Hi Oscar- any good news regarding the PiDP-11? I need to do some more soldering!!!
cheers
Andy B
PS sign me up for your "early adopters" programme :-)
cheers
Andy B
PS sign me up for your "early adopters" programme :-)
When I was a young child in the early 80s, I picked up a PDP-8 programming manual that was being discarded. I read that thing cover to cover, and it was my introduction to assembly language programming. My brother and I would scour computer magazines, looking at vendors of used PDP-8 hardware, configuring systems that we never had money to order (just as well, as we never considered how we would fit it into our bedroom...) So you can say the PDP-8 was one of my "first computers", albeit one I never had!
The college we lived by had a PDP-11/70 that we occasionally got to play with. It was pretty obsolete, even then. I begged them to let me have it when they finally scrapped it, to no avail. That's just as well too, I don't think I could have gotten three-phase power wired to our house either.
Anyways, that's why I'm super excited to hear of this project! With a PiDP-8/i and a PiDP-11/70 I can finally realize my childhood fantasies of flipping switches to enter a bootloader and running OS/8 and RSTS/E!
Thanks to Oscar for making my dreams come true :)
Cool to see one in real life in Dylan's picture... very exciting... (no pressure, Oscar :-))
On 5 October 2016 at 18:38, AB <lordha...@gmail.com> wrote:Cool to see one in real life in Dylan's picture... very exciting... (no pressure, Oscar :-))
Oh, I've got plenty pressure - the garage has been full of PiDP-11 switches since last month:
Given the very long turnaround time, I was determined to make sure I had them in time. But producing the case takes a bit longer. I hope to have this as a prototype in two weeks' time:
Given the very long turnaround time, I was determined to make sure I had them in time. But producing the case takes a bit longer. I hope to have this as a prototype in two weeks' time:
And then it's time to risk it all on an injection mold. Given the cost of making a mold, I've got one shot at it only... and as I've figured out by now, many things can go wrong with injection molding. I found some professional help though, a local specialist company took pity on me and will help me to avoid doom. Hopefully.
So yes. Pressure. But It Has To Be Done :)
So yes. Pressure. But It Has To Be Done :)
Kind regards,
Oscar.
those switches are great colours.... one has to admire the whole style thing Digital had going on back then :-)
Angelo in Berlin has written an intriguing PDP-6 emulator. Taking a whole different approach: a C program simulates all the electrical signals to construct a PDP-6. That's an approach very different from traditional emulators, and rather close to how you'd do it with an FPGA.
https://github.com/aap/pdp6
He hopes to marry that simulator and his (as of yet unconnected) front panel soonish. Normally, it would be a slight problem that no software remains for the 6. But Angelo already wrote an assembler and Forth for it, and has an incomplete listing of at least one operating system... you really get to meet impressive people in the world of DEC.
If anyone knows of a source of PDP-6 software, he sure would like to know!
Regards,
Oscar.
On Thursday, October 6, 2016 at 3:07:43 AM UTC+2, AB wrote:those switches are great colours.... one has to admire the whole style thing Digital had going on back then :-)
I'm very happy with the colours by now. They are practically indistinguishable from the originals. A good thing, because the prototype PiDP-11 was sat next to a real 11/70 front panel.
But colour matching the groovy 70s designs from DEC has taken a silly amount of time. Especially because the manufacturer of the acrylic panels does not have properly calibrated printers, or paint machines, or whatever it is. So I had to go through multiple rounds of tests to get the wrong colour code which then turns out to be right one for them. And tell them *this* machine is to be used in the future...
Fortunately, the switch manufacturer got it right in one test. Very professional people (Daier Electron, recommended in every way if you ever want custom switches). They even got a third-party plastics colour firm in to nail the colours.
Kind regards,
Oscar.
PDP6.... OH... PLEASE.... I NEED ONE!!!!
we also need some nice curvy 70s chairs etc. And no more of this "data center" nonsense - - it's a "computer room" !!
In my sillier moments (many of those) I think of remaking a VT-05 terminal. Which clearly, from a cosmetic perspective, is the high point of DEC design.
The reason for thinking about it is more practical, though: the VT-05 case is very simple. With a vacuformed upper and lower shell (which will not cost the world) and a bit of darkened acrylic you pretty much have the case. And as the CRT sits behind the acrylic, it could be replaced by either a real CRT or (ahem) a cheap tablet screen running "cool-retro-term" for CRT emulation, emulating any terminal standard you want. The difference between CRT and flat screen would not be very noticeable behind the acrylic, that's what makes the VT-05 a good replica candidate.
You could make the whole thing for <$150 in parts, maybe much less. Except the keyboard, that'll either be something nasty, standard, USB. Or a custom keyboard with solder-yourself Cherry switches for a few dozen $ in parts extra.
I should slip out of the silly moment again... but it is tempting. Anyone with vacuforming know-how could do it (anyone interested?).
Regards,
Oscar.
The reason for thinking about it is more practical, though: the VT-05 case is very simple. With a vacuformed upper and lower shell (which will not cost the world) and a bit of darkened acrylic you pretty much have the case. And as the CRT sits behind the acrylic, it could be replaced by either a real CRT or (ahem) a cheap tablet screen running "cool-retro-term" for CRT emulation, emulating any terminal standard you want. The difference between CRT and flat screen would not be very noticeable behind the acrylic, that's what makes the VT-05 a good replica candidate.
You could make the whole thing for <$150 in parts, maybe much less. Except the keyboard, that'll either be something nasty, standard, USB. Or a custom keyboard with solder-yourself Cherry switches for a few dozen $ in parts extra.
I should slip out of the silly moment again... but it is tempting. Anyone with vacuforming know-how could do it (anyone interested?).
Regards,
Oscar.
I've not been active here for a while so perhaps this has already been addressed?
Is there a list where we can queue up for a PDP-11 kit? A binding list?
Heck, I can even pay today just to ensure I get a kit when it's available...
Many thanks in advance!
/Jens
Hi Jens - if there was a queue to get in I would be there!!!
In the meantime I keep bugging Oscar regularly in the forums in the hope that he remembers my name come "PidP11 Day" :-)
Andy
In the meantime I keep bugging Oscar regularly in the forums in the hope that he remembers my name come "PidP11 Day" :-)
Andy
As far as I can tell from the switches, the photos -- and the early circuit board -- there is one white switch in the middle right.
On the board, it is labelled "TEST". Is this original? Or was it a dummy block on the original DEC machine? And ... what will this do on the PiDP-11?
... Chris
On the board, it is labelled "TEST". Is this original? Or was it a dummy block on the original DEC machine? And ... what will this do on the PiDP-11?
... Chris
On Wednesday, October 5, 2016 at 9:24:38 PM UTC-4, Obsolescence wrote:
Lamp test “IRL”. LED test :->?
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On Monday, October 10, 2016 at 6:22:55 PM UTC+2, Paul Birkel wrote:Lamp test “IRL”. LED test :->?
Correct - it is a switch, not just a spacer. I'll probably use it not just for Lamp Test but also for special functions, like the PiDP-8 does with the Sing_Step switch.
Meanwhile, a 3D printed test of the case came in. Photos taken in bad light with a bad camera, which actually help to hide the many imperfections.
But - it looks like I wanted! Yay! A right proper baby 11!
It was a great moment when all the parts I had been working on over the past ten months came together and fitted.
Regards,
Oscar.
Looks gorgeous! And is that a key I see?
This is so awesome! Well done, amazing :D! Please, time to open up the order queue!
Op woensdag 12 oktober 2016 20:43:04 UTC+2 schreef Obsolescence:
Op woensdag 12 oktober 2016 20:43:04 UTC+2 schreef Obsolescence:
On Wednesday, October 12, 2016 at 9:07:28 PM UTC+2, AB wrote:Looks gorgeous! And is that a key I see?
't Is! A $2 affair from China, but it does what it needs to do. One issue that will remain is, you can't just switch off a Raspberry Pi. So the keyswitch will either be under software control, or as a real power switch with User Beware warning. But then, that's perhaps why it has a key...
Remy,
Thanks! I will, in November. At the moment I've got very little time but November should be OK. It will take a good two months at least before the injection mold parts come in. Maybe 3 months if I am unlucky, first thing now is to wrap up the CAD for the mold maker. 3D printing a case turned out to be simple, injection molding not so much... it scares me to be honest. But... no way out.
Anyway, the case needs a revision. Because right now, if you toggle a switch, the case falls over. Maybe the back panel needs to contain a brick :)
Kind regards,
Oscar.
On Wednesday, October 12, 2016 at 9:12:30 PM UTC+2, Remy van Elst wrote:This is so awesome! Well done, amazing :D! Please, time to open up the order queue!
Thanks! I will, in November. At the moment I've got very little time but November should be OK. It will take a good two months at least before the injection mold parts come in. Maybe 3 months if I am unlucky, first thing now is to wrap up the CAD for the mold maker. 3D printing a case turned out to be simple, injection molding not so much... it scares me to be honest. But... no way out.
Anyway, the case needs a revision. Because right now, if you toggle a switch, the case falls over. Maybe the back panel needs to contain a brick :)
Kind regards,
Oscar.
Given that the original panel was on a box nearly a metre deep and weighing a LOT - this would not be surprising.
What are considering for a case revision? The only one that would sort of make sense to resolve this would be to tip the whole case back at an angle, so that downward force on the switches goes through solid case bottom, not straight down in front of the case edge.
But - the brick does not sound like that bad an idea. Or just put holes in the back for mounting heavy nuts and bolts, which the end purchaser supplies so that it does not run up the shipping cost!
