The hottest Computers Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Technology Topics

Nvidia's Unique History and Culture

The Asianometry Newsletter • 7614 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Computers Gaming Innovation Business strategy Corporate culture
  1. NVIDIA's success comes from a strong work ethic and a unique company culture that encourages honesty and speed. They focus on being direct and efficient in their communication.
  2. The leadership of Jensen Huang has been crucial for NVIDIA, as he continuously motivates employees to aim high and pushes the boundaries of what's possible in technology.
  3. Long-term thinking, like the development of CUDA, is key to NVIDIA’s strategy. They invest in innovations that may not pay off immediately, but will lead to big gains in the future.

NCR PC4i

Computer Ads from the Past • 640 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Computers History Ads Reviews Hardware
  1. NCR started as a cash register company and later moved into computing technology after World War II. They became known for their robust computers like the PT4 and PC4i, which were designed to compete with IBM.
  2. The NCR PC4i was praised for its durability and good build quality, making it suitable for heavy computer use. It was not portable, weighing 50 pounds, but offered performance and exceptional compatibility with existing software.
  3. NCR provided excellent customer support for their computers and included user-friendly software with detailed documentation, making their machines accessible for users.

Creative Computing Magazine Interviews Clive Sinclair (1980)

Computer Ads from the Past • 640 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Computers Electronics History Interviews
  1. Clive Sinclair started his electronics career in 1962 and created several groundbreaking products, including the first mass pocket calculator and the ZX-80 computer.
  2. The ZX-80 was designed to help people learn about computers at a low cost, and it was expandable with additional features like a more professional version of Basic programming.
  3. Sinclair's company aimed to lead in technology with innovations like flat screen TVs and portable systems, focusing on making their products reliable and affordable.

Can anyone slow Nvidia down?

Alex's Personal Blog • 230 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🕹 Technology AI Computers Gaming Social media Business
  1. Nvidia's new 50-series GPUs are impressive and expected to boost their popularity among gamers. Many people are excited but it's unclear when they'll be widely available at the announced price.
  2. Nvidia is launching Project Digits, a personal AI supercomputer, priced around $3,000. This makes powerful AI more accessible for developers at home or small businesses.
  3. Meta is changing its policies under new leadership, focusing on less fact-checking and more political content. This shift is seen as catering to a Republican audience, which might affect how news is shared and perceived.

This New Internet Thing, Chapter 25

Life Since the Baby Boom • 461 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🕹 Technology Internet Computers Television Startups Finance
  1. Len is looking for ways to get hired in the tech world. He knows he has the skills, but he wonders how to get noticed by the big players in Silicon Valley.
  2. The team at Palm is excited about a new handheld product called Touchdown. They are focusing on what customers really need and ignoring unnecessary features to make it great.
  3. Len and Dan go on a TV show to talk about their work with the Internet and crime. They manage to discuss their mutual fund and share how technology helps with their investigations.
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Maxell's MF 2-DD Floppies

Computer Ads from the Past • 256 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Computers Electronics History Innovation Advertising
  1. Maxell started in 1960 as a battery company and later became well-known for making storage devices like audio cassette tapes.
  2. The MF 2-DD floppies from Maxell were a product in their lineup, showcasing the evolution of computer storage over the years.
  3. Maxell has a rich history of innovation, being the first to produce certain types of batteries and tapes in Japan.

10 Beautifully Designed 1980's Sony Computers That Never Quite Delivered

Obsolete Sony’s Newsletter • 119 implied HN points • 08 Aug 24
🕹 Technology Computers Design History Innovation Consumer Electronics
  1. Sony was a key player in creating the MSX standard for home computers in the 1980s. This platform aimed to unify computer use and consumer electronics.
  2. Sony's MSX computers had creative designs and various models, but they faced tough competition and technical limits.
  3. Although they didn't change the home computing landscape as hoped, these Sony computers are still cool examples of 1980s tech innovation.

