Did you use pre-internet online services like CompuServe or Quantum Link? How was your experience? (programming.dev)

submitted 5 months ago by connect@programming.dev to c/asklemmy@lemmy.world

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Was it fascinating? Did it feel like the amazing future? Were you all too aware of the mounting cost relative to what you were actually doing?

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[-] kersploosh@sh.itjust.works 5 points 5 months ago

Yep, I dialed directly into a modem on the far end and used a terminal emulator to navigate the service. A local office supply store had a cork board by the door where people could post events or sell used stuff, and a few BBSs had their info posted there.

The BBS I used actually partnered with the office supply store to sell credits. I would go to the customer service counter and buy a piece of paper with an access code that I could then redeem for hours on the server. That's how the BBS paid for their hardware and phone lines.

this post was submitted on 31 May 2024

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