Just for fun, building an Acorn Atom rev 5

[PhilC]

Do you have to get the special Atom ones that key repeat all the time :D

I'm open to non dodgy keys too if available :P

[peters]

The Atom keyboard had a reputation.

[PhilC]

The Atom keyboard had a reputation.

I have a spare beeb keyboard which I could rob the key switches from but that's as a last resort

[PhilC]

So this little project went sideways just a tad, with the arrival of this:

PXL_20250827_135459026.jpg

So I have some keys to fix or replace and then see about getting it all working.

[PhilC]

So it's had a couple of mods which so far look to be something to do with composite video as the PCB is damaged where the socket goes. No idea about the switch next to it, so we shall work that out shortly. Then get it all running soon after I hope.

PXL_20250827_140242051.jpg

PXL_20250827_140515141.jpg

PXL_20250827_140558457.jpg

PXL_20250827_140616354.jpg

[rubber_jonnie]

So it's had a couple of mods which so far look to be something to do with composite video as the PCB is damaged where the socket goes. No idea about the switch next to it, so we shall work that out shortly. Then get it all running soon after I hope.

PXL_20250827_140242051.jpg
PXL_20250827_140515141.jpg
PXL_20250827_140558457.jpg
PXL_20250827_140616354.jpg

Looks like an awesome project :)

[PhilC]

So it turns out the mods were a power switch and a replacement power socket, which has been severely mangled by the previous owner.

So I've removed the two 7805/LM3405 regulators and put a new socket on a flying lead, which I'll likely mount to the PCB somehow.

And once I'd done that

PXL_20250827_161729883.MP.jpg

The keys are going to be another problem though. I'm hoping I can either get replacement stems or 3d print some as the originals won't glue back on, which was wishful thinking to be honest.
@rubber_jonnie , I think you'll enjoy making that Atom copy when you get it.

Now to tidy up the other bodges and to learn how to use it

[rubber_jonnie]

So it turns out the mods were a power switch and a replacement power socket, which has been severely mangled by the previous owner.

So I've removed the two 7805/LM3405 regulators and put a new socket on a flying lead, which I'll likely mount to the PCB somehow.

And once I'd done that

PXL_20250827_161729883.MP.jpg

The keys are going to be another problem though. I'm hoping I can either get replacement stems or 3d print some as the originals won't glue back on, which was wishful thinking to be honest.
@rubber_jonnie , I think you'll enjoy making that Atom copy when you get it.

Now to tidy up the other bodges and to learn how to use it

Oh I'm sure I will 😁

[PhilC]

Well, trying to fix those Atom keys is. pain in the bum and as @peters said earlier, the keys are terrible. Two coiled springs that touch in the middle and make the contact.

So I've decided. Since I have two Atom PCBs, one that uses all the original logic chips and a more modern variety, I'm going to transplant the Atom parts on to the new "original" PCB and then fit beeb keyboard switches, which are much easier to get hold of and generally "work."

I'll send the other newer one off to @rubber_jonnie to build up his own Atom.

[rubber_jonnie]

Well, trying to fix those Atom keys is. pain in the bum and as @peters said earlier, the keys are terrible. Two coiled springs that touch in the middle and make the contact.

So I've decided. Since I have two Atom PCBs, one that uses all the original logic chips and a more modern variety, I'm going to transplant the Atom parts on to the new "original" PCB and then fit beeb keyboard switches, which are much easier to get hold of and generally "work."

I'll send the other newer one off to @rubber_jonnie to build up his own Atom.

Looking forward to it sir :)