Kids writing code in Microsoft basic on 1980's microcomputer

Bill Gates Drops the Code That Started It All — BASIC Is Back!

April 4, 2025 admin

Break out your cassette decks and retro keycaps, because Bill Gates just dropped some vintage gold for us tech nerds: the original source code for Altair BASIC – Microsoft’s first-ever product – is now free to download.

Yep, this is the code that kicked off a little side hustle you may have heard of… called Microsoft.

And for anyone who spent their childhood (or, let’s be honest, way too much of their adulthood) tinkering with early home computers like the Commodore 64, Apple II, or my personal favorite, the Dick Smith VZ200, this is a nostalgic blast from the silicon past.

Let’s dive into what BASIC was, why this release is such a big deal, and how Bill’s latest book, Source Code, ties it all together.

BASIC: The OG Gateway Drug to Programming

Back in the 70s and 80s, if you wanted to make a computer do anything cool—play a song, make text scroll, launch a pixelated UFO—you used BASIC. Short for Beginner’s All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code, BASIC was designed to be simple, accessible, and—most importantly—fun.

Most microcomputers back then shipped with a version of BASIC pre-installed or easily loadable. It was the language for curious minds and bedroom coders.

If you had a Dick Smith VZ200—which launched in 1983 in Australia and New Zealand—you were likely pecking away in BASIC. That humble little machine with its 4KB of RAM (expandable to 16KB if you were feeling fancy) brought a generation of kids and tinkerers into the digital age.

Here’s the kind of thing we used to write:

10 PRINT "HELLO WORLD!"

20 GOTO 10

Endless scrolling. Infinite loop. Pure joy.

Altair BASIC: Microsoft’s First Hit

Rewind to 1975. Bill Gates and Paul Allen were two young nerds fresh out of Harvard (or rather, one about to drop out of Harvard) when they saw a photo of the Altair 8800 in Popular Electronics magazine. The Altair didn’t even come with a screen or keyboard—it was just blinking lights and switches. But it had the potential to be the first true personal computer.

Bill and Paul got hyped and hacked together a version of BASIC that could run on the Altair. They did it in just a few weeks, using a simulator they wrote before they even got their hands on the actual hardware.

Wild, right?

Their Altair BASIC became the very first product from a brand-new company called “Micro-Soft.” (Yep, with a hyphen.)

And now, 50 years later, Bill has released that original code to the public. It’s 3,400 lines of hand-assembled 8080 machine code—no frills, just raw 70s brilliance.

Why This Is a Big Deal

This isn’t just a nostalgic throwback—it’s a peek into the genesis of modern computing.

When Gates and Allen sold BASIC to MITS (the makers of the Altair), they were also selling a vision: software could be just as valuable as hardware. That idea helped birth an industry.

By open-sourcing this code now, Gates is giving back to the community and showing just how far we’ve come. From typing on green monochrome screens to deploying apps to the cloud with a few keystrokes.

BASIC and the VZ200: My First Programming Crush

For me, the Dick Smith VZ200 was the start of it all. It wasn’t flashy. It didn’t have much memory. But it had BASIC—and that was everything.

You could write your own games. Play music using beeps and boops. Control pixels like a digital puppet master. BASIC turned the VZ200 from a plastic box into a playground.

Many of us learned logic, problem-solving, and debugging long before we knew those words officially. BASIC taught us to experiment. To try things. To fail and fix. To save to tape, rewind, and try again.

This is why BASIC has such a cult following. And why seeing its roots come to light in 2025 hits us right in the feels.

Bill Gates’ Book: Source Code

As if that wasn’t enough, Gates has also dropped a book called Source Code, reflecting on 50 years of Microsoft, software, and the future of tech.

It’s not just about the code—it’s about what the code meant.

In the book, Gates talks about how Altair BASIC wasn’t just a technical project. It was an act of faith. A belief that software could change the world. That it could be personal. That it could be yours.

The book includes scans of Gates’ original notebooks, memories from the early Microsoft crew, and thoughts on what’s next—AI, climate tech, and even digital health.

You can tell it’s a bit of a “full-circle” moment for him. From coding BASIC in his dorm to shaping the digital world as we know it.

So… Where Can You Get the Code?

You can grab the original Altair BASIC code from Bill Gates’ blog, GatesNotes. It’s all there, beautifully commented and scanned in like an artifact from a time when computers fit on desks but not in pockets.

