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Rewrite to match this wiki: account form (email optional, no terms checkbox, moderation), real scope, citation rules incl. own measurements, correct Infobox computer fields (cpu not processor) and house page shape, existing templates and categories only, fixed keyboard shortcuts (V is visual editor, H is history); remove invented citation, WikiProjects, help desk, mentors, User infobox
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{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%; background-color:#e8f4ff; border-radius:10px; box-shadow:0 4px 8px rgba(0,0,0,0.1); text-align:center; margin-bottom:20px;"
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%; background-color:#e8f4ff; border-radius:10px; box-shadow:0 4px 8px rgba(0,0,0,0.1); text-align:center; margin-bottom:20px;"
|-
|-
! style="font-size:200%; padding:20px; background-color:#4B9CD3; color:white;" | '''Welcome to RetroTechCollection Wiki!'''
! style="font-size:200%; padding:20px; background-color:#4B9CD3; color:white;" | '''Getting started on the RetroTechCollection Wiki'''
|-
|-
| style="font-size:120%; padding:15px;" | ''Your journey into preserving vintage technology history starts here''
| style="font-size:120%; padding:15px;" | ''A guide for new editors''
|}
|}


<div style="background-color:#f0f9ff; border-left:5px solid #4B9CD3; padding:15px; margin:20px 0;">
<div style="background-color:#f0f9ff; border-left:5px solid #4B9CD3; padding:15px; margin:20px 0;">
'''New to wikis?''' Don't worry! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to start contributing to our vintage technology knowledge base. Take it step by step, and you'll be editing like a pro in no time.
New to wikis? This guide takes you through creating an account, making your first edit and writing a new page. Take it one step at a time.
</div>
</div>


== 🚀 Quick Start Checklist ==
== 🚀 Quick start checklist ==


{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%; background-color:#f9f9f9;"
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%; background-color:#f9f9f9;"
! style="width:30px;" | ✓
! style="width:30px;" | ✓
! Task
! Task
! Why It's Important
! Why
|-
|-
| ☐ || [[#Creating Your Account|Create an account]] || Lets you edit pages and build your reputation
| ☐ || [[#Creating your account|Create an account]] || Your edits are credited to you and you can upload files
|-
|-
| ☐ || [[#Setting Up Your User Page|Set up your user page]] || Introduce yourself to the community
| ☐ || [[#Setting up your user page|Set up your user page]] || Introduce yourself
|-
|-
| ☐ || [[#Understanding Our Mission|Read our mission]] || Understand what content belongs here
| ☐ || [[#What the wiki covers|Read what the wiki covers]] || Know what content belongs here
|-
|-
| ☐ || [[#Core Policies Overview|Learn core policies]] || Know the basic rules before editing
| ☐ || [[#Core principles|Learn the core principles]] || Know the basic rules before editing
|-
|-
| ☐ || [[#Making Your First Edit|Make your first edit]] || Start with something small and simple
| ☐ || [[#Making your first edit|Make your first edit]] || Start with something small
|-
|-
| ☐ || [[#Getting Help|Join the community]] || Connect with other vintage tech enthusiasts
| ☐ || [[#Getting help|Join the community]] || Meet other vintage tech enthusiasts
|}
|}


== 📝 Creating Your Account ==
== 📝 Creating your account ==


=== Why Create an Account? ===
=== Why create an account? ===
You can read the wiki, and even edit it, without an account, but anonymous edits wait in a moderation queue. Registered users can also:
* upload images and documents
* take part in discussions under their own name
* have a user page and a contribution history
* use a watchlist and receive notifications
* use editing tools such as [[RetroTechCollection:TW|Twinkle]] once their account is established


While you can browse the wiki without an account, registered users can:
New accounts are moderated too: your first edits appear once a moderator has approved them.
* Edit and create articles
* Upload images and documents
* Participate in discussions
* Create a user page
* Build a contribution history
* Access additional tools
* Receive notifications about topics you follow


=== How to Register ===
=== How to register ===
# Click [[Special:CreateAccount|Create account]] at the top right.
# Choose a username that is easy to remember, does not impersonate anyone, and is not a company or website name (see section 2.3 of the [[RetroTechCollection:Terms of Use|Terms of Use]]).
# Enter a password twice.
# Enter an email address. It is optional, but without one you cannot reset a forgotten password or receive notifications by email.
# Complete the security check.
# Click '''Create your account'''.
# If you gave an email address, click the confirmation link in the email you receive.


