Microsoft open-sources MS-DOS 1.0, offering a rare look at PC history
Microsoft has released the source code for 86-DOS 1.00, the precursor to MS-DOS, marking the 45th anniversary of the operating system. The release includes the kernel, utilities like CHKDSK, and handwritten notes from 86-DOS creator Tim Paterson detailing development timelines and errors. These historical artifacts will be displayed at the Interim Computer Museum and are now available for public study and preservation.
- ▪Microsoft released the source code for 86-DOS 1.00, including its kernel and utilities like CHKDSK.
- ▪The release contains handwritten notes from Tim Paterson with development timelines, feature context, and identified errors.
- ▪In 1980, Microsoft acquired 86-DOS from Seattle Computer Products, which became the foundation for MS-DOS.
- ▪The source materials have been donated by Tim Paterson and will be displayed at the Interim Computer Museum.
- ▪Previously, the earliest available MS-DOS versions were 1.25 and 2.0; Microsoft had earlier re-released those and MS-DOS 4.0 as open source.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at XDA Developers.
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