abstract:In the 1980s, the user emerged as a distinct class of personal computer owner motivated by instrumental goals rather than the exploratory pleasures of hackers and hobbyists. To understand the changing values and concerns of microcomputer owners, we analyzed 1,285 reader letters published in Softalk magazine between 1980 and 1984. During this period, a preoccupation with programming was displaced by discussions of software applications, products, and services. This transition illustrates the separation of users from hobbyists, reflecting changes in the software industry and attitudes toward amateurism, professionalization, gender, and expertise.

中文翻译：

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从编程到产品：Softalk 杂志和个人计算机用户的兴起

摘要：在 1980 年代，用户成为一类独特的个人计算机所有者，其动机是工具性目标，而不是黑客和业余爱好者的探索乐趣。为了了解微型计算机所有者不断变化的价值观和关注点，我们分析了 1980 年至 1984 年间发表在 Softalk 杂志上的 1,285 封读者来信。在此期间，对软件应用程序、产品和服务的讨论取代了对编程的关注。这种转变说明了用户与业余爱好者的分离，反映了软件行业的变化以及对业余、专业化、性别和专业知识的态度。