The Soul of an Old Machine
5 days ago
- #hardware attachment
- #durable design
- #vintage technology
- The author develops a strong attachment to hardware, starting from high school with careful selection of an MP3 player and continuing with devices chosen for uniqueness, durability, and serviceability.
- Key devices include an HP Compaq nx6310 notebook from university, used for years and running Linux, and a MacBook Pro from 2013, which remains functional despite age, running NixOS and macOS for specific tasks.
- Attachment involves community support, such as modding an iPod 5th gen with Rockbox and an SD card, and hands-on repairs like soldering a NAS or replacing a MacBook battery and Wi-Fi card.
- The MacBook Pro's Retina display, solid build, and trackpad are highlights, though aging hardware limits performance with modern tasks like 4K displays or heavy websites.
- Reflects on the lack of excitement in modern devices, preferring those 'built to last' like ThinkPads returning to serviceability or Framework laptops, emphasizing soul over trends.