(And yes, some genius will probably port this to run in a browser within a week. That’s just how the internet works now.)

What We Can Learn From BASIC in 2025

We live in an age of React, Swift, Rust, and AI-assisted coding. But BASIC still has lessons for us:

Start small – BASIC was lean, limited, and taught us to do more with less.
Stay curious – It rewarded exploration. Try it. Break it. See what happens.
Make it fun – At its heart, programming should be joyful. BASIC never forgot that.

Whether you’re building a full-stack app, making beats on your DAW, or just playing around with microcontrollers and synths, the spirit of BASIC is still alive: make something weird, make it yours, and enjoy the process.

Final Thought: This Isn’t Just Code—It’s Culture

Bill Gates releasing the source code for Altair BASIC isn’t just a tech moment. It’s a cultural one. It’s a tribute to a time when anyone with a cheap computer and a few lines of code could feel like a wizard.

If you ever typed 10 PRINT, this is your time to smile.

And if you’ve never seen code like this before—maybe it’s time to give it a go. Who knows where it might lead?

Want the code? Get it here: gatesnotes.com
Want the book? Check out Source Code by Bill Gates—perfect reading while your old cassette tapes load.

Stay curious. 😎

By Geoff Williams with chatGPT

Artificial Intelligence, Tech news

ChatGPT Eclipses Wikipedia, Moves into the Top 7 Most-Visited Website

March 14, 2025 admin

In a groundbreaking moment for artificial intelligence, ChatGPT has overtaken Wikipedia in global web traffic, securing the 7th position on the list of the world’s most-visited websites. This shift underscores the accelerating adoption of AI-driven search, assistance, and content generation over traditional knowledge repositories.

According to the latest rankings from Wikipedia’s list of most-visited websites, ChatGPT’s meteoric rise has propelled it ahead of the world’s largest collaborative encyclopedia. This milestone highlights a paradigm shift: users are increasingly turning to generative AI for instant, interactive, and dynamic responses rather than static articles.

The Growth Story: ChatGPT’s Record-Breaking Expansion

A recent report by Barclays Research (see image below) reveals that ChatGPT added its latest 100 million weekly active users in just two months—the fastest acceleration yet. This rapid adoption reflects how AI-powered assistants are reshaping the way people seek information, blurring the lines between search engines, chatbots, and traditional web content.

Who’s Using ChatGPT? The Age Demographics of AI Search

A study by Evercore ISI (see second image below) shows that Gen Z and Millennials are leading the AI revolution, with ChatGPT and Google AI emerging as dominant players in generative AI search. The report predicts that by March 2025, ChatGPT’s penetration among younger users will continue to grow, cementing its place in everyday digital interactions.

Gen Z and Millennials are leading the AI revolution

What This Means for the Future of Knowledge and Search

Wikipedia’s mission has long been to provide free knowledge to the world, built collaboratively by volunteers. While its static, citation-backed model remains crucial, ChatGPT’s AI-driven approach is proving more appealing for users who seek:

Conversational and contextual responses instead of reading long articles
Summarized insights with the ability to ask follow-up questions
Personalized learning experiences based on queries and preferences

This shift suggests a future where AI-driven assistants will not just complement traditional knowledge sources but, in many cases, replace them as the go-to option for users seeking instant, interactive information.

The Road Ahead: AI as the New Knowledge Hub?

As AI models continue to evolve, the competition for web traffic among traditional content platforms, search engines, and AI chatbots will intensify. Whether Wikipedia adapts by integrating AI-generated summaries or remains a steadfast pillar of human-curated knowledge remains to be seen. One thing is clear: ChatGPT has arrived at the top—and it’s here to stay.

By Geoff Williams with ChatGPT

Alternative Energy, camping, Life Hacks, Tips and Tricks

How to make a 3D Printed Solar Heater

September 9, 2024 admin

Check Out This DIY Portable Mini Solar Heater!

In a recent video, DIY alternative energy Youtuber, Cayrex, created a portable mini solar heater that uses solar energy to heat water. He experimented with different materials, including black pipes and a custom 3D-printed heater made from high-temperature-resistant resin. The heater, paired with a small water pump, effectively increased the water temperature in just 20 minutes, even in varying sunlight conditions.

Curious to see how it works and maybe try it yourself? Watch the full step-by-step tutorial in the video [here] for all the details and to get the STL file for 3D printing your own heater!