Dipco's Easy Reader

Computer Ads from the Past • 256 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Computers Advertising History Design Consumer Electronics
  1. Dipco's Easy Reader was a product that seems to have little information available about it. It was likely a simple device meant to help users with their old computers.
  2. The price of $34 (in 2024 money) feels expensive for what appears to be just a lens and a bracket. It's unclear if it was worth the cost.
  3. No significant history or reviews are known about Dipco, suggesting it may have been a small operation that didn’t gain much traction.

Old School Tape Loading

atomic14 • 173 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Computers Software Programming Electronics
  1. Old school tape loading is a nostalgic experience for those who grew up using classic computers like the ZX Spectrum. It brings back memories of how we waited for games to load, often with characteristic sounds.
  2. Using modern technology, like the ESP32, makes it possible to load audio data directly instead of using tapes. This method is faster and more reliable, ensuring a better experience than the original tape loading.
  3. To protect newer devices from the risks of playing audio signals, a simple circuit can be set up. This prevents damage from high voltages while allowing the audio to be used effectively.

Notes on Chapter 25

Life Since the Baby Boom • 230 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Computers Software Internet Innovation Media
  1. Meeting discussions often become unproductive when everyone tries to push their own favorite features instead of focusing on what's best for the product. Clear decision-making is essential to avoid mediocrity.
  2. Successful product development requires someone in charge who can confidently say 'no' to less important ideas, making it easier to prioritize essential features.
  3. Media strategy can be very effective when interviews are used to direct the conversation toward key topics, allowing for a more focused and engaging presentation.

Has the time come to take Mortal Computing seriously?

State of the Future • 32 implied HN points • 30 Apr 25
🕹 Technology Computers AI Hardware Software Innovation
  1. Mortal Computing is about embracing variability and imperfections in technology, moving away from the current trend of making every chip identical and perfect.
  2. Weakly Mortal designs could lead to huge gains in performance and efficiency by using smart systems that adapt to different conditions, instead of relying on perfect chips.
  3. Strongly Mortal computing could potentially unlock amazing new technologies, like self-repairing machines and entirely new types of computing that could change how we interact with technology.

[214.] Hello. Happy Anniversary Macintosh!

Hardcore Software • 694 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
🕹 Technology Computers Software Operating Systems Programming Digital Art
  1. The introduction of the Apple Macintosh in 1984 profoundly changed computing and many people's lives
  2. The Macintosh brought empowerment, elegance, and a sense of mastery to users and developers, setting a new standard in the industry
  3. The Macintosh's impact was widespread, transforming document creation, software development, and user experiences on college campuses and beyond

My favorite 1980's Canadian TV show: Bits and Bytes

Omar’s Writing • 185 HN points • 11 May 24
🕹 Technology Computers Education Tech Culture Digital Literacy
  1. In the 1980's TV show Bits and Bytes, the creators had a high expectation of what the average person could understand about computers, aiming to educate at a very basic level on computer usage.
  2. Explaining technical matters to the average person should avoid oversimplification and strive to provide useful truths, similar to how Bits and Bytes used metaphors while maintaining honesty.
  3. When explaining complex technical matters today, it is important to strike a balance between abstraction and detailed knowledge, recognizing that the average person is capable of understanding if sufficiently motivated.

Don't use functional programming languages

CodeFaster • 36 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Programming Software Development Computers Tech Trends
  1. Functional programming languages can be slow and may not match your thinking style. It's better to use a language that feels natural to you.
  2. Python has a lot of library support and community help, making it easier to find solutions and resources.
  3. While functional programming concepts like map and filter are useful, you can learn them without relying on functional programming languages.

The Arm Story Part 2 : Archimedes to Advanced RISC Machines

The Chip Letter • 2839 implied HN points • 19 Feb 23
🕹 Technology History Computers Innovation Startups Mobile
  1. Acorn built a fast microcomputer called ARM but struggled to sell it, leading to Apple acquiring the technology and creating a separate company - ARM.
  2. The Acorn team focused on keeping manufacturing costs low for ARM, making it affordable and power-efficient compared to other designs at the time.
  3. The Archimedes, powered by ARM chips, received positive reviews for its speed and performance, offering a cost-effective alternative to other computers available.

