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anchor: applecompinfo
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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.
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Still going strong |
anchor: classic
Macintosh Classic
Is this one ready for a grave? I stumbled upon a worn-out Macintosh Classic that has clearly seen better days. Let’s be honest: it is in pretty rough shape. In an upcoming episode of Computer TLC, I will embark on a daring restoration journey with this compact Mac, but I have to warn you — the odds are stacked against us. Reviving this old machine may be a serious challenge.
Nonetheless, that will not discourage me. I will give it my best shot, exploring various repair methods and techniques in the hope of bringing the Macintosh Classic back to life. It might require creative solutions, careful troubleshooting, and a sprinkle of luck along the way. However, I also want to be realistic. Considering the extent of its condition, there is a good chance that I will not be able to fully revive the machine. But even if that happens, I will not give up on it completely. Instead, I will find a way to honour its legacy and give it a special place in my collection as a nostalgic retro art piece, showcasing its vintage charm. |
Released in
1900
System Overview
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Why the classic matters
The Macintosh Classic matters because it represents one of Apple’s most recognisable compact Macintosh designs in a more affordable early-1990s form. It followed the visual language of the original all-in-one Macintosh line: small CRT, integrated floppy drive, built-in display, and the friendly beige case that became strongly associated with the classic Mac era.
Technically, it was not a dramatic leap forward. It used a Motorola 68000 processor and a 9-inch monochrome display, making it conservative compared with more powerful Macintosh models of the period. But that is also part of its historical identity: the Macintosh Classic was a compact, accessible Mac designed around familiarity, compatibility, and price rather than raw power.
For my collection, this machine matters because it is not a pristine display piece. It is a restoration candidate with visible wear, uncertainty, and a real chance of failure. That makes it a perfect Computer TLC subject. Whether it becomes a working Macintosh again or ends up preserved as retro art, it still has a place in the collection.
Technically, it was not a dramatic leap forward. It used a Motorola 68000 processor and a 9-inch monochrome display, making it conservative compared with more powerful Macintosh models of the period. But that is also part of its historical identity: the Macintosh Classic was a compact, accessible Mac designed around familiarity, compatibility, and price rather than raw power.
For my collection, this machine matters because it is not a pristine display piece. It is a restoration candidate with visible wear, uncertainty, and a real chance of failure. That makes it a perfect Computer TLC subject. Whether it becomes a working Macintosh again or ends up preserved as retro art, it still has a place in the collection.
Technical specifications
| Specification | Details | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Apple Computer | [1] |
| Model | Macintosh Classic | [1] |
| Introduction date | 15 October 1990 | [1] |
| Discontinued | 14 September 1992 | [1] |
| Computer type | Compact all-in-one Macintosh | [2] |
| CPU | Motorola 68000 | [1] |
| Clock speed | 8 MHz | [1] |
| RAM | 1 MB standard; expandable up to 4 MB | [1] |
| RAM slots | 2 × 30-pin SIMM slots via Macintosh Classic memory expansion card | [1] |
| ROM | 512 KB Macintosh ROM | [1] |
| Original system software | System 6.0.7 | [1] |
| Supported system software | System 6.0.7 through Mac OS 7.5.5 | [1] |
| Display | Built-in 9-inch monochrome CRT | [2] |
| Resolution | 512 × 342 pixels | [1] |
| Floppy drive | Built-in 1.44 MB 3.5-inch SuperDrive | [1] |
| Hard drive | No internal hard drive or optional 40 MB internal SCSI hard drive, depending on configuration | [2] |
| Expansion slots | None | [1] |
| Ports | ADB, DB-19 external floppy, DB-25 SCSI, printer, modem, speaker / sound output | [1] |
| Battery | 3.6V lithium battery | [1] |
Collection status
| Collection status | Details |
|---|---|
| Condition | Very rough cosmetic condition; clearly worn and aged |
| Case | Visible yellowing, scuffs and age-related marks on the compact Macintosh case |
| Collection state | Awaiting restoration attempt |
RetroMelsArchive Resource
| Resource | Access |
|---|---|
| Software archive | No software in collection |
| Disk images | Not available |
| Manuals and documentation | No documentation in collection |
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Magic smoke report (PENDING TEST)Not powered on yet
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anchor: lcone
Macintosh LC
A good alternative to the All in ones! I acquired this Macintosh 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. The Macintosh LC is a compact and very recognisable early-1990s Apple machine. Its low-profile “pizza box” case makes it quite different from the earlier compact all-in-one Macs in my collection, and it feels like a useful bridge between the classic black-and-white Macintosh era and the more colourful desktop Macs that followed. |
Released in
1900
System Overview
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Why the LC matters
The Macintosh LC matters because it was Apple’s attempt to offer a more affordable colour-capable Macintosh. It was not the most powerful Mac of its time, but it made colour Macintosh computing more accessible and introduced a compact desktop design that became strongly associated with the LC family.
