As a user time-travels and adopts older computers for their retro collection, the challenges of maintenance and repair multiply. Some parts are almost impossible to obtain, and the struggle to convert standards and protocols never stops. The alternative is to look for something like the NuXT, a system based on real XT hardware, with just the right dose of modern technology. The product suffers natural availability limitations, which makes it quite expensive, but it’s fabulous.
The Search for Old Hardware
Last week I looked for parts online with the idea of assembling an old computer, something from the 486-Pentium era, and the prices threw me into a depressive pit. The sums they ask for 486 motherboards in good condition are chilling, and one can only appreciate the effort made by members of projects like DOSBox. Even so, the search for 'legitimate' hardware never fades away completely, and retro enthusiasts decide to wait for an opportunity.
Meet the NuXT
That leads us to the NuXT. Clint from the LGR channel (who explored a true paradise of computer relics a couple of weeks ago) recently got this hardware and published a video with great detail on specifications and configuration, as well as its installation in a modern ATX case:
The NuXT offers a real PC XT experience, without emulators or strange tricks. Clint received a NEC V20 processor, which is pin-compatible with the classic Intel 8088. The package also included an Intel 8087 math coprocessor, and a total of 832 kilobytes of RAM, divided between a base of 640K and another 192K in UMB.
However, the story doesn't end there. The developer of the NuXT implemented some extraordinary solutions thanks to the use of current hardware. First, they eliminated the need for old controllers and fragile hard drives, installing in their place a CompactFlash interface. It's an XT with solid-state storage.
Adding to this are a PS/2 port for the keyboard (with a built-in AT/XT protocol converter), and a VGA video connector, backed by the classic Trident TVGA9000i chip, which even if it's 'too modern' for an XT, today qualifies as retro. The main power connection is ATX, so it only requires a common power supply.
The amount of switches available on the motherboard is enormous, so the user will have no problems experimenting with other compatible chips, and it would be a gross mistake to forget the four 8-bit ISA expansion slots (a Snark Barker would go great there). Using a NEC V20, Clint can change the speed of the NuXT with keyboard shortcuts, up to a maximum of 9.55 MHz (a beast!).
The rest is a matter of loading some old games and enjoying. Would you like to have a NuXT? Personally, I would love to, but there are two closely related challenges. One is finding the necessary chips for the build, which results in delays (about four weeks). And the other is the price. The basic configuration of the NuXT costs 340 dollars… a number not so easy to digest. Now, if we consider the figures asked on eBay and similar portals, it's likely that the NuXT becomes a more convenient solution in the long term.
Official site: Click here
https://old.neoteo.com/video-toaster-editor-de-video/
