[Info-vax] OS implementation languages

[terry-...@glaver.org]

On Saturday, August 26, 2023 at 8:51:02 AM UTC-4, bill wrote:
> After installing MicroVMS from that box of RX50's a TK50 would be 
> like trading in a VW for a Ferrari. 

Yup - expensive and requires a lot of service 8-}

I had MicroVAX II External Field Test serial #414 which came with
a TK50 (this was the original TK50 that just had the lighted button -
the blinking green activity LED* was still in the future). The very first
time we tried to use it, the tape got stuck in the drive.

I asked a DEC tech who happened to be on-site for some other 
issue to look at it (I had it out of the BA123 on a table). He said,
and I quote, "DEC wouldn't make a piece of <bleep> like that".

* DEC kept adding LEDs to subsequent models, culminating in a
ridiculous 10 front panel LEDs in the DLT8000. And even that was
not enough - they issued a firmware update to dual-purpose the
"operate handle" LED when they fixed the issue of door lock 
solenoids burning out. When Quantum took over ownership of
the product line (as opposed to just manufacturing) their first new
design was a big departure with just 3 LEDs - ready/activity, write
lock, and fault.