What are considering for a case revision? The only one that would sort of make sense to resolve this would be to tip the whole case back at an angle, so that downward force on the switches goes through solid case bottom, not straight down in front of the case edge.
But - the brick does not sound like that bad an idea. Or just put holes in the back for mounting heavy nuts and bolts, which the end purchaser supplies so that it does not run up the shipping cost!
First thing that comes to my mind is a soft SCUBA weight. They are neoprene pouches filled with lead shot. A person could even make their own with a small mesh back and some lead shot. Double-sided tape and it should not go anywhere.
Damn Oscar - bloody good work!!! :D
Can't wait to take delivery of a PiDP-11 next year!
Don't want Oscar getting on the no-fly list - sounding a bit like a PiDP-WMD with nuts, bolts, lead shot and whatnot :-)
If that is the key mechanism that I'm thinking it is, I seriously doubt that it could switch more than an amp for very long. Real Chicago Aces turn up on eBay from time to time but they wouldn't be proportional.
Software control might be better.
I'm also hoping to get in line for this - I'm already considering how to make a longer case for it, perhaps in metal, because I now have a small metal brake.
Software control might be better.
I'm also hoping to get in line for this - I'm already considering how to make a longer case for it, perhaps in metal, because I now have a small metal brake.
On Thursday, 6 October 2016 07:51:21 UTC-4, Obsolescence wrote:
In my sillier moments (many of those) I think of remaking a VT-05 terminal. Which clearly, from a cosmetic perspective, is the high point of DEC design.
In my early days, I was a serial communications tech in the "DBN" (Days before networking) at Digital. That being the case, I have man-handled my share of serial wiring and terminals.
The GUTS of the real VT05 were truly ugly and the overall internal design was somewhat bad and hard to maintain. (Maybe not for the time...) This probably accounts for why it was less successful and later surpassed by the greatly improved VT52 and VT100 series. VT52 and VT100 were essentially upgradable single board designs.
1) it had a small CPU style backplane (no real surprise)
2) It have a CPU style power supply (Now that was a problem) The VT-05 weighed almost 60 pounds while the VT100 weighed 20 pounds less.
3) It was stuck at 300 baud
4) Screen was actually tiny 9" x 6" compared to the HUGE case. The case was 30" deep.
5) The ideal and familiar keyboard had not yet evolved.
Peter,
In summary, the VT-05 was - well, a fairly bad terminal. I must admit that in the case of the VT-05 I'm lusting after it looks, really... not its inner values. I'd think a replica should have a VT-52 and VT-100 mode, even if that is a gross distortion of what it was!
Kind regards,
Oscar.
In summary, the VT-05 was - well, a fairly bad terminal. I must admit that in the case of the VT-05 I'm lusting after it looks, really... not its inner values. I'd think a replica should have a VT-52 and VT-100 mode, even if that is a gross distortion of what it was!
Kind regards,
Oscar.
with space-age looks like that who cares about personality! :-)
I can't wait to officially get in line for one. I used to wrangle a couple PDP-11/70s, PDP-11/60, PDP-11/23, PDP-11/44 back about 30 years ago. Fun playing with core memory and washing machine style disk drives...
Kevin H.
On Friday, September 30, 2016 at 11:47:56 AM UTC-4, AB wrote:
On Friday, September 30, 2016 at 11:47:56 AM UTC-4, AB wrote:
Hi Oscar- any good news regarding the PiDP-11? I need to do some more soldering!!!
cheers
Andy B
PS sign me up for your "early adopters" programme :-)
As I think more about this, would it work to just have an optional flat bottom panel that extended forward under the switches? When you push a switch down, you could no longer tip the case over. It's flat - therefore easy to both construct and pack - and making it optional allows for end users to use an alternate form of stabilization such as a rack mount. Or just bolting the case to your desk.
On Wednesday, October 12, 2016 at 4:03:05 PM UTC-4, Obsolescence wrote:
Remy,
On Wednesday, October 12, 2016 at 9:12:30 PM UTC+2, Remy van Elst wrote:This is so awesome! Well done, amazing :D! Please, time to open up the order queue!
Thanks! I will, in November. At the moment I've got very little time but November should be OK. It will take a good two months at least before the injection mold parts come in. Maybe 3 months if I am unlucky, first thing now is to wrap up the CAD for the mold maker. 3D printing a case turned out to be simple, injection molding not so much... it scares me to be honest. But... no way out.
Anyway, the case needs a revision. Because right now, if you toggle a switch, the case falls over. Maybe the back panel needs to contain a brick :)
Kind regards,
Oscar.
Any idea as for what we could expect for software? It would be rather nice to have UnixV7 on there. I believe Blinkenbone has V6 on an emulated 11/40, would it be too much work to adapt that to V7 on the PiDP-11/70?
On Thursday, October 6, 2016 at 7:51:21 AM UTC-4, Obsolescence wrote:
In my sillier moments (many of those) I think of remaking a VT-05 terminal. Which clearly, from a cosmetic perspective, is the high point of DEC design.The reason for thinking about it is more practical, though: the VT-05 case is very simple. With a vacuformed upper and lower shell (which will not cost the world) and a bit of darkened acrylic you pretty much have the case. And as the CRT sits behind the acrylic, it could be replaced by either a real CRT or (ahem) a cheap tablet screen running "cool-retro-term" for CRT emulation, emulating any terminal standard you want. The difference between CRT and flat screen would not be very noticeable behind the acrylic, that's what makes the VT-05 a good replica candidate.
You could make the whole thing for <$150 in parts, maybe much less. Except the keyboard, that'll either be something nasty, standard, USB. Or a custom keyboard with solder-yourself Cherry switches for a few dozen $ in parts extra.
I should slip out of the silly moment again... but it is tempting. Anyone with vacuforming know-how could do it (anyone interested?).
Regards,
Oscar.
"'David Muckle' via PiDP-8" <pid...@googlegroups.com> writes:V7 I don't know.
> Any idea as for what we could expect for software? It would be rather nice to have UnixV7 on there. I
> believe Blinkenbone has V6 on an emulated 11/40, would it be too much work to adapt that to V7 on the
> PiDP-11/70?
However, following the instructions from:
http://vak.ru/doku.php/proj/pdp11/211bsd
I was able to get BSD V2.11 installed and running with little
difficulty. I didn't bother with the pre-built image offered, I don't
know how well or if it works. The from-scratch method is easy enough.
The only tricky bit is where they leave you on your own to partition the
disk with a very strange and more primitive tool than I've become
accustomed. The 2.11 manual is linked if you get stuck, but once you
get the gist of it, it's easy enough. The example partition table given
is exactly what I ended up with when finished.
I've compiled a few simple programs and fiddled a bit but not done a
whole lot with it. The speed and usability on an RPI 2 is fine.
On my list is to recompile the whole system and see if networking can be
accomplished. (There are hints that the answer is yes.)
- paul
Hi Oscar,
I've been playing with a R Pi expansion board called a Sleepy Pi. It is an Arduino based board that can be used to power the Pi from an unregulated 5V-30V. There is software one can run on the Pi that implements a shutdown command protocol using 2 GPIO pins, or it can be programmed to monitor the current consumed by the Pi and turn off the power when it drops to the known idle level for the model of Pi. Using the current sense capability I think you could implement a shutdown protocol using 1 GPIO pin so it would probably work with your software control idea.
It can be a bit on the expensive side, depending on where you get it, but if someone wanted to have the convenience of a system that actually shuts down, and there is room in the case, it may be an option some people want to look at.
On Wednesday, October 12, 2016 at 3:59:31 PM UTC-4, Obsolescence wrote:
I've been playing with a R Pi expansion board called a Sleepy Pi. It is an Arduino based board that can be used to power the Pi from an unregulated 5V-30V. There is software one can run on the Pi that implements a shutdown command protocol using 2 GPIO pins, or it can be programmed to monitor the current consumed by the Pi and turn off the power when it drops to the known idle level for the model of Pi. Using the current sense capability I think you could implement a shutdown protocol using 1 GPIO pin so it would probably work with your software control idea.
It can be a bit on the expensive side, depending on where you get it, but if someone wanted to have the convenience of a system that actually shuts down, and there is room in the case, it may be an option some people want to look at.
On Wednesday, October 12, 2016 at 3:59:31 PM UTC-4, Obsolescence wrote:
On Wednesday, October 12, 2016 at 9:07:28 PM UTC+2, AB wrote:Looks gorgeous! And is that a key I see?
't Is! A $2 affair from China, but it does what it needs to do. One issue that will remain is, you can't just switch off a Raspberry Pi. So the keyswitch will either be under software control, or as a real power switch with User Beware warning. But then, that's perhaps why it has a key...
Richard,
On 6 January 2017 at 18:38, Richard Buckley <nec....@gmail.com> wrote:I've been playing with a R Pi expansion board called a Sleepy Pi. It is an Arduino based board that can be used to power the Pi from an unregulated 5V-30V. There is software one can run on the Pi that implements a shutdown command protocol using 2 GPIO pins, or it can be programmed to monitor the current consumed by the Pi and turn off the power when it drops to the known idle level for the model of Pi. Using the current sense capability I think you could implement a shutdown protocol using 1 GPIO pin so it would probably work with your software control idea.
If it can live off only 1 gpio pin, that will work!
Kind regards,
Oscar.
Oscar --
Just curious how the PDP-11 work is moving. Last post I saw on the website indicated you were pleased with the results, but you still didn't have solutions you were happy with to produce kits in a good quantity.
It's also possible that other stuff happens every day, and the PDP-11 just hasn't been top of the work pile for a while.
I'm sure you can tell from the comments that lots of people are waiting -- but please be reassured that your own attention to detail, and to "release no computer before its time" is why everyone is watching so closely!
