On this page:
anchor: applecompinfo
|
In a garage in Cupertino, California, in 1976, Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak started Apple Inc. Their breakthrough came with the Apple II, a revolutionary personal computer that captured the imagination of enthusiasts worldwide. Still manages to capture my imagination! Challenges loomed as competitors emerged and internal conflicts threatened to derail the company's trajectory. Yet, Apple persevered, driven by a commitment to innovation and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Today, Apple stands as a global tech giant.
|
|
|
Started in:
|
Still going strong |
anchor: classic
|
I recently stumbled upon a worn-out Macintosh Classic that has seen better days. Let's be honest, it's in pretty rough shape. In an upcoming episode of Computer TLC, we'll embark on a daring restoration journey, but I have to warn you, the odds are stacked against us. Reviving this old machine may be a challenging task.
Nonetheless, we won't let that discourage us. We'll give it our best shot, exploring various repair methods and techniques, hoping to bring the Macintosh Classic back to life. It might require some creative solutions and a sprinkle of luck along the way. However, let's also be realistic. Considering the extent of its condition, there's a good chance that we won't be able to fully revive the machine. But fear not, we won't give up on it. Instead, we'll find a way to honor its legacy and give it a special place among my collection as a nostalgic retro art piece, showcasing its vintage charm. |
Released in:
|
anchor: lcone
|
I acquired this LC from the Dutch version of eBay, which has proven to be a reliable source for my vintage computer collection. Fortunately, this LC is functioning well, and the hard drive appears to be in good condition. However, like many LC models, it has been affected by leaking capacitors. It seems that I will need to hone my skills in recapping these boards, as my collection of LCs continues to expand.
I'm excited to showcase this LC on my channel in the near future. Stay tuned for updates! |
Released in:
|
Soon to appear on the Channel!
anchor: twoe
|
After an arduous five-year search, I finally came across an Apple II, just a couple of blocks away from my home. Luckily, I managed to acquire it at a reasonable price, although it wasn't exactly cheap. Apple II computers, much like the Commodore PET and other machines, have become increasingly valuable and sought after over the years.
I'm absolutely delighted to finally own a legitimate Apple computer running Basic. For me, Basic is the operating system I hold in the highest regard. While I can seamlessly use my FloppyEMU with this machine, I'm always on the lookout for more physical disks to add to my archive. However, these disks are among the rarest and tend to fetch top dollar when they do become available. I'm pleased to report that the computer is in perfect shape and doesn't require any major TLC. Nevertheless, to ensure my room remains free of any unpleasant smoke incidents, I've taken the precaution of replacing the RiFa Caps. |
Released in:
|
anchor: bluescsi
|
While browsing through my usual pages on the Dutch version of eBay, I came across an ad selling a Macintosh LC with Blue SCSI. To be honest, I wasn't too impressed to see an LC on the Dutch eBay, considering the number of ads featuring them in the past. It seems they must have sold well here in the Netherlands. However, the fact that it came with a Blue SCSI intrigued me, so I decided to contact the seller and try my hand at haggling, which turned out successful.
A few days later, the LC arrived. The seller had claimed it was in working order, and there was even an image of it in the ad. However, I was surprised to find the computer in poor condition upon its arrival. If you take a closer look at the pictures under the "more pictures" tab, you'll see the extent of its deterioration. Rest assured, this LC will definitely be featured in a Computer TLC episode. Since they're not too large, it should make for an interesting restoration project. Although recapping the motherboard might prove to be a bit challenging... |
Released in:
|
Soon to appear on the channel!
anchor: fourhundered
|
One of the things I always hope for when I'm out thrifting, especially when I'm wearing my circle walking camera, is stumbling upon old computers. And lo and behold, while gazing at the glass cases of my local thrift store, I spotted a Macintosh Performa 400 on the middle shelf. It was priced at €75, which seemed a bit steep for a machine I wasn't familiar with. Reluctantly, I left the store without making the purchase. However, throughout the day, my thoughts kept gravitating towards it. Unable to resist its allure, I eventually decided to call the store and inquire if I could buy it for €50. Fortunately, they agreed, perhaps recognizing me as a loyal customer of their treasure trove of vintage items. The computer came complete with a keyboard and a mouse.
Eager to begin the restoration process, I disassembled the Macintosh Performa 400, only to realize that I had forgotten to perform a smoke test. It seems I'm not just a retro amateur but also a bit of a YouTube amateur. Anticipating the time it takes for me to produce a video, I estimate that the Computer TLC episode showcasing the restoration of this Macintosh Performa 400 will likely be online in about a year or two. Rest assured, though, that despite the delay, I will diligently document the restoration journey and share it with fellow enthusiasts. |
Released in:
|
More pictures to appear around 2050
Soon to appear on the channel!
anchor: fdhdone
|
This is the computer that I temporarily fixed in the first episode of Computer TLC. However, it has regrettably returned to its garbled state as of 2022. I titled the episode "The Invisible Fix" because I wasn't sure which specific action actually resolved the issue. In my attempt to restore functionality, I meticulously reseated the chips and meticulously sprayed the board with a combination of alcohol and contact spray. The result was a temporary improvement, but now the garbled display has resurfaced.
