Today in Edworking News, we want to talk about a modern 8-bit design, built using 1950s thermionic valves that glow and heat the entire room. The prototype first ran on 28th May 2021 whilst perched on our dining room table, chairs, and surrounding floor space. The Valve.Computer is now firmly nailed to the study wall and is almost safe to touch. Almost! Thermionic valves, (aka vacuum tubes), can switch several hundred million times a second, and in the 1950s were the basis for all computer designs. To work efficiently they require high voltages and are not for the faint-hearted.
The Journey of Valve.Computer
The Valve.Computer is an 8-bit computer distinguished by its high power demand of over 200 Amps. Capable of handling tasks like running a 32-bit Fibonacci sequence using modern NVRAM or playing a game of PONG using its valve and relay RAM, this machine is a fusion of historical technology and modern innovation. After being turned on, the computer needs a brief period for its thermionic valves to warm up, eventually evoking a unique homely aroma as the dust burns off.
The device initially appeared inconceivable given the physical, power, and safety challenges presented by thermionic valve technology. Yet, after spending 18 months building both prototypes and the final product, the Valve.Computer materialized, largely combining elements from ena.computer and fred.computer.
Modifying the prototype PCBs required changing over 1,000 components. The final system console, featuring a graphical user interface (GUI) from a prototype, integrates new auxiliary valve boards, memory registers, and oscillators.
Maintaining its old-school charm, the Valve.Computer has valve memory, reed relay memory, and NVRAM. The building experience was unique, spreading the components all over the house before assembling them in the study, much to the delight of the builder’s wife, Judy. High voltages contributed to the inherent dangers, often leading to whimsical fun but underlined by significant risks.
Thermionic Valves: A Technological Relic with Modern Utility
Thermionic valves, also known as vacuum tubes, were produced en masse in the 1950s and 1960s, particularly in communist factories. The finest valves had military specifications, with a life expectancy of up to 5,000 hours, while the rest found their way into commercial applications like radios and televisions.
The Valve.Computer uses 1,120 thermionic triodes configured as NOR gates, which form various functional components including the 8-bit ALU, oscillators, and relay drivers. The integration of these components into large printed circuit boards combined to make a functional general-purpose computer, which now doubles as an art installation on the study wall.
Description: The intricate setup of thermionic valves in the Valve.Computer, illustrating an impressive blend of vintage technology and modern design.
Software and Performance
Programming the Valve.Computer is done using machine code, a language that provides direct control over data storage, memory, and hardware, far removed from high-level languages. This method of programming is incredibly fast and offers deep insights into computer operations, useful for tasks like fast decryption and modern graphics.
The machine’s performance was demonstrated publicly on multiple occasions. On August 15, 2021, a prototype showcased an 8-bit Fibonacci sequence, while on January 11, 2022, Judy starred in a video demonstrating a PONG game on the new Valve.Computer.
Lessons Learned and the Value of Project Management
Initially overlooking project management, the builder realized its importance after an incomplete yet enlightening first attempt. Utilizing 3 colored pens, A4 paper, and self-adhesive address labels for errors, the project management process evolved to prevent iteration failures. Guidance from his stepchildren, who are experienced in project management, highlighted the significance of planning and quality control.
Ensuring minimal unique subsystems, employing double triode valves, and designing multi-layer PCBs contributed to reducing errors and producing a robust construction. Despite a few incidents, the end result captured the builder's vision, with valuable lessons learned about innovation, persistence, and systematic project management.
Conclusion
This venture demonstrates the seamless blending of nostalgic technology with sophisticated engineering to create something remarkable. Beyond technical challenges, the project underscores the importance of having supportive partners and the joy that comes from merging passion with perseverance.
Remember these 3 key ideas for your startup:
Innovation through blending old and new: Combining historical technology with modern techniques can lead to unique creations that stand out in the market. The Valve.Computer exemplifies how merging different eras of technology can result in both functional and artistic outputs.
Importance of thorough project management: Efficient project management practices, however rudimentary, can significantly impact the success of a complex project. Using simple tools like colored pens and adhesive labels demonstrated how basic planning can mitigate errors and streamline construction.
Support and collaboration enhance productivity: Surrounding yourself with supportive individuals and being open to advice can fuel progress. The backing and inspiration from Judy and his stepchildren were pivotal in the project's journey from a scattered assembly to a cohesive, functional masterpiece.
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