PiDP-11 Retro Computer Build - Computerphile

TL;DR

Learn about the process of building a modern replica of a PDP-11 computer using a Raspberry Pi.

Transcript

In the previous video I showed my PDP 1173 that came quite late in the history of PDP 11 Whereas what we brought in here is a replica a modern replica based on a Raspberry Pi Although much earlier PDP 11 the pdp-11 70 and these were much more visually interesting They had sort of flashing lights on the front and toggle switches that you can you kno... Read More

Key Insights

• 💁 The replica PDP-11 computer is based on a Raspberry Pi, providing modern technology in a vintage-inspired form.
• 🔦 The original PDP-11 computers had flashing lights and toggle switches on the front panel, allowing for manual programming.
• 🔪 The kit includes all necessary components for assembly, and the process can be completed in a few hours.
• 😫 The PDP-11 series of computers used octal representation and had word lengths in multiples of six to accommodate the full character set.
• 👻 The replica PDP-11 allows for entering programs using the switches and provides the experience of programming on vintage hardware.
• 🙂 The speed of the replica PDP-11 is significantly faster than an actual PDP-11, impacting the rate at which LEDs light up.
• 👻 The replica PDP-11 consumes low power and allows for easy backup and restoration of the system.

Questions & Answers

Q: What components are included in the kit for building the PDP-11 replica?

The kit includes switches, LEDs, chips, diodes, and resistors.

Q: How long does it take to assemble the replica?

It took approximately three hours to assemble, excluding breaks, which is much smaller than an actual PDP-11.

Q: What is the significance of the octal representation in PDP-11 computers?

The PDP-11 computers used octal representation due to their word sizes being in multiples of six, allowing for representation of the full character set.

Q: Can programs be entered into the replica PDP-11?

Yes, programs can be entered into the replica using the switches, and a simple "chasing light" program can be a good starting point.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The video showcases the process of assembling a modern replica of a PDP-11 computer based on a Raspberry Pi, featuring flashing lights and toggle switches.

• The kit includes switches, LEDs, chips, diodes, and resistors, with a front panel displaying data and current addresses.

• The PDP-11 series of computers were based around octal and had word lengths of multiples of six, and this replica preserves that tradition.