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Booting UNIX from a 14", 3600rpm, 200lb Monster Hard Drive - PDP-11

Dave's Garage · · YOUTUBE

Dave embarks on a nostalgic journey to boot Unix on a PDP1 1173 using a period-correct DEC RA82 disk drive, highlighting the mechanical intricacies and challenges of handling vintage computing hardware.

MAIN POINTS FROM TRANSCRIPT
  1. Dave aims to boot Unix on a PDP1 1173 using a DEC RA82 disk drive.
  2. The RA82 drive features 14-inch platters, a 3600 RPM belt drive, and servo motors.
  3. Handling the nearly 200 lbs RA82 drive required a hydraulic scissor lift for safe installation.
  4. The RA82's front panel includes essential controls like run, fault, and ready indicators.
TAKEAWAYS
  1. Vintage computing hardware offers unique challenges and nostalgic satisfaction.
  2. The RA82 drive's design reflects industrial elegance and functional simplicity.
  3. Proper equipment, like a hydraulic lift, is crucial for handling heavy vintage hardware.
  4. The RA82's dual microprocessors manage mechanical and communication tasks efficiently.
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