Reviving the Past: The Launch of ELKS 0.8 and Tcl 9.0
October 1, 2024, 4:45 pm
Location: United States, California, San Francisco
Employees: 1001-5000
Founded date: 2008
Total raised: $350M
In the tech world, innovation often dances with nostalgia. Two recent releases embody this spirit: ELKS 0.8 and Tcl 9.0. Each project breathes new life into old technology, proving that even the past can be relevant in today’s fast-paced digital landscape.
On September 25, 2024, the ELKS (Embeddable Linux Kernel Subset) project unveiled its latest version, 0.8. This open-source Linux kernel is tailored for 16-bit Intel processors, a relic from the early days of computing. Think of it as a time capsule, allowing vintage machines to run modern software. The project supports processors like the Intel 8086 and 80286, making it a bridge between the past and present.
ELKS has been in development since 1995. It started as a fork of the Linux kernel, designed for systems without a memory management unit (MMU). This kernel is not just a nostalgic nod; it’s functional. Users can run it on classic IBM-PC XT/AT computers and even Soviet-era machines like the MK-88. It’s a testament to the enduring nature of technology.
The latest version comes packed with features. It includes a variety of standard utilities like `ps`, `grep`, and `telnet`, alongside a bash-compatible shell. Users can even enjoy a graphical environment powered by the Nano-X X-server. Imagine firing up a vintage computer and finding a modern interface waiting for you.
Networking capabilities have also been enhanced. ELKS 0.8 supports Ethernet adapters compatible with NE2K and SMC. It allows for communication over serial ports using SLIP and CSLIP. The project has also added support for various file systems, including FAT12 and FAT32. This flexibility makes it a robust choice for enthusiasts and developers alike.
The standout features of ELKS 0.8 include the porting of the classic game Doom. This addition is a playful reminder of the gaming roots that many tech enthusiasts cherish. Moreover, the ability to load and run OS/2 executable files expands its utility. The integration of the Open Watcom C compiler allows developers to create applications tailored for this unique environment.
But it doesn’t stop there. The kernel now supports asynchronous input/output, optimizing performance. A new driver for floppy disk drives allows multitasking during I/O operations. This means users can run other applications while waiting for data to load. It’s a small but significant leap in efficiency.
Debugging tools have also seen improvements. The inclusion of a disassembler and tracing mechanisms for system calls enhances the development experience. Developers can now fine-tune their applications with greater precision. Cache optimization and new timing functions further bolster performance, making ELKS 0.8 a formidable platform for retro computing.
Meanwhile, just a few days later, on September 26, 2024, Tcl 9.0 and Tk 9.0 made their debut. Tcl, a dynamic programming language, has been a staple for creating user interfaces and rapid prototyping since its inception. The last major update, Tcl/Tk 8.0, was released in 1999. The leap to version 9.0 signifies a major evolution, introducing changes that break backward compatibility.
This version redefines how namespaces work. Instead of a global namespace, Tcl 9.0 defaults to a local one. This shift may require developers to rethink their code, but it paves the way for cleaner, more modular programming. The handling of input/output encoding has also been revamped, ensuring that errors are flagged when mismatches occur.
Tcl 9.0 introduces support for strings larger than 2GB, a significant upgrade for data-intensive applications. With 64-bit indexing in dictionaries and lists, developers can manage vast amounts of data effortlessly. The full support for Unicode and character encodings makes Tcl a versatile choice for global applications.
The integration of ZIP archive handling is a game-changer. Developers can now treat ZIP files as part of the file system, simplifying the management of application resources. This feature allows for single-file distributions, making deployment easier than ever.
Tk 9.0, the graphical toolkit, has also evolved. It now supports SVG vector graphics, enabling the creation of scalable widgets. This enhancement allows developers to design modern, responsive interfaces that look great on any screen. The addition of system notifications and printing capabilities brings Tk in line with contemporary user expectations.
Moreover, the event handling engine has been upgraded to utilize system calls like epoll and kqueue. This modernization enhances performance, especially in applications that require high responsiveness. Two-finger gestures for touch screens have also been integrated, reflecting the shift towards mobile and touch-based interfaces.
Both ELKS 0.8 and Tcl 9.0 showcase the beauty of blending old and new. They remind us that technology is not just about the latest gadgets; it’s about the stories and functionalities that endure. These projects invite developers and enthusiasts to explore the depths of computing history while embracing modern advancements.
