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Unveiling the Mysteries of the NEC PC-8001: A Retro Computing Gem

Step into the world of vintage computing with a deep dive into the NEC PC-8001. Discover its unique features, components, and functionalities through this fascinating exploration.

Exploring the Vintage Minicomputer Collection

Room filled with vintage minicomputers like Centurion, Data 620, Bendex G15, PDP 1144, and Litton mini computer.

Fascination with microcomputers including TI 994, Deck Rainbow, and Eds PC, with a special interest in the NEC PC 8001.

Planning to delve deep into the history of the NEC PC 8001 once all components are gathered.

Unboxing and Examining the NEC PC-8001

The keyboard displays Japanese Katakana characters and can be switched with a latching switch.

The package includes a sticker and a pamphlet with the original warranty card.

Opening the top reveals the internal components of the NEC PC-8001.

Mysterious Modifications and Precautions

The motherboard has a strange modification board with wires connected to various ICs and unknown purpose.

The modification board includes a LED and a push button switch, leaving the owner puzzled about its function.

Precautions are needed before powering up the system, including examining the power supply for safety measures.

Powering On and Testing the NEC PC-8001

Successfully powered on the NEC PC-801 with Microsoft Basic version 1.1

Confirmed keyboard functionality and tested basic program execution

FAQ

What are the key features of the NEC PC-8001?

The NEC PC-8001 features various ports including AC, cassette, display, printer, and external bus.

How can I connect a monitor to the PC-8001?

A composite monitor is required to connect to the PC-8001 for display output.

What precautions should I take before powering up the NEC PC-8001?

Examine the power supply for safety measures.

What is the purpose of the mysterious modification board on the motherboard?

The purpose remains unknown and requires further investigation.

Can the NEC PC-8001 run computationally intensive programs efficiently?

Running a computationally intensive program showed no significant change in performance with or without the expansion board.

How can I understand the functionality of the expansion board?

Reverse engineering is needed to understand the wiring and functionality of the board, consisting of six ICs and a push button.

What version of Microsoft Basic does the NEC PC-8001 come with?

The NEC PC-8001 comes with Microsoft Basic version 1.1.

Are there any unique design elements in the NEC PC-8001?

The keyboard displays Japanese Katakana characters and can be switched with a latching switch.

What components are included in the package of the NEC PC-8001?

The package includes a sticker and a pamphlet with the original warranty card.

How can I test the functionality of the keyboard on the NEC PC-8001?

Confirmed keyboard functionality and tested basic program execution.

Summary with Timestamps

💻 0:15Exploring vintage minicomputers and microcomputers, focusing on the unique NEC PC-8001.
💻 3:44Exploring the unique features and contents of the NEC PC-8001.
💡 7:22Uncovering a mysterious modification board with unknown functionality on the NEC PC-8001.
💻 10:19Overview of ports and switches on the NEC PC-8001 with a focus on connecting to a monitor.
⚙️ 13:52Testing a vintage NEC PC-801 with a known good CRT display and basic version 1.1 software.

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