Computers

Data rich, but information poor.


My interest with computers was first kindled when I enrolled in a keypunching class, keypunch cards, and all I learned was how to use the keyboard and read the Hollerith card.

Then, I took classes in BASIC and COBOL, both of which I came to understand after finishing the class rather than during the class. The possibilities intrigued me.

Even back then, computing was crude by today's standards. The tools were DOS, WordStar, Lotus 123, and Harvard Graphics. I have to resort to the Assembly language and C to run graphics programs. The buzz words were CP/M, TRS80, Apple II and Z80. My PC's memory was 16KB. I was already static if I could use a PC with 64KB.

Things got better with the introduction of dBASE II. But, that's ages ago.

Fast forward. Today, PCs won't run well if its's not 16 MB not KB. It now comes with a mouse pointer. Now, you can actually see the output of your work prior to printing. Not only that you can even see the work of others and view them online even though the files are remote using the Web technology.

But enterprises have more challenges than just better interfaces and productivity tools. I was introduced into enterprise computing with the RS/6000 running AIX in 1990s. Then, I moved on in 1993 to the AlphaServers running Tru64 UNIX from Digital Equipment Corporation which was later bought by Compaq Computer Corp.

Transition from technical to marketing work ...

From dumb terminals of the VT100 ...
to the Windows of today's desktops and portables!

Compaq Enterprise NonStop Servers

NonStop Himalaya,
64-bit AlphaServers