Meet the Pico-Mac-Nano: A Tiny, Functional Macintosh Replica That Fits in Your Palm
Remember the iconic 1984 Apple Macintosh? Now, imagine that classic computer shrunk down to the size of a matchbox. Meet the Pico-mac-nano, a super tiny yet functional Macintosh replica created by 1-bit rainbow. This diminutive gadget is a nostalgic tribute to the early days of computing, packing a surprising amount of functionality into a 2.4-inch frame.
What is the Pico-Mac-Nano?
Inside the miniature 3D-printed Macintosh 128K case lies a small Raspberry Pi Pico microcontroller, along with a 2-inch LCD screen. The replica Macintosh is actually usable, as it runs an emulated version of the classic Mac operating system. It even has USB keyboard and mouse support with an included USB splitter cable.
Nick Gillard, the creator behind 1-bit rainbow, shares that the Pico-mac-nano was inspired by fellow tinkerer Matt Evans' Pico-mac project, which coded a stripped-down Macintosh emulator on the Pico board. Gillard wanted to build upon this work by incorporating it into a miniature Mac model with the highest-resolution LCD screen available for cheap.
Features and Functionality
Despite its size, the Pico-mac-nano boasts impressive features:
- 2-inch, 480x640-pixel LCD screen
- USB-C port for keyboard and mouse
- Emulated version of the classic Mac OS
- 3D-printed replica of the original Macintosh 128K case
Gillard even recreated a tiny version of the iconic "Picasso" corrugated cardboard box the original 128K Macintosh shipped in, complete with flexible protective inserts and a little 3D-printed white accessory case.
Open Source and Availability
For those who are feeling adventurous, the pico-mac code and 3D-printable case files are freely available on GitHub. Alternatively, 1-bit rainbow is selling the pre-assembled Pico-mac-nano for £78 (around $105). Mac aficionados will also appreciate the retro look of the product page which mimics the style and font that greeted early Mac users.
Who is it for?
This mini Macintosh is perfect for collectors, retro tech enthusiasts, and anyone who wants a piece of computing history on their desk. However, Nick Gillard emphasizes that Pico-mac-nano is an open source project, not a commercial product. Therefore, there will be no warranty, as you are paying for the parts, material, 3D print time and labor time in putting it together.
Conclusion
The Pico-mac-nano is more than just a novelty; it's a testament to the ingenuity of makers and a loving tribute to the history of personal computing. Whether you're a die-hard Apple fan or simply appreciate clever tech, this tiny Macintosh replica is sure to spark joy. What do you think? Is this a must-have for your desk, or just a fun trip down memory lane?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