Santa's Souped-Up MEGA65

Dan’s MEGA65 Digest • 22 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Computers Software Gaming Development Community
  1. The MEGA65 community is thriving with exciting new projects and downloads, showcasing the talent and enthusiasm of its members.
  2. New tools like SidPlay65 and COPA65 enhance the music and text editing experience on the MEGA65, making it more fun and user-friendly.
  3. Projects such as full-color video demos and powerful file browsers show that innovation continues to grow in the MEGA65 ecosystem.

VenturCom's VENIX

Computer Ads from the Past • 384 implied HN points • 19 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Computers Operating Systems Software Development Tech History
  1. VenturCom was founded in 1980 and worked on various projects including Venix, Windows NT, and Windows CE. They later changed their name to Ardence, which was acquired by Citrix Systems before becoming IntervalZero.
  2. Venix was one of the first UNIX systems for IBM PCs, based on Version 7 Unix with enhancements. It had different versions released over the years and received feedback on pricing, performance, and features compared to other similar systems like Xenix.
  3. Reviews from publications like PC Magazine and Dr. Dobb's Journal praised Venix's compatibility with System V Unix, while also highlighting areas for improvement like bugs, DOS interface, and third-party software support.

eisenhower as cybernetician

Dan Davies - "Back of Mind" • 373 implied HN points • 30 Jun 23
🕹 Technology Cybernetics Systems theory Decision-making Information Technology Computers
  1. Dwight Eisenhower highlighted the importance of maintaining balance in national programs and between private and public sectors.
  2. There was a new decision-making system created by the conjunction of military and industrial establishments.
  3. The warning was given that this system could generate outcomes not necessarily desired, seek growth, and be influenced by technological advancements.

Tano Dragon

Computer Ads from the Past • 640 implied HN points • 31 Aug 23
🕹 Technology Computers History Reviews Operating System Bankruptcy
  1. Dragon Data Ltd was a Welsh company that released the Dragon 32 and Dragon 64 computers in the early 1980s.
  2. The Dragon 32 was known for using the Motorola MC6809E processor and included an extended version of Microsoft BASIC.
  3. Despite initial success, Dragon Data faced financial challenges, underwent ownership changes, and eventually filed for bankruptcy.

THINK's Lightspeed C

Computer Ads from the Past • 512 implied HN points • 27 Sep 23
🕹 Technology Computers Programming Software Tech Companies Computer History
  1. Lightspeed C was a C programming language software developed in the mid-1980s for Atari systems and Macintosh computers.
  2. Clearstar Softechnologies created Lightspeed C for Atari systems in 1985, and the company was later purchased by Omega Soft in 1988.
  3. THINK Technologies released Lightspeed C for Mac and later renamed it to THINK C in the mid-1980s, receiving positive reviews for its speed and user-friendliness.

No One AI Model Will Rule the World

The Algorithmic Bridge • 254 implied HN points • 28 Feb 24
🕹 Technology AI Computers Generative AI Supercomputers Industry
  1. The generative AI industry is diverse and resembles the automotive industry, with a wide range of options catering to different needs and preferences of users.
  2. Just like in the computer industry, there are various types and brands of AI models available, each optimized for different purposes and preferences of users.
  3. Generative AI space is not a single race towards AGI, but rather consists of multiple players aiming for different goals, leading to a heterogeneous and stable landscape.

Comparing the Names of Various Retro Computers

Goto 10: The Newsletter for Atari Enthusiasts • 117 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Computers Brands Graphics Innovations
  1. Product naming can be challenging even today, as seen in the variety of names given to retro computers.
  2. Using numbers was a common naming convention for retro computers, such as Apple II, Commodore 64, and Atari 520ST.
  3. The name of a product plays a significant role in its success and recognition, with memorable names like Atari and Amiga standing out.

Primordial USB on Atari 8-bits

Goto 10: The Newsletter for Atari Enthusiasts • 117 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Computers Connectivity Design History
  1. Atari 8-bit computers were more advanced than other personal computers of the late 1970s, with superior graphics and design.
  2. Atari used a well-designed Serial Input/Output (SIO) connector for peripherals, allowing easy connection and daisy-chaining of devices.
  3. The Atari SIO connector, developed by Joe Decuir, served as a predecessor to the USB standard due to its single-port, plug-and-play design.

