Some recollections of research on toroidal RF discharges, linear discharges and the pinch effect in the 1940s and 1950s are presented. The materials and devices used are described. The development of the ZETA device is discussed, with some reflections on security and on the attentions of the press. The ZETAZ and ICSE (Intermediate Current Stability Experiment) projects are also mentioned, with comments on budget-related problems.