... Chris
Just curious how the PDP-11 work is moving. Last post I saw on the website indicated you were pleased with the results, but you still didn't have solutions you were happy with to produce kits in a good quantity.
It's also possible that other stuff happens every day, and the PDP-11 just hasn't been top of the work pile for a while.
I'm sure you can tell from the comments that lots of people are waiting -- but please be reassured that your own attention to detail, and to "release no computer before its time" is why everyone is watching so closely!
... Chris
Hi Oscar -your PiDP efforts are huge projects to do as a one-man show, especially as you have a day job and a life. And I am guessing (compared to the PiDP-8) there will be even more enthusiasts knocking on your door once you do your PiDP11.... so what I am saying is.... to make your main launch as smooth as possible ... you should consider early adopters! :-) <hint> <nudge>
best wishes!
Andy
best wishes!
Andy
I'm also so very interested in a PiDP11 (or two) of my own, as well as some buddies of mine.
If the large expense related to the case molds is a problem, perhaps some sort of kickstarter or similar process would work to raise the $20K or whatever was required? I'd be willing to invest in the project that way to get something that's so unique, special and obviously a labor of love (or maybe insanity.. but either works for me!)
Hi,
I'm getting quite a few emails asking about progress on the PiDP-11. So I guess it's better to post an update.
I've been held up for a good few months by a combination of not knowing my way around injection molding, and some family circumstances.
As the delay got out of hand, two weeks ago I got professional help to wrap up the remaining CAD design issues. So hopefully, it's a matter of 1-2 weeks before the mold is made - and then 3 weeks before I have the PiDP-11 cases in my trembling hands. If this has taught me one thing, it's that injection molding is not a trivial subject!
So - apologies for the delay but It Will Be Done!
Kind regards,
Oscar.
On Wednesday, March 29, 2017 at 3:18:26 PM UTC-6, Obsolescence wrote:As the delay got out of hand, two weeks ago I got professional help to wrap up the remaining CAD design issues. So hopefully, it's a matter of 1-2 weeks before the mold is made - and then 3 weeks before I have the PiDP-11 cases in my trembling hands.
You're starting with a prototype run, I hope, not going to full production immediately?
How stands the PCB and software?
Is it time to stand up another Fossil instance, or is that premature?
Not that I'm volunteering to lead the PiDP-11 software project, too. :)
Probably too late of a question, but is there some way to laminate or protect the front panel silkscreen paint in some way on the pdp11?
I like the pdp8 kit but it's always a little hairy moving the acrylic panel since it can flake easily since the paint is exposed.
On Wednesday, April 5, 2017 at 1:59:58 AM UTC-6, Jonathan Trites wrote:I like the pdp8 kit but it's always a little hairy moving the acrylic panel since it can flake easily since the paint is exposed.
It's only exposed on the back side of the panel. When the PiDP-8/I is taken apart, a whole lot more than the front panel is exposed to damage.
Do you actually have paint flaked off of your PiDP-8/I panel? Given reasonable care, I'd think it would be durable enough to be freely handled on a workbench.
On the workbench, you should have a soft work mat or towel nearby, and the panel should be placed on it. I have no good information on whether it's better to place it Lexan down or paint down. One of the two will be more durable than the other, and it could well be the paint.
For example, with optical media like CDs, you want to put the label side down, for two reasons. One, the lacquer top layer is tougher than the polycarbonate bottom layer. Two, damage to the top layer doesn't prevent reading until you scratch through the metal layer, whereas a scratch on the bottom layer can make the data unreadable.
How that applies to the PiDP-8/I panel, though, I hesitate to guess.
Jonathan, Warren,
Generally, around the edges it is possible/normal for some paint to flake off. Like half a mm or so. As the back of the panel sits in the dark edge of the case, it should not be noticeable. If it is (for perfectionists) my recommendation is to make the inner edge of the case black with a simple black marker pen. You can also use it to make the edge of the acrylic black. Works fine.
If you're really concerned about flaking, maybe painting the back of the acrylic is a bullet-proof solution. I never tried, theoretically when this extra coat of paint dries it may crack (crackle?) the paint on the acrylic.
Jon, I would say go ahead and try that if you feel like it. If it ruins your acrylic panel, I'll send you a new one... may be a useful experiment!
So far, the only thing that really did damage to two builders' panels was putting sticky tape on the panel's back and then tearing it off again.
Kind regards,
Oscar.
The flaking around the edge is mostly what I have experienced, but it pointed out to me that the paint is exposed and therefore vulnerable. Mostly I was thinking about a different pdp8 kit described on the GRC site:
"The faceplates would be exactly the same as the last time around. They're silk screened in five colors onto the back side of a 2mm polycarbonate sheet, and then adhesive is applied with a special fixture that protects the LED windows. At the same time a 1/4" thick acrylic piece is laser cut and drilled to the necessary dimensions and then eight mounting standoffs are installed and glued into place. Finally the polycarbonate sheet is laminated to the acrylic panel and the whole thing is laser cut once again for the switch openings. Since the ink in the silk screen layer ends up sandwiched in between the polycarbonate sheet and the acrylic back panel, the graphics won't fade and are nearly indestructible. And since the mounting hardware is already installed the whole thing is ready to attach to the PC board."
I know it's too late for the pdp8, but if something similar or analogous could be done for the pdp11, that's what I meant. Of course you could be too late into production or this could cost too much, but I figured the worst that could happen is the answer would be "no", so I might as well ask it.
Hey Oscar - the PiDP-11 panel will be 2/3rd scale (same as PidP-8) ... yeah?
cheers!
Andy
On Friday, September 30, 2016 at 11:47:56 AM UTC-4, AB wrote:Hi Oscar- any good news regarding the PiDP-11? I need to do some more soldering!!!
cheers
Andy B
PS sign me up for your "early adopters" programme :-)
Andy,
On 1 May 2017 at 22:23, AB <lordha...@gmail.com> wrote:Hey Oscar - the PiDP-11 panel will be 2/3rd scale (same as PidP-8) ... yeah?
Almost. 60% instead of 66%.
I have been having a pretty tough time (6 months!) with getting the case produced, but hopefully in two weeks it's done. One mold maker went bust, #2 sent me into the woods with all sorts of CAD design adjustments, but #3 (ProtoLabs) now seems nearly done. Just some final struggles on how to mount screws into the case (brass inserts, very fancy but it's taken weeks of figuring it out...). Oh well. RSN.
Kind regards,
Oscar.
Personally, I'm looking forward to Oscar doing a KI-10 console. This was DEC's ultimate hunk of blinkenlights. :)
On Wednesday, October 5, 2016 at 10:03:22 PM UTC-4, AB wrote:
PDP6.... OH... PLEASE.... I NEED ONE!!!!
On Wednesday, October 5, 2016 at 9:12:11 PM UTC-4, Obsolescence wrote:By the way, on that photo - did you see the PDP-6 replica next to my stuff?
Angelo in Berlin has written an intriguing PDP-6 emulator. Taking a whole different approach: a C program simulates all the electrical signals to construct a PDP-6. That's an approach very different from traditional emulators, and rather close to how you'd do it with an FPGA.
https://github.com/aap/pdp6
He hopes to marry that simulator and his (as of yet unconnected) front panel soonish. Normally, it would be a slight problem that no software remains for the 6. But Angelo already wrote an assembler and Forth for it, and has an incomplete listing of at least one operating system... you really get to meet impressive people in the world of DEC.
If anyone knows of a source of PDP-6 software, he sure would like to know!
Regards,
Oscar.
This looks simply amazing. I can't wait. Sign me up, Oscar.
On Wednesday, October 12, 2016 at 3:07:28 PM UTC-4, AB wrote:
Looks gorgeous! And is that a key I see?On Wednesday, October 12, 2016 at 2:43:04 PM UTC-4, Obsolescence wrote:
On Monday, October 10, 2016 at 6:22:55 PM UTC+2, Paul Birkel wrote:Lamp test “IRL”. LED test :->?
Correct - it is a switch, not just a spacer. I'll probably use it not just for Lamp Test but also for special functions, like the PiDP-8 does with the Sing_Step switch.
Meanwhile, a 3D printed test of the case came in. Photos taken in bad light with a bad camera, which actually help to hide the many imperfections.
But - it looks like I wanted! Yay! A right proper baby 11!
It was a great moment when all the parts I had been working on over the past ten months came together and fitted.
Regards,
Oscar.
You're not wrong there :-)
Andy
Andy
On Monday, May 1, 2017 at 9:27:52 PM UTC-4, Joel Fletcher wrote:Personally, I'm looking forward to Oscar doing a KI-10 console. This was DEC's ultimate hunk of blinkenlights. :)
The RICM has two KA10 consoles.
Getting a PDP-10 emulator connected to one would be very cool.
Just a little update on my PiDP-11 project... apologies for off-topicness.
So I spent the last month struggling with the CAD designer (a second one) and the factory (Proto Labs, the third one) to get the case done. All revolves around the question of how you can screw the acrylic panel and PCB into the injection-molded case in a robust manner. We started out just thinking 'screw into plastic', then had a fancy brass insert (nut in plastic) that a builder could push in himself to keep costs low, that didn't work, then another insert, didn't work and was only made to order, then two other inserts - no good. So now, Proto Labs will build in a brass insert in the factory. Alas, thus bumping up the price of the case yet again, I'm now at three times the original per-unit quote. But OK, manageable, the kit will still not cost too much more than the PiDP-8 I think.
So now I am waiting again on the dance between CAD designer and Proto Labs - both recommended people BTW, it's my ignorance and the need to do this at low cost and low volume that makes this a painful process. But the case better be just as pretty as the 3D printed prototype.
