Introduction:
Basically for as long as I can remember we had personal computers at home and they always fascinated me, now being older together with general computer science I also have a interest in retro computing and its history.
I am still looking for the model in the picture above, sadly I do not know the exact model and my parents also do not remember. It looks somewhat like a IBM 5170 AT
IBM PC AT (System Unit 5170). This could be correct seeing the time period and what I remember of its capabilities, however the vents on the front left seem to be smaller / less high on the picture.
I was looking to start a retro computer collection for a long time already, but it did not actually kick off untill I found the C64.
Sadly a too large part of my collection is not working at the moment, I want to try and change that while documenting the process.
But first I will show off my main PC set-ups.
Basically for as long as I can remember we had personal computers at home and they always fascinated me, now being older together with general computer science I also have a interest in retro computing and its history.
I am still looking for the model in the picture above, sadly I do not know the exact model and my parents also do not remember. It looks somewhat like a IBM 5170 AT
IBM PC AT (System Unit 5170). This could be correct seeing the time period and what I remember of its capabilities, however the vents on the front left seem to be smaller / less high on the picture.I was looking to start a retro computer collection for a long time already, but it did not actually kick off untill I found the C64.
Sadly a too large part of my collection is not working at the moment, I want to try and change that while documenting the process.
But first I will show off my main PC set-ups.
Main PC:
| Name: | OS: |
| Main PC / The main machine | Windows 10 Pro |
| Processor: | Motherboard: |
| AMD Ryzen 9 3900X 12-Core Processor, 3793 Mhz, 12 Cores, 24 Logical Processors | ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Hero (WI-FI) |
| Video Card: | RAM Memory: |
| Gigabyte GV-N208TAORUS X-11GC GeForce RTX 2080 Ti 11 GB GDDR6 | HyperX FURY HX436C17FB3K2/32 memory module 32 GB DDR4 3600 MHz (2x16GB) |
| Main Screen: | Extra Screens: |
| MSI Optix MPG341CQR (34" 1440P 144Hz Utrawide (21:9)) | 2nd screen: Dell P2211H; TV: Samsung UE55JS8500 55" SUHD 4K; TV bedroom: LG 37LD450 37" 1080P / Beamer: Epson EH-TW2900 1080P |
| Information: |
| My main computer at this moment, build in 2020 with at that time mostly the top high-end components. |
Secondary PC:
| Name: | OS: |
| Secondary PC / The Frankenstein | Windows 10 (Subject to change) |
| Processor: | Motherboard: |
| Intel Core i7-4790K | Asrock Z97 Extreme6/3.1 90-MXGY20-A0UAYZ |
| Video Card: | RAM Memory: |
| Gigabyte / GeForce GTX 980 - G1 Gaming 4GB GDDR5 GV-N980G1 GAMING-4GD | Corsair Vengeance RED, 1866-16GB |
| Main Screen: | Extra Screens: |
| iiyama ProLite G2773HS (27" 1080P 120Hz) | n/a |
| Information: |
| While being my secondary PC this is still a very capable machine in its own right. Mostly based on my previous main machine, it is now my PC to use in the hobby room. |
COMMODORE 16:
C16 vs C64:
C16 vs C64:
| Company: | Model: |
| Commodore | Commodore 16 (C16) |
| Type: | Release date: |
| Home computer | 1984 (1984 years ago) |
| Operating system: | Youtube: |
| Commodore BASIC 3.5 | n/a |
| Wikipedia: | Centre for Computing History: |
| Commodore 16 | Commodore 16 |
| Status: | Issues: |
| Working | Missing compatible controllers |
| Work done: | Planned work: |
| n/a | Buying some controlers, or buy / build an adaptor |
| Information: |
| The Commodore 16 is a home computer made by Commodore International with a 6502-compatible 7501 or 8501 CPU, released in 1984 and intended to be an entry-level computer to replace the VIC-20. A cost-reduced version, the Commodore 116, was sold only in Europe. The C16 and C116 belong to the same family as the higher-end Plus/4 and are internally very similar to it (albeit with less RAM - 16 rather than 64 KB - and lacking the Plus/4's user port3 and integrated office suite). As a result, software is generally compatible among all three provided it can fit within the C16's smaller RAM and does not utilize the user port on the Plus/4. While the C16 was a failure on the US market, it enjoyed some success in certain European countries and in Mexico. |
| Other: |
|
I got my C16 via a co-worker, I have tested it and it seems to be working correctly. While I was able to load games from tape I was sadly not able to actualy play them as I did not have any compatible controlers.
The C16 uses a Mini-DIN-8 connector instead of the more standard DSUB-9 Atari port like the C64C16 vs C64 ports, I think the easiest option to get it fully operational is buying a converter / adaptor.