# Click '''[[Special:CreateAccount|Create account]]''' in the top right corner
By creating an account you agree to the [[RetroTechCollection:Terms of Use|Terms of Use]] and the [[RetroTechCollection:Privacy policy|Privacy policy]].
# Choose a username that:
#* Is easy to remember
#* Doesn't impersonate anyone
#* Follows our [[RetroTechCollection:Username policy|username policy]]
#* Will represent you well in the community
# Enter a valid email address (required for:)
#* Password recovery
#* Important notifications
#* Confirming your account
# Create a strong password
# Complete the CAPTCHA to prove you're human
# Read and accept the [[RetroTechCollection:Terms of Use|Terms of Use]] and [[RetroTechCollection:Privacy policy|Privacy Policy]]
# Click "Create your account"
# Check your email and click the confirmation link


<div style="background-color:#fff3cd; border-left:5px solid #ffb700; padding:15px; margin:20px 0;">
<div style="background-color:#fff3cd; border-left:5px solid #ffb700; padding:15px; margin:20px 0;">
'''⚠️ Age Requirement:''' You must be at least 13 years old to create an account on RetroTechCollection Wiki.
'''⚠️ Age requirement:''' you must be at least 13 years old to create an account on the RetroTechCollection Wiki.
</div>
</div>


== 👤 Setting Up Your User Page ==
== 👤 Setting up your user page ==
Your user page is where you introduce yourself and your interest in vintage technology.


Your user page is your home on the wiki. It's where you can introduce yourself and share your interests in vintage technology.
# Once logged in, click your username at the top right.
 
# Click '''Create''' to start your user page.
=== Creating Your User Page ===
# Add some basic information, for example:
 
# Once logged in, click on your username (top right)
# Click "Create" to start your user page
# Add some basic information:


<pre>
<pre>
{{User infobox
== About me ==
|image =
I collect and repair 8-bit home computers.
|name = YourUsername
|joined = {{CURRENTMONTHNAME}} {{CURRENTYEAR}}
|interests = [[Apple II]], [[Commodore 64]], [[Vintage Gaming]]
|expertise = Hardware repair, ROM dumping
|location = United Kingdom
}}
 
== About Me ==
Hello! I'm passionate about preserving vintage technology...


== My Collection ==
== My collection ==
* [[Apple IIe]] with DuoDisk
* [[Apple IIe]]
* [[ZX Spectrum]] 48K
* [[Sinclair ZX Spectrum]] 48K
* [[Atari 2600]] with 50+ cartridges
* [[Atari 2600]]


== Current Projects ==
== Current projects ==
* Restoring a [[Commodore PET]] 2001
* Recapping a [[Commodore PET 2001]]
* Documenting [[TRS-80]] software


== Contact ==
== Contact ==
* Feel free to leave a message on my [[User talk:YourUsername|talk page]]
Leave a message on my [[User talk:YourUsername|talk page]].
</pre>
</pre>


=== User Page Best Practices ===
Keep it about vintage technology, and do not share more personal information than you are comfortable with.
* Keep it relevant to vintage technology
* Don't share too much personal information
* Update it as your interests evolve
* Link to articles you've significantly contributed to
* Be welcoming and approachable
 
== 🎯 Understanding Our Mission ==
 
=== What We Document ===


RetroTechCollection Wiki focuses on:
== 🎯 What the wiki covers ==
The RetroTechCollection Wiki is about repairing, maintaining and documenting vintage computers, game consoles and their peripherals, mostly from the 1970s to the early 2000s.


{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
! Category !! Examples !! Time Period
! Page type !! Examples
|-
| '''Computers''' || Personal computers, mainframes, minicomputers || Pre-2000 primarily
|-
|-
| '''Gaming Systems''' || Consoles, handhelds, arcade machines || 1970s-1990s
| Machine pages || [[Commodore 64]], [[Apple IIe]], [[Atari 2600]]
|-
|-
| '''Software''' || Operating systems, applications, games || Historical versions
| Repair guides || General maintenance, troubleshooting and capacitor replacement guides for each machine
|-
|-
| '''Peripherals''' || Monitors, printers, storage devices || Vintage models
| Cross-machine guides || [[CRT Discharge Procedure]], [[Capacitor Failure Symptoms]], [[Battery Explosion, Capacitor or Corrosion Damage]]
|-
|-
| '''Companies''' || Manufacturers, developers, key figures || Historical focus
| Documentation || Scanned service manuals, schematics and technical references, each with its own page
|-
|-
| '''Culture''' || Magazines, user groups, BBS systems || Computing history
| Peripherals || Disk drives, monitors, printers, mice and keyboards
|}
|}


=== What Makes a Good Article ===
Browse the platform categories from [[Help:Categories]] to see what exists.


