Retired UK hobbyist builds 8-bit computer from 460 recycled vacuum tubes
A retired hobbyist in the United Kingdom has built an 8-bit computer using 460 recycled Soviet-era vacuum tubes that is currently being assembled on a wall panel in his home.
Construction and power specifications
The machine consists of 920 triodes wired as identical NOR gates on a brick wall measuring 190 by 130 centimeters. The device generates roughly one kilowatt of heating power while burning off dust from the tubes.
Safety measures and past incidents
Previous versions of the machine have exploded twice, which prompted the builder to keep a fire extinguisher on standby. The current unit produces a smell described as a pleasant homely aroma during operation.
Planned flight simulator software
The builder has already coded a flight simulator program but has not yet finished the hardware status system required to run it. The project has received widespread press coverage over the past ten days after being completed enough for public viewing.
Reported by one outlet
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