The Origin of the Species: NEC PC-8001 FDD Adapter

The 1979 NEC PC-8001 was a successful personal computer developed after previous models like the TK-80. The machine featured a powder-coated steel case, various ports, and expansion capabilities. Inside, the computer had no custom chips, and its schematic was reverse-engineered by I/O magazine. The system included N-BASIC stored in mask ROMs and had provisions for adding extensions like an N80-BASIC ROM. The PC-8001 also had a serial connection socket and a header for controlling the RS232 baud rate. To achieve a color display, adjustments were needed in the console settings. Additionally, the article discussed the challenges of loading software onto the PC-8001, particularly using a floppy disk drive like the NEC PC-80S31, which required a specific interface device called the PC-8033. The process of cloning this interface was detailed, highlighting the complexities of the different floppy drive connectors and pinouts. Overall, the article provided insights into the technical aspects and restoration efforts involved in working with the NEC PC-8001.