NavList:

Hi Frank

I do not think computers are really off topic - as you say - they are in EVERYTHING - and the word "computer" is used as a generic to describe the inner workings of anything that is not understood by someone - actually with the internet everyone seems to know how everything works --- ...... ha ha

I started dabbling in electronics in the late 50s - valve radios in every cowshed in the big dairy regions of NZ - at 4 AM you could hear all the radios going - all valve radios - I made quite a earning in pocket money fixing them - didn't have a clue on electronics but 99% of the problem was a valve or capacitor - just had enough old radios to have spares (sadly all those vlaves went to the tip).

I followed this into the dawn of th transistor and then the microprocessor - but strangely standing on the steps of university with a very good 1st year behind me - I could see the Technology Department begging me to enter - but I did not.

I became a veterinary surgeon - as animals are all MK I original and none yet come with computers in them ...... though it seems the internet makes everyone an instant "Electrical Engineer"or "Doctor" or "Veterinary Surgeon" etc - unfortunately.

Tim - you are a Syney sider - I am a little south in the Southern Highlands but not a sailor - aeronautical RNZAF navigator. I wouldn't want to be heading to Lord Howe during the awful weather we have been experiencing and the fast moving deep lows coming down from up north.

This forum I watch and read daily - a lot of the nuatical talk goes over my head but I read and absorb.

My marine and aeronautical sextants lie unused, sadly, in their cases as I am in full time work still and just cannot get the time and mental clearance to get them out - it pains me.

We are looking at moving house - and at present the one we are interested in is in the country with a big hill directly behind the house - and my comment to my wife is - I could build a small observatory up there as we were negotiating rooms for my office and her art room - her reply "yes that would be a great idea" - I dream folks.

I really enjoy the chatter on the forum.

Regards Howard