|
COMMODORE 64:
| Company: | Model: |
| Commodore | Commodore 64 (C64) |
| Type: | Release date: |
| Home computer | 1982 (1982 years ago) |
| Operating system: | Youtube: |
| Commodore KERNAL / Commodore BASIC 2.0 / GEOS (optionally) | n/a |
| Wikipedia: | Centre for Computing History: |
| Commodore 64 | Commodore 64 |
| Status: | Issues: |
| Working | n/a |
| Work done: | Planned work: |
| Replaced AC adaptor | n/a |
| Information: |
| The Commodore 64, also known as the C64 or the CBM 64, is an 8-bit home computer introduced in January 1982 by Commodore International (first shown at the Consumer Electronics Show, in Las Vegas, January 7-10, 1982). It has been listed in the Guinness World Records as the highest-selling single computer model of all time, with independent estimates placing the number sold between 10 and 17 million units. Volume production started in early 1982, marketing in August for US$595 (equivalent to $1,545 in 2018). Preceded by the Commodore VIC-20 and Commodore PET, the C64 took its name from its 64 kilobytes (65,536 bytes) of RAM. With support for multicolor sprites and a custom chip for waveform generation, the C64 could create superior visuals and audio compared to systems without such custom hardware. The C64 dominated the low-end computer market for most of the 1980s. For a substantial period (1983–1986), the C64 had between 30% and 40% share of the US market and two million units sold per year, outselling IBM PC compatibles, Apple computers, and the Atari 8-bit family of computers. Sam Tramiel, a later Atari president and the son of Commodore's founder, said in a 1989 interview, "When I was at Commodore we were building 400,000 C64s a month for a couple of years." In the UK market, the C64 faced competition from the BBC Micro and the ZX Spectrum, but the C64 was still one of the two most popular computers in the UK. Part of the Commodore 64's success was its sale in regular retail stores instead of only electronics or computer hobbyist specialty stores. Commodore produced many of its parts in-house to control costs, including custom integrated circuit chips from MOS Technology. It has been compared to the Ford Model T automobile for its role in bringing a new technology to middle-class households via creative and affordable mass-production. Approximately 10,000 commercial software titles have been made for the Commodore 64 including development tools, office productivity applications, and video games. C64 emulators allow anyone with a modern computer, or a compatible video game console, to run these programs today. The C64 is also credited with popularizing the computer demoscene and is still used today by some computer hobbyists. In 2011, 17 years after it was taken off the market, research showed that brand recognition for the model was still at 87%. |
| Other: |
| Found mine at a local thriftstore and it was my first retro computing find in the wild. Had a lot of fun playing around with it and learing how programming in basic worked. Eventually I wrote a snake game (using a C64 emulator), sadly I could not find out why it would crash in (if I remember correctly) level 2 or 3. At some point however my C64 just stopped powering on. After buying the C64C I could confirm my suspicion that it was the AC adoptor that caused the problem, with the new adaptor it seems to be working correctly again. |
COMMODORE 128:
| Company: | Model: |
| Commodore | Commodore 128 (C128) |
| Type: | Release date: |
| Home computer | 1985 (1985 years ago) |
| Operating system: | Youtube: |
| Commodore BASIC 7.0 / Commodore BASIC 2.0 / Digital Research CP/M 3.0 | n/a |
| Wikipedia: | Centre for Computing History: |
| Commodore 128 | Commodore 128 |
| Status: | Issues: |
| Working | n/a |
| Work done: | Planned work: |
| n/a | n/a |
| Information: |
| The Commodore 128, also known as the C128, C-128, C= 128, is the last 8-bit home computer that was commercially released by Commodore Business Machines (CBM). Introduced in January 1985 at the CES in Las Vegas, it appeared three years after its predecessor, the bestselling Commodore 64. The C128 is a significantly expanded successor to the C64, with nearly full compatibility. The newer machine has 128 KB of RAM in two 64 KB banks, and an 80-column color video output. It has a redesigned case and keyboard. Also included is a Zilog Z80 CPU which allows the C128 to run CP/M, as an alternative to the usual Commodore BASIC environment. The presence of the Z80 and the huge CP/M software library it brings, coupled with the C64's software library, gives the C128 one of the broadest ranges of available software among its competitors. The primary hardware designer of the C128 was Bil Herd, who had worked on the Plus/4. Other hardware engineers were Dave Haynie and Frank Palaia, while the IC design work was done by Dave DiOrio. The main Commodore system software was developed by Fred Bowen and Terry Ryan, while the CP/M subsystem was developed by Von Ertwine. |
| Other: |
| Got it via Marktplaats.nl. |
Dell Latitude D610:
Manual
| Company: | Model: |
| Dell | Latitude D610 |
| Type: | Release date: |
| Laptop / Notebook computer | 2005 (2005 years ago) |
| Operating system: | Youtube: |
| Windows XP | n/a |
| Wikipedia: | Centre for Computing History: |
| Dell Latitude | n/a |
| Status: | Issues: |
| Not working | Missing AC adaptor / power cable. Missing Caps Lock key |
| Work done: | Planned work: |
| n/a | Maybe replace AC adaptor or use for parts |
| Information: |
| The D610 (released in 2005) was an update of the D600 design; it used a slightly modified D600 chassis and a newer Pentium M chipset ("Sonoma" with 533 MT/s FSB). This chipset was the first Intel mobile chipset to use DDR2 Memory, versus the DDR in the Latitude Dx00 series. For space saving purposes, instead of having both RAM chips on the bottom of the laptop, one RAM slot was moved to the top of the motherboard which could be accessed by removing the keyboard, whereas the other RAM slot remained in the area it had been located at previously. Unlike the D600 and prior midrange Latitudes (The 6xx series, dating back to the C-series) you had a choice of standard integrated Intel Graphics (GMA 900), or a discrete ATI solution (Radeon X300). |
| Other: |