To be continued!
Oscar.
On Saturday, May 13, 2017 at 10:45:45 AM UTC-6, Obsolescence wrote:Proto Labs will build in a brass insert in the factory. Alas, thus bumping up the price of the case yet again, I'm now at three times the original per-unit quote. But OK, manageable, the kit will still not cost too much more than the PiDP-8 I think.
I know next to nothing about injection-molded plastic case design and manufacture, but I do know that I prefer threaded brass inserts, particularly in cases (pun intended) where I'm likely to open it occasionally.
One of the things preventing me from testing my PiDP-8/I software with my Pi B+ is purely the hassle of swapping the Pi inside the case. If you can make that easier, I'll consider it a significant upgrade.
thanks for all of this Oscar- it'll be so worth the wait! :-)
Andy
Andy
Warren,
On 13 May 2017 at 19:26, Warren Young <tange...@gmail.com> wrote:I know next to nothing about injection-molded plastic case design and manufacture, but I do know that I prefer threaded brass inserts, particularly in cases (pun intended) where I'm likely to open it occasionally.
Exactly. I felt it's worth the extra cost. Screwing the panel and PCB into just plastic mounts would make it a low-rent toy.
I forgot to mention - there may be two hearts to make the PiDP-11 beat. One is the Blinkenbone simh-on-Pi approach, which will be the default, because it's low-cost and simh is pretty nice. But I got in touch with Sytse, who's done a PDP-11 FPGA recreation. The idea might become to make the PiDP PCB compatible with both a Pi and the FPGA board he's using. If he indeed definitively approves of the idea. Turns out Sytse lives 4 miles away from my part-time pad in Holland (small world). But it's early days on this.
Kind regards,
Oscar.
Just on update on my much-delayed PiDP-11 project...
Case...
Oh yes, the case... The bottleneck has been making the injection mold. For six months, it always looked like it'd be done in the next two weeks. Amazing really: 2 mold makers, two specialist CAD designers, SEVEN manufacturers of brass screw inserts - it has been maddening. I had a perfect CAD model of the bezel a year ago...
Part of this farce was due to me being a complete ignorant in the field of injection molding. But also - it's just not an industry used to deal with small-time ignorants.
But after a few hundred hours (really! Embarrassing but true) I'm all done. Just one more sample to see the exterior finish of the case and to check if the all-important Digital logo will turn out OK, and then it should be a go. Proto Labs has a turnaround time of 15 days from that moment. I can't think of any square inch of the mold that has not been checked by now, so what could go wrong? ;)
Speed
The combination of my multiplexing technique (all in software) and the choice for the BlinkenBone architecture (simh and front panel over a client-server link) makes a Pi Zero too slow. It should not be. And the solution, it looks like, will be to handle the GPIO blinky bits through hardware DMA, taking the load off the CPU. Thanks to Christopher Bachmann for the lead! But more speed gains must then be made on the client/server link.
Producing the parts
As soon as a sample of the final case is in my hands, I can wrap up the PCB and acrylic panel (both need their mount holes aligned perfectly, and that requires having the case physically in my hands to check everything) and produce them. Switches are already done.
Option to use the PDP2011 FPGA project
Sytse's PDP2011 is a PDP-11 on FPGA. I only realised he lived 3 miles from my family in Holland last month... so we met up and the plan is that the PiDP-11 will be able to either take a Raspberry Pi with Simh, or a Terasic DE-Nano with his PDP2011 masterpiece. I really hope that will work out. Although I love simh personally, having a 'real' PDP-11 in an FPGA is exciting. Sytse showed one of them with an uptime of 340 days as a web server!
Bugs
I got some great help from Mike Hill in terms of checking the front panel behaviour. Not good - good enough for demonstrations and simple tests, yes, but not good enough yet. Needs work, but that's manageable. The BlinkenBone code, including the PiDP-11 bit, is on Github BTW.
So - I feel I have been remarkably consistent over the last 6 months, always saying it'll be done in a few weeks.
Still saying that! But by now, I think it's for real. I really, really hope so - I am developing an allergy for injection molding. Never again ;)
Kind regards,
Oscar.
Awesome Oscar!! Very excited for the next "few weeks" :-)
The tension builds ... this is better than a movie!
On Friday, June 16, 2017 at 10:36:17 AM UTC-4, Obsolescence wrote:
Wow, that is a lot of effort! I very much look forward to updates!
Awesome! So which DE0 Nano system would it be good to order now so that when the time comes we'll already have one?
--Chuck
On Friday, June 16, 2017 at 7:36:17 AM UTC-7, Obsolescence wrote:
On Friday, June 16, 2017 at 10:36:17 AM UTC-4, Obsolescence wrote:
Just on update on my much-delayed PiDP-11 project...I can't think of any square inch of the mold that has not been checked by now, so what could go wrong? ;)
Famous last words! :)
So when will you start taking pre orders? I have two of your PiDP-8 kits and your attention to detail is quite evident.
I have no hesitation to order one of your new kits. Besides, I need to keep up with the latest news from Holland
that I read from the packing material of your kits!
Tom L
Great news. Waiting with great anticipation...
You mentioned that the PiDP-11 bits are in Github. Which repository would be best to track?
Thanks,
Mike
I'm so anticipating the PiDP-11! Can't wait the next few weeks :D
Op vrijdag 30 september 2016 17:47:56 UTC+2 schreef AB:
Op vrijdag 30 september 2016 17:47:56 UTC+2 schreef AB:
Hi Oscar- any good news regarding the PiDP-11? I need to do some more soldering!!!
cheers
Andy B
PS sign me up for your "early adopters" programme :-)
Just one more update... today the PiDP-11 case FINALLY went into production. Yay!
It has taken a silly amount of time, partly/mostly because I am an injection molding idiot. But in the end, I got great help from injection molding professionals who helped me navigate the last problems. Thanks, Tom and Ash! It also took a custom-made brass insert for screw nuts. Apparently the PDP-11 bezel design, when shrunk 60% to become a PiDP-11 case, made it a challenge to fit screws into, and it took some ingenuity (not mine) to solve that.
So, in a week or three I'll have 200 cases and I can check if the PCB and acrylic panel indeed fit the case. Maybe I need to shift a mount hole a few mils, you never know until you can try. If all starts to go well from here, that is ;)
So, in a week or three I'll have 200 cases and I can check if the PCB and acrylic panel indeed fit the case. Maybe I need to shift a mount hole a few mils, you never know until you can try. If all starts to go well from here, that is ;)
Kind regards,
Oscar.
Wow! Such fantastic news!!! :D
I'm sorry if this question has already been answered previously but do you have a ballpark figure on roughly how much the PiDP-11 kit is going to be when done?
I'm going to be very high up on the "first to order" list for sure but as someone who recently was forced to retire because I was in an accident which totally turned my life upside down (literally) I need to figure out how much money I need to scrape together to make it happen? Where I live you're pretty much shafted financially if you are no longer able to work for medical reasons and there's no way I'm going to miss having a PiDP-11 next to my PiDP-8 and the other vintage computers I've kept throughout the years...
Many thanks in advance and a huge WELL DONE for all the work you've done Oscar!!!
Best Regards,
Jens
I'm cracking open my piggy bank! I want one!
The first Unix system I ever used was a PDP 11/45, so I am looking forward to wallowing in waves of nostalgia. Of course, what the PiDP-11 really needs is some speakers so it can simulate fan noise. Perhaps that will be my first enhancement. :-)
Thanks for all the persistence, Oscar.
On Friday, July 7, 2017 at 7:17:34 PM UTC-4, Obsolescence wrote:Just one more update... today the PiDP-11 case FINALLY went into production. Yay!
Oscar, fantastic news. Like many I suspect I found out about your project through hackaday.... is there an article on HAD in the pipeline?!
You are going to burn through your first prod run of 200 in just MINUTES.... :-)
best wishes
Andy
You are going to burn through your first prod run of 200 in just MINUTES.... :-)
best wishes
Andy
On Friday, July 7, 2017 at 7:17:34 PM UTC-4, Obsolescence wrote:
Is there an order form or some other way to register for receiving an order form, like for the pidp8?
Jonathan,
Thanks :) Not really organised but I added you to my Excel sheet of people to mail!
Kind regards,
Oscar.
Add me to that Excel sheet too please Oscar :)
Thanks, Mart.
Oscar,
If you don't have me on your Excel spreadsheet for the PDP-11 version, please add me as well.
Thanks,
Jon
Oscar,
Please add me to the list as well.
Best,
-john
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I, too, would like to be added to the list.
best,
Dave B
best,
Dave B
On Friday, September 30, 2016 at 8:47:56 AM UTC-7, AB wrote:Hi Oscar- any good news regarding the PiDP-11? I need to do some more soldering!!!
cheers
Andy B
PS sign me up for your "early adopters" programme :-)
Hi Oscar,
Thanks, Ken
Pretty sure I'm already on the list, but if not, please add me.
Thanks!
--jc
--jc
Save a life; adopt a shelter animal.
Save a life; adopt a shelter animal.
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Unless it hasn't already been obvious, please add me to the Excel spreadsheet as well because there's no way I'm going to miss this opportunity!!!
Please add me to the list also
thank you,
John
Same here, please!
-Ed-
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I'm thinking there are going to be more replica PDP-11 systems out there than DEC ever actually shipped :)
--jc
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I'm hoping I'm still on the list too. You had me at the point you toyed with the idea after the last run of PiDP-08.
Kevin Hannan
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For the PiDP-8 Oscar might have already surpassed the PDP-8i... I don't know the sales figures for both, but due to hackaday and all the press coverage, I guess the PiDP must be very very populair.
