 PM

They assume that if your reading it that your are technically minded. When i worked in a bookstore there were some excellently complex books on dinosaurs written for children. There were glossaries, but they just simplified the vocabulary.
Publishers now a day assume that children lack the ability to understand complex topics. They underestimate the passion these kids have for certain topics.

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The Engineer
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#2

Where do I put the coins?

06/29/2005 2:38 PM

The mainframe on the second page looks like the Dove St. laundromat.

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The Feature Creep

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Posts: 990
#3
In reply to #2

Re:Where do I put the coins?

06/29/2005 2:42 PM

Sad thing is that is not a mainframe, thats a minicomputer from the looks of it.

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