| Not something I would normally go for or as noteworthy as most of the others, but it was on a flea market where you could buy a bag and fill it with anything, so I threw it in there. As always it is missing the AC adaptor, but I am not sure if this one is worth repairing. Will keep it for parts or if I happen to run into the correct cable somehow. |
Manual
HP 15-d001sd:
| Company: | Model: |
| HP | 15-d001sd |
| Type: | Release date: |
| Laptop | 2014 (2014 years ago) |
| Operating system: | Youtube: |
| Linux: Unbuntu 18.04 | n/a |
| Wikipedia: | Centre for Computing History: |
| n/a | n/a |
| Status: | Issues: |
| working with issues | No WiFi |
| Work done: | Planned work: |
| Replaced battery, installed Linux | Install a different Linux distro |
| Information: |
|
Pretty generic middle class laptop of its period. Intel Pentium N3510, 4GB RAM, 15.6 inch, 1366x768, Intel HD Graphics, 500 GB, 2500 gram. Clockspeed: 2000 MHz, Threads: 4, Processor cache: 2 MB, Cores: Quad core Processor. |
| Other: |
| The old laptop from my parents. Replaced Windows with Unbuntu and it worked perfectly for what I wanted to do with it (playing around with Python etc.), except for the WiFi. But after a lot of time trying I finally got it to work, but then after a couple of weeks it just suddenly stopped working again. I will probably look around for some other Linux distro to play around with, these might however run into the same issues. |
MSX Canon V-20:
| Company: | Model: |
| Canon | V-20 (MSX) |
| Type: | Release date: |
| Home computer | 1983 (1983 years ago) |
| Operating system: | Youtube: |
| MSX BASIC | n/a |
| Wikipedia: | Centre for Computing History: |
| MSX or Canon V-20 | Canon V 20 MSX |
| Status: | Issues: |
| Partially working | Unable to load programs from tape |
| Work done: | Planned work: |
| Replaced the cable between the tape recorder and the MSX | Further examining what might be the issue |
| Information: |
|
MSX is a standardized home computer architecture, announced by Microsoft on June 16, 1983. It was conceived and marketed by Kazuhiko Nishi, then vice-president at Microsoft Japan and director at ASCII Corporation. Nishi conceived the project as an attempt to create unified standards among various home computing system manufacturers of the period.
MSX systems were popular in Japan and several other countries. It is difficult to determine how many MSX computers were sold worldwide, but eventually 5 million MSX-based units were sold in Japan alone. Despite Microsoft's involvement, few MSX-based machines were released in the United States.
Before the great success of Nintendo's Family Computer, MSX was the platform for which major Japanese game studios such as Konami and Hudson Soft produced video games. The Metal Gear series, for example, was first written for MSX hardware.
The Canon V-20 was a MSX microcomputer made by the Japanese corporation Canon. It had an innovative digital camera interface (T-90/DMB-90) to use with the Canon T90. |
| Other: |
| Friend of mine found it for ridiculously cheap and was willing to sell it to me. Everthing seems to work correctly except for loading tapes. I already replaced the cable between the tape deck and the MSX, this did however not solve the issue. Next I will try if it is possbile to load from an different source like a burned CD. |
MSX Philips VG-8020:
| Company: | Model: |
| Philips | VG-8020 Home Computer (MSX) |
| Type: | Release date: |
| Home computer | 1984 (1984 years ago) |
| Operating system: | Youtube: |
| MSX BASIC | n/a |
| Wikipedia: | Centre for Computing History: |
| MSX or Philips VG-8020 | Philips VG-8020 |
| Status: | Issues: |
| Working | n/a |
| Work done: | Planned work: |
| Fixed keyboard / Cleaned inside | n/a |
| Information: |
|
MSX is a standardized home computer architecture, announced by Microsoft on June 16, 1983. It was conceived and marketed by Kazuhiko Nishi, then vice-president at Microsoft Japan and director at ASCII Corporation. Nishi conceived the project as an attempt to create unified standards among various home computing system manufacturers of the period.
MSX systems were popular in Japan and several other countries. It is difficult to determine how many MSX computers were sold worldwide, but eventually 5 million MSX-based units were sold in Japan alone. Despite Microsoft's involvement, few MSX-based machines were released in the United States.
Before the great success of Nintendo's Family Computer, MSX was the platform for which major Japanese game studios such as Konami and Hudson Soft produced video games. The Metal Gear series, for example, was first written for MSX hardware.
The VG 8020 was Philips' third MSX 1 computer, after the VG8000 (which did not even have a printer port) and the VG8010 computers. This version had a real keyboard, not a chiclet keyboard like its predecessors. The VG-8020 was released in 1984 and featured a Zilog Z80A microprocessor clocked at 3.56 MHz, 64KB of RAM, 16KB of VRAM, and two cartridge slots. |
| Other: |
| Found it for a good price on marktplaats.nl. Some keys where a little sticky and not alway 100% responsive, but this is now fixed. |
MSX2 Philips New Media Systems 8220 (NMS 8220):
| Company: | Model: |
| Philips | New Media Systems 8220 (NMS 8220) (MSX2) |
| Type: | Release date: |
| Home computer | 1985 (1985 years ago) |
| Operating system: | Youtube: |
| MSX BASIC | n/a |
| Wikipedia: | Centre for Computing History: |
| MSX | n/a |
| Status: | Issues: |
| Working | n/a |
| Work done: | Planned work: |
| n/a | Give it a good cleaning in and outside |
| Information: |
|
MSX is a standardized home computer architecture, announced by Microsoft on June 16, 1983. It was conceived and marketed by Kazuhiko Nishi, then vice-president at Microsoft Japan and director at ASCII Corporation. Nishi conceived the project as an attempt to create unified standards among various home computing system manufacturers of the period.
MSX systems were popular in Japan and several other countries. It is difficult to determine how many MSX computers were sold worldwide, but eventually 5 million MSX-based units were sold in Japan alone. Despite Microsoft's involvement, few MSX-based machines were released in the United States.
Before the great success of Nintendo's Family Computer, MSX was the platform for which major Japanese game studios such as Konami and Hudson Soft produced video games. The Metal Gear series, for example, was first written for MSX hardware.
