Last updated: 01-May-2008

Lisp Machine supplies and information

Symbolics Lisp computer systems and parts, an inventory of information and supplies from Peter Paine at Abstract Science. It's interactive, evolutionary - you ask, I add material. So ask for information or pictures. I'm not a retailer or academic, so feel free to ask or say anything, I promise not to bite or laugh if your communication seems peculiar or naive to me.

Symbolics systems are computers (a brand of Lisp Machine or lispm) designed to run Lisp which offer the most powerful development environment for object oriented, multi-processing, rapid prototyping, 3D graphics, Intelligent Knowledge Based (Expert) systems, neural networks, modeling, simulation, ANSI standard portable Common Lisp, C, Fortran, ... they are unparalleled for software development.

Some more spin: Perhaps the greatest value of working in Lisp, and even more of using a Lisp Machine, is that the environment extends the conceptual horizon for thinking people and designers. Ideas can be brought into life which otherwise would not grow. Of course the PC might be the platform on which to deliver the money maker, but first the idea, the transition from abstract conception to a function with which a user can interact. Like reality, in the lispm world everything is interconnected, a freedom essential to allow the modeling in software of what we conceive, rather than the convention which is to work to the constraints that the technology determines. Hope this doesn't come over as too evangelical, and I'm probably mixing lispm issues with lisp itself (and blowing counter to the winds of change (plug&play)).

If you are interested in any Symbolics equipment here, I expect to accept reasonable offers (reasonable might be free, a beer, or something a bit more reasonable if what you want happens to be of much value or hassle for me). But this site is intended more to be a repository of free information.

A variety of specifications of hardware is available both for:

Machines available whole or as components (this site also serves as a useful reference of part numbers and specifications): see parts list , also for maintenance, backup, spares, printed documentation, sources/tapes, etc.

For help on what to get and how, see: how to get your own Symbolics system
Hobbyist's FAQ
*Photographs* (send me your requests for more pictures)
Configurations notes , specifications
Packing/shipping , dimensions , electric power
Worldwide

If there is anything here of interest to you to , feel free to make me an offer (barter welcomed).
Or just talk about it. Just make it clear whether you want to chat or acquire.
For those unfamiliar with Symbolics Genera, here is a subset of available software.
See also legacy context for my spin on related matters.
Common issues , Feedback on you
Recent additions: external tape streamer . brochure . 3653

ASL site

This site was at www.abstractscience.freeserve.co.uk
the latter just redirects back here, please move links to this site