Op dinsdag 11 juli 2017 04:10:30 UTC+2 schreef J.C. Wren:
Op dinsdag 11 juli 2017 04:10:30 UTC+2 schreef J.C. Wren:
Hi, Oscar, please add my name to the list for PDP-11 kit.
Thanks!
Jader de Amorim
Thanks!
Jader de Amorim
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Oscar,
Please add me to the list for the Pidp11 kit.
Pete
On Friday, 30 September 2016 16:47:56 UTC+1, AB wrote:Hi Oscar- any good news regarding the PiDP-11? I need to do some more soldering!!!
cheers
Andy B
PS sign me up for your "early adopters" programme :-)
Hi Oscar
Please make sure I am on the list as well
Thanks
Sign me up too!
Phil
Phil
Hi!.... I am interested also!
Bret
On Friday, September 30, 2016 at 11:47:56 AM UTC-4, AB wrote:
Hi Oscar- any good news regarding the PiDP-11? I need to do some more soldering!!!
cheers
Andy B
PS sign me up for your "early adopters" programme :-)
At the risk of saying me too, please add me to the pdp-11 list. Building 2 pidp8's wasn't enough!
Ken
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Please add another name to the spreadsheet
Erm, can you put me down for one too :)
All the best,
James
On Friday, September 30, 2016 at 4:47:56 PM UTC+1, AB wrote:Hi Oscar- any good news regarding the PiDP-11? I need to do some more soldering!!!
cheers
Andy B
PS sign me up for your "early adopters" programme :-)
There's a list? Please add me to it as well.
Thanks,
Peter
On Monday, July 10, 2017 at 12:41:59 PM UTC-7, Obsolescence wrote:
I would also like to make sure I am on the list Oscar.
Thanks!
Wayne
Me too, please, Oscar.
Neil Higgins
Neil Higgins
Please add me to the list as well.
Calum Chisholm
[I know that it's poor netiquette (not to mention a breach of RFC 1855), but seeing a chain of "me too" messages gives me a nice comfortable feeling of nostalgia for the pre-Y2K internet.]
Calum Chisholm
[I know that it's poor netiquette (not to mention a breach of RFC 1855), but seeing a chain of "me too" messages gives me a nice comfortable feeling of nostalgia for the pre-Y2K internet.]
Oscar, please add me to the list also. Thank you.
Please add me also - keep up the good work!
On Friday, September 30, 2016 at 11:47:56 AM UTC-4, AB wrote:Hi Oscar- any good news regarding the PiDP-11? I need to do some more soldering!!!
cheers
Andy B
PS sign me up for your "early adopters" programme :-)
Oscar;
(vacation relaxation ruining my memory ... did I request or not???)
Please add me to the PDP-11 list - looking forward to the results of your attention to detail!
... Chris Smith
(vacation relaxation ruining my memory ... did I request or not???)
Please add me to the PDP-11 list - looking forward to the results of your attention to detail!
... Chris Smith
On Monday, July 10, 2017 at 3:41:59 PM UTC-4, Obsolescence wrote:Jonathan,Thanks :) Not really organised but I added you to my Excel sheet of people to mail!Kind regards,Oscar.
Please include me on your list for a PiDP-11. I must have one!
Oscar -- please add me to the PiDP-11 too !! I need it bad and want to run RSTS/E!
Oscar,
Please add me to the PDP-11 list. I'm very interested.
Curtis
Great work Oscar - Please add me to the list for the Pidp11 kit as well
Thanks
Colin
On Monday, 10 July 2017 20:41:59 UTC+1, Obsolescence wrote:Jonathan,Thanks :) Not really organised but I added you to my Excel sheet of people to mail!Kind regards,Oscar.
Oscar, please add me to the list for a PiDP-11 as well. Thanks for all your hard work on this and the PiDP-8. I enjoyed building and using the PiDP-8 but now have an insatiable addiction to blinkenlights.
Oscar, I would greatly appreciate being added to the list as well, but will check back here either way. Thank you for your efforts.
On Monday, July 10, 2017 at 3:41:59 PM UTC-4, Obsolescence wrote:Jonathan,Thanks :) Not really organised but I added you to my Excel sheet of people to mail!Kind regards,Oscar.
Me too please
Scott
Scott
On Saturday, 1 October 2016 01:47:56 UTC+10, AB wrote:Hi Oscar- any good news regarding the PiDP-11? I need to do some more soldering!!!
cheers
Andy B
PS sign me up for your "early adopters" programme :-)
Oscar,
I'm interested too. Please add me to the list.
Thanks,
Roy Simkins
I'm interested too. Please add me to the list.
Thanks,
Roy Simkins
Hi Oscar,
I'm interested as well, can you please add me to the list? Thanks.
Michiel
Just one more update... today the PiDP-11 case FINALLY went into production. Yay!It has taken a silly amount of time, partly/mostly because I am an injection molding idiot. But in the end, I got great help from injection molding professionals who helped me navigate the last problems. Thanks, Tom and Ash! It also took a custom-made brass insert for screw nuts. Apparently the PDP-11 bezel design, when shrunk 60% to become a PiDP-11 case, made it a challenge to fit screws into, and it took some ingenuity (not mine) to solve that.
So, in a week or three I'll have 200 cases and I can check if the PCB and acrylic panel indeed fit the case. Maybe I need to shift a mount hole a few mils, you never know until you can try. If all starts to go well from here, that is ;)Kind regards,Oscar.--To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/pidp-8/b54f969a-ccfe-4c3c-b21b-dc27e05cf6d3%40googlegroups.com.
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Oscar, please add my name to your spreadsheet.
Thanks,
Pat Moran
On Friday, September 30, 2016 at 4:47:56 PM UTC+1, AB wrote:Hi Oscar- any good news regarding the PiDP-11? I need to do some more soldering!!!
cheers
Andy B
PS sign me up for your "early adopters" programme :-)
Oscar:
Please add me to the PiDP-11 list.
Thanks-
Jack
Oscar, Can you add me to the list too?
On Monday, July 10, 2017 at 3:41:59 PM UTC-4, Obsolescence wrote:Jonathan,Thanks :) Not really organised but I added you to my Excel sheet of people to mail!Kind regards,Oscar.
Also Interested..
On Monday, 10 July 2017 20:45:56 UTC-4, John D. wrote:
On Monday, 10 July 2017 20:45:56 UTC-4, John D. wrote:
Please add me to the list alsothank you,John
On Friday, July 7, 2017 at 4:17:34 PM UTC-7, Obsolescence wrote:Just one more update... today the PiDP-11 case FINALLY went into production. Yay!It has taken a silly amount of time, partly/mostly because I am an injection molding idiot. But in the end, I got great help from injection molding professionals who helped me navigate the last problems. Thanks, Tom and Ash! It also took a custom-made brass insert for screw nuts. Apparently the PDP-11 bezel design, when shrunk 60% to become a PiDP-11 case, made it a challenge to fit screws into, and it took some ingenuity (not mine) to solve that.
So, in a week or three I'll have 200 cases and I can check if the PCB and acrylic panel indeed fit the case. Maybe I need to shift a mount hole a few mils, you never know until you can try. If all starts to go well from here, that is ;)Kind regards,Oscar.
This is all truly exciting news. I too, would appreciate being added to the list, and feel that a high proportion of the the PiDP-8 builder/owners will probably love to join 'the list'. Respectful 'me too' posters who have been reading this board regularly for the past year or so are now coming out of the woodwork (many their first post!) ..... So many of us have been following the adventures of -8 and now -11 replica designs - including colour choices, printing, switch changes, injection molding learnings and other design decisions of the 11 on this group whenever they have the time. The path has been as equally entertaining, educational and thought provoking as all the steps involved in receiving the parts, building and operating the replica.
Oscar, you have helped to create and sustain (with all the active contributors) such an active and healthy, culture and community interest in these machines. thank you for all of this.
On Saturday, 1 October 2016 01:47:56 UTC+10, AB wrote:Hi Oscar- any good news regarding the PiDP-11? I need to do some more soldering!!!
cheers
Andy B
PS sign me up for your "early adopters" programme :-)
If I'm not already on the list from our private emails please put me down for two, but happy for one of those to be last on the list and bumped to a future batch if the first batch sells out.
As others have said (and apologies if you've said and I've missed it) any indication of price and timescale?
Thanks,
JJ
I would also like to be on the list; in the meantime, any ideas on what PI or Beaglebone board would be supported would be welcomed (I don't think I'd be interested in going down the FPGA route). I have a known good 7-port Pi hub, wireless dongle, 4 USB/serial adapters, and some USB chassis connectors at the ready.
Oscar,
If I'm not on the list already, please add me.
thanks!
dylan
On Friday, July 7, 2017 at 4:17:34 PM UTC-7, Obsolescence wrote:Just one more update... today the PiDP-11 case FINALLY went into production. Yay!It has taken a silly amount of time, partly/mostly because I am an injection molding idiot. But in the end, I got great help from injection molding professionals who helped me navigate the last problems. Thanks, Tom and Ash! It also took a custom-made brass insert for screw nuts. Apparently the PDP-11 bezel design, when shrunk 60% to become a PiDP-11 case, made it a challenge to fit screws into, and it took some ingenuity (not mine) to solve that.
So, in a week or three I'll have 200 cases and I can check if the PCB and acrylic panel indeed fit the case. Maybe I need to shift a mount hole a few mils, you never know until you can try. If all starts to go well from here, that is ;)Kind regards,Oscar.
If I haven't already said so, I'd like to be on the PiDP-11 list. I love my PiDP-8.
