Raspberry Pi enthusiasts might be interested in a new project which has given life to an old 1990’s NEC PC9801nv laptop, thanks to the help of the awesome Raspberry Pi mini PC. The NEC PC9801nv laptop is part of the NEC PC-9800 series of computers first launched back in 1982 and discontinued in 2003.
History of the NEC PC-9800 Series
The first model, the PC-9801, was launched in October 1982, and employed an 8086 CPU. It ran at a clock speed of 5 MHz, with two µPD7220 display controllers (one for text, the other for video graphics), and shipped with 128 KB of RAM, expandable to 640 KB. Its 8-color display had a maximum resolution of 640×400 pixels. Its successor, the PC-9801E, which appeared in 1983, employed an 8086-2 CPU, which could selectively run at a speed of either 5 or 8 MHz. The NEC PC-9801VM used NEC V30 CPU.
The NEC PC-9800 series was highly popular in Japan and became a standard for Japanese PCs during the 1980s and early 1990s. The series was known for its robust build quality and versatility, making it a favorite among both business users and gaming enthusiasts. The PC-9800 series also supported a wide range of software, including business applications, educational programs, and games, which contributed to its widespread adoption.
Reviving the NEC PC9801nv with Raspberry Pi
In this modern project, a Raspberry Pi 1 Model B+ has been used as the motherboard to breathe new life into the vintage NEC PC9801nv laptop. The Raspberry Pi is a versatile and powerful mini PC that has become a favorite among hobbyists and tech enthusiasts for its ability to power a wide range of DIY projects.
The keyboard controller used in this project is the RobotDyn Micro ATmega32U4-MU, which allows the original keyboard of the NEC PC9801nv to interface seamlessly with the Raspberry Pi. This ensures that the vintage feel of the laptop is preserved while providing modern functionality.
The display has been upgraded to a Waveshare HDMI LCD 10.1″ screen with a resolution of 1280×800 and IPS technology. This modern display offers vibrant colors and wide viewing angles, making it a significant improvement over the original screen while maintaining the laptop’s classic aesthetic.
Projects like this highlight the versatility and power of the Raspberry Pi, which can be used to revive old hardware, create new devices, and explore innovative ideas. The Raspberry Pi community is known for its creativity and resourcefulness, and this project is a perfect example of how old technology can be given a new lease on life with modern components.
If you enjoy building Pi projects, you might be interested in our comprehensive list of Raspberry Pi displays, HATS, and small screens. These accessories can expand the functionality of your Raspberry Pi projects, allowing you to create custom interfaces, add new features, and enhance the overall user experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned Raspberry Pi enthusiast or just getting started, there are endless possibilities for what you can create. From retro gaming consoles and home automation systems to custom laptops and educational tools, the Raspberry Pi continues to inspire innovation and creativity in the tech community.
Source: Adafruit
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