Lessons from Ancient File Systems

The article discusses the evolution of various Atari 8-bit file systems, particularly focusing on the design decisions and limitations of different versions of Atari DOS. It begins with Atari DOS 1.0, introduced in 1979, which supported single-sided, single-density disks. Subsequent versions, such as DOS 2.0s and DOS 2.5, aimed to address bugs and improve functionality, including the introduction of features like sector chaining for file navigation. The author highlights the challenges faced by early DOS versions, such as the lack of support for zero-length files and the absence of timestamps, which were not prioritized due to hardware limitations.

The article also critiques Atari's failure to anticipate future needs, particularly with DOS 3, which did not accommodate emerging disk technologies. In contrast, MyDOS and SpartaDOS emerged as successful alternatives, offering greater scalability and support for larger drives. The author emphasizes the importance of designing software with future requirements in mind, suggesting that flexibility and foresight in engineering can lead to long-lasting solutions. The discussion serves as a reminder of the lessons learned from past file system designs, advocating for a proactive approach to software development that considers potential advancements and user needs.