In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, the USB-C standard has emerged as a versatile and powerful solution for powering a wide array of devices. Its compact design and Power Delivery capabilities make it an ideal candidate for modernizing vintage computers, which often rely on bulky and unreliable power supplies. Driven by necessity, I decided to create USB-C power adapters for some classic computers.
Atari 8-Bit USB-C Power Adapter
My first project focused on the Atari 600XL, 800XL, and XE series computers. These models originally came with power bricks that were not only space-consuming but also prone to failure. The infamous “ingot” can even fry your beloved Atari if it goes bad. To address this, I designed a slim USB-C to Atari 8-Bit DIN7 male power adapter. This adapter allows users to replace the original power supply with a standard USB-C cable and a quality 5V USB power source. For added safety, I incorporated a built-in 3 Amp fuse. The adapter’s 3D-printed case in Bone White color complements the XL series’ aesthetic.
Commodore C64 USB-C and Barrel Jack Power Adapter
I never had access to a Commodore 64 in my younger days, but when the FujiNet team decided to start working on a network adapter for it I picked up a C64 for testing. Its original power supply is infamous for failures that can damage the computer’s components. To safeguard my C64, I created a USB-C 5V and 9VAC barrel jack to DIN7 male power adapter. This solution allows users to retire the unreliable original power brick in favor of a more dependable alternative. The adapter provides 5V via a USB-C port and 9VAC through a barrel jack, with a 2 Amp protection fuse for the USB-C input. The C64 already has an internal 9VAC glass tube fuse for added security. The 3D-printed beige case is designed to harmonize with the C64’s iconic appearance. Two different barrel jack sizes are available for use with 9VAC transformer bricks.
Apple IIc USB-C Power Delivery Adapter
Next, I turned my attention to the Apple IIc, a compact and portable member of the Apple II family. I already had an Apple IIe that I was using for FujiNet development, but I wanted and acquired a IIc due to is smaller footprint. The IIc did not come with a power brick so I set out to make my own. To modernize this classic, I developed a USB-C Power Delivery (PD) adapter capable of negotiating a 15V output with a PD-compatible power supply. The adapter features a custom designed DIN7 female connector that supplies 15V at 2.5A to the Apple IIc. In the event of an over-current condition, the adapter is designed to shut off power to protect the computer. The 3D-printed components, including a black PETG DIN connector and a Bone White PLA case, ensure both functionality and a cohesive look.
More In The Works
I’ve had a Coleco ADAM computer for some time and even designed an external case for a MeanWell power supply to get me going. The ADAM requires +12V, +5V and -5V on a DE9 port which should be a straight forward design and I have a prototype board in the works.
At VCFMW 19 this year, Jaime Idolpx from the Meatloaf project gifted me an Amiga 500. He said it was tested some time ago and should work, but of course no power supply was included. This is on my list to make a USB-C PD adapter for. The A500, like the ADAM, requires a negative voltage which should make it easy enough to modify and use the ADAM prototype as a starting point the A500. The more difficult (but my favorite) part will be recreating the square 5 pin DIN like connector used on the A500 with modern available parts and making it fit like it belongs with the machine.
The inception of these adapters was born out of necessity. As a retro computing enthusiast, I often find myself without functional original power supplies or possibly dangerous ones for my vintage machines. This challenge sparked the idea to leverage modern USB-C technology. As I acquire new (to me) retro computers I will design adapters for them.