Computers Are Much Too Slow These Days

Computers are much too slow these days. Think back to the days of 512K of memory and tape backup and how much faster we could get work done if we just had more resources in the machine (faster processor, more memory, etc).

The speed with which we can get our machine to actualise our ideas usually means a better depth of perception regarding our designs and more satisfaction in the endevour - so better software. So it was a breath of fresh air when I read an interview with Linux kernel developer Con Kolivas, basically saying the things that I needed to get off my chest. I'd been holding this frustration back for some time. We tend to build up a mental model of any software we are building. So When I want to compile on a command line, view my source code in Eclipse, and lookup documentation online at the same time and my machine can't keep up with me, I get very pissed. Compiling and running Eclipse, and running Firefox these days is enough to slow my MacBook Pro to a crawl. This leaves me enough time to lose momentum on something that I'm working on, and wonder how much more productive I would be if I had a linux box with a lightweight window manager like Blackbox or something.

How well our tools and environment suit us has a huge impact on how productive we are. I mean, I recently  took delivery of an Aeron chair and literally, the time I could spend in 1 spot, getting work done went from about 1/2 hour to 2 - 3 hour sessions. That's a huge boost in productivity. Plus I'm happier and more satisfied with my work. So wouldn't it be nice if we had machines that approached or at least complemented the human brain. This is a dual core machine and I still have issues with applications hanging. Come one, we can do better here. OK, end of rant.

Posted by Timothy Washington on 2007.11.13| Original post

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