Modern Electronics Magazine: A Legacy of Hobbyist Innovation
In the mid-1980s, the landscape of electronics hobbyism underwent a significant shift. As mainstream publications began to pivot toward a more narrow focus on computing, a void was left for the active enthusiast. This gap led to the birth of Modern Electronics, a publication dedicated to those who moved fluidly between general electronics and computer product areas.
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The Origins and Philosophy of Modern Electronics
Launched in October 1984, Modern Electronics was established by Modern Electronics, Inc., based in Hicksville, New York. The magazine was owned by CQ Communications, Inc., the same organization responsible for the well-known CQ Amateur Radio.
The magazine was born out of a desire to preserve the spirit of traditional electronics tinkering. Art Salsberg, the Editor-in-Chief, viewed the publication as a spiritual successor to the original concept of Popular Electronics. Salsberg and several other staff members had previously worked for Popular Electronics but departed when that publication rebranded as Computers & Electronics, shifting its editorial philosophy away from the active electronics enthusiast.
Editorial Leadership and Expertise
The quality of the publication was driven by a team of seasoned experts in the field. While Art Salsberg provided the vision as Editor-in-Chief and Alexander W. Burawa managed operations as Managing Editor, the magazine benefited from a prestigious group of contributing editors.
Key contributors included:
- Len Feldman
- Glenn Hauser
- Forrest Mims
- Don Lancaster
Evolution and Transition
Modern Electronics served the hobbyist community for several years, but like the technology it covered, the publication evolved. After its final issue in March 1991 (Volume 8, Number 3), the magazine underwent a series of name changes to reflect the changing technological era.
- In April 1991, the publication became Computer Craft.
- In January 1994, it was renamed once more to MicroComputer Journal.
Key Facts
- First Issue: October 1984
- Final Issue: March 1991 (Vol. 8 Num. 3)
- Publisher: Richard Ross / Modern Electronics, Inc.
- Parent Company: CQ Communications, Inc.
- Location: Hicksville, New York, USA
- Language: English
Publication Summary
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Frequency | Monthly |
| Category | Hobby magazines |
| Editor-in-Chief | Art Salsberg |
| Managing Editor | Alexander W. Burawa |
| Successor Titles | Computer Craft, MicroComputer Journal |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Modern Electronics created?
It was created to serve active electronics enthusiasts who felt abandoned when Popular Electronics changed its name to Computers & Electronics and shifted its editorial philosophy.
Who owned Modern Electronics, Inc.?
The company was owned by CQ Communications, Inc., the publishers of CQ Amateur Radio.
When did the magazine stop publishing under the name Modern Electronics?
The final issue under the Modern Electronics name was published in March 1991 (Volume 8, Number 3).
What did the magazine become after 1991?
It became Computer Craft in April 1991, and subsequently became MicroComputer Journal in January 1994.
Where was the magazine based?
Modern Electronics was based in Hicksville, New York, USA.