Randy Mongenel
On Fri, Jul 21, 2017 at 12:51 AM, Randy Mongenel <mong...@gmail.com> wrote:
If I haven't already said so, I'd like to be on the PiDP-11 list. I love my PiDP-8.Randy Mongenel--To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/pidp-8/2f079d64-995e-4336-b7e1-670fa57efe73%40googlegroups.com.
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Oscar,
Please add me to your PiDP-11 list.
Thank you!
Please add me to your PiDP-11 list.
Thank you!
Please sign me up to the list
Roger
Roger
Oscar, please sign me up for the PiDP-11 list.
Thanks!
Jim.
Oscar,
Please sign me up, too.
Regards,
Bill Wuttke
On Friday, September 30, 2016 at 8:47:56 AM UTC-7, AB wrote:Hi Oscar- any good news regarding the PiDP-11? I need to do some more soldering!!!
cheers
Andy B
PS sign me up for your "early adopters" programme :-)
I know this suggestion is a little late after the cavalcade of
me-too's, but uh, why not just use this list for the pidp11 as well,
and then we don't all have to say we want on a new list?
--
Russell
me-too's, but uh, why not just use this list for the pidp11 as well,
and then we don't all have to say we want on a new list?
--
Russell
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Because PiDP-11 configuration/software/use, and front panel operations, will be nothing like the PiDP-8?
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I think there's some confusion here: I'd thought the 'list' mentioned is a list of potential customers to buy the PDP-11 kit, not a mail list like this one.
Ed
Oscar,
Would you please add me to the list for the PDP-11? I have an 8 and love what you are doing. I teach CS classes at the local community college and my students love to see and use these historic machines. Keep going!
-Marty
Oscar,
I've emailed Syste and he was VERY impressed with what he saw... Please put me on the list for one of first batch!
-- Mike
On Friday, July 7, 2017 at 6:17:34 PM UTC-5, Obsolescence wrote:Just one more update... today the PiDP-11 case FINALLY went into production. Yay!It has taken a silly amount of time, partly/mostly because I am an injection molding idiot. But in the end, I got great help from injection molding professionals who helped me navigate the last problems. Thanks, Tom and Ash! It also took a custom-made brass insert for screw nuts. Apparently the PDP-11 bezel design, when shrunk 60% to become a PiDP-11 case, made it a challenge to fit screws into, and it took some ingenuity (not mine) to solve that.
So, in a week or three I'll have 200 cases and I can check if the PCB and acrylic panel indeed fit the case. Maybe I need to shift a mount hole a few mils, you never know until you can try. If all starts to go well from here, that is ;)Kind regards,Oscar.
It's supposed to be news about the PiDP-11 but instead of sending a PM to Oscar, people who want one are posting here so we all get dozens of unwanted messages with "Me too!" in them. Please people! PM Oscar if you want to be put on the list! Don't post a message here!
On Wednesday, August 2, 2017 at 4:29:43 AM UTC-4, Ed S wrote:I think there's some confusion here: I'd thought the 'list' mentioned is a list of potential customers to buy the PDP-11 kit, not a mail list like this one.Ed
Hi,
After endless delays, today is the day that PiDP-11, serial #1, was born!
Still lots of small stuff to do, and small imperfections to fix in #2, but this is made of the finished parts (case, switches, front panel acrylic).
And yes, if you see the video, it does need a more elegant base to sit in. WIP. Other than that, I think it's gorgeous. But then you always think that of your own kids of course.
I'll be at VCF MidWest (9-10 September), hope to present the new 'un to some of you there!
PS - I can add you to the mailing list for the PiDP-11, but email me directly rather than reply in the Google group here to reduce the group noise level :)
Kind regards,
Oscar.
Yay!
Looks very nice Oscar! Excellent job!
Congrats Oscar looks fantastic!!!
Andy
Andy
On Sunday, September 3, 2017 at 12:33:01 PM UTC-4, Obsolescence wrote:
On Sunday, September 3, 2017 at 12:33:01 PM UTC-4, Obsolescence wrote:
Hi,After endless delays, today is the day that PiDP-11, serial #1, was born!Still lots of small stuff to do, and small imperfections to fix in #2, but this is made of the finished parts (case, switches, front panel acrylic).And yes, if you see the video, it does need a more elegant base to sit in. WIP. Other than that, I think it's gorgeous. But then you always think that of your own kids of course.
How about a 360° view? I'd like to see the back or isn't that finalized yet?
Tom L
Thomas,
On 6 September 2017 at 15:38, Thomas Lake <tl...@twcny.rr.com> wrote:How about a 360° view? I'd like to see the back or isn't that finalized yet?
The back, at the moment, is a bland plastic panel with two wires protruding. I'm thinking of having a back panel made from metal, with cutouts for serial connectors etc.
Kind regards,
Oscar.
How about a flap (like some of the Surface tablets) so it can either lean back, or be used flat on a table?
As interesting as that sounds, I recall Oscar mentioning that without some base weight (and maybe it has to be some serious base weight) using the front panel switches would cause the machine to tip flat on its face.
I'm envisioning a nice solid steel base plate. I know this is only a "minicomputer", but with a hefty metal base, we can think of it as "big iron".
I'm envisioning a nice solid steel base plate. I know this is only a "minicomputer", but with a hefty metal base, we can think of it as "big iron".
On Wednesday, September 6, 2017 at 11:23:09 AM UTC-4, Andrew Yeomans wrote:How about a flap (like some of the Surface tablets) so it can either lean back, or be used flat on a table?
Gory details like this should be left to the builder, to keep the kit as inexpensive as possible.
I absolutely agree!
The kit part that might make sense is mounting inserts on the bottom of the case/front panel, so that bolts can be run up through to those. If you have a high-density thin base (steel) use short bolts, and if you have a low-density thick base, use long bolts.
Now, given the grief that Oscar described getting brass inserts to work nicely, perhaps that would not be the best way. Maybe the bottom of the front panel is a full flat surface and just has holes.
Since the forces involve begin by pushing switches, Oscar may have plans to deal with some of this with the switch alignment/mounting bracket.
The kit part that might make sense is mounting inserts on the bottom of the case/front panel, so that bolts can be run up through to those. If you have a high-density thin base (steel) use short bolts, and if you have a low-density thick base, use long bolts.
Now, given the grief that Oscar described getting brass inserts to work nicely, perhaps that would not be the best way. Maybe the bottom of the front panel is a full flat surface and just has holes.
Since the forces involve begin by pushing switches, Oscar may have plans to deal with some of this with the switch alignment/mounting bracket.
On Wednesday, September 6, 2017 at 10:00:52 PM UTC-4, Neil Higgins wrote:Gory details like this should be left to the builder, to keep the kit as inexpensive as possible.
On Wednesday, September 6, 2017 at 10:00:52 PM UTC-4, Neil Higgins wrote:
Gory details like this should be left to the builder, to keep the kit as inexpensive as possible.
Well, I personally agree with you, but there are (at least) two kinds of people here: one kind like (you?) and me, are viewing the front panel, switches, and bezel (and possibly the PCB) as "the parts that I can't "make", and want to make something unique to us. I still have the wooden case unused from the PiDP8 kit, and I actually can get the front panel reproduced at least as well as the original; I've wire-wrapped and/or fabricated boards much larger than the PCB front panel.
OTOH, there are other people here who just want to assemble a complete kit, finish it, and use it and won't or can't get/make the parts to "finish" it if it isn't a complete kit resulting in something turnkey or nearly so. I would prefer that the PiDP-11 kit be sold in two forms, but if that is impractical, I'm willing to eat the parts that I don't need. I just want one.
I'm debating whether or not my "oak box" approach will work aesthetically on the -11. I have a small sheet metal brake and I might try my luck at bending at least a sheet metal cover for the unit. I need "length" because I want wireless, a hub, four+ serial ports, video ports ,and the power supply built into the unit. I also liked the tiny fan I put in my Pidp8. Completely unnecessary, but...it adds something IMO.
I'd even go a step further than a full kit. I'd buy a fully assembled unit! My purpose for wanting these DEC-style machines is to do BASIC programming on a multi-user system. I am certainly capable of putting a kit together (I assembled two PiDP-8s and they both worked perfectly the first time) but that's not where my main interest lies. I assembled those kits just to see if I could do it and maybe brag just a little that I did the job myself.
Tom L
Chris,
On Thursday, September 7, 2017 at 3:54:01 AM UTC+2, Chris Smith wrote:As interesting as that sounds, I recall Oscar mentioning that without some base weight (and maybe it has to be some serious base weight) using the front panel switches would cause the machine to tip flat on its face.
Indeed, this is the world's first self-toppling desktop computer. I think that's highly innovative, but just to be sure I've added a base it can stand on.
It took a bit of thinking, because the PDP-11's switches protrude far out of the bottom of its bezel. And I did not want to change the bezel in any way, so the self-toppling was inevitable. The wooden base takes care of it, and allows more or less energetic flicking of the switches without moving the machine.
I'm envisioning a nice solid steel base plate. I know this is only a "minicomputer", but with a hefty metal base, we can think of it as "big iron".
One thing I'd like to explore is a more or less heavy sheet-metal back plate. On the other hand, I want to keep costs down and the weight of the whole thing should stay below 2KG, or shipping becomes more expensive.
Kind regards,
Oscar.
Oscar;
I could see all kinds of options - and maybe enabling the options is a possible route to go?
Just as an example - if there is an easy way to put a wood board across the back, far enough back to be a good counterweight, it could easily have 16 1/2 inch x 2 inch carriage bolts inserted in it - which would weigh about a kilo right there and are available at many hardware stores. So - that's an option, and since the parts are clearly spec'd and readily available locally, you don't need to ship them.Or - a appropriate size lightweight plastic bottom pan could be filled with locally sourced steel bearings and pourable plaster. Or urethane.
