Boot strapping a machine isn't impossible. It may be difficult but not impossible. I boot strapped a IMSAI with a "DigitalSystems" disk drive and controller. I'll admit I did know 8080 code but I had to start from scratch on the disk controller. No nice little WD controller chip to start with, just a 12X12 board to TTL. I didn't even know it was a DMA device when I started. I've trouble shot a 20 bit mini with no schematics. A lisp machine would clearly be difficult but not impossible for a determined hacker. If it was designed to run it can be made to run again. Dwight
