Computers | My Personal Computing History and Memories

Computers

From early home computers and DIY kits to powerful modern PCs, this section follows my personal journey through the world of computing. Discover memories of iconic machines, software, magazines, upgrades, and the technology that helped shape both my hobby and everyday life from the late 1970s onwards.

My First PC and the Windows 95 Years

My First PC and the Windows 95 Years

Buying my first PC in the mid-1990s opened the door to Windows 3.11, Windows 95, PC gaming, hardware upgrades and troubleshooting. From a 486DX2-66 to Pentium upgrades, it was the start of a lifelong fascination with computers.

Amstrad CPC464 and CPC6128

Amstrad CPC464 and CPC6128

After being made redundant in 1984, I treated myself to an Amstrad CPC464 complete with colour monitor. Later upgrading to the CPC6128, the computer became more than a games machine, helping me write job applications and earn a City & Guilds qualification.

Commodore VIC-20

Commodore VIC-20

The Commodore VIC-20 was my first Commodore computer. Bought when prices fell in the early 1980s, it introduced me to cartridge games, BASIC programming and the rare VC-1020 expansion case that transformed the modest VIC-20 into a surprisingly expandable home computer.

Sinclair ZX81

After upgrading from the ZX80, the Sinclair ZX81 became my gateway into home computing. With its improved display, famous 16K RAM Pack and cassette-loaded software, it offered a far better experience—along with plenty of frustration when programs refused to load.

Sinclair ZX80

A magazine advert for the Sinclair ZX80 promised a real home computer for under £100. After weeks of waiting, it arrived and introduced me to BASIC programming, cassette storage and the frustration of debugging endless typing mistakes.