RPCEmu emulates Risc PC systems, including the A7000 and various StrongARM-based machines. It accurately recreates the hardware of these Acorn computers, allowing users to run original RISC OS software, including applications, games, and the desktop environment itself. The emulator boasts high compatibility and performance, supporting features like ARMv3, ARMv4, and StrongARM CPUs, FPA math co-processor, VIDC1 and VIDC20 graphics, and various sound and networking devices. RPCEmu aims for complete hardware accuracy, making it a valuable tool for preserving and experiencing these classic Acorn systems.
Acorn Computers, born from a Cambridge-based electronics shop, evolved from early microcomputers like the System 1 to the iconic BBC Micro, fueled by a partnership with the British Broadcasting Corporation. This success spurred further development, including the ARM architecture, born from the Acorn RISC Machine project, and the Archimedes range utilizing this new processor. Despite innovative designs like the Acorn RISC PC and the Network Computer, Acorn struggled against the growing dominance of the PC market. Ultimately, Acorn transitioned into ARM Ltd, focusing solely on the increasingly successful ARM processor design, leaving behind its legacy of influential computers and its profound impact on the UK computing landscape.
Hacker News users discuss the linked history of Acorn Computers, praising its comprehensiveness and detailed technical information. Several commenters reminisce about their experiences with Acorn machines, particularly the BBC Micro and Archimedes, highlighting their role in the UK's computing history and education. Some discuss the innovative features of Acorn's RISC architecture and its influence on ARM processors. Others mention Acorn's business struggles and the eventual dominance of x86, while acknowledging the company's lasting legacy through ARM. A few users also share personal anecdotes about using Acorn machines for programming, gaming, and even running small businesses. The overall sentiment is one of nostalgia and appreciation for Acorn's contributions to the computing world.
NotepadJS is a cross-platform, open-source text editor inspired by the simplicity of Windows Notepad. Built with web technologies (HTML, CSS, and JavaScript) using Electron, it aims to provide a lightweight and distraction-free writing experience across different operating systems. It supports essential features like basic text editing, find and replace, customizable themes, and automatic file saving, while intentionally avoiding more complex functionalities found in full-fledged code editors. The project focuses on maintaining a clean and minimal interface, prioritizing speed and ease of use for quick note-taking and text manipulation.
Hacker News users generally praised NotepadJS for its simplicity and cross-platform compatibility, viewing it as a welcome alternative to Electron-based text editors. Some appreciated its small size and speed, while others suggested potential improvements like syntax highlighting, tabbed interfaces, and mobile support. A few commenters pointed out existing similar projects like Lite XL and discussed the merits of using Tauri versus Electron for such applications. The developer's choice of using vanilla JavaScript also garnered positive feedback. Some expressed nostalgia for simpler text editors and lauded the project for fulfilling a specific need for a lightweight, no-frills notepad application.
Raycast, a productivity tool startup, is hiring a remote, full-stack engineer based in the EU. The role offers a competitive salary ranging from €105,000 to €160,000 and involves working on their core product, extensions platform, and community features using technologies like React, TypeScript, and Node.js. Ideal candidates have experience building and shipping high-quality software and a passion for developer tools and improving user workflows. They are looking for engineers who thrive in a fast-paced environment and are excited to contribute to a growing product.
HN commenters discuss Raycast's hiring post, mostly focusing on the high salary range offered (€105k-€160k) for remote, EU-based full-stack engineers. Some express skepticism about the top end of the range being realistically attainable, while others note it's competitive with FAANG salaries. Several commenters praise Raycast as a product and express interest in working there, highlighting the company's positive reputation within the developer community. A few users question the long-term viability of launcher apps like Raycast, while others defend their utility and potential for growth. The overall sentiment towards the job posting is positive, with many seeing it as an attractive opportunity.
Grayjay is a desktop application designed to simplify self-hosting for personal use. It offers a user-friendly interface for installing and managing various self-hosted applications, including services like Nextcloud, Jellyfin, and Bitwarden, through pre-configured containers. The app automates complex setup processes, like configuring reverse proxies and SSL certificates with Let's Encrypt, making it easier for non-technical users to run their own private cloud services on their local machines. It focuses on privacy, ensuring all data remains within the user's control.
Hacker News users discussed Grayjay's new desktop app, primarily focusing on its reliance on Electron. Several commenters expressed concern about Electron's resource usage, particularly RAM consumption, questioning if it was the best choice for a note-taking application. Some suggested alternative frameworks like Tauri or Flutter as potentially lighter-weight options. Others pointed out the benefits of Electron, such as cross-platform compatibility and ease of development, arguing that the resource usage is acceptable for many users. The discussion also touched on the app's features, with some users praising the focus on Markdown and others expressing interest in specific functionality like encryption and local storage. A few commenters mentioned existing note-taking apps and compared Grayjay's features and approach.
Summary of Comments ( 3 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43531415
Hacker News users expressed significant enthusiasm for RPCEmu, praising its accuracy and the developer's dedication. Several commenters reminisced about using Acorn machines, particularly the Archimedes, sharing personal anecdotes and highlighting the platform's unique RISC OS. Some discussed the technical challenges of emulating older hardware and software, while others inquired about specific features like networking and sound support. The positive feedback underscores the impact of RPCEmu in preserving the legacy of Acorn computers and making them accessible to a wider audience. A few users also expressed interest in contributing to the project or exploring the emulated systems for the first time.
The Hacker News post titled "RPCEmu is an emulator of classic Acorn computer systems" generated several comments discussing various aspects of the emulator and Acorn computers in general.
Many commenters expressed nostalgia for Acorn machines and the role they played in their early computing experiences. One commenter fondly recalled using the Acorn Archimedes A3000, highlighting its impressive capabilities for its time, particularly its graphical prowess and the innovative RISC OS operating system. This sentiment was echoed by others who praised the forward-thinking design of Acorn computers and their influence on the broader computing landscape.
Several comments delved into technical details of RPCEmu, appreciating the developer's dedication to accurately emulating these complex systems. The ability of the emulator to run various Acorn models and its support for different hardware configurations were commended. Some users discussed their experiences using RPCEmu to revisit classic Acorn software and games.
The discussion also touched upon the historical context of Acorn computers, with some comments mentioning the company's involvement in the development of the ARM architecture, which has become ubiquitous in modern mobile devices. The demise of Acorn and the subsequent rise of ARM was a point of reflection for some commenters.
Some practical questions were also raised regarding the usability of RPCEmu, such as the availability of ROM images and the process of setting up the emulator. Users shared tips and resources for obtaining necessary files and configuring the emulator for optimal performance.
A few comments explored alternative emulators for Acorn systems, comparing their features and performance to RPCEmu. This provided a broader perspective on the options available for those interested in experiencing Acorn computers today.
Overall, the comments section reflects a strong appreciation for the RPCEmu project and the legacy of Acorn computers. The discussion combines nostalgic reflections with technical insights, offering a valuable resource for both seasoned Acorn users and those curious about this important piece of computing history.