MSX2: MSX spawned four generations: MSX (1983), MSX2 (1985), MSX2+ (1988), and MSX TurboR (1990). The first three were 8-bit computers based on the Z80 microprocessor, while the MSX TurboR was based on a custom 16-bit R800 microprocessor developed by ASCII Corporation. NMS 8220: The Philips NMS 8220 is an MSX2 computer released by the Dutch company Philips. The abbreviation NMS stands for New Media Systems. This machine is often used in combination with a data recorder, such as the Philips NMS-1515 Data Recorder. Its design is very similar to the MSX1 VG-8020, but it's a MSX2 with 64kB RAM (not 192kB as indicated on the machine and the box by adding the VRAM). Probably that similarity explains that some people think it was also sold under the name VG-8220, but there is no proof of that. This compact computer has a built-in drawing program in screen 8, called 'Designer' that boots up automatically, but can be skipped by holding the ESC key. Two models of this machine were produced, both have a QWERTY keyboard: NMS 8220/00 Version sold mainly in Belgium, France and The Netherlands NMS 8220/16 Version sold in Spain (with ñ key) |
| Other: |
| Found it on marktplaats.nl. |
Raspberry Pi 2:
| Company: | Model: |
| Raspberry Pi Foundation | Raspberry Pi 2 |
| Type: | Release date: |
| Single board computer | 2015 (2015 years ago) |
| Operating system: | Youtube: |
| RetroPie / Linux (Debian / Raspbian) | n/a |
| Wikipedia: | Centre for Computing History: |
| Raspberry Pi | Raspberry Pi Foundation |
| Status: | Issues: |
| Working | Painting issues case |
| Work done: | Planned work: |
| Build into an old broken NES clone | Repaint the case |
| Information: |
|
The Raspberry Pi is a series of small single-board computers developed in the United Kingdom by the Raspberry Pi Foundation to promote teaching of basic computer science in schools and in developing countries. The original model became far more popular than anticipated, selling outside its target market for uses such as robotics. It does not include peripherals (such as keyboards and mice) and cases. However, some accessories have been included in several official and unofficial bundles.
The organisation behind the Raspberry Pi consists of two arms. The first two models were developed by the Raspberry Pi Foundation. After the Pi Model B was released, the Foundation set up Raspberry Pi Trading, with Eben Upton as CEO, to develop the third model, the B+. Raspberry Pi Trading is responsible for developing the technology while the Foundation is an educational charity to promote the teaching of basic computer science in schools and in developing countries.
According to the Raspberry Pi Foundation, more than 5 million Raspberry Pis were sold by February 2015, making it the best-selling British computer. By November 2016 they had sold 11 million units, and 12.5m by March 2017, making it the third best-selling "general purpose computer". In July 2017, sales reached nearly 15 million. In March 2018, sales reached 19 million.
Most Pis are made in a Sony factory in Pencoed, Wales; some are made in China or Japan.
Raspberry Pi 2: The first generation (Raspberry Pi 1 Model B) was released in February 2012, followed by the simpler and cheaper Model A. In 2014, the Foundation released a board with an improved design, Raspberry Pi 1 Model B+. These boards are approximately credit-card sized and represent the standard mainline form-factor. Improved A+ and B+ models were released a year later. A "Compute Module" was released in April 2014 for embedded applications. The Raspberry Pi 2, which added more RAM, was released in February 2015. |
| Other: |
| I build my Raspberry Pi 2 into the case of an old NES clone that looks like an SNES, originally meant as a gift for my nephew. Some features I build into it are a working On / Off and reset switch as well as power indicator LED. Sadly due to issues with incorrect paint that would not stick to the case and that can not be easily painted over (as well that my nephew got a Wii in the meanwhile) the project has been put on hiatus for now. |
Raspberry Pi 3 B+:
| Company: | Model: |
| Raspberry Pi Foundation | Raspberry Pi 3 B+ |
| Type: | Release date: |
| Single board computer | 2018 (2018 years ago) |
| Operating system: | Youtube: |
| Linux (Debian / Raspbian) | n/a |
| Wikipedia: | Centre for Computing History: |
| Raspberry Pi | Raspberry Pi Foundation |
| Status: | Issues: |
| Working / software issues | Software issues |
| Work done: | Planned work: |
| Build into a magic mirror (minus the mirror part) | Repurpose into a DOSbox |
| Information: |
|
The Raspberry Pi is a series of small single-board computers developed in the United Kingdom by the Raspberry Pi Foundation to promote teaching of basic computer science in schools and in developing countries. The original model became far more popular than anticipated, selling outside its target market for uses such as robotics. It does not include peripherals (such as keyboards and mice) and cases. However, some accessories have been included in several official and unofficial bundles.
The organisation behind the Raspberry Pi consists of two arms. The first two models were developed by the Raspberry Pi Foundation. After the Pi Model B was released, the Foundation set up Raspberry Pi Trading, with Eben Upton as CEO, to develop the third model, the B+. Raspberry Pi Trading is responsible for developing the technology while the Foundation is an educational charity to promote the teaching of basic computer science in schools and in developing countries.
According to the Raspberry Pi Foundation, more than 5 million Raspberry Pis were sold by February 2015, making it the best-selling British computer. By November 2016 they had sold 11 million units, and 12.5m by March 2017, making it the third best-selling "general purpose computer". In July 2017, sales reached nearly 15 million. In March 2018, sales reached 19 million.
Most Pis are made in a Sony factory in Pencoed, Wales; some are made in China or Japan.