* '''Factual''': Based on verifiable information
=== What makes a good page ===
* '''Neutral''': Presenting all viewpoints fairly
* It is accurate, and every figure can be checked against a cited source.
* '''Comprehensive''': Covering all important aspects
* It is written plainly, in short declarative sentences.
* '''Well-sourced''': Citations for claims
* It has photographs where possible.
* '''Illustrated''': Images where possible
* It follows the structure of the other pages of its type (see [[Help:Writing a repair guide]]).
* '''Organized''': Clear structure and sections


== 📚 Core Policies Overview ==
== 📚 Core principles ==


Before editing, understand these five pillars:
=== Accuracy and citations ===
* Every figure (voltage, capacitor value, part number, date) needs a citation to a source that says it.
* Prefer the manufacturer's own service manual or schematic. Many are already hosted here: see [[:Category:Service Manuals]].
* If you cannot find a source for a figure, leave it out. A gap is better than a plausible guess.
* See [[RetroTechCollection:Citing sources]] and [[RetroTechCollection:Reliable technical sources]].


=== 1. 📊 Neutral Point of View (NPOV) ===
How to cite, using a manual hosted on the wiki:
* Present facts, not opinions
<pre>
* Include all significant viewpoints
The +5 V supply is specified at ±3 %.<ref>''Apple II Reference Manual – For //e Only'', Apple Computer, 1982,
* Don't advocate or advertise
Table 7-2. Hosted as [[:File:Apple IIe Reference Manual 1982.pdf]].</ref>
* Let readers form their own opinions
</pre>
 
'''Example:'''
* ❌ "The Amiga was the best computer of the 1980s"
* ✅ "The Amiga was noted for its advanced graphics and sound capabilities"
 
=== 2. ✅ Verifiability ===
* Information must be verifiable from reliable sources
* Add citations for factual claims
* Use reputable sources (books, magazines, manuals)
* No original research or personal theories
 
'''How to cite:'''
<nowiki>The Apple II sold over 6 million units.<ref>{{cite book |title=Apple Confidential 2.0 |author=Linzmayer, Owen |year=2004 |page=45}}</ref></nowiki>
 
=== 3. 🚫 Moderated Original Research ===
* When you publish your own discoveries, these edits will be verified.
* Don't synthesize information to reach new conclusions
* Stick to what sources explicitly state
* Personal experiences belong on talk pages, not articles
 
=== 4. 📝 Free Content ===
* All contributions are released under Creative Commons
* Only upload images you own or that are freely licensed
* Respect copyright at all times
* Fair use is limited and must be justified
 
=== 5. 🤝 Civility ===
* Treat everyone with respect
* Assume good faith in others' actions
* Discuss content, not contributors
* Resolve disputes calmly
 
== ✏️ Making Your First Edit ==
 
=== Finding Something to Edit ===
 
Start small with these beginner-friendly tasks:


# '''Fix typos and grammar'''
=== Your own findings ===
#* Browse articles about systems you know
Measurements you have taken yourself, repairs you have done and parts you have designed are welcome. Say that they are your own and give the details: the board revision, where you measured and what with. Do not present a guess as a measured value.
#* Look for obvious spelling errors
#* Improve awkward phrasing


# '''Add missing information'''
=== Neutral, plain writing ===
#* Technical specifications
Present facts, not opinions, and do not advertise.
#* Release dates
* Not this: "The Amiga was the best computer of the 1980s."
#* Model variations
* This: "The Amiga 500 uses a Motorola 68000 processor."
#* Compatible peripherals
Avoid filler phrases such as "plays a pivotal role" or "a testament to"; state the fact instead. [[Help:Writing a repair guide]] has more examples.


# '''Improve formatting'''
=== Free content and copyright ===
#* Add section headers
* Text you add is released under the licence in the [[RetroTechCollection:Terms of Use|Terms of Use]].
#* Create lists where appropriate
* Only upload images you took yourself or that are freely licensed, unless the copyright policy allows otherwise.
#* Fix broken links
* See [[RetroTechCollection:Copyrights]].


# '''Add citations'''
=== Civility ===
#* Find sources for uncited claims
* Treat everyone with respect and assume good faith.
#* Use books, manuals, or magazines you own
* Discuss the content, not the contributor.
* Settle disagreements on the talk page.


=== How to Edit ===
== ✏️ Making your first edit ==


# Navigate to any article
=== Finding something to edit ===
# Click the "Edit" tab at the top
Good first tasks:
# Make your changes in the text editor
# Fix typos and grammar in an article about a machine you know.
# Preview your changes (always do this!)
# Add a missing citation, from a manual you own or one already hosted here.
# Write an edit summary explaining what you did
# Add a photograph of your own hardware (see [[Help:Photographing hardware]]).
# Click "Save changes"
# Fix broken links or formatting.


