Is anyone here into vintage computer stuff?

[PJMcK]

2. Thanks, but no thanks

Like you, I have far too much older computer hardware, software, manuals and various additional equipment and cables. Over the years, I've discovered that none of it has any value because I don't use it and no one else wants it.

This detritus accumulates so every few years, I have to go through the drawers and cabinets and dispose of the junk. After all, once you migrate to a newer and faster machine, why go back? Since I'm mostly self-employed, I try to keep two systems running, one for work and one for home. Further, I like to overlap them by a few years so they stay functional and up-to-date. This way I always have a backup system if any problems develop.

One particular beef I have with computer equipment is when the hardware manufacturers change a standard such as a particular cable or plug. Instantly, my older equipment is obsolete. For example, when Apple changed their printer connectors from the Apple Data Bus to USB. Obviously, USB is better but that meant that my laser printer would no longer be compatible with a new computer. When I upgraded, I needed new peripherals. I still have a ZIP drive somewhere and I found an older but beautiful flat-screen monitor (which is no longer compatible). Time for a trip to the recycling center.

Good luck with your stuff!