If you’re a retro computing enthusiast, the Evertop DIY PC might be your next favorite project. Combining a love for 1980s vintage computing with modern energy-efficient technologies, the Evertop offers a nostalgic experience without worrying about running out of power. Designed by programmer Eric Jenott, this open-source, ultra-low-power DIY PC brings the magic of DOS, Minix, and early graphical environments like Windows 3.0 back to life with impressive peripheral support and long-lasting battery options.
A New Take on Retro Emulation
Unlike the Book 8088 that went all in with period-authentic hardware, the Evertop embraces a more accessible approach. Rather than a vintage 8088 processor, it uses an Espressif ESP32 microcontroller to emulate an IBM XT-class machine, running on an 80186 processor. This design focuses on portability and ease of use rather than strict hardware accuracy, making it an ideal option for those looking to relive the past without building a fully authentic system.
Long Battery Life: Play for Days
One of Evertop’s standout features is its impressive battery life. With two 10,000mAh batteries, a built-in solar panel, and the option for USB power, the device can run for hundreds—if not thousands—of hours on a single charge. Thanks to Jenott’s power-saving measures, the system is designed to last long enough for an entire retro marathon or to be used in off-the-grid environments.
Jenott designed the Evertop to be ultra-low-power and perfect for retro computing. It supports classic DOS games, QBasic programs, and even early graphical interfaces like Windows 3.0. However, while it can run Doom, the experience is more of a novelty, offering a sluggish, garbled version of the iconic shooter due to hardware limitations.
Display and Sound: A Retro Revival
The Evertop features a 5.83-inch grayscale e-ink display with a resolution of 648×480, supporting multiple video modes including CGA, Hercules, MCGA, and partial EGA/VGA. Though the display is not designed for fast action games, it serves well for classic text-based adventures and early graphics-based titles. Audio options include a PC speaker, Adlib, Covox, and Disney Sound Source, but it unfortunately lacks official Sound Blaster support, limiting sound quality for certain games.
Peripheral Support and Connectivity
What sets Evertop apart is its extensive peripheral support. The device includes PS/2 ports for keyboards and mice, serial connections, an SD card slot, and USB for faster file transfers. For connectivity, it offers Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and LoRa radio, allowing retro users to extend their capabilities. While Bluetooth is supported, Jenott hasn’t yet activated features that make use of it.
The DIY Project for Retro Computing Enthusiasts
For those who love DIY projects, Evertop presents an excellent opportunity to build a system that offers the best of both worlds—nostalgic computing and modern efficiency. Though Jenott hasn’t yet provided a pre-assembled version or purchase options, enthusiasts can follow the detailed open-source documentation to assemble the device themselves. Additionally, there’s talk of a “Mini” version in the works, which will retain the core features but lack the integrated keyboard for even more compact portability.
Jenott hasn’t yet provided purchase or pre-assembly options for Evertop, meaning retro enthusiasts must follow the project’s documentation to build it themselves. He also has plans for a “Mini” version that offers the same core features as the original model but lacks an integrated keyboard.
Conclusion: A New Era of Retro Computing
The Evertop DIY PC is a must-have for anyone interested in retro computing, combining classic software support with modern energy-saving technology. While it may not compete with today’s high-performance systems, it offers a unique and practical way to experience the past. Whether you’re looking to run old DOS games, experiment with QBasic, or simply relive the 80s, Evertop’s portability, long battery life, and broad peripheral support make it a standout in the world of retro tech.