**Check it out and start harnessing the sun’s power!**

3D Printed Solar Heater (youtube.com)

Electronic Music, New Albums, New Music, Relaxation Music

Celebrate the 30th Anniversary of ‘Tempest’ by David Pickvance with a Newly Mastered Edition – Available Now on Bandcamp!

August 20, 2024 admin

2024 marks a special milestone for music lovers and fans of David Pickvance, as it celebrates the 30th anniversary of his platinum-selling instrumental album, Tempest. Originally released in 1994, Tempest was David’s first commercially available chillout album, quickly gaining popularity and solidifying his place as a visionary in the world of film and TV music.

In honor of this anniversary, David has released a newly mastered edition of Tempest, now available for a limited time on Bandcamp. This re-release is a treat for long-time fans and newcomers alike, offering a fresh experience of the timeless sounds that defined a generation.

Don’t miss this opportunity to download and enjoy Tempest in its finest form yet. Visit David Pickvance’s official website to learn more and grab your copy before it’s gone!

Celebrate the legacy of David Pickvance, a BBC Composer-In-Residence and winner of the BBC Music & Audio Award, who has scored over 100 film, television, and radio projects. From contemporary orchestral pieces to ambient electronica, David’s music continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the globe.

Artificial Intelligence, Technology

Navigating the Complexities of Artificial Intelligence Content Detection

May 1, 2024 admin

In an era where the lines between human-generated and AI-generated content blur, the need for reliable artificial intelligence content detection tools has become paramount. Whether it’s text, images, videos, or audio, discerning the origin of content has significant implications across various domains, from academia to online platforms. However, as advancements in AI continue to evolve, so do the challenges associated with accurately detecting AI-generated content.

The Reliability Debate

The reliability of AI content detection software remains a contentious issue. A study conducted by Weber-Wulff et al. scrutinized 14 detection tools, revealing alarming accuracy rates, with most falling below the 80% mark. This lack of precision raises concerns about the potential misapplication of such tools, particularly in educational settings.

Text Detection Dilemma

Text detection stands at the forefront of the AI content detection discourse, primarily driven by concerns of plagiarism detection in academia and beyond. However, the efficacy of existing detection tools has come under scrutiny. Instances of misidentification, where human-generated content is flagged as AI-generated, highlight the inherent limitations of current technologies.

For example, the emergence of tools like ChatGPT has prompted educational institutions to implement stringent policies against AI usage by students. Yet, such measures can lead to unjust accusations, as evidenced by cases where students faced expulsion based on erroneous AI detection results.

Moreover, biases within text detection algorithms, such as discrimination against non-native English speakers, further complicate the landscape of content evaluation.

Anti Text Detection Tactics

As the arms race between detection tools and evasion techniques escalates, the development of anti-detection software has become inevitable. Studies reveal the effectiveness of tools like Originality.ai in bypassing AI detection, raising questions about the efficacy of existing countermeasures.

Image, Video, and Audio Detection Challenges

Beyond text, the detection of AI-generated images, videos, and audio presents its own set of challenges. While tools purportedly capable of identifying deepfakes exist, their reliability remains a subject of debate. Google DeepMind’s SynthID represents a notable attempt to combat AI-generated image proliferation through digital watermarking, albeit with uncertainties regarding its effectiveness.

Looking Ahead

As technology continues to advance, the landscape of AI content detection will undoubtedly undergo further transformations. Addressing the limitations of existing detection tools, combating biases, and enhancing cross-modal detection capabilities are critical areas for future research and development.

Moreover, fostering transparency and accountability in the deployment of AI content detection tools is essential to mitigate potential harm, particularly in educational and professional contexts.

In navigating the complexities of AI content detection, it is imperative to strike a balance between innovation and ethical considerations, ensuring that advancements in technology align with the principles of fairness, integrity, and inclusivity. Only through collaborative efforts and informed discourse can we navigate the intricate terrain of AI-generated content with confidence and clarity.

References:

– [Artificial intelligence content detection – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artificial_intelligence_content_detection)
– Weber-Wulff, D., Anohina-Naumeca, A., Bjelobaba, S., Foltýnek, T., Guerrero-Dib, J., Popoola, O., … & Waddington, L. (2023). “Testing of detection tools for AI-generated text.” *International Journal for Educational Integrity*, 19(1), 26.
– Hern, A. (2022, December 31). “AI-assisted plagiarism? ChatGPT bot says it has an answer for that.” *The Guardian*.
– Taloni, A., Scorcia, V., & Giannaccare, G. (2023, August 2). “Modern threats in academia: evaluating plagiarism and artificial intelligence detection scores of ChatGPT.” *Eye*, 38(2), 397–400.
– Wiggers, K. (2023, February 16). “Most sites claiming to catch AI-written text fail spectacularly.” *TechCrunch*.