Technically, the LC is interesting because it uses a Motorola 68020 processor at 16 MHz, but in a cost-reduced system with limitations such as a 16-bit data path and no built-in FPU. That makes it a very typical “compromise machine”: capable, attractive, expandable, but clearly designed to hit a lower price point.
For my collection, this LC matters because it is already working, but still needs preventative maintenance. The leaking capacitors make it a good candidate for learning and improving my recapping skills before the damage gets worse.
Technically, the LC is interesting because it uses a Motorola 68020 processor at 16 MHz, but in a cost-reduced system with limitations such as a 16-bit data path and no built-in FPU. That makes it a very typical “compromise machine”: capable, attractive, expandable, but clearly designed to hit a lower price point.
For my collection, this LC matters because it is already working, but still needs preventative maintenance. The leaking capacitors make it a good candidate for learning and improving my recapping skills before the damage gets worse.
Technical specifications
| Specification | Details | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Apple Computer | [1] |
| Model | Macintosh LC | [1] |
| Introduction date | 15 October 1990 | [2] |
| CPU | Motorola 68020 | [1] |
| Clock speed | 16 MHz | [1] |
| RAM | 2 MB standard, expandable to 10 MB | [1] |
| Video memory | 256 KB VRAM standard, expandable to 512 KB | [1] |
| Storage | 1.44 MB floppy drive and SCSI hard drive depending on configuration | [2] |
| Expansion | 1 LC Processor Direct Slot | [1] |
| Ports | ADB, DB-15 video, DB-25 SCSI, printer, modem and speaker output | [1] |
Collection status
| Collection status | Details |
|---|---|
| Condition | Working |
| Hard drive | Appears to be in good condition |
| Capacitors | Affected by leaking capacitors; recap required |
| Origin | Purchased from the Dutch version of eBay |
| Software | No software currently in my collection for this machine |
| Documentation | No documentation currently in my collection for this machine |
| Collection state | Working, but requires recap |
RetroMelsArchive Resource
| Resource | Access |
|---|---|
| Software archive | No software in collection |
| Disk images | Not available |
| Manuals and documentation | No documentation in collection |
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Magic smoke reportPASSED: the LC did not produce smoke!
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anchor: twoe
Apple IIeFinally!!! 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 certainly was not cheap. Apple II computers, much like the Commodore PET and other early personal computers, have become increasingly valuable and sought after over the years.
I am absolutely delighted to finally own a legitimate Apple computer running BASIC. For me, BASIC is the operating system I hold in the highest regard. Technically, the Apple II also has disk operating systems such as Apple DOS, but there is something very direct and satisfying about switching on a machine and being greeted by BASIC. I can use my Floppy Emu with this machine, which makes it much easier to explore Apple II software without relying only on original media. Still, I am always on the lookout for more physical disks to add to my archive. Unfortunately, Apple II disks are among the rarer finds and tend to fetch top prices whenever they do become available. I am pleased to report that the computer is in perfect shape and does not require any major TLC. Nevertheless, to ensure my room remains free of unpleasant smoke incidents, I have taken the precaution of replacing the RiFa capacitors. |
Released in
1900
System Overview
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Why the IIe matters
The Apple II matters because it was one of the defining personal computers of the late 1970s and early 1980s. It combined a proper case, keyboard, colour graphics, BASIC in ROM, expansion slots, and later the Disk II floppy system into a machine that became enormously influential. The original Apple II was released in June 1977 and became the starting point for a long-running family of Apple II machines.
