[Info-vax] VMS Hobbyist Program

[David Goodwin]

On Thursday, July 30, 2020 at 1:23:43 AM UTC+12, Colin Butcher wrote:
> I asked the Office of OpenVMS Programmes about a final issue of the HPE 
> hobbyist programme PAKs for OpenVMS, including VAX. I received this answer:
> 
> "We’re issuing hobbyist licenses for the last time that are valid for a 
> longer duration. Those who are interested can reach out using the 
> existing process."
> 
> Sort of good news. As I understand it, the existing process is via the 
> hobbyist portal, which seems to be at: 
> https://www.hpe.com/h41268/live/index_e.aspx?qid=24548

Interesting that there is still someone at HPE answering OpenVMS-related emails! I guess these are the people who are in charge of the people in charge of issuing Hobbyist licenses? While its extremely unlikely I do wonder if someone there could be convinced to try and rescue hobbyist VAXen. Perhaps issue a non-expiring hobbyist license before they turn off the lights and shutdown all OpenVMS activity at HPE for good.

Instead of dreaming I should probably just get on and finish re-capping the MicroVAX 3500s power supplies and fixing up the destruction caused by the batteries in my two VAXstation 2000s so they can at least boot OpenVMS at least one last time.