Technology

Farewell to a Legend: The Discontinuation of the Zilog Z80 Microprocessor

April 21, 2024 admin

Listen to article

As technology marches forward, it often leaves behind relics of the past, revered for their contributions but ultimately replaced by newer, more advanced innovations. Such is the fate of the Zilog Z80 microprocessor, an iconic figure in the realm of computing, which has recently been announced to be discontinued by its manufacturer, Zilog.

The Z80 holds a special place in the annals of computing history. Born out of the ingenuity of Federico Faggin and his team in the mid-1970s, it emerged as Zilog’s flagship product, signaling the company’s entry into the semiconductor market. With its roots tracing back to the Intel 8080, the Z80 was designed to be a compatible extension and enhancement of its predecessor, but it quickly surpassed it in popularity and functionality.

From its official introduction in July 1976, the Z80 found widespread adoption in a myriad of applications. Initially targeted at embedded systems, it soon made its mark in desktop computers, home computers, military equipment, musical instruments, and coin-operated arcade games of the late 1970s and early 1980s, including Pac-Man. Its versatility and robust performance made it a favorite among developers and hobbyists alike, earning it a loyal following across the globe.

One of the key factors behind the Z80’s success was its binary compatibility with the Intel 8080, ensuring that existing software developed for the latter could seamlessly run on the former. This compatibility facilitated the adoption of the Z80 and allowed for a smooth transition for developers and users alike. However, the Z80 wasn’t merely a clone of its predecessor; it introduced numerous enhancements and features that set it apart and contributed to its widespread acclaim.

The Z80 boasted an enhanced instruction set, featuring more logical and readable mnemonics, flexible data movement instructions, improved addressing modes, and a comprehensive interrupt system. These enhancements, coupled with a built-in DRAM refresh and non-multiplexed buses, simplified system design and reduced the need for additional support hardware, making it an attractive choice for designers and manufacturers.

Over the years, the Z80 continued to evolve, with successive generations introducing improvements in performance, power efficiency, and feature set. From its humble beginnings as an 8-bit microprocessor, it grew into a family of products, including fully pipelined variants with expanded address ranges, catering to the ever-expanding market for embedded systems.

Despite its enduring legacy, the march of progress inevitably catches up with even the most venerable of technologies. In April 2024, Zilog announced the discontinuation of the Z80, marking the end of an era. While the news may evoke nostalgia for some and sadness for others, it also serves as a reminder of the relentless pace of innovation and the need to embrace new technologies as they emerge.

As we bid farewell to the Z80, let us remember it not just as a piece of silicon but as a symbol of innovation, perseverance, and the spirit of exploration that drives technological advancement. Though its physical presence may fade into obscurity, its influence and legacy will endure, inspiring future generations of engineers,, and enthusiasts to push the boundaries of what is possible.

In closing, let us raise a virtual toast to the Z80, a true pioneer in the world of computing, and thank it for the countless memories, innovations, and adventures it has enabled. Farewell, old friend, and may your legacy continue to shine bright in the annals of technological history.

Rewritten by chatGPT, based on the article at Wikipedia…

Zilog Z80 – Wikipedia

Artificial Intelligence, Electronic Music, Home Studio, New Music, Tech news, Technology

This is fun – Make AI Music with udio.com

April 13, 2024 admin

This is my first song done with udio.com, it’s the best song I’ve never written, or performed or recorded or mixed. The robot did it all, I just wrote a small prompt. The prompt style was copied from a udio.com tune that I liked, and then I created some lyrics, again with help from my favourite robot, chatGPT. So I wonder who owns it?

What do you think? Is it better than my human-made music? Please share, leave a like, or a comment on Facebook.

Echoes-of-Us_Zylascope.com.mp3

Try making your own songs at…

udio.com

Have fun,

Geoff.

