Making the Matrix Screensaver in C on a PDP-11/83

Dave shows you how to create the famous Matrix screensaver in pure C on a PDP-11/83 running 211BSD UNIX! Free Sample of my Book on the Spectrum: https://amzn.to/3zBinWM

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Highlights

Bringing a vintage PDP-11/83 Minicomputer back to life with BSD Unix and K&R C
Showcasing a custom-built MATRIX screensaver that uses classic VT220 control sequences
Demonstrating four different retro-style “screensavers,” including Conway’s Game of Life
Exploring the shared lineage between 211BSD and modern macOS through easy cross-compilation

Why to Watch

Learn how to write and compile retro C code on authentic PDP-11 hardware
See how low-level terminal control codes enable surprisingly dynamic on-screen visuals
Discover tips and tricks for preserving a usable UNIX environment after custom programs exit
Experience a hands-on approach to bridging decades of computing history in one fun project