And all this may be irrelevant if someone decides to rack-mount it. Those racks are massive!
I just figure that "things that are massive" can be something sourced locally. This is a kit, and we need to at least have tools. The PiDP-8 needed external power. Just give us some robust mounting holes and wait for the finished pictures of creativity!
... Chris
"...is to do BASIC programming on a multi-user system"
Another glutton for punishment!
I must admit, I have been thrilled running the PiDP8 with TSS/8 or ETOS with multiple terminals and multiple copies of BASIC programs. Between that, and my little ESP8266-based Altair emulator, (see that thread) I am now remembering the "bad old days" of line numbered spaghetti code where you couldn't even begin to fathom how something worked an hour after you wrote it!
Hard to believe, but there was a time that I could write BASIC programs that actually worked first try as fast as I could type. Even complicated programs involving formatted disk records. Or translate between two obscure dialects of BASIC. I've definitely reached the point where I've forgotten more than I know...
My Altair emulator is a very faithful emulation...but that's not necessarily good. I had forgotten that if you mounted a disk under Altair Disk BASIC, then lost power or crashed before unmounting it, your 8" floppy disk would then be ready for reformatting :(
Another glutton for punishment!
I must admit, I have been thrilled running the PiDP8 with TSS/8 or ETOS with multiple terminals and multiple copies of BASIC programs. Between that, and my little ESP8266-based Altair emulator, (see that thread) I am now remembering the "bad old days" of line numbered spaghetti code where you couldn't even begin to fathom how something worked an hour after you wrote it!
Hard to believe, but there was a time that I could write BASIC programs that actually worked first try as fast as I could type. Even complicated programs involving formatted disk records. Or translate between two obscure dialects of BASIC. I've definitely reached the point where I've forgotten more than I know...
My Altair emulator is a very faithful emulation...but that's not necessarily good. I had forgotten that if you mounted a disk under Altair Disk BASIC, then lost power or crashed before unmounting it, your 8" floppy disk would then be ready for reformatting :(
Again, I would prefer a "Panel" kit to a "full" kit, but either is OK.
My PiDP8 in it's deep wood box looks good, but it is somewhat of a PITA to operate the switches, already smaller than "stock", with fingers somewhat larger than average. If I had to do it all over again I would have made the box taller and raised the front panel up maybe an inch. Oscar's raised, angled panel solves the operational problem nicely, and eliminates any parallax effect between the front panel and the LED's. This is growing on me.
. These rack designs were designed for...well...a rack, and mounted somewhere between an average person's waist and neck high in the rack (I'll bet there's a spec for that somewhere).
Oscar's panel reminded me of the very nice "console model" of the PDP8/I that may or may not have ever existed (a very nice drawing of it is on the cover of a FOCAL manual). AFAIK there is no photograph of one.
My PiDP8 in it's deep wood box looks good, but it is somewhat of a PITA to operate the switches, already smaller than "stock", with fingers somewhat larger than average. If I had to do it all over again I would have made the box taller and raised the front panel up maybe an inch. Oscar's raised, angled panel solves the operational problem nicely, and eliminates any parallax effect between the front panel and the LED's. This is growing on me.
. These rack designs were designed for...well...a rack, and mounted somewhere between an average person's waist and neck high in the rack (I'll bet there's a spec for that somewhere).
Oscar's panel reminded me of the very nice "console model" of the PDP8/I that may or may not have ever existed (a very nice drawing of it is on the cover of a FOCAL manual). AFAIK there is no photograph of one.
On Thursday, September 7, 2017 at 10:48:32 PM UTC-6, slob wrote:
Oscar's panel reminded me of the very nice "console model" of the PDP8/I that may or may not have ever existed (a very nice drawing of it is on the cover of a FOCAL manual). AFAIK there is no photograph of one.
Cunningham's Law: The fastest way to get the right answer on the Internet is to post the wrong answer. :)
That's a cover scan of my paper copy of the 1968 edition of DEC's "Small Computer Handbook", which is slightly newer than the 1967 edition you'll find online by Googling, which has an orangey cover depicting a PDP-8 "Straight Eight" and a PDP-8/S.
One thing that works quite well as a weight and is very inexpensive is a "plastic bag full of metal". I have one in my desk lamp. It's a bunch of metal offcuts (these are circular, about 2mm in diameter, from punching holes in sheet metal) enclosed in a heavy plastic wrap. All that would be required is to have some space to accommodate it in the base of the PiDP-11 enclosure.
That may be a marketing/engineering mockup. I distinctly remember some thread on a classic computing group where there was a rumor of a marketing mockup being made. But I've never seen any evidence of a real, production unit in the wild, then or now. Someone built a semi-clone of it (at great expense).
It would be an interesting question to pose on the pdp8 group, because there are lots of old-timer EX-DEC people there.
It would be an interesting question to pose on the pdp8 group, because there are lots of old-timer EX-DEC people there.
I'll repost my folding flap idea, but turned on its head!
A thin flap pivoted on the bottom rear of the case would be light-weight, could fold forward as a foot coming out the front. Or could fold flat backwards for transporting or for using the PiDP-11 flat on its back.
A thin flap pivoted on the bottom rear of the case would be light-weight, could fold forward as a foot coming out the front. Or could fold flat backwards for transporting or for using the PiDP-11 flat on its back.
Hi,
Please add me to the list if I'm not already on there! (assuming I'm not too late, I've been away from the hobby for a few months...)
Please add me to the list if I'm not already on there! (assuming I'm not too late, I've been away from the hobby for a few months...)
Regards,
Tom
That's a rather ingenious idea. I can see how it could work nicely.
I think you can also see how it would be completely extraneous for someone rack mounting their PiDP-11.
Do you think you could do the same thing with a sheet of either plywood or thick styrene and a piano hinge?
I think you can also see how it would be completely extraneous for someone rack mounting their PiDP-11.
Do you think you could do the same thing with a sheet of either plywood or thick styrene and a piano hinge?
To solve the problem of my PiDP-8 moving when I pressed the switches, I used a simple but effective approach. I attached two small angle pieces to each side of the case (careful to avoid any interior components) and to the shelf above the unit. A shelf below the unit would work as well. See the attached picture. I am hoping I can use the same approach on the PiDP-11 I ordered from Oscar if I am very careful with the drilling and self-tapping screws.
I was thinking of the piano hinge, and maybe having a U-shaped panel. That would allow two longer "feet" for stabilisation, and when folded flat would have a gap to clear any connectors.
Now if that gap in the U was filled with another hinged panel, it could be folded to support the PiDP-11 in a leaning backwards position. Like some iPad cover/supports which can be folded into a triangular shape and are held by magnets. Maybe one of those iPad covers would work directly.
Now if that gap in the U was filled with another hinged panel, it could be folded to support the PiDP-11 in a leaning backwards position. Like some iPad cover/supports which can be folded into a triangular shape and are held by magnets. Maybe one of those iPad covers would work directly.
I 3d printed some angled brackets for the PiDP8 which really make a
tremendous difference to viewing and using it. I'm looking forward to
the PDP11 kit, but given currency exchange and shipping to Canada (our
crappy dollar) I would not want wooden base plates or metal pieces
included in the kit.
I am just a lurker, because my main interest is PDP-11.
I did construct a "pedestal PDP8/i" years ago. Possible one existed for the marketing guys, but is is very vague.
I liked that design, so I tried to make my own model.
See www.pdp-11.nl/homebrew/fullsize-pdp8/fullsize-pdp8-startpage.html
greetz,
Henk
I did construct a "pedestal PDP8/i" years ago. Possible one existed for the marketing guys, but is is very vague.
I liked that design, so I tried to make my own model.
See www.pdp-11.nl/homebrew/fullsize-pdp8/fullsize-pdp8-startpage.html
greetz,
Henk
I don't know if there was a pedestal PDP-8/I but there was definitely a pedestal PDP-8/L.
On Friday, September 30, 2016 at 11:47:56 AM UTC-4, AB wrote:
The Mark T. Sheehan high school in Wallingford Connecticut had one in 1974.
On Friday, September 30, 2016 at 11:47:56 AM UTC-4, AB wrote:
Hi Oscar- any good news regarding the PiDP-11? I need to do some more soldering!!!
cheers
Andy B
PS sign me up for your "early adopters" programme :-)
Pedestal PDP-8/I: http://www.pdp-11.nl/homebrew/fullsize-pdp8/pdp8is-1-47.jpg
Except, of course, lacking a Tardis-capability it’s geometrically impossible to fit the electronics of a PDP-8/I into that marketing mock-up …
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I know that the 8i backplane is *big*
But maybe the backplane is lying on the bottom of the box with all FlipChips upright plugged in.
Not sure whether the bottom surface would be large enough to accommodate the 8i backplane.
Probably indeed a mockup?
Greetz,
Henk
From: pid...@googlegroups.com [mailto:pid...@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Paul Birkel
Sent: vrijdag 15 september 2017 10:41
To: 'Michael Thompson' <michael....@gmail.com>; 'PiDP-8' <pid...@googlegroups.com>
Subject: [pidp8] Re: PIDP-11
Except, of course, lacking a Tardis-capability it’s geometrically impossible to fit the electronics of a PDP-8/I into that marketing mock-up …
From: pid...@googlegroups.com [mailto...@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Michael Thompson
Sent: Thursday, September 14, 2017 5:47 PM
To: PiDP-8
Subject: [pidp8] Re: PIDP-11
Pedestal PDP-8/I: http://www.pdp-11.nl/homebrew/fullsize-pdp8/pdp8is-1-47.jpg
On Thursday, September 14, 2017 at 1:02:11 AM UTC-4, William Cattey wrote:I don't know if there was a pedestal PDP-8/I but there was definitely a pedestal PDP-8/L.