=== Basic Wiki Markup ===
=== How to edit ===
# Open the article.
# Click '''Edit''' (visual editor) or '''Edit source''' (wikitext).
# Make your change.
# Click '''Show preview''' and check it.
# Write an edit summary saying what you did.
# Click '''Save changes'''.


=== Basic wiki markup ===
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
! What you want !! What you type !! What you get
! What you want !! What you type !! What you get
|-
|-
| Bold text || <nowiki>'''bold text'''</nowiki> || '''bold text'''
| Bold text || <code><nowiki>'''bold text'''</nowiki></code> || '''bold text'''
|-
|-
| Italic text || <nowiki>''italic text''</nowiki> || ''italic text''
| Italic text || <code><nowiki>''italic text''</nowiki></code> || ''italic text''
|-
|-
| Internal link || <nowiki>[[Commodore 64]]</nowiki> || [[Commodore 64]]
| Internal link || <code><nowiki>[[Commodore 64]]</nowiki></code> || [[Commodore 64]]
|-
|-
| External link || <nowiki>[https://example.com Example]</nowiki> || [https://example.com Example]
| External link || <code><nowiki>[https://example.com Example]</nowiki></code> || [https://example.com Example]
|-
|-
| Section header || <nowiki>== Header ==</nowiki> || (Creates a section)
| Section heading || <code><nowiki>== Heading ==</nowiki></code> || (creates a section)
|-
|-
| Bullet list || <nowiki>* Item one</nowiki><br /><nowiki>* Item two</nowiki> || • Item one<br />• Item two
| Bullet list || <code><nowiki>* Item one</nowiki></code><br /><code><nowiki>* Item two</nowiki></code> || • Item one<br />• Item two
|-
|-
| Numbered list || <nowiki># First</nowiki><br /><nowiki># Second</nowiki> || 1. First<br />2. Second
| Numbered list || <code><nowiki># First</nowiki></code><br /><code><nowiki># Second</nowiki></code> || 1. First<br />2. Second
|}
|}


=== Your First Edit Checklist ===
More in [[Help:Editing]], [[Help:Wikitext]] and [[Help:Formatting]].
 
Before saving:
* ✓ Is my information accurate?
* ✓ Is it written neutrally?
* ✓ Did I preview my changes?
* ✓ Did I write a clear edit summary?
* ✓ Am I improving the article?


== 🖼️ Working with Images ==
=== Before you save ===
* Is the information accurate, and is it cited?
* Is it written neutrally?
* Did you preview it?
* Did you write an edit summary?


=== Uploading Images ===
== 🖼️ Working with images ==
 
# Use '''[[Special:Upload|Special:Upload]]'''
# Ensure you have rights to the image:
#* Photos you took yourself
#* Images with free licenses
#* Public domain material
#* Fair use (with justification)
# Choose a descriptive filename
# Fill out the information template:


=== Uploading images ===
# Go to [[Special:Upload]].
# Make sure you have the right to upload the image: your own photo, a freely licensed image, or public domain material.
# Give it a descriptive filename, such as <code>Atari 520STM motherboard.jpg</code>.
# Fill in the description with {{tl|Information}}:
<pre>
<pre>
{{Information
{{Information
|description = Front view of Apple IIe computer
|description = Front view of an Apple IIe
|source = Own work
|source = Own work
|date = 2024-01-15
|date = 2024-01-15
|author = [[User:YourUsername]]
|author = [[User:YourUsername]]
|permission =  
|permission = CC BY-SA 4.0
|other_versions =
}}
}}
</pre>
</pre>


=== Image Best Practices ===
=== Good images ===
 
* Sharp and well lit, at a sensible file size (under about 3 MB).
* '''Quality''': High resolution but reasonable file size
* Showing the machine, board or part the article is about.
* '''Relevance''': Directly related to article content
* With a caption that says what and which revision it shows.
* '''Captions''': Always add descriptive captions
* Several related images go in a <code><nowiki><gallery></nowiki></code>.
* '''Galleries''': Use for multiple related images
* '''Fair use''': Only when necessary, with full rationale
 
== 📖 Creating New Articles ==
 
=== Before You Start ===
 
Ask yourself:
# Is this topic notable enough?
# Can I find reliable sources?
# Does an article already exist?
# Is it within our scope?


=== Notability Guidelines ===
See [[Help:Photographing hardware]].


