@lauren

Ward Christensen had created a file transfer protocol for sending binary computer files through modem connections, which was called, simply, MODEM.

Later improvements to the program motivated a name change into the now familiar XMODEM.

The success of this project encouraged further experiments. Christensen and Suess became enamored of the idea of creating a computerized answering machine and message center, which would allow members to call in with their then-new modems and leave announcements for upcoming meetings.

http://bbsdays.com/people/ward_christensen/

@lauren let's show our respect by padding our replies.

\0\0\0\0\0\0\0\0\0\0

@lauren for everyone who does not recognize the name, watch "the bbs documentary".

great guy.

@lauren I was not an active member but I did dial in occasionally to Ward’n’Randy’s back in the early 80s. I grew up in Chicago.

Rest in Peace, Ward.
NO CARRIER

He's one of the #BBS pioneers featured in this great #documentary:

http://www.bbsdocumentary.com

Which is apparently sold out but available for free online:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nO5vjmDFZaI

According to Wikipedia the documentary is Creative Commons licensed so that should be okay.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BBS:_The_Documentary

@lauren I'm currently using xmodem every few days.

R.I.P

@lauren

set 8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit in observance.

@lauren

+++ATH0

@lauren @tek +++ATH0

Thanks, king.

@lauren

Ths is the kind of news that makes me want open a bridge and call myslef from around the world a few time, the infinate echo in honor of Ward.

@lauren

In those days, we did that stuff beccause we didn't know if we could and then we did.

@lauren

+++

@lauren @estherschindler sorry but he did not create the first BBS

The folks with
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Community_Memory
Did