The Mark T. Sheehan high school in Wallingford Connecticut had one in 1974.
On Friday, September 30, 2016 at 11:47:56 AM UTC-4, AB wrote:Hi Oscar- any good news regarding the PiDP-11? I need to do some more soldering!!!
cheers
Andy B
PS sign me up for your "early adopters" programme :-)--
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Don’t forget the beefy power supplies and cooling …
From: pid...@googlegroups.com [mailto:pid...@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Gooijen Henk (DC-AE/EHP1)
Sent: Friday, September 15, 2017 4:46 AM
To: 'PiDP-8'
Subject: RE: [pidp8] Re: PIDP-11
I know that the 8i backplane is *big*
But maybe the backplane is lying on the bottom of the box with all FlipChips upright plugged in.
Not sure whether the bottom surface would be large enough to accommodate the 8i backplane.
Probably indeed a mockup?
Greetz,
Henk
To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/pidp-8/ccf34132df9b4185a21b783a5367bfab%40SI-MBX1030.de.bosch.com.
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Ahhh, (hypothetical) the fans are at the rear end, blowing fresh air along the vertically installed FlipChips.
The air flow “bends” downward to openings in the bottom of the box. Extra feature is moving heat generated by the bulbs is also blown out of the box.
The picture does not show the “beefy” power cables, . . . because the power supply is in an external box J
That power supply box might be disguised as a footrest underneath the pedestal … would keep the feet nicely warm.
Greetz,
Henk
From: pid...@googlegroups.com [mailto:pid...@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Paul Birkel
Sent: vrijdag 15 september 2017 11:14
To: Gooijen Henk (DC-AE/EHP1) <henk....@boschrexroth.nl>; 'PiDP-8' <pid...@googlegroups.com>
Subject: RE: [pidp8] Re: PIDP-11
Don’t forget the beefy power supplies and cooling …
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Can’t wait to enter-load FOCAL-69 through the front panel :->. I don’t think that anyone ever contemplated using less than a high-speed PTR to load it.
On the other hand, perhaps all that’s needed is a nice silvered-disk on the top for the programmer-operator to place their coffee cup to keep it warm ...
From: pid...@googlegroups.com [mailto:pid...@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Gooijen Henk (DC-AE/EHP1)
Sent: Friday, September 15, 2017 5:32 AM
To: 'PiDP-8'
Subject: RE: [pidp8] Re: PIDP-11
Ahhh, (hypothetical) the fans are at the rear end, blowing fresh air along the vertically installed FlipChips.
The air flow “bends” downward to openings in the bottom of the box. Extra feature is moving heat generated by the bulbs is also blown out of the box.
The picture does not show the “beefy” power cables, . . . because the power supply is in an external box J
That power supply box might be disguised as a footrest underneath the pedestal … would keep the feet nicely warm.
Greetz,
Henk
From: pid...@googlegroups.com [mailto...@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Paul Birkel
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Hi Paul,
The maintenance manual
(http://www.pdp8online.com/pdp8cgi/query_docs/tifftopdf.pl/pdp8docs/dec-8i-hr1a-d.pdf)
would disagree. In particular, if you look at pages 2-2 and 2-3 you
will see that the space behind the switches in the pedestal is the
same size as indicated for the 8/L processor in the rack.
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The maintenance manual
(http://www.pdp8online.com/pdp8cgi/query_docs/tifftopdf.pl/pdp8docs/dec-8i-hr1a-d.pdf)
would disagree. In particular, if you look at pages 2-2 and 2-3 you
will see that the space behind the switches in the pedestal is the
same size as indicated for the 8/L processor in the rack.
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Hmm, someone pointed out that the compact size of the 8/L would fit fine and they recollected seeing such a pedestal-configuration in school way-back-when. Maybe they were thinking of this 8/I? I don't recall ever seeing any marketing literature for the 8/L in such a configuration.
Those listed dimensions (30" x 31 3/8") certainly offer more space than I was thinking, and 8 1/2" is the standard rack-height of an 8/L. I clearly misjudged the depth of that marketing photo; that's a lot more rear overhang than I guestimated. I wonder if the stock 704A fit alongside or if they had to adopt a different power supply. One imagines that they made the stock power supply fit ...
Thanks for pointing out those pages :->.
Where did folks put the "mass storage" peripherals, and what's the point to a pedestal mount when you're still going to get anchored to a rack for other reasons? The pedestal-mount is cute, but I have difficulty seeing it as practical. I wonder how well those pedestal-mounted units sold? And to whom ...
Those listed dimensions (30" x 31 3/8") certainly offer more space than I was thinking, and 8 1/2" is the standard rack-height of an 8/L. I clearly misjudged the depth of that marketing photo; that's a lot more rear overhang than I guestimated. I wonder if the stock 704A fit alongside or if they had to adopt a different power supply. One imagines that they made the stock power supply fit ...
Thanks for pointing out those pages :->.
Where did folks put the "mass storage" peripherals, and what's the point to a pedestal mount when you're still going to get anchored to a rack for other reasons? The pedestal-mount is cute, but I have difficulty seeing it as practical. I wonder how well those pedestal-mounted units sold? And to whom ...
Hi Friends! Oscar I was curious if you had a general timeline for the PDP11, I have a brother interested in electronics and I was thinking of either getting him a PDP8 or 11 kit, and was curious if the 11 would be ready for the holidays. :)
Daniel,
On 12 October 2017 at 16:33, Daniel Berkowitz <dansbe...@gmail.com> wrote:Hi Friends! Oscar I was curious if you had a general timeline for the PDP11, I have a brother interested in electronics and I was thinking of either getting him a PDP8 or 11 kit, and was curious if the 11 would be ready for the holidays. :)
Two months. One month for respinning the PCB to its final version, one month for parts to arrive and to pack things. But the software will not yet be in its final state - as in, the simh emulator will be good (as it exists and is always good...), the front panel will work, but the 'software museum' that should be preinstalled will not be finished and there will be some rough edges in the software still. So it's for early adopters who'd also like to contribute.
Best reply by email, so as not to spam the group with too much non-PDP-8 stuff :)
Kind regards,
Oscar.
Obsolescence wrote:
If anyone knows of a source of PDP-6 software, he sure would like to know!
Yes, I found him some stuff in ITS. Spacewar and the Greenblatt chess program, among others.
Why not just create a new PiDP-11 group?
Tom L
On Thursday, October 12, 2017 at 6:33:13 PM UTC-4, Obsolescence wrote:
Daniel,
Seasons greetings everyone! Just wondering if there's any news on the PiDP-11 front?
Andy, all
On Saturday, December 30, 2017 at 2:09:07 AM UTC+1, AndyB wrote:Seasons greetings everyone! Just wondering if there's any news on the PiDP-11 front?
Yes, well, err, no.
Due to family circumstances I haven't been able to do much of anything in the last months. So all parts are still clogging up the guest bedroom, all I need to do is still to respin the PCB to have the right mount holes - but I'll only be able to go home and pick up the thread again at the end of February.
Apologies to you all for the endless delays and the poor communication recently. I will get back on track, as things are looking up healthwise in the family...
Kind regards,
Oscar.
Oscar - no worries... family stuff comes first! Hope everyone is well.
Andy
Andy
I'm glad things are looking better at home. Take care of your family first.
I have held off commitment, until things are sorted out.
Family first ... challenging, but fun.
Family first ... challenging, but fun.
gb
A Tiny Fan.
For real authenticity you need at least 3 big server fans whining up like a manic jet fighter :)
That what our old PDP at school did :) :)
On Friday, September 8, 2017 at 5:28:37 AM UTC+10, slob wrote:
For real authenticity you need at least 3 big server fans whining up like a manic jet fighter :)
That what our old PDP at school did :) :)
On Friday, September 8, 2017 at 5:28:37 AM UTC+10, slob wrote:
On Wednesday, September 6, 2017 at 10:00:52 PM UTC-4, Neil Higgins wrote:Gory details like this should be left to the builder, to keep the kit as inexpensive as possible.Well, I personally agree with you, but there are (at least) two kinds of people here: one kind like (you?) and me, are viewing the front panel, switches, and bezel (and possibly the PCB) as "the parts that I can't "make", and want to make something unique to us. I still have the wooden case unused from the PiDP8 kit, and I actually can get the front panel reproduced at least as well as the original; I've wire-wrapped and/or fabricated boards much larger than the PCB front panel.OTOH, there are other people here who just want to assemble a complete kit, finish it, and use it and won't or can't get/make the parts to "finish" it if it isn't a complete kit resulting in something turnkey or nearly so. I would prefer that the PiDP-11 kit be sold in two forms, but if that is impractical, I'm willing to eat the parts that I don't need. I just want one.I'm debating whether or not my "oak box" approach will work aesthetically on the -11. I have a small sheet metal brake and I might try my luck at bending at least a sheet metal cover for the unit. I need "length" because I want wireless, a hub, four+ serial ports, video ports ,and the power supply built into the unit. I also liked the tiny fan I put in my Pidp8. Completely unnecessary, but...it adds something IMO.
And a bajillion ribbon cables coming out the back.
On Saturday, 17 March 2018 11:52:22 UTC-4, marcwolf60 wrote:A Tiny Fan.
For real authenticity you need at least 3 big server fans whining up like a manic jet fighter :)
That what our old PDP at school did :) :)
So is the PiDP-11 ready yet?
Link > It's done!
On Thursday, May 10, 2018 at 9:56:05 AM UTC-5, Minstrel Krampf wrote:So is the PiDP-11 ready yet?