This very popular computer was the basis for all later Apple computers. It first started with the Apple 1 computer, which had a 16Kb memory and sold for $666.66 when released (a price Steve Jobs thought was too expensive). A cheaper version ($25) without a case or keyboard was available, but not many were made. Only 200 of these machines exist in the world today, making it one of the most valuable objects in computing history.
In this video, The 8-Bit Guy shows us how to make our own working replica of an Apple 1 using parts only available on eBay or at vintage computer fairs/swap meets. He bought some knockoff chips from China, followed by finding vintage manual and floppy disk drives on eBay. He then buys the keyboard from an old Mac, and finally he buys a replica case.
The 8-Bit Guy’s friend is standing in as Steve Wozniak and together they make the computer work using two different POKE commands to manipulate memory. A program on floppy disk is loaded into memory, and then a simple BASIC interpreter comes up that allows you to enter BASIC programs. The video ends with the computer playing music – which was possible because it included a sound module made by Apple cofounder Ronald Wayne for $75.
For more information watch The 8-Bit Guy ’s video about this project below:
