Chris Fenton’s DIY Laptop Page
*note*: I am now employed, but if you have questions feel free to email me at: cfenton (AT) usc.edu
Ever thought to yourself, “Hey, I could probably build my own computer if I really tried.” Or maybe, “Man, I really need a laptop with an embarrassingly low-resolution display, a processor that goes at 256 Instructions/sec, and I’ve only got $50 to spend!” Well, that’s how I got here! It took me about 4 months to complete, with a number of pauses when school and life intervened, but I’m now mostly finished with my first real DIY project.
Specs:
-Processor: PICAXE 18X Microcontroller
-User Memory: 96 Bytes of RAM (with plans to upgrade to 8K later)
-User Program storage: 10 Compiled Programs, 4 editable programs
-Display: 20x4 blue & white, backlit LCD serial character display
-Interface: Full-sized laptop keyboard (12” across)
-On-board software (all written by me, of course!):
· Compiled-Chris++ interpreter (my own language! ~256 Instructions/sec)
· Text Editor with the ability to actively work on 4 different programs at a time
· Chris++ Compiler to convert text files to executable programs
· Program Manager – Launch or delete executable programs
And now the pics:
Figure 1: The processor and memory boards
Figure 2: Laptop innards, with keyboard wired up
Figure 3: Assembled laptop front, still bare wood though!
Figure 4: Laptop from an angle (Check out that thickness!)
Figure 5: Laptop closed (notice the exposed power switch!)