● Covered by 1 source · 1 reportLow impact1 neutral
Early Berkeley Software Distribution (BSD) Bundled Pascal Compiler and Tools
Key points
- First BSD released in 1977 by Bill Joy.
- Bundled Pascal system and ex editor.
- Not a standalone OS, but an add-on for Unix.
- 2BSD added vi and C shell, distributed in 1978.
The Genesis of BSD
In 1977, Bill Joy assembled the first Berkeley Software Distribution (BSD) at the University of California, Berkeley. This initial distribution included a Pascal compiler system and the line editor 'ex', which was derived from 'em'. BSD was designed as a software collection to be installed on existing Unix systems, rather than a complete operating system itself. Approximately thirty copies were distributed on tape during its first year.
Distribution and Licensing
To obtain BSD, users needed an existing AT&T Unix source license. Berkeley charged only for the physical tape and distribution costs. This low-cost distribution model was influenced by Berkeley's tradition of sharing research software and the prevailing counter-culture movements of the time, such as the Free Speech Movement and anti-war activism.
The Second Berkeley Software Distribution (2BSD)
Following the initial release, Joy improved the Pascal system based on user feedback. He then bundled these improvements with 'vi' (the visual mode for 'ex') and the C shell, along with other tools, to create the Second Berkeley Software Distribution (2BSD). This version saw increased adoption, with nearly seventy-five tapes shipped in the subsequent year. Joy personally handled the distribution requests, copying, and mailing of these tapes.
VAX Unix and Virtual Memory
In 1978, a VAX computer arrived at Berkeley. Bell Labs had its own VAX Unix version, 32/V, which did not fully utilize the VAX hardware's virtual memory capabilities. Berkeley graduate student Ozalp Babaoglu, working with Professor Domenico Ferrari, began integrating virtual memory code into 32/V. Bill Joy assisted Babaoglu in this integration and debugging process.
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Reporting from
In 1977, Bill Joy created the first Berkeley Software Distribution (BSD), which was a collection of software including a Pascal system and the ex editor, distributed on tape. This initial release was not a standalone operating system but an add-on for existing Unix systems, with about thirty copies sent out. The subsequent 2BSD release added vi and the C shell, shipping nearly seventy-five copies.