A topic is notable if it has:
== 📖 Creating new pages ==
* Significant coverage in reliable sources
* Historical importance to computing
* Lasting impact on technology
* Multiple independent sources discussing it


=== Creating Your Article ===
=== Before you start ===
# Search to make sure the page does not already exist.
# Check that you can find sources for it.
# Check that it is within the wiki's scope.


# Search first to ensure it doesn't exist
=== Creating the page ===
# Click the red link or use the search box
Click a red link, or search for the new title and click the link to create it. The [[RTC:Article wizard|Article wizard]] and [[Help:Your first article]] walk you through it. A machine page has this shape:
# Start with this basic structure:


<pre>
<pre>
{{Infobox computer
{{Infobox computer
|name = Computer Name
|name = Computer Name
|image =  
|image = Computer Name.jpg
|manufacturer = [[Company Name]]
|caption = Computer Name (1985)
|type = Personal computer
|manufacturer = Company Name
|release date = 1985
|release_date = 1985
|discontinued = 1990
|discontinued = 1990
|processor = CPU details
|cpu = CPU and clock speed
|memory = RAM amount
|memory = RAM
|storage = Storage type
|storage = Storage
|display = Display
|os = Operating system
}}
}}


The '''Computer Name''' was a personal computer manufactured by [[Company Name]] from 1985 to 1990.
The '''Computer Name''' is a personal computer made by Company Name from 1985 to 1990.<ref>...</ref>


== History ==
== History ==
Development began in...
== Specifications ==
 
== Hardware ==
== Technical specifications ==
== Known faults ==
* '''Processor:'''
== Documentation ==
* '''Memory:'''
== Related pages ==
* '''Storage:'''
* '''Display:'''
 
== Software ==
The system ran...
 
== Reception ==
Contemporary reviews...
 
== Legacy ==
The Computer Name influenced...
 
== See also ==
* [[Related Computer]]
* [[Competing System]]
 
== References ==
== References ==
{{reflist}}
<references />
 
== External links ==
* [http://example.com Official documentation]


[[Category:Personal computers]]
[[Category:Platform category]]
[[Category:1985 in computing]]
</pre>
</pre>


== 🤝 Getting Help ==
Repair guides have their own templates: see [[Help:Writing a repair guide]]. For the infobox fields, see [[Help:Infoboxes]]; for categories, see [[Help:Categories]].
 
=== Where to Ask Questions ===
 
* '''[[Help:Contents|Help pages]]''' - Comprehensive documentation
* '''[[RetroTechCollection:Village Pump|Village Pump]]''' - General discussion
* '''[[RetroTechCollection:Help desk|Help desk]]''' - New user questions
* '''User talk pages''' - Message experienced editors
* '''[[Special:RecentChanges|Recent changes]]''' - See what others are doing
 
=== Finding Mentors ===


Look for:
== 🤝 Getting help ==
* Editors with "Mentor" userboxes
* Active administrators
* Editors working on similar topics
* Members of relevant WikiProjects


=== Common New User Mistakes ===
=== Where to ask ===
* [[Help:Contents|Help pages]]: the full help index
* [[RetroTechCollection:Village Pump|Village Pump]]: questions and discussion
* User talk pages: leave a message for an experienced editor
* [https://forum.retrotechcollection.com RTC Forum]: the community forum


=== Common mistakes ===
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
! Mistake !! Why It's Wrong !! Better Approach
! Mistake !! Why it is a problem !! Instead
|-
|-
| Adding opinions || Violates NPOV || Stick to facts with sources
| Adding figures without a source || Readers cannot check them, and some turn out to be wrong || Cite a manual or schematic, or leave the figure out
|-
|-
| Copying from websites || Copyright violation || Write in your own words
| Copying text from websites || Copyright violation || Write it in your own words and cite the source
|-
|-
| Creating autobiographies || Conflict of interest || Focus on notable topics
| Adding opinions || Not neutral || Stick to facts with sources
|-
|-
| Edit warring || Disrupts the wiki || Discuss on talk pages
| Edit warring || Disrupts the wiki || Discuss on the talk page
|-
|-
| Promotional content || Not encyclopedic || Write neutrally
| Promotional content || Not encyclopaedic || Write neutrally
|}
|}


== 🛠️ Useful Tools and Features ==
== 🛠️ Useful tools ==
 
* Watchlist: follow changes to the pages you care about
=== Editor Tools ===
* Contributions: your own edit history
 