Alternative Energy, Battery DIY, Conservation, Tech news, Technology

Harnessing Nature’s Power: Building Bio-Photovoltaics with Plants

July 21, 2023 admin

Introduction

Welcome back, readers! Today, we embark on an exciting journey into the world of bio-photovoltaics, a revolutionary concept that allows us to generate electrical energy directly from sunlight using the power of photosynthesis in plants. In a video #1993 by Robert Murray-Smith (1993 How To Make A Bio – Photovoltaic Solar Cell), he took us to Kew Gardens to explore this fascinating idea, and now, we are going to delve into the process of building our very own bio-photovoltaic system. Let’s dive in and discover how nature’s most basic processes can power our future!

Understanding Bio-Photovoltaics

Bio-photovoltaics, often referred to as “bio-PV” or “biophotovoltaic cells,” is a cutting-edge field that seeks to integrate biological systems with photovoltaic technology. Traditional photovoltaic cells rely on inorganic semiconductors to convert sunlight into electricity. In contrast, bio-photovoltaics employ the natural process of photosynthesis found in plants to achieve the same goal.

Photosynthesis is a miraculous process that occurs in plants, where sunlight is absorbed by chlorophyll in their leaves, enabling them to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose (a form of sugar) and oxygen. Bio-photovoltaics utilize this very process, capturing the electrons produced during photosynthesis and channeling them to generate electrical energy.

The Players in Bio-Photovoltaics

Before we start building our own bio-photovoltaic system, let’s meet the key players involved in this groundbreaking technology:

Planty: Planty is an innovative company that specializes in bio-photovoltaic solutions. They are at the forefront of developing practical applications for harnessing plant power to generate electricity.

Moss FM: Moss FM is a noteworthy project that gained attention for its bio-photovoltaic installation in the Netherlands. By integrating moss with solar panels, the project demonstrates the potential of combining biological systems with renewable energy generation.

Green Fab lab, Barcelona: The Green Fab lab in Barcelona is a research facility focused on sustainability and bio-fabrication. They play a vital role in advancing bio-photovoltaics through their cutting-edge research and development initiatives.

The Bio-Photovoltaic Build Process

Now that we understand the underlying principles, let’s delve into the process of building a bio-photovoltaic system:

Step 1: Plant Selection: The first step is choosing the right plant for your bio-photovoltaic experiment. While the type of plant used isn’t critical, it’s essential to opt for a species with robust photosynthetic capabilities.

Step 2: Encourage Growth: Cultivate the selected plant in an environment that encourages optimal growth. Ensure it receives ample sunlight, water, and nutrients to thrive.

Step 3: Harvesting Photosynthetic Electrons: This is the crucial step where we capture the electrons released during photosynthesis. Through carefully designed electrodes, the electrons flow through a circuit, creating an electric current.

Step 4: Power Generation: The electric current generated by the flowing electrons can be utilized to power small devices or charge batteries, showcasing the practical application of bio-photovoltaics.

The Potential of Bio-Photovoltaics

The implications of bio-photovoltaics are vast and exciting. By integrating biological systems into energy generation, we can envisage a sustainable future with numerous advantages:

1. Environmental Benefits: Bio-photovoltaics offer a green and clean energy solution, as they produce electricity without harmful emissions. This approach can help reduce the carbon footprint and combat climate change.

2. Renewable and Abundant: Unlike traditional fossil fuels, plants are renewable resources that grow abundantly. Harnessing their natural energy conversion abilities could provide a consistent and limitless energy source.

3. Enhancing Biodiversity: Bio-photovoltaics could lead to more green spaces and a renewed focus on plant life, potentially bolstering biodiversity in urban areas.

4. Decentralized Energy Generation: With bio-photovoltaic systems, energy production can be decentralized, empowering communities to become self-sufficient and less reliant on centralized power grids.

Conclusion

In conclusion, bio-photovoltaics present an awe-inspiring convergence of biology and renewable energy technology. By tapping into the power of photosynthesis, we can potentially revolutionize our energy landscape and create a sustainable future. As we continue to explore the possibilities presented by companies like Planty, projects like Moss FM, and research facilities like the Green Fab lab in Barcelona, we move one step closer to a greener and cleaner world powered by nature’s ingenious processes. So let’s embrace the potential of bio-photovoltaics and journey towards a brighter and more sustainable tomorrow.

References:

Robert Murray-Smith’s video on Bio Photovoltaics. Available at: 1993 How To Make A Bio – Photovoltaic Solar Cell.

Visit Robert’s channel on YouTube…

@RobertMurraySmith 423K subscribers 2.3K videos

Written by Geoff Williams and chatGPT July 20 Version based on the video transcription.