I started my computing journey in 1981 on a ZX81 (aged 16), bought a 16k ram pack and thermal printer. Spent a year entering/loosing data and cursing the wobbly 16k ram pack.
in 1982 moving on to a Spectrum 48k, later upgrading to a plus case, SpecDrum, micro drives etc.
I purchased a Spectrum 128+3 which was soon abandoned for 16 bit computing.
Around 1987 I purchased an 520 STFM and forgetting the quirky Sinclair computers. Marvelling at the colours, resolution, power and 3.5" disk.
I mainly played ST games, but also dabbled with synthesizers and Midi keyboards learning to play piano. Finally upgrading the memory to 1024mb . A nerve racking experience with soldering iron and de-solder pump. To my relief it survived.
Eventually in 1992 I turned to the dark-side, buying a 386 PC. These days I use PC'S, Raspberry pies, Arduinos/micro controllers and relive my past with retro computers.
Current restoration projects: 520 STFM, 1040 STE, Amiga 500, ZX spectrum 128 toast rack.
Retro computers repaired and working: ZX81, ZX spectrum 48K, ZX spectrum 48K plus and ZX spectrum 128+2.
Ongoing builds: ZX81Plus38 clone (working needs a case), sizif 512 spectrum clone(partially completed), dram testers and a TZXduino.
Alas all the above retro computers are not my originals. Looking back at the list also explains why my bank accounts empty
Cheers
Adrian