* Preferences: set up your account and turn on gadgets
* '''Watchlist''' - Monitor articles you care about
* [[Special:MyPage/sandbox|Your sandbox]]: practise without affecting articles
* '''Contributions''' - Track your edit history
* [[RetroTechCollection:Tools|Editing tools]]: Infobox Generator, Spec Importer, Twinkle and HotCat
* '''Preferences''' - Customize your experience
* '''Sandbox''' - [[Special:MyPage/sandbox|Practice editing safely]]
 
=== Advanced Features ===
 
As you gain experience:
* Learn templates for consistency
* Use categories to organize articles
* Create redirects for alternate names
* Participate in deletion discussions
* Join WikiProjects in your interest areas
 
== 🎓 Next Steps ==
 
=== Beginner Goals ===
 
# '''Week 1''': Make 5 small edits
# '''Week 2''': Add your first citation
# '''Week 3''': Significantly expand a section
# '''Month 1''': Create your first article
 
=== Intermediate Goals ===
 
* Adopt an article to improve
* Join a WikiProject
* Participate in community discussions
* Help other new users
* Work toward autoconfirmed status
 
=== Advanced Goals ===
 
* Become a subject matter expert
* Create featured content
* Mentor new users
* Consider administrator nomination
* Develop wiki tools or templates
 
== 📋 Quick Reference ==


=== Essential Pages ===
== 🎓 Next steps ==
Once you are comfortable with small edits:
* add citations to an uncited page
* expand a thin section with sourced detail
* write a missing repair guide for a machine you own
* upload a service manual you have scanned (see [[Help:Uploading service manuals]])
* help other new users on the Village Pump


* [[Special:RecentChanges|Recent changes]] - What's happening now
== 📋 Quick reference ==
* [[Special:Random|Random article]] - Discover new topics
* [[Special:WantedPages|Wanted pages]] - Articles that need creating
* [[Special:ShortPages|Short pages]] - Articles needing expansion
* [https://forum.retrotechcollection.com RetroTechCollection Community] - Get involved


=== Keyboard Shortcuts ===
=== Useful pages ===
* [[Special:RecentChanges|Recent changes]]: what is being edited now
* [[Special:Random|Random article]]: discover a page
* [[Special:WantedPages|Wanted pages]]: pages linked but not yet written
* [[Special:ShortPages|Short pages]]: pages that need expanding


* '''Alt+Shift+E''' - Edit page
=== Keyboard shortcuts ===
* '''Alt+Shift+V''' - View history
In most browsers on Windows and Linux, hold Alt+Shift; on a Mac, hold Ctrl+Option. Then press:
* '''Alt+Shift+T''' - Talk page
* E: edit source
* '''Alt+Shift+M''' - Move page
* V: edit in the visual editor
* '''Alt+Shift+W''' - Watch page
* H: page history
* T: talk page
* M: move page
* W: watch page


== 🎉 Welcome to the Community! ==
== 🎉 Welcome ==
 
* Be bold in editing, but careful with figures.
Remember:
* Everyone was new once. Ask if you are unsure.
* '''Be bold''' in editing, but not reckless
* Mistakes can be fixed.
* '''Everyone was new once''' - don't be afraid to ask
* One well-sourced edit is worth more than ten unsourced ones.
* '''Mistakes are okay''' - they can be fixed
* '''Have fun''' - this is a hobby for most of us
* '''Quality over quantity''' - better to do one thing well


<div style="background-color:#e8f4ff; border:2px solid #4B9CD3; border-radius:10px; padding:20px; margin:20px 0; text-align:center;">
<div style="background-color:#e8f4ff; border:2px solid #4B9CD3; border-radius:10px; padding:20px; margin:20px 0; text-align:center;">
<span style="font-size:150%;">'''Ready to make your first edit?'''</span><br />
<span style="font-size:150%;">'''Ready to make your first edit?'''</span><br />
<span style="font-size:120%;">Start with [[Special:Random|a random article]] or [[Special:WantedPages|wanted pages]] and look for something to improve or create! You can use the [[RTC:Article_wizard|RTC Article Wizard]] to help you create your first page!</span>
<span style="font-size:120%;">Try [[Special:Random|a random article]] or the [[Special:WantedPages|wanted pages]], or use the [[RTC:Article wizard|RTC Article wizard]] to create your first page.</span>
</div>
</div>


----
Still have questions? Visit the [https://forum.retrotechcollection.com RTC Forum] or leave a message on the [[Help talk:Getting Started|talk page]].
 
'''Still have questions?''' Visit the [http://Forum.retrotechcollection.com RTC Forum], the RTC Discord Server, or leave a message on the [[Help talk:Getting Started|talk page]].