Raspberry Pi 3 Model B: Raspberry Pi 3 Model B was released in February 2016 with a 1.2 GHz 64-bit quad core processor, on-board 802.11n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and USB boot capabilities. On Pi Day 2018 the Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ was launched with a faster 1.4 GHz processor and a three-times faster gigabit Ethernet (throughput limited to ca. 300 Mbit/s by the internal USB 2.0 connection) or 2.4 / 5 GHz dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi (100 Mbit/s). Other features are Power over Ethernet (PoE), USB boot and network boot (an SD card is no longer required). |
| Other: |
|
I build my Raspberry Pi 3 B+ into a magic mirror system (without the actually building it into a mirror part). It was plugged into a screen in my kitchen and showed stuff like my agenda, to-do lists, weather and news, etc. Sadly it just randomly stopped working some day as the program that automatically started the MM program on boot sudenly stopped working (it ran a daily automated reboot). I am planning on trying to fix it someday. I dumped the Magic Mirror build into an ISO and am planning to build it into a DOSbox gaming project. |
Raspberry Pi 4 B (Pi64 Build):
| Company: | Model: |
| Raspberry Pi Foundation | Raspberry Pi 4 B |
| Type: | Release date: |
| Single board computer | 2019 (2019 years ago) |
| Operating system: | Youtube: |
| Linux (Debian / Raspbian) | n/a |
| Wikipedia: | Centre for Computing History: |
| Raspberry Pi | Raspberry Pi Foundation |
| Status: | Issues: |
| Working. | n/a |
| Work done: | Planned work: |
| Build into a C64 body | Add more roms & games |
| Information: |
|
The Raspberry Pi is a series of small single-board computers developed in the United Kingdom by the Raspberry Pi Foundation to promote teaching of basic computer science in schools and in developing countries. The original model became far more popular than anticipated, selling outside its target market for uses such as robotics. It does not include peripherals (such as keyboards and mice) and cases. However, some accessories have been included in several official and unofficial bundles.
The organisation behind the Raspberry Pi consists of two arms. The first two models were developed by the Raspberry Pi Foundation. After the Pi Model B was released, the Foundation set up Raspberry Pi Trading, with Eben Upton as CEO, to develop the third model, the B+. Raspberry Pi Trading is responsible for developing the technology while the Foundation is an educational charity to promote the teaching of basic computer science in schools and in developing countries.
According to the Raspberry Pi Foundation, more than 5 million Raspberry Pis were sold by February 2015, making it the best-selling British computer. By November 2016 they had sold 11 million units, and 12.5m by March 2017, making it the third best-selling "general purpose computer". In July 2017, sales reached nearly 15 million. In March 2018, sales reached 19 million.
Most Pis are made in a Sony factory in Pencoed, Wales; some are made in China or Japan.
Raspberry Pi 4 Model B: Raspberry Pi 4 Model B was released in June 2019 with a 1.5 GHz 64-bit quad core ARM Cortex-A72 processor, on-board 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5, full gigabit Ethernet (throughput not limited), two USB 2.0 ports, two USB 3.0 ports, and dual monitor support (4K resolution). The Pi 4 is also powered via a USB-C port, enabling additional power to be provided to downstream peripherals, when used with an appropriate PSU. The Raspberry Pi 4 has a design flaw where third-party e-marked USB cables, such as those used on Apple MacBooks, incorrectly identify it and refuse to provide power. This is expected to be corrected in a future board revision. Tom's Hardware tested 14 different cables and found that 11 of them turned on and powered the Pi without issue. |
| Other: |
| I build my Raspberry Pi 4 B into the body of a broken C64C. Using a Keyrah V2 the C64 keyboard is connected to the Pi and actually functional. It is running the Raspberry Pi OS (formerly known as Raspbian) as well as RetroPie and I use it mainly as an emulation machine. |
Raspberry Pi Zero:
| Company: | Model: |
| Raspberry Pi Foundation | Raspberry Pi Zero |
| Type: | Release date: |
| Single board computer | 2015 (2015 years ago) |
| Operating system: | Youtube: |
| Nothing | n/a |
| Wikipedia: | Centre for Computing History: |
| Raspberry Pi | Raspberry Pi Zero (with MagPi magazine) |
| Status: | Issues: |
| Working | n/a |
| Work done: | Planned work: |
| n/a | n/a |
| Information: |
|
The Raspberry Pi is a series of small single-board computers developed in the United Kingdom by the Raspberry Pi Foundation to promote teaching of basic computer science in schools and in developing countries. The original model became far more popular than anticipated, selling outside its target market for uses such as robotics. It does not include peripherals (such as keyboards and mice) and cases. However, some accessories have been included in several official and unofficial bundles.
The organisation behind the Raspberry Pi consists of two arms. The first two models were developed by the Raspberry Pi Foundation. After the Pi Model B was released, the Foundation set up Raspberry Pi Trading, with Eben Upton as CEO, to develop the third model, the B+. Raspberry Pi Trading is responsible for developing the technology while the Foundation is an educational charity to promote the teaching of basic computer science in schools and in developing countries.
According to the Raspberry Pi Foundation, more than 5 million Raspberry Pis were sold by February 2015, making it the best-selling British computer. By November 2016 they had sold 11 million units, and 12.5m by March 2017, making it the third best-selling "general purpose computer". In July 2017, sales reached nearly 15 million. In March 2018, sales reached 19 million.
Most Pis are made in a Sony factory in Pencoed, Wales; some are made in China or Japan.
