First post, by 0kool
Have you ever expanded your collection of computers into the 80s, worked with some or never let it go from the day you bought it?
I would sure like to hear about your experience and problems, doubts and excitements while using it or considering a build. Cheers!
As any sane (word!) and forward (though backwards seems somewhat more appropriate in this instance) looking person, while still waiting to receive my VLB DX2 build parts my mind already began to wonder - what's next? Sure, I tend to keep my machines highly upgradeable, not only due to price and rarity of certain components, but probably even more so because of one universal truth I was lucky enough to learn - you won't value much the things you can get without effort. So it's not about the diminishing fun factor, but scalability.
Practicality:
Though I'd really like to own an IBM 5150 at some point, or even C64/Atari and whatnot, for now it's out of the question. For one, I'm not sure I can get engaged enough with the software/games of the time, so I mostly considering these to be collector items. Price is a consideration as well, but the main reason is that I'm moving around often and have somewhat limited space.
Quality and authenticity:
Most of the 286-386 motherboards I've seen (a fair number) were some generic looking clones with soldered processor. I'd imagine it was mass produced for the developing markets during the end of its life cycle (e.g. AMD DX40 386 boards well into mid90s). So I wouldn't consider a 286 board dated 1991 authentic enough.
Obvious options:
- 486 (non-VLB): Not quite 80s. Might be interesting, but too much overlap with DX2 build. Certainly doable.
- 386: Somehow I don't feel for 386. It's not that easy to find a good and appropriate case for this and anything older. Same goes for the "true" mobo (most of what's available are the aforementioned AMD40s or corroded), extension cards (=<'90)
- 286: I think this one is borderline practical for me (but the hardware itself is amusing). PC-Speaker only. No plans for VGA, so I'd have to get another monitor or a converter. While the mainboards seem to be pretty common, I expect anything worthy to cost.
I will consider getting some nice brand name machine instead of the DIY thing, if I could find something I like in mint condition.