The M88 Computer

Why?

The M88 is a hobby project that seeks to build a modern computer that is compatible with the software and hardware of the late 1980s. I originally set out to build a computer that could support Sid Meier's Civilization, and achieved just that. Now, the project has expanded to explore more possibilities, such as experimenting with I2C bus connectivity to mix modern I2C devices with retro software.

Features

  • Built around the Intel 8088 CPU, running at 8 MHz
  • Sockets for 640K of RAM in banks of 128K, with an optional additional bank at E000:0000 for DOS upper memory blocks
  • 4 8-bit ISA card slots
  • ATX power connector and Micro-ATX form factor - use an off-the-shelf ATX power supply and PC case!
  • Built-in ATX fan headers
  • PS/2 keyboard and mouse ports
  • An ATTiny to take care of system resets and ATX power signals
  • Primarily designed using discrete logic in 74-series ICs
  • Built-in I2C bus with STEMMA connectors to easily integrate with external devices

    • Gallery

  • The M88 Computer

    The M88 Computer

  • The M88 Computer running Civilization

    An early M88 prototype running Civilization

  • An early prototype of the M88 Computer

    An early prototype for initial design qualification

    • Development Log and Manual

    You can read more about the development of the computer in this development log.

    You can also read the (work-in-progress) manual for the computer, which includes a reference for the hardware and software of the M88.

    Additional M88 Peripherals

    Throughout the development of the M88, I've designed a few peripherals to help with development and testing.