Raspberry Pi Zero: A Raspberry Pi Zero with smaller size and reduced input/output (I/O) and general-purpose input/output (GPIO) capabilities was released in November 2015 for US$5. By 2017, it became the newest mainline Raspberry Pi. On 28 February 2017, the Raspberry Pi Zero W was launched, a version of the Zero with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, for US$10. On 12 January 2018, the Raspberry Pi Zero WH was launched, a version of the Zero W with pre-soldered GPIO headers. |
| Other: |
| It still blows my mind the capabilities of this thing in the formfactor that it has. My Raspberry Pi Zero is currently still unused and waiting for a project. |
Raspberry Pi Zero WH:
| Company: | Model: |
| Raspberry Pi Foundation | Raspberry Pi Zero WH |
| Type: | Release date: |
| Single board computer | 2018 (2018 years ago) |
| Operating system: | Youtube: |
| Nothing | n/a |
| Wikipedia: | Centre for Computing History: |
| Raspberry Pi | Raspberry Pi Zero (with MagPi magazine) |
| Status: | Issues: |
| Working | n/a |
| Work done: | Planned work: |
| n/a | n/a |
| Information: |
|
The Raspberry Pi is a series of small single-board computers developed in the United Kingdom by the Raspberry Pi Foundation to promote teaching of basic computer science in schools and in developing countries. The original model became far more popular than anticipated, selling outside its target market for uses such as robotics. It does not include peripherals (such as keyboards and mice) and cases. However, some accessories have been included in several official and unofficial bundles.
The organisation behind the Raspberry Pi consists of two arms. The first two models were developed by the Raspberry Pi Foundation. After the Pi Model B was released, the Foundation set up Raspberry Pi Trading, with Eben Upton as CEO, to develop the third model, the B+. Raspberry Pi Trading is responsible for developing the technology while the Foundation is an educational charity to promote the teaching of basic computer science in schools and in developing countries.
According to the Raspberry Pi Foundation, more than 5 million Raspberry Pis were sold by February 2015, making it the best-selling British computer. By November 2016 they had sold 11 million units, and 12.5m by March 2017, making it the third best-selling "general purpose computer". In July 2017, sales reached nearly 15 million. In March 2018, sales reached 19 million.
Most Pis are made in a Sony factory in Pencoed, Wales; some are made in China or Japan.
Raspberry Pi Zero: A Raspberry Pi Zero with smaller size and reduced input/output (I/O) and general-purpose input/output (GPIO) capabilities was released in November 2015 for US$5. By 2017, it became the newest mainline Raspberry Pi. On 28 February 2017, the Raspberry Pi Zero W was launched, a version of the Zero with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, for US$10. On 12 January 2018, the Raspberry Pi Zero WH was launched, a version of the Zero W with pre-soldered GPIO headers. |
| Other: |
| Zero WH is the same as the Zero but with build in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities (the H means is has pre-soldered GPIO headers). Raspberry Pi Zero WH also currently unused and waiting for a project. |
VTech Genius TV Progress:
Manual
| Company: | Model: |
| VTech | Genius TV Progress |
| Type: | Release date: |
| Electronic learning aid / Educative kids computer | 2007 (2007 years ago) |
| Operating system: | Youtube: |
| Unknown | n/a |
| Wikipedia: | Centre for Computing History: |
| n/a | n/a |
| Status: | Issues: |
| Working | n/a |
| Work done: | Planned work: |
| n/a | n/a |
| Information: |
| The Genius TV ProgressTM is a electronic learningcomputer that will challenge young children to expand their general knowledge. Different games teach among others language, math, science, nature and history! |
| Other: |
| Got it from my local thirftstore, as fas as these learningcomputers go this is one of the better ones I have seen. It will probably end up as either a gift for my nephew or as the shell for one of my projects. |
Manual
VTech Precomputer 2000:
| Company: | Model: |
| VTech | Precomputer 2000 |
| Type: | Release date: |
| Electronic learning aid / Educative kids computer | 1992 (1992 years ago) |
| Operating system: | Youtube: |
| Unknown, Basic | VTech Laptops: Better than you Think | Nostalgia Nerd |
| Wikipedia: | Centre for Computing History: |
| VTech PreComputer 2000 | n/a |
| Status: | Issues: |
| Working | n/a |
| Work done: | Planned work: |
| n/a | n/a |
| Information: |
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The VTech PreComputer 2000 is an electronic learning aid manufactured by VTech. It contains a dot matrix LCD, standard size keyboard, 33 activities for teaching in 4 different levels for 1 or 2 players and introductory computer programming with the BASIC programming language. It has an 80,000 word spell checker and a SAT word builder. It can be powered by battery or AC adapter. It is the successor to the VTech PreComputer 1000 model. VTech PreComputer 1000: In 1988, VTech introduced what may have been the most popular learning computer of the 1980s and '90s. The Precomputer 1000 had a 20-character, one-line LCD display that, though limiting in comparison to a full-fledged computer, was flexible enough to run the system's built-in educational software, which included touch-typing instruction, trivia games on subjects like history and science, math quizzes, and word games. Most impressively, the machine included a fully functional version of the BASIC programming language (regrettably, you lost your programs when you turned off the unit). Factor in a full-size keyboard, long battery life, and a rugged case with a built-in handle, and you have a classic that inspired a generation of very young programmers. Source & more |
