ZX81 realtime server application
I use my ZX81 for a realtime server
application. As you can see the processer load is fairly intensive, so I have to
use an additional 16K RAM pack to prevent stack overflow:
How to make one yourself
Making your own ZX81 clock can be a rewarding way to mutilate an old home computer. I did contemplate doing the same to my old ZX Spectrum 48K case, but the rubber keys would have got in the way of the hands. An Oric 1 or Jupiter Ace may give the same effect if you would prefer lighter colours for your clock.
To make this project you will need:
A ZX81
A clock mechanism
A 16K RAM pack - not required if 2 digit
dates are acceptable
An electric drill
A screwdriver
A bottle of Jack Daniels
Cans of beer
Also, for the optional paint work you will require:
Luminous
paint
Fuorescent orange paint
Masking tape
Paint brushes
A well ventilated room, or a penchant for
inhaling paint fumes
The ZX81
The
ZX81 to start with. This is the main ingredient.
Either go to eBay and pay £5000, or visit a
car boot sale and pay 50p.:
The clock
The clock mechanism (approx £5 from Maplins). I painted the hour and minute hands with Dulux Kid Zone luminous paint, and the second hand with fluorescent paint. But you don't have to:
The Innards
Now carefully use a screwdriver to fillet the ZX81, and remove the insides, which are now about as useful as the bag of giblets that come out of the Christmas turkey. Only you can't even give it to the cat to eat. Unless you don't like the cat:
The Paint Job and Drilling
Next, we need to drill a hole in the front of the case, where the clock mechanism will stick through. Ensure there is room for the clock mechanism behind.
Also, take this opportunity to paint the front, if required.
Here we see the ZX81 after being painted, with the hole for the clock mechanism drilled in the front.The masking tape not yet removed. I detailed the Sinclair and ZX81 logos with Humbrol fluorescent orange paint:
The Hole For Hanging
A hole drilled in the back of the case, to make it possible to hang on wall hook:
Insert The Mechanism
Insert the mechanism, and screw the back of the case back on. Don't forget to put the battery in first.
Place Your Hands
Put the hands on, and set the correct time.
At this stage, if you are using the optional RAM pack, you should discover that it gets in the way of the minute and second hands.
Hang It Up
Now hang your clock where it can be the envy of your friends.
Send me the alcohol
Now send me the Jack Daniels and beer, via e-mail to: windy@danturq.net
I'd also be interested to see what you do to your old computer systems, and maybe I could put pictures on this page. I'd be especially interested to see if anyone can convert a PDP-11 into a grandfather clock. Or a Gameboy into a pocket watch.
NEXT WEEK!
How to turn that old Sinclair C5 in the shed into a battery powered flower pot, which you can take to the shops.
MORE SINCLAIR PHOTOS!
Hot and rubbery Sinclair action, here.