I Bought a $200K VAX on eBay – Now It Runs My Smart Lights!
Dave's journey of acquiring a rare VAX 4705A computer from eBay, filled with anticipation, shipping delays, and unexpected surprises, ultimately transforms his shop's LED lighting setup using this retro computing marvel.
MAIN POINTS FROM TRANSCRIPT
- Dave purchased a VAX 4705A, a rare and valuable retro computer, from eBay for $2,000.
- The VAX 705A model is highly sought after for its advanced 112 MHz Envax processor.
- Shipping delays tested Dave's patience, but the computer finally arrived in a massive crate.
- Dave discovered the model was incorrectly labeled as a 4300, not the 705A he expected.
TAKEAWAYS
- VAX machines were significant in bridging minicomputers and the PC revolution in the '80s and '90s.
- The VAX 705A is considered the crown jewel of DEC's single-core technology.
- Dave's shop features a functional museum of retro computers, each performing unique tasks.
- Despite initial disappointment, the VAX computer now controls Dave's shop's LED lighting setup.