In the fast-paced and ever-changing world, it's easy to forget the fundamental steps that led us to today's digital revolution. Fortunately, there are people who strive to preserve the historical heritage of computer science, and the Association for the History of Informatics of Southern Switzerland (AStISI) is an extraordinary example of this mission. Watching the video of the lecture given by Prof. Carlo Spinedi, we will explore the outstanding work done by AStISI and dive into the details of their impressive collection of computers, especially HP (Hewlett-Packard) and DEC (Digital Equipment Corp) systems.
AStISI: knowing the past to understand the present
AStISI, or Association for the History of Informatics of Southern Switzerland, is an organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing material and knowledge related to information technologies. Not only does it preserve the computers abandoned by SUPSI, the University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland, but also the original vintage documentation and software. Founded by Prof. Carlo Spinedi, the association has a clear motto: "knowing the past to understand the present".
AStISI's Computer Collection: HP and DEC
The precious treasure of AStISI is the collection of computers. This collection spans a wide range of systems, including several HP and Digital computers.
Among the most remarkable pieces of the HP collection of AStISI stands out the HP 9800: it is a desktop computer produced by Hewlett-Packard in the 70s. Other fascinating pieces in the AStISI collection are computers produced by DEC, including: PDP-8 (12-bit computers produced from 1965 to 1974); PDP-11 (16-bit computers produced from 1970 to 1997); VAX 11/780 (32-bit computers produced since the late 70s) and many others. These computers represent an overview of the history of computing, from mechanical machines to the most advanced systems of the 2000s.
Challenges and Mission
Preserving these relics of computer science is no easy task. AStISI faces numerous challenges, including finding permanent spaces for the collection, preserving systems in a functioning state, and involving new generations in the history of computing.
One of the main challenges is finding permanent spaces for the collection. AStISI is currently actively seeking solutions to this problem, involving the Swiss state, universities and municipalities. The preservation of the collection requires adequate space to exhibit the systems and allow the public to explore the history of computing.
Keeping systems in a functioning state is another crucial challenge. The hard drives, power supplies, plastics, and magnetic media of these computers can degrade over time. AStISI devotes considerable efforts to keep these systems up and running for future generations.
Finally, AStISI is committed to ensuring the generational passage of this knowledge. Involving young people is essential to prevent the historical memory of computer science from being lost over time. The association is interviewing people who have contributed to the evolution of computer science, helping to document and share this valuable knowledge.
Interesting?
Here's who helped make this conference so interesting.
Speaker: Carlo Spinedi
Presenter: Sergio Gervasini
Filming and audio: Fabio G. “BioMassa” Massa, Mariangela Sapia
The past of computer science is fascinating! For further interviews and conferences on Varese Retrocomputing 2023, as well as for other topics related to vintage computers, I invite you to subscribe to the YouTube channel @ValorosoIT.