Recently I had been cruising the internet looking for fun IC projects that would allow me to build a small computer and play around with it at a low level. I felt that it would be a great way to learn low level computer functions while expanding my knowledge of electronics.

I ran across a kit that is being sold by Briel Computers called the Replica 1. The Replica 1 is a software compatible clone of the original Apple 1 which was created by Steve Wozniak back in 1976. The Replica 1 kit starts at $159 for the unassembled version.
The Replica 1 has the same specs as the very first Apple 1:

• MOS Technology 6502 CPU
• 32K RAM
• 8KB EEPROM
• Support for APPLE 1 Expansion Cards

In addition to the original specs of the Apple 1, the Replica 1 also adds a Serial Port for programming, an RCA TV Output Port and an optional USB Interface (USB Replica 1 kit costs $184). Power can be provided by one of three methods. The first is ATX power provided by a modern ATX power supply. Second is a port for an external 5V DC Power Supply. The third option is to power the Replica 1 via power supplied from the USB port when plugged into a computer.

When I purchased my kit, I opted for the USB version that wasn’t pre-assembled. You CAN purchase the unit pre-assembled, but I think that takes away from the fun of ordering a kit computer. My order was included in the June 1st batch and was shipped exactly on June 1st. My hats off to Briel Computers for a very quick turn around.

The Replica 1 arrives in a well packed USPS box. Inside the box is a large zip lock bag which contains the Printed Circuit Board, a smaller plastic bag containing all the capacitors, resistors, diodes, connectors and whatnot. Also included in the large zip lock bag is four IC tubes which include the IC sockets and the IC’s. The CPU included in the kit was actually a 65C02, which is an updated version of the MOS 6502 that includes several bug fixes and errors that existed in the original 6502.

The Printed Circuit Board is very well laid out and the silk screen is very, very well done. Makes installing the sockets and diodes very easy by clearly identifying which direction the parts are to be installed.

All the parts included in the kit seem to be ordered from the Jameco catalog. This is a handy thing to know in case you run into any issues where you’ll need to order a replacement part.

I started earlier today beginning to put together the Replica 1. I was able to lay down the sockets as well as several of the other electronic parts. Some of the solder points on the Replica 1 are very close to other debug point and ground points, so please be careful when soldering the Replica 1 together as you can very easily ground out or fry a circuit. There are several safe guards in place in the form of glass diodes to protect the Replica 1 from issues with the power sources.

I’m still in the process of assembling the Replica 1, but so far, so good! I’ll continue my review of the Replica 1 as I progress with it’s assembly.

Picture 1 — The Replica 1 on my workbench being assembled. (Sorry about the picture quality, I had to use my Blackberry as my Canon is out on loan)