Computer enthusiasts and especially those interested in Commodore 64 programs, may be intrigued to know that a program has been discovered on the run-out groove of a vinyl record. This hidden secret Commodore 64 program is a fascinating example of how technology and music intersect in unexpected ways. Check out the video below to learn more about how you can access the computer program unloaded onto your Commodore emulator or retro C64 computer.
The Discovery of Hidden Programs
“It’s not exactly unheard of to hide stuff in the inner “run-out groove” of a vinyl record—a spot in which handwritten messages have appeared for decades, ever since a recording engineer named George Peckham started adding offbeat notes in the dead area of the wax. (It’s a great example of the Easter eggs that albums have long featured.)
But more rare might be the existence of a Commodore 64 program. Over the weekend, Canadian YouTuber Robin Harbron, a collector who runs the channel 8-Bit Show and Tell, highlighted Electric Eye, a record from the 1980s Christian rock band Prodigal, with such a program hidden past the run-out groove.”
The discovery of this hidden program is not just a novelty; it represents a unique blend of analog and digital media. The Commodore 64, a popular home computer in the 1980s, was known for its versatility and the creativity it inspired among programmers and users alike. Finding a program encoded on a vinyl record’s run-out groove is a testament to the innovative spirit of that era.
Accessing the Hidden Program
To access the hidden Commodore 64 program, enthusiasts can use a variety of methods. One common approach is to use a modern emulator, which can replicate the functionality of the original Commodore 64 hardware on contemporary computers. Emulators like VICE (Versatile Commodore Emulator) allow users to load and run old software, providing a bridge between past and present technology.
For those who prefer a more authentic experience, using a retro C64 computer is also an option. This involves transferring the program from the vinyl record to the Commodore 64, a process that can be both challenging and rewarding. The video below provides a detailed guide on how to achieve this, showcasing the steps involved and the equipment needed.
The hidden program on the Electric Eye record is a piece of digital history, offering a glimpse into the creative ways people have used technology to leave hidden messages and Easter eggs. This discovery also highlights the enduring appeal of the Commodore 64 and the vibrant community of enthusiasts who continue to explore and celebrate its legacy.
If you know of any more hidden programs located in strange places worth mentioning, drop a link in the comments below. Sharing these discoveries helps keep the spirit of exploration and innovation alive, encouraging others to look beyond the obvious and find hidden gems in unexpected places.
Source: Vice
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