23 May
2003
23 May
'03
8:46 p.m.
On Fri, 23 May 2003, Brian Chase wrote:
I'd really like to design and build a PDP-8 clone,
since the real
ones command such hefty prices on eBay. I've mostly given up on
getting my own 8/F or 8/M.
Great idea!
It's a simple enough architecture that it could be
done without
too much trouble. And I'd have the benefit of being able to make
use of the exisiting library of PDP-8 software. The difficult
parts are a) knowing where to even begin, b) finding the time to
figure out how to do it, and c) finding the time to actually do it.
I'll assume you're talking about the "straight" 8.
There are enough FlipChip modules around that you could probably get 90%
of the ones you need to make the processor and I/O sections without too
much trouble. The difficulty will be in sourcing the rarer of the modules
(as I have found).
There'll be a lot of wire wrapping. The front panel can be scanned from
an existing one (I'll be happy to provide you with a scan once I've got it
completed) and then taken to your local printer's and applied to some sort
of base (I'm just having it applied to a thin acrylic base). The switch
handles will not be that easy to source. The front panel lamps are still
available from some suppliers. The plexiglass sides can be manufactured
without a lot of trouble. You'll have to find a plastic shop that can do
the right bends, and you can find a close enough shade of teal for the
top and trim. The steel frame will not be too difficult to manufacture.
The power supply should be straight forward for someone with electrical
skill.
The rest is just aluminum trim, switches, locks, etc.
It'll be a lot of work, but very gratifying.
--
Sellam Ismail Vintage Computer Festival
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
International Man of Intrigue and Danger http://www.vintage.org
* Old computing resources for business and academia at www.VintageTech.com *