💻 The DEC Mini: MiSTer Edition: A Retro Revival
Let’s check out the construction of the DEC Mini: MiSTer Edition in a video by the YouTube channel What’s Ken Making, it’s a custom retro computer inspired by the classic Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC) VT100 terminal. The design, originally created by Lorenzo Herrera for a Raspberry Pi, was expertly adapted by the builder, Ken, to house a powerful MiSTer FPGA system. This adaptation transforms the aesthetic shell into an all-in-one retro gaming and computing device.
Custom Hardware and Assembly
Ken’s build relies heavily on 3D printing, using a “retro platinum PLA” filament to create the multi-piece enclosure. Key components integrated into the custom shell include:
- Keyboard: Ken fitted a used Drevo Caliber V2 mechanical keyboard inside the chassis after removing it from its original shell.
- MiSTer Integration: Custom modifications were made to the original design to securely mount the MiSTer FPGA and expose all necessary rear ports via a custom backplate.
- Power and Display: A dual-voltage Meanwell PSU powers the system, providing 5V for the MiSTer and audio amplifier, and 12V for the display. The screen is a 9.7-inch, 1024×768, 4×3 LCD that was carefully de-shelled for installation.
- Audio System: The case features mounts for a pair of 2.5-inch Duke audio speakers driven by a small Pam 8406 amplifier, complete with a physical volume knob on the rear.
- NFC Support: A unique addition is a custom-designed drive bay holding an NFC reader for Zaparoo card support, enabling instant launching of games or cores by inserting a physical card.
Versatility in Use
The finished DEC Mini: MiSTer Edition showcases the versatility of the MiSTer FPGA platform within a compact, period-accurate shell. Ken demonstrated its use running various systems:
- Retro Computing: It excels at running computer cores, such as the Soviet-era PDP-11 clone core, the MC201.
- DOS Gaming: With the built-in keyboard and the option to connect a USB mouse, it functions as an excellent portable DOS gaming PC.
- Console & Arcade: A USB controller can be connected to play a vast library of classic console and arcade titles.
Ken considers the DEC Mini MiSTer Edition his favorite MiSTer build yet, praising its stunning display and authentic retro aesthetic.
We recommend watching the video in its entirety, as it is a captivating watch from start to finish.
This is a really cool project. Makes me more and more wanting to buy a 3D printer haha
I watched Ken’s video after joining his channel when he popped up in Pixel’s live stream 🙂
I was also very impressed by how thin he managed to get his MiSTer handheld.
During the stream I ‘said’ that to him and he actually replied too, he seems like a really nice guy!
This is a cool community of people, I love it.