Reflecting on the potential causes of the fix, I considered two possibilities. Firstly, it is possible that the cleaning process eliminated some leaked capacitor juice that was interfering with the video output. Over time, capacitors can deteriorate, leaking electrolyte onto the board and causing various issues. By carefully cleaning the affected areas, I may have temporarily resolved the problem. |
Released in:
|
Alternatively, another factor could be related to oxidation on a chip and poor contact between the chip and its socket. Through the process of reseating the chips, I might have removed the oxidation and established better electrical connections, resulting in a temporary restoration of proper functioning.
Considering the recurrent issue, it is clear that a more comprehensive repair is needed. Both this Macintosh and the one below it require a thorough recap. Capacitors, particularly electrolytic ones, have a finite lifespan and tend to degrade over time. The process of recap involves replacing the aging capacitors with new ones, ensuring the smooth operation of the machines for years to come.
I look forward to diving into the recap process for these computers, documenting the procedure, and sharing it with viewers in a future episode of Computer TLC.
Considering the recurrent issue, it is clear that a more comprehensive repair is needed. Both this Macintosh and the one below it require a thorough recap. Capacitors, particularly electrolytic ones, have a finite lifespan and tend to degrade over time. The process of recap involves replacing the aging capacitors with new ones, ensuring the smooth operation of the machines for years to come.
I look forward to diving into the recap process for these computers, documenting the procedure, and sharing it with viewers in a future episode of Computer TLC.
anchor: fdhdtwo
|
When I acquired my second Macintosh SE FDHD, it was sold to me with uncertainty about its working condition. It has been quite some time since I obtained this second SE FDHD, and I'm not entirely certain if it was sold to me as non-working. While I appreciate the design of the SE, I must admit that I'm not too fond of the FDHD name. The all-in-one nature of the SE makes it convenient to use since you only need to move it with the carrying handle to the desired setup spot, connect power, a keyboard, and an Apple mouse, and you're ready to go.
However, at the moment, this machine is not ready to go. I believe it needs a recap. Interestingly, the board appears to have already been recapped, so perhaps I need to fix some solder joints. I have replacement capacitors in storage, so I'm prepared to tackle the task. I just need to find the time, haha. Oh, and of course, for that, I will set up my camera and take you along on this fixing journey in a Computer TLC episode. |
Released in:
|
More pictures will be added later
anchor: IICI
|
We all make lowball offers occasionally on our favorite online junk trading platforms. And that's exactly what I did when I placed a bid on the Dutch version of eBay for this Macintosh IICI. I had seen this computer before in some YouTube videos, and those videos informed me that the Macintosh IICI was popular in desktop publishing and came with a dedicated video card, as the onboard RAM was also used for video generation. Interestingly, after conducting some modern-day FBI work and looking up the seller, I discovered that they were also involved in publishing.
I know I'm a bit peculiar, but this discovery has made me even more interested in the contents of the hard drive. However, since it's one of those SCSI drives notorious for their tendency to fail after thirty years, the odds of finding out what's on it are slim. But I'm definitely going to test those odds in an upcoming Computer TLC (Tender Loving Care) session. |
Released in:
|
anchor: oneeighty
|
Somehow, I ended up buying a Macintosh PowerBook 180. I think I need to have my vintage computer splurging investigated by a medical professional. Unfortunately, it doesn't power up, and the plastic casing appears to be very brittle. For instance, the port of the floppy drive is quite damaged. Thankfully, I received some helpful tips on Reddit on how to troubleshoot it and possibly even get it to turn on. So, when I have a free afternoon or a couple of spare days, I will certainly be trying those out.
But in the meantime, even in its non-working state, I will see it as a nice retro art piece. There's something fascinating about the aesthetic of vintage computers, even when they're not fully functional. |
Released in:
|
More pictures to come!
Soon to appear on the channel!
anchor: gthreezip
|
It always happens at a time when I think, "Let's not add any more systems to my collection for a while," since I already have piles of them everywhere. But then, a vintage computer pops up in my local thrift store. Believe it or not, this is not the first vintage Apple computer I've bought from them. I also acquired my Macintosh Performa 400 from the same thrift store.
Okay, let's talk about the G3. It was displayed prominently on a high shelf, almost beckoning me to pick it up. Fortunately, the store owner kindly gave me a discount and assured me that if it didn't work, I could return it. However, even if it doesn't work, the price was still good considering all the spare parts it will offer. I still need to perform a smoke test, and of course, I will film it. I hope to create a dedicated video about this computer soon. It also came with an Apple Design Keyboard that I would like to restore and find a replacement key for. |
Released in:
|
anchor: gthree
|
The Power Macintosh G3 I got from a seller that also sold me some other apple equipment. (That you will find above) This computer already had its first Computer TLC episode in which I restored the monitor it came too. Restored the monitors looks, it doesn't want to turn on yet. in an second part I will see If I can retrobright the case and see if the computer still works.
|
Released in:
|
anchor: gfour
|
When it comes to style I really appreciate the looks of this apple computer. More on this G4 in a future video!
|
Released in:
|