We taught ourselves to simulate how microprocessors work using DEC computers so we could develop software even before our machine was built.

In this quote, Paul Allen reflects on the early days of computer development and the innovative approach he and his team used to advance their work. He describes how they taught themselves to simulate the operation of microprocessors using DEC computers, which were early digital computers from Digital Equipment Corporation. The purpose of this self-taught simulation was to develop software in parallel with the hardware's construction, which was a novel and proactive strategy at the time.

Allen emphasizes the importance of simulation in the development process. By using existing technology to replicate the functions of the microprocessors they were working on, they were able to begin writing software before the hardware was even built. This allowed them to be more efficient, as the software could be tested and refined in advance, making the eventual integration with the physical hardware smoother and quicker.

The quote highlights a critical aspect of the early days of the personal computing revolution, where much of the development was done in uncharted territory. There were no established processes for software development at that time, and many early innovators, like Allen, had to be creative and resourceful in finding ways to overcome obstacles. By simulating the hardware with existing technology, they essentially created their own pathway to progress in an emerging field.

Ultimately, Allen’s statement illustrates the innovation and resourcefulness that defined the early days of computer technology. It showcases the ability to adapt and problem-solve in a rapidly evolving field, setting the stage for the groundbreaking advancements in software and hardware that would follow, particularly with the rise of Microsoft and the development of the personal computer.