In a world obsessed with the next big thing, these releases are a breath of fresh air. They celebrate the past while paving the way for future innovations. Whether you’re reviving an old machine with ELKS or crafting a new application with Tcl, the spirit of creativity and exploration remains alive. The past is not just a memory; it’s a foundation for the future.
On September 25, 2024, the ELKS (Embeddable Linux Kernel Subset) project unveiled its latest version, 0.8. This open-source Linux kernel is tailored for 16-bit Intel processors, a relic from the early days of computing. Think of it as a time capsule, allowing vintage machines to run modern software. The project supports processors like the Intel 8086 and 80286, making it a bridge between the past and present.
ELKS has been in development since 1995. It started as a fork of the Linux kernel, designed for systems without a memory management unit (MMU). This kernel is not just a nostalgic nod; it’s functional. Users can run it on classic IBM-PC XT/AT computers and even Soviet-era machines like the MK-88. It’s a testament to the enduring nature of technology.
The latest version comes packed with features. It includes a variety of standard utilities like `ps`, `grep`, and `telnet`, alongside a bash-compatible shell. Users can even enjoy a graphical environment powered by the Nano-X X-server. Imagine firing up a vintage computer and finding a modern interface waiting for you.
Networking capabilities have also been enhanced. ELKS 0.8 supports Ethernet adapters compatible with NE2K and SMC. It allows for communication over serial ports using SLIP and CSLIP. The project has also added support for various file systems, including FAT12 and FAT32. This flexibility makes it a robust choice for enthusiasts and developers alike.
The standout features of ELKS 0.8 include the porting of the classic game Doom. This addition is a playful reminder of the gaming roots that many tech enthusiasts cherish. Moreover, the ability to load and run OS/2 executable files expands its utility. The integration of the Open Watcom C compiler allows developers to create applications tailored for this unique environment.
But it doesn’t stop there. The kernel now supports asynchronous input/output, optimizing performance. A new driver for floppy disk drives allows multitasking during I/O operations. This means users can run other applications while waiting for data to load. It’s a small but significant leap in efficiency.
Debugging tools have also seen improvements. The inclusion of a disassembler and tracing mechanisms for system calls enhances the development experience. Developers can now fine-tune their applications with greater precision. Cache optimization and new timing functions further bolster performance, making ELKS 0.8 a formidable platform for retro computing.
Meanwhile, just a few days later, on September 26, 2024, Tcl 9.0 and Tk 9.0 made their debut. Tcl, a dynamic programming language, has been a staple for creating user interfaces and rapid prototyping since its inception. The last major update, Tcl/Tk 8.0, was released in 1999. The leap to version 9.0 signifies a major evolution, introducing changes that break backward compatibility.
This version redefines how namespaces work. Instead of a global namespace, Tcl 9.0 defaults to a local one. This shift may require developers to rethink their code, but it paves the way for cleaner, more modular programming. The handling of input/output encoding has also been revamped, ensuring that errors are flagged when mismatches occur.
Tcl 9.0 introduces support for strings larger than 2GB, a significant upgrade for data-intensive applications. With 64-bit indexing in dictionaries and lists, developers can manage vast amounts of data effortlessly. The full support for Unicode and character encodings makes Tcl a versatile choice for global applications.
The integration of ZIP archive handling is a game-changer. Developers can now treat ZIP files as part of the file system, simplifying the management of application resources. This feature allows for single-file distributions, making deployment easier than ever.
Tk 9.0, the graphical toolkit, has also evolved. It now supports SVG vector graphics, enabling the creation of scalable widgets. This enhancement allows developers to design modern, responsive interfaces that look great on any screen. The addition of system notifications and printing capabilities brings Tk in line with contemporary user expectations.
Moreover, the event handling engine has been upgraded to utilize system calls like epoll and kqueue. This modernization enhances performance, especially in applications that require high responsiveness. Two-finger gestures for touch screens have also been integrated, reflecting the shift towards mobile and touch-based interfaces.
Both ELKS 0.8 and Tcl 9.0 showcase the beauty of blending old and new. They remind us that technology is not just about the latest gadgets; it’s about the stories and functionalities that endure. These projects invite developers and enthusiasts to explore the depths of computing history while embracing modern advancements.
In a world obsessed with the next big thing, these releases are a breath of fresh air. They celebrate the past while paving the way for future innovations. Whether you’re reviving an old machine with ELKS or crafting a new application with Tcl, the spirit of creativity and exploration remains alive. The past is not just a memory; it’s a foundation for the future.