[Info-vax] VAX/VMS is not VMS. Not any more.

[Dave Froble]

On 7/31/2022 8:31 PM, Simon Clubley wrote:
> VAX/VMS is no longer VMS. VMS has developed greatly since those days.

Simon says ...

> Suggesting that people learn VMS by sticking them in front of a VAX/VMS
> machine makes about as much sense as telling people to learn Windows by
> sticking them in front of a Windows 98 or Windows 2000 machine.

To learn how to use the WEENDOZE GUI, either one would work.  DCL on a VAX is 
rather similar to DCL on x86 VMS.

> VAX/VMS is so limited compared to later versions of VMS (even Alpha)
> that it is extremely counter productive to tell people to learn VMS by
> making VAX/VMS their first exposure to VMS, especially when a hobbyist
> version of Alpha VMS is freely available to use.

The recent topic was a person with a MicroVAX 3100 Model 40 who wanted to 
resurrect it.  Not something I'd do, but we're not talking about me.

Also mentioned was a MicroVAX 2000, which I'm glad I do not have one.

Are you having fun telling them they cannot pursue their hobby?

And another example.  Basic is still 32 bit, and, Basic on a VAX has more 
capabilities than on newer systems.  There is the "immediate mode" that acts 
like an interpreter.  Only on VAX.  Also totally adequate for someone to learn 
how to use VAX Basic, knowledge usable on the latest VMS systems.

> The only reason you would stick someone in front of a Windows 2000 machine
> these days is to show them how to design a proper GUI that is functional,
> productive, and easy to follow. VAX/VMS doesn't even have that going for it.

See above concerning VAX Basic ...

> Oh, and neither HPE or VSI killed VAX/VMS. The changing nature of technology
> did that.

VAX maybe, but not VMS ...

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