Ben Heck has completed his latest project, and I think this one is one of the coolest ones we have seen from Ben to date, the Atari 800 Laptop.
Earlier this year I finished the long-gestating Commodore 64 laptop. It turned out great, and looked properly old. This left me conflicted however – I wasn’t a Commodore guy, but I had done a much better job on it than my beloved 800’s.
This year that all changed! Someone requested I build them an Atari 800 laptop, and I decided to go full out and not only beat my own C64, but make it perhaps my coolest project ever.
The Inspiration Behind the Atari 800 Laptop
Ben Heck, a renowned modder and electronics enthusiast, has always had a deep-seated passion for retro computing. His love for the Atari 800, a classic 8-bit home computer released in 1979, is evident in this project. The Atari 800 was known for its robust design and advanced graphics capabilities for its time. Ben’s goal was to pay homage to this iconic machine by transforming it into a portable laptop, blending nostalgia with modern convenience.
The project began with a request from a fellow retro computing enthusiast, which reignited Ben’s desire to create something extraordinary. He aimed to surpass his previous work on the Commodore 64 laptop, which had already set a high standard. The challenge was to not only replicate the functionality of the Atari 800 but also to enhance its portability and usability.
Design and Features of the Atari 800 Laptop
The design of the Atari 800 Laptop is a testament to Ben Heck’s meticulous attention to detail. The laptop retains the classic aesthetic of the original Atari 800, with its distinctive keyboard and color scheme. However, Ben incorporated modern components to ensure the laptop’s functionality and performance.
One of the standout features of the Atari 800 Laptop is its custom-built case. Ben crafted the case to house the original Atari 800 motherboard, along with additional components such as a modern LCD screen, a rechargeable battery, and USB ports. The result is a sleek, portable device that retains the charm of the original Atari 800 while offering modern conveniences.
The keyboard is another highlight of the project. Ben managed to integrate the original Atari 800 keyboard into the laptop, preserving the tactile feel and layout that fans of the classic computer will appreciate. This attention to detail extends to the software as well, with the laptop running an emulator that faithfully replicates the Atari 800’s operating system and software library.
The Atari 800 Laptop also features a variety of connectivity options. In addition to USB ports, Ben included an HDMI output, allowing users to connect the laptop to modern displays. This makes it possible to enjoy classic Atari games and software on a larger screen, enhancing the overall experience.
Ben’s dedication to this project is evident in the numerous hours he spent troubleshooting and refining the design. The result is a fully functional, portable Atari 800 that not only pays tribute to the original machine but also offers a unique and enjoyable computing experience.
Head on over to Ben Heck’s website for full details on this cool Atari 800 Laptop plus lots more photos.
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