[[Category:RetroTechCollection]]
[[Category:RetroTechCollection]]
[[Category:Help]]
[[Category:Help]]
[[Category:Getting started]]
[[Category:Getting started]]

Revision as of 11:45, 30 September 2026

Getting started on the RetroTechCollection Wiki
A guide for new editors

New to wikis? This guide takes you through creating an account, making your first edit and writing a new page. Take it one step at a time.

🚀 Quick start checklist

✓ Task Why
☐ Create an account Your edits are credited to you and you can upload files
☐ Set up your user page Introduce yourself
☐ Read what the wiki covers Know what content belongs here
☐ Learn the core principles Know the basic rules before editing
☐ Make your first edit Start with something small
☐ Join the community Meet other vintage tech enthusiasts

📝 Creating your account

Why create an account?

You can read the wiki, and even edit it, without an account, but anonymous edits wait in a moderation queue. Registered users can also:

  • upload images and documents
  • take part in discussions under their own name
  • have a user page and a contribution history
  • use a watchlist and receive notifications
  • use editing tools such as Twinkle once their account is established

New accounts are moderated too: your first edits appear once a moderator has approved them.

How to register

  1. Click Create account at the top right.
  2. Choose a username that is easy to remember, does not impersonate anyone, and is not a company or website name (see section 2.3 of the Terms of Use).
  3. Enter a password twice.
  4. Enter an email address. It is optional, but without one you cannot reset a forgotten password or receive notifications by email.
  5. Complete the security check.
  6. Click Create your account.
  7. If you gave an email address, click the confirmation link in the email you receive.

By creating an account you agree to the Terms of Use and the Privacy policy.

⚠️ Age requirement: you must be at least 13 years old to create an account on the RetroTechCollection Wiki.

👤 Setting up your user page

Your user page is where you introduce yourself and your interest in vintage technology.

  1. Once logged in, click your username at the top right.
  2. Click Create to start your user page.
  3. Add some basic information, for example:
== About me ==
I collect and repair 8-bit home computers.

== My collection ==
* [[Apple IIe]]
* [[Sinclair ZX Spectrum]] 48K
* [[Atari 2600]]

== Current projects ==
* Recapping a [[Commodore PET 2001]]

== Contact ==
Leave a message on my [[User talk:YourUsername|talk page]].

Keep it about vintage technology, and do not share more personal information than you are comfortable with.

🎯 What the wiki covers

The RetroTechCollection Wiki is about repairing, maintaining and documenting vintage computers, game consoles and their peripherals, mostly from the 1970s to the early 2000s.

Page type Examples
Machine pages Commodore 64, Apple IIe, Atari 2600
Repair guides General maintenance, troubleshooting and capacitor replacement guides for each machine
Cross-machine guides CRT Discharge Procedure, Capacitor Failure Symptoms, Battery Explosion, Capacitor or Corrosion Damage
Documentation Scanned service manuals, schematics and technical references, each with its own page
Peripherals Disk drives, monitors, printers, mice and keyboards

Browse the platform categories from Help:Categories to see what exists.

What makes a good page

  • It is accurate, and every figure can be checked against a cited source.
  • It is written plainly, in short declarative sentences.
  • It has photographs where possible.
  • It follows the structure of the other pages of its type (see Help:Writing a repair guide).

📚 Core principles

Accuracy and citations

How to cite, using a manual hosted on the wiki: 

The +5 V supply is specified at ±3 %.<ref>''Apple II Reference Manual – For //e Only'', Apple Computer, 1982,
Table 7-2. Hosted as [[:File:Apple IIe Reference Manual 1982.pdf]].</ref>

Your own findings

Measurements you have taken yourself, repairs you have done and parts you have designed are welcome. Say that they are your own and give the details: the board revision, where you measured and what with. Do not present a guess as a measured value.

Neutral, plain writing

Present facts, not opinions, and do not advertise.

  • Not this: "The Amiga was the best computer of the 1980s."
  • This: "The Amiga 500 uses a Motorola 68000 processor."

Avoid filler phrases such as "plays a pivotal role" or "a testament to"; state the fact instead. Help:Writing a repair guide has more examples.

Free content and copyright

  • Text you add is released under the licence in the Terms of Use.
  • Only upload images you took yourself or that are freely licensed, unless the copyright policy allows otherwise.
  • See RetroTechCollection:Copyrights.

Civility

  • Treat everyone with respect and assume good faith.
  • Discuss the content, not the contributor.
  • Settle disagreements on the talk page.

