UPDATE 20-OCT-2026
The BBS was down due to unresolved issues with the BlueSCSI hard-disk image
beginning of 2026
but has now been up and running again since half October 2026.
Hope you enjoy the new pictures :)
Why does one start a Bulletin Board System in 2024 ?
I grew up with a PC and its demoscene and the BBS culture
always wanting an Atari ST.
When I read a Multi-User BBS existed on the Atari ST I had found a new project
to dive into.
It has taught me a lot of Python, UNIX tools and patience since starting to work
on it in February and have the base system running in March 2024.
So what is it and how can I access it ?
telnet thecell.ar port 1040
The BBS runs on an Atari MegaSTe
connected to the internet via 2 x CMBSTUFF Wimodem232 PROs
via an cartride expansion called DC-PORT natively supported by Michtron BBS software.
See https://www.thecell.ar/DC-PORT/
The Wimodem enables the STe to accept an telnet session and it will translate this to
AT commands upon which the BBS will accept the call and launch the logon procedure.
It currently allows 2 users at a time.
If 2 users are connected at the same time, they can chat to each other in the Chatroom.
It runs in 80 colums by 25 rows and the menus have been optimised for this.
The menus are ASCII, ANSI (16 colors) or VT52 (Atari ST 4 colors)
It is best enjoyed with
PC Syncterm RAW,19200 Baud,8N1 (ASCII/ANSI)
or Atari ST ANSI capable Terminal
like ANSIterm 19200 BAUD,8N1
or Atari ST VT52 capable Terminal
like TAZ,STalker,Flash , 19200 BAUD,8N1
for 4 colors
You can also use your browser to access it via FTELNET
Final Thoughts and Thanks !
My sincere thanks to all these people
and YOU for reading this.
Frank - the sysop of the first Pirate BBS I visited here in Antwerp - THECELLAR lives on !