Blogcrawl - Before Computers

I started using computers in 1982, when I was introduced to the delights of an Apple II. Enter a command and be greeted with the immortal error message

Syntax Error
Ok

I am now more on the computer than is probably good for me. The Internet is an indispensible tool, which allows me to listen to radio broadcasts from across the world, access information at the click of a mouse button. So what has changed?

Before 1982, when I left school, I would spend hours reading books. If I wanted any information, I'd be writing letters, phoning companies or whatever. I started using computers more regularly in 1984/5, when I began to use a word processor, called Display Write 3, the absolute top-notch in the trade. Before that time, I'd be using a typewriter. I had a class in typing with 10 fingers, and it still comes me in good stead. I have been known to drive people to distraction, as I race along at 70 wpm or more. Of course, handwriting skills I maintain to this day, with the handwritten diary.

Before computers, I'd be using a calculator. Before calculators, I'd be using a piece of paper and a pencil, or mental arithmatic. Still use the mental arithmatic. My writings on this blog are instantly accessible to anyone around the world who knows the URL. In the past, you'd have to join a writing class, persuade a friendly publisher or newspaper editor to feature your ramblings - or just leave it for posterity to find it in a musty corner, long after you've gone to a better place. And for people to wonder what the heck he was going on about.

Before computers, I'd be taking pictures using a film camera and spending huge amounts of money on film, processing and printing. As well as photo albums, glue and other paraphernalia. Nowadays, I take more pictures in one month than I've probably taken in a whole year in the not-so-distant past. This morning's visit by the oil rig brought the tally close to 6,100 digital images.

Before computers, I'd buy a paper timetable for trains, buses and boats. Now you look it up. The companies have websites that tell you about any problems on their routes.

Things have changed over the past 25 years. It will never be the same again, unless we crash out of the electronic era.

These are just some Friday afternoon ramblings on the theme of "Before Computers". Go to Dornbrau's blog and leave a link with your own entry, just like I'm going to do.

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