IMSAI 8080

From: Jack Peacock <peacock_at_simconv.com>
Date: Mon Jun 22 18:58:00 1998

> Yes, I wonder how many of these 'collectable' computers
> are in any sense being preserved properly. I would doubt
> if ROMs were ever backed up or PSUs tested.

Hmm, IMSAI's didn't have ROMs (or PALs and FPGAs, programmable logic had
yet to be invented), unless you added them in yourself. As for checking
the power supply, an IMSAI was extremely easy to eyeball...huge
transformer, diodes, and beer can size capacitors. One problem I never
had with IMSAIs was in the power supply, the design was right out of
Electronics 101, nothing beats a big lump of iron for simplicity. Now
rust might be a problem...

Actually, the only real problem I've ever found with S-100s is the bus
connectors wearing out. I have an old Ithaca Intersystems DPS-1 in need
of a replacement Morrow motherboard. Well, not really in a hurry to fix
it, all the Ithaca boards have been in the IMSAI for the last 10 years,
but I hate to throw out the DPS-1 since it had the neat front panel with
the PDP style toggle switches.
        Jack Peacock
Received on Mon Jun 22 1998 - 18:58:00 BST