Meaning: This quote by Eric Raymond reflects the impact of workstation-class machines, particularly those built by Sun Microsystems, and other companies in revolutionizing the world of hacking. The term "hackers" in this context refers to individuals who are skilled at modifying and re-purposing technology, often with a creative and innovative approach. The quote suggests that the availability of powerful and advanced workstation-class machines provided hackers with the tools and resources to explore new possibilities and push the boundaries of technology.

During the 1980s and 1990s, Sun Microsystems played a significant role in the development and popularization of workstation-class machines. These machines were designed to offer high performance and advanced capabilities, making them ideal for tasks such as software development, scientific computing, and graphic design. With their powerful hardware and sophisticated operating systems, Sun workstations became popular among hackers and technologists who sought to leverage their capabilities for creative and experimental purposes.

One of the key features of workstation-class machines was their openness and flexibility. Unlike many traditional mainframe and minicomputer systems, workstations often ran Unix-based operating systems, which provided a rich set of development tools and a highly customizable environment. This level of openness and accessibility appealed to hackers, who valued the ability to tinker with the system, modify its software, and explore new ways of using the hardware.

The quote also alludes to the idea that the availability of these powerful machines "opened up new worlds" for hackers. This can be interpreted in several ways. Firstly, the increased computational power and advanced hardware capabilities of workstation-class machines enabled hackers to tackle more complex and ambitious projects. They could work with larger datasets, develop more sophisticated software, and engage in tasks that were previously out of reach due to hardware limitations.

Furthermore, the quote suggests that these machines facilitated new avenues of exploration and discovery for hackers. The combination of powerful hardware and a versatile software environment encouraged experimentation and innovation. Hackers could push the boundaries of what was possible, explore new technologies, and contribute to the development of cutting-edge solutions in fields such as networking, security, and distributed computing.

In addition to Sun Microsystems, other companies also played a role in driving the evolution of workstation-class machines. Companies such as Silicon Graphics, Hewlett-Packard, and IBM offered their own lines of high-performance workstations, each with its own unique features and capabilities. This diversity of offerings provided hackers with a range of options for their projects, allowing them to choose the best tools for their specific needs.

Overall, the quote by Eric Raymond reflects the transformative impact of workstation-class machines on the world of hacking. These powerful and open systems empowered hackers to explore new frontiers, push the boundaries of technology, and contribute to the development of innovative solutions. The availability of advanced hardware and flexible software environments provided hackers with the tools they needed to unleash their creativity and drive the evolution of technology.