Remember the Casio FX-730P, the iconic pocket computer that was all the rage in the 1980s? Well, Matthew Begg, a passionate retro computing enthusiast, decided to take a trip down memory lane and build his own pocket computer, the eMBee ONE, inspired by his beloved FX-730P. Get ready for a nostalgic ride as we delve into the fascinating world of the eMBee ONE.
eMBee ONE: A Pocket-Sized Powerhouse
The eMBee ONE is a remarkable feat of engineering, packing a punch in a compact Altoids tin. It boasts an iRobota Nano microcontroller, a vibrant 1.54-inch OLED display, and a PCB-based QWERTY keyboard. This tiny powerhouse runs on a pair of AAA batteries, boosted by a converter, providing ample power for your coding adventures.
Blazing Fast Performance
Don’t let its diminutive size fool you; the eMBee ONE is no slouch in the performance department. It can run an N-queen calculator benchmarking program in a mere seven seconds, leaving the FX-730P in the dust. The FX-730P, with its seven-minute runtime for the same program, would be left gasping for air.
Versatile Software and Programming
The eMBee ONE runs on Robin Edwards’ iRobota BASIC, a robust and versatile programming language. It supports float and string variables, multi-dimensional arrays, FOR-NEXT loops, GOSUB-RETURN statements, and more, opening up a world of programming possibilities.
Storage and Connectivity
The eMBee ONE features internal and external EEPROM storage, allowing you to save and load your precious programs with ease. It also has an auto-run function that automatically executes a program upon power-up, making it incredibly user-friendly.
Memory and Capacity
With approximately 1k of RAM available for BASIC programs and variables, the eMBee ONE offers a similar capacity to the legendary Sinclair ZX81. This may seem limited by today’s standards, but it’s more than enough to unleash your creativity and programming prowess.
Community and Support
Matthew Begg, the mastermind behind the eMBee ONE, actively engages with the retro computing community on his Hackaday page and GitHub. You can follow his progress, share your experiences, and seek assistance from fellow enthusiasts.
Bonus: The eMBee ONE has an optional buzzer for sound output, adding an extra layer of retro charm. Imagine coding away on this pocket-sized marvel, the gentle beeps and boops of the buzzer providing feedback to your programming adventures.
The eMBee ONE is a testament to the enduring allure of retro computing, combining nostalgia with modern technology. It’s a delightful device that invites you to explore the world of programming, whether you’re a seasoned coder or a curious beginner. So, dive into the world of the eMBee ONE and let your creativity soar!
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