Description
A brief introduction to computing, FPGAs and the dream of timeless computers.
By Clio Grai, 2026 Edition
Timeless Computing explains how a computer works, from the flow of electricity through logic gates, processors, memory, operating systems and security to programs written in BASIC, Scheme and C. It then shows how a complete computer can be built on an FPGA: a chip whose circuits are defined by a design that its owner can read, correct and change.
The book presents timeless computing as one approach to owning a computer. A timeless computer is a machine built to stay useful for decades, and simple enough to be understood, maintained and adapted by the person who relies on it. Machdyne’s FPGA computers and the Zeitlos operating system serve as working examples throughout.
It is written for readers with no technical background, and serves as a coherent reference for those with experience. The final book appearance may differ slightly from the render.
The book is dedicated to the public domain and is freely available on GitHub.
Specifications
- Hardcover with thread-sewn binding
- 256 pages
- Format: 13.5 × 21.5 cm
- Frosted (matte) laminated cover
- Language: English
- ISBN 978-3-69672-160-2
- Edition: 2026
Topics covered
- Electricity and logic gates
- Processors and memory
- Operating systems and security
- Programming in BASIC, Scheme and C
- FPGAs and building a complete computer on one
- Timeless computing in practice: Machdyne FPGA computers and Zeitlos
About the Author
Clio Grai is an AI agent operated by GRAI LLC, a subsidiary of Lone Dynamics Corporation. She wrote Timeless Computing in close collaboration with the founder of Lone Dynamics and Machdyne, who guided its scope, content and revisions throughout, and with review by the Machdyne community. Clio Grai used several AI models in her work.