| Other: |
| Found this one on a flea market, just bought the PreComputer 3000 SL about a week before that. Normally I do not really go for these educative kids computers (except for as a gift), but these Precomputers are quite cool as they come with Basic and a manual teaching kids how to program in Basic. They also seem to be somewhat popular and sought-after, but I can not really find that much substantial data about them. |
VTech Precomputer 3000 SL:
| Company: | Model: |
| VTech | Precomputer 3000 SL |
| Type: | Release date: |
| Electronic learning aid / Educative kids computer | Unknown, Basic |
| Operating system: | Youtube: |
| Unknown | VTech Laptops: Better than you Think | Nostalgia Nerd |
| Wikipedia: | Centre for Computing History: |
| n/a | n/a |
| Status: | Issues: |
| Working | n/a |
| Work done: | Planned work: |
| n/a | n/a |
| Information: |
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The VTech PreComputer 3000 SL is an electronic learning aid manufactured by VTech. It contains a dot matrix LCD, standard size keyboard, 30 activities for teaching in 4 different levels for 1 or 2 players and introductory computer programming with the BASIC programming language. It can be powered by battery or AC adapter. It is the successor to the VTech PreComputer 2000 model. VTech PreComputer 1000: In 1988, VTech introduced what may have been the most popular learning computer of the 1980s and '90s. The Precomputer 1000 had a 20-character, one-line LCD display that, though limiting in comparison to a full-fledged computer, was flexible enough to run the system's built-in educational software, which included touch-typing instruction, trivia games on subjects like history and science, math quizzes, and word games. Most impressively, the machine included a fully functional version of the BASIC programming language (regrettably, you lost your programs when you turned off the unit). Factor in a full-size keyboard, long battery life, and a rugged case with a built-in handle, and you have a classic that inspired a generation of very young programmers. Source & more |
| Other: |
| Found it at a thirftstore in a neaby city that I like to visit once in a while. Normally I do not really go for these educative kids computers (except for as a gift). But these Precomputers are quite cool as they come with Basic and a manual teaching kids how to program in Basic, and this one even comes with a printer. They also seem to be somewhat popular and sought-after. But I can not really find that much substantial data about them, especially about this model. |
Old: COMMODORE 64C:
(Repurposed / I no longer have this one in my collection)
(Repurposed / I no longer have this one in my collection)
| Company: | Model: |
| Commodore | Commodore 64C (C64C) |
| Type: | Release date: |
| Home computer | 1986 (1986 years ago) |
| Operating system: | Youtube: |
| Commodore KERNAL / Commodore BASIC 2.0 / GEOS (optionally) | n/a |
| Wikipedia: | Centre for Computing History: |
| Commodore 64 | Commodore 64 C or (pack 1 / pack 2) |
| Status: | Issues: |
| Stripped for parts | Stripped |
| Work done: | Planned work: |
| Had a look inside but was unable to fix it | Convert to Pi housing |
| Information: |
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The Commodore 64, also known as the C64 or the CBM 64, is an 8-bit home computer introduced in January 1982 by Commodore International (first shown at the Consumer Electronics Show, in Las Vegas, January 7-10, 1982). It has been listed in the Guinness World Records as the highest-selling single computer model of all time, with independent estimates placing the number sold between 10 and 17 million units. Volume production started in early 1982, marketing in August for US$595 (equivalent to $1,545 in 2018). Preceded by the Commodore VIC-20 and Commodore PET, the C64 took its name from its 64 kilobytes (65,536 bytes) of RAM. With support for multicolor sprites and a custom chip for waveform generation, the C64 could create superior visuals and audio compared to systems without such custom hardware.
The C64 dominated the low-end computer market for most of the 1980s. For a substantial period (1983–1986), the C64 had between 30% and 40% share of the US market and two million units sold per year, outselling IBM PC compatibles, Apple computers, and the Atari 8-bit family of computers. Sam Tramiel, a later Atari president and the son of Commodore's founder, said in a 1989 interview, "When I was at Commodore we were building 400,000 C64s a month for a couple of years." In the UK market, the C64 faced competition from the BBC Micro and the ZX Spectrum, but the C64 was still one of the two most popular computers in the UK.
Part of the Commodore 64's success was its sale in regular retail stores instead of only electronics or computer hobbyist specialty stores. Commodore produced many of its parts in-house to control costs, including custom integrated circuit chips from MOS Technology. It has been compared to the Ford Model T automobile for its role in bringing a new technology to middle-class households via creative and affordable mass-production. Approximately 10,000 commercial software titles have been made for the Commodore 64 including development tools, office productivity applications, and video games. C64 emulators allow anyone with a modern computer, or a compatible video game console, to run these programs today. The C64 is also credited with popularizing the computer demoscene and is still used today by some computer hobbyists. In 2011, 17 years after it was taken off the market, research showed that brand recognition for the model was still at 87%.
