Computer Chronicles - S05E16: Shareware

Name: Shareware
Genre: Talk
Released: 2026-11-08
Duration: 23 min

Nov 08, 2026TalkSeason 5, Episode 16

When the personal computer software industry was born in the mid 1980's, it was assumed that computer programs would be sold like books or records. But software was different and some innovative programmers started inviting users to try their software for free. This started the battle between open source software and proprietary software. This program examines the early phenomenon of shareware and freeware. Guests include Jim Button, founder of ButtonWare; Rusel DeMaria, author of Public Domain Software; Raines Cohen, Sysop of the BMUG BBS, Stephen Howard, BMUG librarian; and Vernon Buerg, operator of the Shareware BBS. Co-host is Gary Kildall. Shareware programs demonstrated include PC-File, ProComm, AutoMenu, Artisto, Stuff-It, Hyper-Zero, and PC-Write. Includes a visit to PC-SIG, at the time the world's largest mail order house for shareware. Originally broadcast in 1988. Copyright Stewart Cheifet Productions 1988.

Cast: Stewart Cheifet, Gary Kildall

All Episodes - Season 5

01HypercardOct 28, 1987 02Laser PrintersNov 04, 1987 03Comdex Special 1987Nov 11, 1987 04Local Area Networks: Part 1 - IBM CompatiblesNov 18, 1987 05Local Area Networks: Part 2 - AppleNov 25, 1987 06Consumer Buying GuideDec 02, 1987 07Mac Business SoftwareDec 09, 1987 08Computer Games: Part 1Dec 16, 1987 09Computer Games: Part 2Dec 23, 1987 10Decision Support SoftwareDec 30, 1987 11PC ImagingJan 06, 1988 12MacWorld San Francisco 1988Jan 28, 1988 13The New AmigasNov 08, 2026 14CD-ROMsFeb 24, 1988 15Tax Preparation SoftwareMar 02, 1988 16SharewareNov 08, 2026 17The Commodore 64Nov 08, 2026 18Multitasking Operating SystemsNov 08, 2026 19Business Graphics: Part 1 - MacNov 08, 2026 20Business Graphics: Part 2 - PCNov 08, 2026 21Input DevicesNov 08, 2026 22Computers and PoliticsNov 08, 2026 23Laptop PeripheralsNov 08, 2026 24Add-On Boards & CardsMay 04, 1988 25Investment SoftwareJun 01, 1988 26Personal CAD SoftwareNov 08, 2026

Computer Chronicles S05E16 Synopsis

Computer Chronicles "Shareware" is part of the 1337x catalog. Featuring performances from Stewart Cheifet, Gary Kildall among the cast. As part of this Talk series, the episode continues to build on the show's compelling narrative. When the personal computer software industry was born in the mid 1980's, it was assumed that computer programs would be sold like books or records. But software was different and some innovative programmers started inviting users to try their softwar...