Retrocomputing

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The 1977 Apple II, popular amongst hobbyists in retrocomputing.

Retrocomputing is a term used to describe the use of old computer hardware and software today. Retrocomputing is classed as a hobby and recreation, enthusiasts often collect valuable hardware and software and also make use of it^[1]. Many people have personal computer museums, with collections of working vintage computers such as Apple IIs, IBM PCs and Commodores. However, retrocomputing is often accomplished through emulation on more modern computers rather than using real hardware.

1 Historical retrocomputing
2 Examples
3 See also
4 External links
5 Notes

[edit] Historical retrocomputing

A more serious line of retrocomputing is part of the history of computing. It can be seen as the analogue of experimental archaeology in computing. Some notable examples include the reconstruction of Babbage's Difference engine (more than a century after its design) and the implementation of Plankalkül in 2000 (more than half a century since its inception).

[edit] Examples

An example of retrocomputing is the IBM 1130 computing system from 1966 which still has a following of interested users, albeit mostly via a simulator rather than the real thing.