COMMODORE 64C: The C64's designers intended the computer to have a new, wedge-shaped case within a year of release, but the change did not occur. In 1986, Commodore released the 64C computer, which is functionally identical to the original. The exterior design was remodeled in the sleeker style of the Commodore 128. The 64C uses new versions of the SID, VIC and I/O chips being deployed, with the core voltage reduced from 12V to 9V. Models with the C64E board had the graphic symbols printed on the top of the keys, instead of the normal location on the front. The sound chip (SID) was changed to use the MOS 8580 chip. The most significant changes include different behavior in the filters and in the volume control, which result in some music/sound effects sounding differently than intended, and in digitally-sampled audio being almost inaudible, respectively (though both of these can mostly be corrected-for in software). The 64 KB RAM memory went from eight chips to two chips. BASIC and the KERNAL went from two separate chips into one 16 KB ROM chip. The PLA chip and some TTL chips were integrated into a DIL 64-pin chip. The "252535-01" PLA integrated the color RAM as well into the same chip. The smaller physical space made it impossible to put in some internal expansions like a floppy-speeder. In the United States, the 64C was often bundled with the third-party GEOS graphical user interface (GUI)-based operating system, as well as the software needed to access Quantum Link. The 1541 drive received a matching face-lift, resulting in the 1541C. Later, a smaller, sleeker 1541-II model was introduced, along with the 800 KB 3.5-inch microfloppy 1581. |
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Got it via Marktplaat.nl. Was listed as untested, when I was picking it up the seller misspoke revealing he knew it had only a black screen output. While not totally honest, I asumed it was not working to begin with and bought it anyways. Hopefully I can get it back to working again someday. Update: Seems like I am unable to fix this one, thinking of convertion it to a Raspberry Pi machine. Update: Working on converting it to a Pi machine Update: Converted it to the Pi64. |
Old: Compaq LTE 286:
(Sold / I no longer have this one in my collection)
Compaq LTE 286 & Toshiba Satellite T1960CS:
(Sold / I no longer have this one in my collection)
Compaq LTE 286 & Toshiba Satellite T1960CS:
| Company: | Model: |
| Compaq | LTE 286 |
| Type: | Release date: |
| Laptop / Notebook computer | 1989 (1989 years ago) |
| Operating system: | Youtube: |
| Basic version 2 / MS-DOS version 2 | n/a |
| Wikipedia: | Centre for Computing History: |
| Compaq LTE | Compaq Portable LT 286 |
| Status: | Issues: |
| Not working | Missing AC adaptor |
| Work done: | Planned work: |
| n/a | n/a |
| Information: |
| The Compaq LTE was a line of laptop computers made by Compaq, introduced in 1989. The first models, the Compaq LTE and the Compaq LTE 286, were among the first computers to be close to the size of a paper notebook, spurring the use of the term "notebook" to describe a smaller laptop and earned a notable place in laptop history. They were also among the first to include both built-in hard disk and floppy disk drives, and later models offered optional docking stations providing performance comparable to then-current desktop machines. |
| Other: |
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Found it including matching bags together with the T1960CS for cheap at my local thrifstore. Sadly the AC adaptor / power cables where missing from both and I am unable to find a replacement unit. It also seems to be using a weird proprietary connectorCompaq LTE power connector making creating one my self a lot harder.
Sold for a profit via Marktplaats.
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Old: Epson PC-Portable Q150A:
(Sold / I no longer have this one in my collection)
(Sold / I no longer have this one in my collection)
| Company: | Model: |
| Epson | PC Portable Q150A |
| Type: | Release date: |
| Laptop / Notebook computer | 1989 (1989 years ago) |
| Operating system: | Youtube: |
| MS-DOS 3.3 | n/a |
| Wikipedia: | Centre for Computing History: |
| n/a | Epson PC Portable Q150A |
| Status: | Issues: |
| Not working | Missing AC adaptor |
| Work done: | Planned work: |
| n/a | n/a |
| Information: |
| Year 1989, Origin Japan, Manufacturer Epson, Name Q150A, Drives: HDD 40 MB, FDD 3.5" 720 KB, Display: Monochrome CGA, 640 x 200, CPU Intel 8088, Speed 4,77 Mhz, OS MS-DOS 3.3, ROM 32 KB, Memory: 640 KB RAM, I/O ports Expansion, CRT, serial, parallel, AC adapter, Text modes 80 x 25, Built in media Disk drive 3.5", Code: A401A-BB Serial No: 013856, Manufacturer: Epson, Date: 1989 |
| Other: |
| Found it for very cheap in the same week as the T1960CS & LT286 but at a thirftstore a little further away. Sadly it is missing the AC adaptor / power cable aswell. Also not sure what exactly the difference is between this one and the Epson Equity LT. Sold for a profit via Marktplaats. |
Old: Toshiba Satellite T1960CS:
(Sold / I no longer have this one in my collection)
>
Issue (Not turning on):
Off:
On:
Manual
(Sold / I no longer have this one in my collection)
>
Issue (Not turning on):
Off:
On:
| Company: | Model: |
| Toshiba | Satellite T1960CS |
| Type: | Release date: |
| Laptop / Notebook computer | ~1994 (Not 100% sure) (1994 years ago) |
| Operating system: | Youtube: |
| Unknown | Not booting: Flashing LED |
| Wikipedia: | Centre for Computing History: |
| Toshiba Satellite | n/a |
| Status: | Issues: |
| Not working | Does not start, only flashing the power LED. 1 broken key |
| Work done: | Planned work: |
| Replaced AC adapter / power cable | n/a |
| Information: |
| The specs for T1960CS comes in these configurations with a retail price tag. The configuration Toshiba provides comes with a 50MHz Intel i486DX2 n/a IDE PC Card (PCMCIA) 2.5", 12.7mm, max. height, up to 6gig, old hole pattern. DOS, . This Toshiba Laptop can take up to 20 MB ram, with a fixed amount of 4 MB (non-removable) installed 88pin JEIDA DRAM Cards (non-parity, 3.3v). This full-featured mainstream Laptop enhances the previous generation Toshiba models with the chipsets and new levels of customization. Get the best experience on your Toshiba T1960CS Laptop with improved performance, make it easy to create a home network and share all of your favorite items. |
| Other: |
| Found it including matching bags together with the LTE286 for cheap at my local thrifstore. Sadly the AC adaptor / power cables where missing from both. For this one I did managed to find a replacement, sadly the DC in LED started flashing and it did not turn on. The adoptor was listed as compatible but shows an other amount of V and A then the label on the laptop, I will try to get another adoptor and if that does not work then I might try to replace the battery and caps in the future if I am able. Sold for a profit via Marktplaats. |
Manual
