Key Takeaways
- Expanded Display: The latest edition of “Cheap Fat and Open” features a larger screen, offering a more immersive and engaging experience for users exploring programming, graphics, and text editing.
- Enhanced Audio Capabilities: The integration of an op amp with bass boost and distortion adds a new dimension to the audio capabilities of the device, allowing users to experiment with sound effects and create unique compositions.
- Intuitive User Interface: The Walkman-like volume control and the inclusion of a pixel ghost for prototyping purposes provide a user-friendly and tactile experience, making the project more accessible to users of all skill levels.
Imagine a time when computers were not sleek, shiny gadgets, but rather intriguing contraptions with limited capabilities and a captivating charm. Jacob Sikker’s “Cheap Fat and Open” project takes us back to this era, offering a nostalgic journey into the world of retro computing. With the latest revisions and updates, this project promises an even more immersive and engaging experience.
A Larger Canvas for Creativity
The new edition of “Cheap Fat and Open” boasts a larger screen, expanding from 12×2 characters to 16×2 characters. This increased display area provides ample space for creativity, allowing users to explore programming, graphics, and text editing with greater freedom and clarity.
Enhanced Audio Capabilities
To further enhance the retro computing experience, an op amp with bass boost and distortion has been incorporated into the design, drawing inspiration from David Cuartielles’ sampler board. This addition adds a new dimension to the audio capabilities of the device, enabling users to experiment with sound effects and create their own unique compositions.
Intuitive User Interface
Recognizing the importance of user-friendliness, the latest version of “Cheap Fat and Open” features a Walkman-like volume control. This intuitive design element harkens back to the classic cassette players of the past, providing a familiar and tactile way to adjust the volume. Additionally, a pixel ghost has been included for prototyping purposes, allowing users to visualize their creations before committing them to the hardware.
Limited Edition Availability
To maintain the exclusivity and uniqueness of the project, only 25 pieces of the new edition will be produced. A select few will be available for purchase at Piksel, a renowned electronic arts festival in Norway, while the remaining units will be sold at MFRU, a prominent retailer of electronic components. Pre-orders are now open for those eager to secure their own piece of retro computing history.
A Collaborative Effort
The successful realization of this project would not have been possible without the invaluable assistance of David Gauthier, who provided expert guidance in navigating the intricacies of Eagle CAD. His contributions were instrumental in bringing the vision of “Cheap Fat and Open” to life.
Bonus: Retro computing is not merely a nostalgic pursuit; it’s a testament to the ingenuity and creativity that fueled the early days of computing. These devices, with their limited resources and unique design challenges, inspired a generation of programmers and engineers to push the boundaries of what was possible. The “Cheap Fat and Open” project is a celebration of this spirit of innovation, offering a hands-on experience that encourages experimentation and exploration.
As we embrace the latest advancements in technology, it’s essential to remember the roots of computing. Projects like “Cheap Fat and Open” serve as a reminder of the passion, creativity, and resourcefulness that shaped the digital world we live in today.
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