It is also important because of its software ecosystem. The Apple II was used in homes, schools and businesses, and its disk-based software library became one of the strongest of the early microcomputer era. For archive work, that makes the machine especially attractive: every physical disk has the potential to contain something worth preserving, documenting or comparing with existing disk images.
For my collection, this Apple II matters because it represents a long search finally completed. It is also a very useful bridge between collecting, using original hardware, and archiving software. The computer itself is in excellent condition, the RiFa capacitors have already been dealt with, and the Floppy Emu gives me a practical way to explore the machine while I continue looking for more original disks.
It is also important because of its software ecosystem. The Apple II was used in homes, schools and businesses, and its disk-based software library became one of the strongest of the early microcomputer era. For archive work, that makes the machine especially attractive: every physical disk has the potential to contain something worth preserving, documenting or comparing with existing disk images.
For my collection, this Apple II matters because it represents a long search finally completed. It is also a very useful bridge between collecting, using original hardware, and archiving software. The computer itself is in excellent condition, the RiFa capacitors have already been dealt with, and the Floppy Emu gives me a practical way to explore the machine while I continue looking for more original disks.
Technical specifications
| Specification | Details | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Apple Computer | [1] |
| Model | Apple II | [1] |
| Release date | June 1977 | [1] |
| Computer type | 8-bit desktop personal computer | [1] |
| CPU | MOS Technology / Synertek 6502 | [2] |
| Clock speed | 1.023 MHz | [2] |
| RAM | 4 KB standard, expandable depending on configuration | [1] |
| Built-in language | Integer BASIC in ROM on the original Apple II | [3] |
| Operating systems | Integer BASIC, Apple DOS and later Apple II disk operating systems depending on configuration | [1] |
| Graphics | Text and colour graphics modes | [1] |
| Display output | Composite video output | [4] |
| Sound | Built-in speaker | [4] |
| Storage | Cassette interface and optional Disk II 5.25-inch floppy drive system | [1] |
| Expansion | Eight internal expansion slots | [5] |
Collection status
| Collection status | Details |
|---|---|
| Condition | Perfect shape; no major TLC required |
| Origin | Found only a couple of blocks away after a five-year search |
| Acquisition notes | Purchased for a reasonable price, although Apple II machines are increasingly valuable |
| Power supply | RiFa capacitors replaced as a preventative measure |
| Storage use | Works well with Floppy Emu |
| Archive notes | Always looking for more original physical disks for the archive |
| Collection state | Working and preserved |
RetroMelsArchive Resource
| Resource | Access |
|---|---|
| Apple II software archive | Visit archive |
| Apple II documentation | View documents |
| Physical disk archive | Always looking for more disks |
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Magic smoke reportPASSED: RiFa Caps removed as a precaution...
Power on tip: Remove/replace the RiFa befor testing |
anchor: bluescsi
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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... |
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Soon to appear on the channel!
anchor: fourhundered
Why [name] matters
Technical specifications
Collection status
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Magic smoke reportPASSED:
Power on tip: |
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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. |
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More pictures to appear around 2050
Soon to appear on the channel!
anchor: fdhdone
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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. |
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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
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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. |
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More pictures will be added later
anchor: IICI
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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. |
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anchor: oneeighty
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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. |
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More pictures to come!
Soon to appear on the channel!
anchor: gthreezip
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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. |
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anchor: gthree
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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.
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anchor: gfour
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When it comes to style I really appreciate the looks of this apple computer. More on this G4 in a future video!
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