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I've been thinking a lot lately about vintage tech and the impulse to preserve everything. While I appreciate the nostalgia and ancient importance of a lot of older devices, I think we need to be more discerning about what we actually dedicate resources to saving.A prime example is old proprietary software systems on now-defunct workstations. Sure, the idea of preserving them is great, but if nobody has the hardware to run them anymore, or if the software is so incredibly arduous to use compared to modern alternatives that it's practically unusable, are we really accomplishing anything other then creating a digital museum piece? This isn't to say all old software is useless, but the effort it takes to emulate or restore some of these systems could be better spent preserving more accessible and widely used vintage software.
Ultimately, I think the value of preserving vintage tech comes down to a balance of historical significance, usability, and accessibility. Are we preserving something that can still teach us something, inform modern innovations, or simply provide enjoyment? Or are we just clinging to outdated technology for the sake of clinging? What are your thoughts on what deserves to be saved and what can be allowed to fade away?