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Discovery of Rare UNIX Software Tape Could Revolutionize Computing History

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Aleks Maricq, a research associate at the University of Utah, uncovered a rare 9-track magnetic tape labeled 'UNIX Original from Bell Labs V4' while cleaning a cluttered storage room. This tape, dating back to 1973, is believed to be the last existing copy of the UNIX operating system that laid the groundwork for modern computing, including iOS and macOS. Due to its age and fragility, the tape will be transported to the Computer History Museum in California for careful analysis and recovery. The process is delicate, as improper handling could destroy the tape, which contains about 20 megabytes of data but could yield up to 100 gigabytes of information through modern recovery techniques. This discovery highlights the rapid evolution of technology and the importance of preserving historical computing artifacts.

Key Details: • Tape discovered is believed to be the only remaining copy of UNIX V4. • Tape was made in 1973, making it 52 years old. • Recovery process will occur at the Computer History Museum in California. • Improper handling could result in irreversible damage to the tape.

technology research history computing university

People & Organizations

CaliforniaAleks MaricqJon DuerigRobert RicciUniversity of UtahComputer History MuseumKahlert School of ComputingFlux Research Group

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