I managed to finally get Syncterm working by compiling from source. The snap package from the Kubuntu GUI package manager didn’t work. It would run in terminal but not connect to any outbound web sources.

Now I have full ANSI support and proper BBS-era art! It’s absolutely glorious.

This is how I first experienced PC connectivity. My mom’s 386 work PC with a 9600baud Hayes modem that was a big metal external box that got hot to the touch. Once I learned the ATDT command in terminal my fate was sealed. I was obsessed with computing ever since.

Learning to dial into a local BBS called The Golden Unicorn it was so much fun to be a part of an online community comprised of local people. We even had meetups! I’d eventually meet my very first partner on there when I was only 12, and no, he wasn’t a child predator (thankfully he was actually 13). Online dating before it was cool.

It’s wild to see the BBS still alive and well after all these years. Here are a few I connect to:

  • EpicFailGuy
    3•1 year ago

    @Jezebelley

    I can’t believe you already compiled your first software from source. You’re going so quick! It’s pretty cool to watch you learn linux in real time.