Here's a collection of public domain and free software I've developed since the late 1980s. Many of these programs remain fully functional and can be run using DOSBox, an emulator designed to preserve and operate DOS-based software.
Game - QuickBASIC - MS-DOS - 1989
Muro (Italian for "Wall"), developed in 1989 using QuickBASIC on MS-DOS, is a simple yet captivating game inspired by a popular classic. Originally created with just 74 lines of code for the GW-BASIC interpreter, it manages to distill the essence of the original game into a streamlined, accessible format. A key highlight is the custom "SEGMENT-DISPLAY FONT," designed to mimic traditional digital displays, which adds a distinctive and nostalgic feel to the on-screen score and elements, giving the game a unique visual character.
Game - Turbo Pascal - MS-DOS - 1989
Back in 1989, I created a game using Turbo Pascal on MS-DOS, inspired by a TV show I loved. I aimed to capture the show's excitement and fun in the game, and Turbo Pascal was the perfect tool for the job. The result was an engaging game with gameplay and graphics that reflected the show's vibe.
MicroCad 1.0
In 1990, I teamed up with a friend to create a painting tool using Borland Pascal on MS-DOS. It started as a simple project but evolved as we added features, including mouse support, which greatly improved usability and precision. We also integrated Epson printer support, allowing users to print their artwork directly. Recently, I found the binaries of our first version, bringing back memories of the countless hours spent coding and refining the tool. The project was a perfect blend of technical skills and creative passion.
Vga Poker 3.0
Game - Borland Pascal - MS-DOS - 1991/92
Vga Poker, developed in 1991/92 for MS-DOS using Borland Pascal, is a digital poker game featuring classic card gameplay with VGA graphics. It offered a smooth and enjoyable poker experience on limited hardware, with a clean interface. The game was later published in and distributed by MCmicrocomputer magazine.
Library - Distributed by MCmicrocomputer 120
Library, developed in 1991 and 1992 using QuickBASIC and Turbo Pascal on MS-DOS, was a book database manager to help book enthusiasts manage their collections. Designed to be both powerful and easy to use, the project was a labor of love for both coding and books. After completing the first version, we submitted it to *McMicrocomputer* magazine, which decided to publish it.
Z80 Edit
IDE/Assembler - Borland Pascal / Turbo Vision - MS-DOS - 1992/1993.
Z80 Edit, developed in 1992/1993 using Borland Pascal and Turbo Vision on MS-DOS, is an IDE and Assembler for the Zilog 80 microprocessor.
Restaurant Manager - Borland Pascal/Borland Assembly - MS-DOS - 1994
This Restaurant Manager software streamlined operations for large events by managing orders, inventory, and reservations. It also offered real-time reporting and analytics, enhancing service efficiency and customer satisfaction during high-volume periods.
Demo - Borland C++ / Borland Assembler 386 - MS-DOS - 1995/1996
The Ray-casting 3D Engine Demo, developed in the mid-1990s using Borland C++ and Assembler 386 on MS-DOS, was inspired by ID Software's games. Created as part of a friendly challenge, the engine sought to replicate immersive 3D visuals within the hardware limitations of the time. After months of effort, the project resulted in an impressive demo that won the bet and became a key milestone in my programming career, fueling my passion for game development and graphics programming.
Binary Editor / Disassembler x86 - Borland Pascal - MS-DOS - 1991-1998
ExeCom, developed during the 1990s using Borland Pascal for MS-DOS, is a binary editor combined with an x86 disassembler. It allows users to manipulate binary files and translate machine code into assembly language, making it a useful tool for reverse engineering and software analysis. This project refined my low-level programming skills and expanded my expertise in software development and security, laying a solid foundation for future work in these fields.
CD Player - Visual C++ - Windows - 1999/2000
The CD Player, developed in 1999/2000 with Visual C++ for Windows, is a simple, user-friendly application designed for basic CD playback. It includes essential functions like play, pause, stop, and track selection, utilizing Windows APIs for smooth performance. Created to address the complexity of other CD players at the time, this project emphasizes simplicity and intuitive design, lessons that remain central to my work today.
Network Analyser - Visual C++ - Windows - 2001
AnNet, a Network Analyzer tool developed in 2001 for Windows using Visual C++, is designed to provide real-time and offline network data analysis. Powered by WinPcap, AnNet enables users to capture and inspect network packets, offering detailed insights into protocols like TCP/IP and HTTP. The tool features a user-friendly interface, making it easy to capture, filter, and analyze network traffic. Originally released as a commercial product, it was later made available for free after the removal of proprietary protocol decoders. AnNet serves as a powerful solution for troubleshooting network issues, providing both novice and experienced users with the ability to explore network behavior through in-depth packet analysis.
3D Engine Demo - Visual C++ - Windows - 2005
The 3D Engine Demo, developed in 2005, is a ray casting-based software designed for Windows, offering an immersive, real-time 3D environment. The engine generates dynamic scenes by tracing rays through space to detect objects and render visuals. With smooth performance, it efficiently calculates ray-object intersections, ensuring fluid movement and interaction within the scene. The software includes basic lighting effects, adding depth and realism to the environment. Built with modularity in mind, the engine can be adapted for various 3D visualization purposes, from educational demos to experimental graphics projects.