✏️ Making your first edit

Finding something to edit

Good first tasks:

  1. Fix typos and grammar in an article about a machine you know.
  2. Add a missing citation, from a manual you own or one already hosted here.
  3. Add a photograph of your own hardware (see Help:Photographing hardware).
  4. Fix broken links or formatting.

How to edit

  1. Open the article.
  2. Click Edit (visual editor) or Edit source (wikitext).
  3. Make your change.
  4. Click Show preview and check it.
  5. Write an edit summary saying what you did.
  6. Click Save changes.

Basic wiki markup

What you want What you type What you get
Bold text '''bold text''' bold text
Italic text ''italic text'' italic text
Internal link [[Commodore 64]] Commodore 64
External link [https://example.com Example] Example
Section heading == Heading == (creates a section)
Bullet list * Item one
* Item two		 • Item one
• Item two
Numbered list # First
# Second		 1. First
2. Second

More in Help:Editing, Help:Wikitext and Help:Formatting.

Before you save

  • Is the information accurate, and is it cited?
  • Is it written neutrally?
  • Did you preview it?
  • Did you write an edit summary?

🖼️ Working with images

Uploading images

  1. Go to Special:Upload.
  2. Make sure you have the right to upload the image: your own photo, a freely licensed image, or public domain material.
  3. Give it a descriptive filename, such as Atari 520STM motherboard.jpg.
  4. Fill in the description with {{Information}}:
{{Information
|description = Front view of an Apple IIe
|source = Own work
|date = 2024-01-15
|author = [[User:YourUsername]]
|permission = CC BY-SA 4.0
}}

Good images

  • Sharp and well lit, at a sensible file size (under about 3 MB).
  • Showing the machine, board or part the article is about.
  • With a caption that says what and which revision it shows.
  • Several related images go in a <gallery>.

See Help:Photographing hardware.

📖 Creating new pages

Before you start

  1. Search to make sure the page does not already exist.
  2. Check that you can find sources for it.
  3. Check that it is within the wiki's scope.

Creating the page

Click a red link, or search for the new title and click the link to create it. The Article wizard and Help:Your first article walk you through it. A machine page has this shape: 

{{Infobox computer
|name = Computer Name
|image = Computer Name.jpg
|caption = Computer Name (1985)
|manufacturer = Company Name
|release_date = 1985
|discontinued = 1990
|cpu = CPU and clock speed
|memory = RAM
|storage = Storage
|display = Display
|os = Operating system
}}

The '''Computer Name''' is a personal computer made by Company Name from 1985 to 1990.<ref>...</ref>

== History ==
== Specifications ==
== Hardware ==
== Known faults ==
== Documentation ==
== Related pages ==
== References ==
<references />

[[Category:Platform category]]

Repair guides have their own templates: see Help:Writing a repair guide. For the infobox fields, see Help:Infoboxes; for categories, see Help:Categories.

🤝 Getting help

Where to ask

  • Help pages: the full help index
  • Village Pump: questions and discussion
  • User talk pages: leave a message for an experienced editor
  • RTC Forum: the community forum

Common mistakes

Mistake Why it is a problem Instead
Adding figures without a source Readers cannot check them, and some turn out to be wrong Cite a manual or schematic, or leave the figure out
Copying text from websites Copyright violation Write it in your own words and cite the source
Adding opinions Not neutral Stick to facts with sources
Edit warring Disrupts the wiki Discuss on the talk page
Promotional content Not encyclopaedic Write neutrally

🛠️ Useful tools

  • Watchlist: follow changes to the pages you care about
  • Contributions: your own edit history
  • Preferences: set up your account and turn on gadgets
  • Your sandbox: practise without affecting articles
  • Editing tools: Infobox Generator, Spec Importer, Twinkle and HotCat

🎓 Next steps

Once you are comfortable with small edits:

  • add citations to an uncited page
  • expand a thin section with sourced detail
  • write a missing repair guide for a machine you own
  • upload a service manual you have scanned (see Help:Uploading service manuals)
  • help other new users on the Village Pump

📋 Quick reference

Useful pages

Keyboard shortcuts

In most browsers on Windows and Linux, hold Alt+Shift; on a Mac, hold Ctrl+Option. Then press:

  • E: edit source
  • V: edit in the visual editor
  • H: page history
  • T: talk page
  • M: move page
  • W: watch page

🎉 Welcome

  • Be bold in editing, but careful with figures.
  • Everyone was new once. Ask if you are unsure.
  • Mistakes can be fixed.
  • One well-sourced edit is worth more than ten unsourced ones.

Ready to make your first edit?
Try a random article or the wanted pages, or use the RTC Article wizard to create your first page.

Still have questions? Visit the RTC Forum or leave a message on the talk page.

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