Topic: Modems

The hosts reminisce about the evolution of modem speeds, from 300 baud acoustic couplers to 56k V.90 technology. They discuss the "modem wars" between vendors like Hayes and US Robotics and the distinct sounds associated with different connection speeds. One host recalls using a TRS-100 laptop with an acoustic coupler to file news stories from the field.

The hosts reminisce about early networking technology, including Fidonet, bulletin board systems (BBS), and the evolution of modem speeds. They contrast the limitations of the 1980s with modern 5-gigabit fiber optic connections.

Despite claims that voting machines are never connected to the internet, a report shows that thousands of ES&S machines use modems to transmit "unofficial" results. In Georgia, software researcher Hari Hursti observed "sloppy" security during a last-minute software update in Fulton County, comparing the risks of uncertified election software to the Boeing 737 Max technical failures.

The conceptual foundation of podcasting began in 1999 in Amsterdam, where always-on cable modems allowed for background data transfers. Inspired by Napster's peer-to-peer file sharing, the idea of "The Last Yard" was developed, proposing that computers should automatically download content in the background so it is ready for immediate playback. This shifted the user experience from active searching to passive reception of new media.

An analysis of net neutrality history suggests that the lack of regulation in the early 2000s allowed cable internet to flourish. The discussion argues that "common carrier" rules often stifle innovation and that the internet's growth was driven by unregulated market competition.

John Davis donates in honor of his daughter, Lieutenant Kim Davis, who manages ten nuclear missile sites in North Dakota. The hosts provide a "bully" shout-out, contrasting her high-stakes underground work with the "safe spaces" sought by other millennials. They play "pew-pew" jingles to celebrate her role in national security.

John C. Dvorak and Adam Curry open the program from Northern Silicon Valley with technical difficulties regarding a modem connection. Dvorak describes experiencing numbness in his fingertips while using a trackpad, leading to a brief discussion on potential causes such as carpal tunnel syndrome or high blood pressure.

John C. Dvorak reflects on his history in the telecommunications industry, including his best-selling guides from the 1980s and the era of CompuServe's CB Simulator. The hosts marvel at the technological leap from 5-megabyte external SCSI drives to modern 4-terabyte hard drives available at retail stores. They contrast the early days of local BBS exchanges with the current ability to broadcast to a global audience from separate states.

The hosts discuss the potential return to 56k dial-up modems as a way to maintain a truly free and unregulated internet. They reminisce about early ISPs like Panix and the evolution of baud rates from 300 to 9600. Concerns are raised about modern hardware lacking RS232 ports and modem jacks, suggesting that ham radio operators and an underground market for refurbished analog equipment may be necessary for future privacy.

Adam Curry details the start of the Hot Pockets tour, beginning with a flight to Virginia to meet Baroness Maggie Vincent. A listener-organized meetup is planned in Virginia, and the show will be broadcast from an RV parked in Vincent's driveway using a USB 3G modem. The hosts discuss the high fuel costs of the mobile studio and the "value for value" model that keeps the show commercial-free.

Adam Curry recounts his recent struggles with internet connectivity and his interactions with Time Warner Cable technicians. After several days of outages, a technician who was a fan of the show provided a free modem upgrade and personal contact information to ensure service stability.

A new WiMAX service in Amsterdam allows users to purchase a USB stick modem for 90 euros and sign up for prepaid high-speed internet. The service offers five megabits down and one megabit up for approximately $10 per week, providing a reliable alternative to hotel Wi-Fi and failing cable connections.

The hosts discuss potential future fundraising initiatives, such as exclusive $500-a-plate dinners. A host shares a story about passing through TSA security multiple times without being checked, despite the strict rules for other passengers. The show concludes with a technical note about using an AT&T USB modem for the broadcast and a sign-off from San Francisco.

Personal experiences serving as an expert witness in high-stakes Silicon Valley technology lawsuits are shared. The discussion covers the tactical use of document stalling in cases like Intel vs. AMD and the process of providing depositions for companies like Microsoft and Lindows.