The truth is out there

benn.substack • 511 implied HN points • 12 May 23
🕹 Technology AI Data Analysis Computers Software
  1. Computers can approach problems in ways humans can't, like Deep Blue's moves in chess.
  2. AI progress often comes from scaling computation by search and learning, not by mimicking human reasoning.
  3. Considering new approaches that leverage computation over human knowledge could help solve complex problems like pricing optimization.

The desktop and its disappearance

Kosmik’s Newsletter • 98 implied HN points • 18 Jan 24
🕹 Technology Computers Software Web Cloud
  1. The development of the desktop metaphor started with making computers more approachable and user-friendly.
  2. Over time, the desktop evolved to include features like Mission Control to help users manage an increasing number of apps and files.
  3. Advancements in web technologies have led to a shift towards cloud-based desktop environments like Kosmik 2.0, offering users a more flexible and productive digital habitat.

Orange Micro's OrangePC

Computer Ads from the Past • 256 implied HN points • 20 Nov 23
🕹 Technology Computers Emulation Performance
  1. Orange Micro's OrangePC was a hardware solution for Mac users to run DOS and Windows applications.
  2. OrangePC provided a Wintel-compatible computer with features like Pentium processors, sound emulation, and VGA support.
  3. Compared to software emulators like SoftPC, OrangePC offered faster performance and better integration between Mac and PC applications.

Reviving Chromebooks with Ubuntu: Autonomous Servers, Planned Obsolescence, and Permacomputing

Sunshine and Seedlings: A Newsletter by HydroponicTrash • 98 HN points • 24 Mar 23
🕹 Technology Computers Sustainability DIY Environmentalism
  1. Chromebooks are often discarded and become obsolete due to planned obsolescence by companies like Google.
  2. Reviving old Chromebooks with Ubuntu can turn them into useful autonomous servers, reducing waste.
  3. Permacomputing offers a sustainable approach to technology, focusing on reuse, modular design, and stewardship of resources.

Do Macs Still Matter?

CIRP - Apple Report • 39 implied HN points • 21 Jun 23
🕹 Technology Computers Apple Consumers
  1. Consumers still want Mac computers despite the shift to mobile-first computing era.
  2. Apple refreshed the high-end Mac desktops and introduced a new larger MacBook Air with a 15" display.
  3. Laptops dominate Mac computer sales, accounting for over three-quarters of sales in the recent twelve-month period.

The language of command

Nick Merrill • 39 implied HN points • 28 Jul 23
🕹 Technology AI Computers Programming Ethics Research
  1. In bureaucratic contexts, commands are linguistically coded, associated with power relations.
  2. Computers operate on commands, reflecting cultural stories about labor discipline and efficiency.
  3. AI challenges the traditional power dynamics associated with commanding computers, raising existential questions for users.

The Computers Are Disappearing.

The Digital Anthropologist • 19 implied HN points • 10 Nov 23
🕹 Technology AI Computers User Interfaces
  1. Computers are becoming less visible in our daily lives, blending into the background as they help us live more interesting and easier lives.
  2. The future may involve interacting with technology in more intuitive and less obtrusive ways, possibly through spoken commands, knobs, sliders, and interactive screens.
  3. As technology advances, we could see a shift towards simpler yet more sophisticated devices that perform tasks efficiently without unnecessary complexities or constant troubleshooting.

Pascal: The language that almost took over the world part 1

Deus In Machina • 36 implied HN points • 26 Oct 23
🕹 Technology Programming Languages Computers Operating Systems Software Development
  1. Pascal language was designed with a focus on clean and readable code, making it ideal for teaching programming.
  2. Turbo Pascal revolutionized programming by combining editing, compiling, and linking steps in one integrated environment.
  3. The decline of Pascal was due to factors like its focus on teaching, rapid advancements in computing technology, and the popularity of Unix and C programming language.