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RetroChallenge 07 - Project #1 - PIKO dat

PIKOPIKO dat - DDR Computer build in 1969 : Build a Program

  • 1.1 setup the computer completely (partial done already)
  • 1.2 build a program using just only cable connections...
  • 1.3 build another program (more advanced than 1.2)

info read more about the PIKO DAT (including Photos)

06. July 2007
Project ID: 1.2 build a program
What I did:

Yesterday I build my first real "cable" program: the PIKO dat is acting like a teacher, it knows the answers for 5 defined questions. The user needs to give the correct answers which are checked by the PIKO dat and rated in 5 grades.

For me it is very fascinating that you can give intelligence to a plastic box by connecting cable bridges. I really like the computer after playing around with it for a few days. I ask me what MHz and Bit it has (not really)? Its fast as a energy pulse :-)

I made a video to show you how the program works:

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To do:
 1.3 build a more advanced program

 

04. July 2007
Project ID: 1.2 build a program
What I did:

Build a test program to check the lambs.

This is a very simple program to check all the lambs in the display section.

I made a short video to show you how to test the lambs if you ever have the luck to get your hands on one of this great little computer. Sorry about the flashing lightning on this footage - next time I use another lamb to light the scenery.

Please note the program layer that I remove from the display section - you see a train and railroads...
Yes you can control a model train with the PIKO dat :-)
The VEB PIKO ELEKTRONIK was a producer for model trains. The PIKO dat Computer was sold as the best you could have to control the model trains on the railroads.

PIKO dat Test Drive - check the lambs!

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To do:
 1.2 build a "real" program...

 

03. July 2007
Project ID: 1.1 setup the computer
What I did:

Y E S ! It works.

After several hours of checking all cable connections I have the PIKO dat alive again. After nearly 40 years of unuse ALL lambs are intact and glow like in the good old days in 1969.

I made a short video to show you the down side of the PIKO.

PIKO dat down side - ohh.. this cables :-)

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To do:
 Project ID: 1.1 setup the computer seems finished, so...
1.2 build a program using just only cable connections

 

02. July 2007
Project ID: 1.1 setup the computer
What I did:

Oh oh... I tried to start the PIKO dat this evening, but after 1 hour I did not get one little lamb to glow. I tried batteries like noted in the manual and also tried to power it by a power supply - no lights at all...

I think I need to check all cable connections inside the PIKO dat and look for a disconnection. The computer looks like someone put many hours of work to set up the PIKO dat like noted in the manual. So I think the general build up is correct. I hope I only need to find a loose cable and nothing specific is defect. Get back to you tomorrow.

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To do:
 Project ID: 1.1 setup the computer:

Test the PIKO dat Computer, check all cable connections and display lambs. Replace defect parts if needed.

01. July 2007
Project ID: 1.o Make a video presentation
What I did:

First one - I did a little movie presentation for the PIKO dat Computer - maybe the first one ever? Have a look:

PIKO dat Presentation Video

Leave a comment
To do:
 Project ID: 1.1 setup the computer:

Test the PIKO dat Computer, check all cable connections and display lambs. Replace defect parts if needed.


RetroChallenge Blog & Retro Update - googlegroup discussion

PIKO dat - Made in GDR/DDR - 1969

Long before "real" home computers were available, the East German publisher PIKO-Sonneberg launched the "PIKO dat" - a KOSMOS Logikus Clone, it was produced in the former German Democratic Republic aka DDR. The gadged had 10 little lamps, the same number of switches and a programming array consisting of many little holes with contact clamps beneath. See the Photos.

With wire jumpers connecting the switchable contact clamps, "intelligent" logical circuits could be assembled: Assisted by a well written handbook, you were able to learn everything about AND and OR functions, the Boolean Algebra and other "digital" essentials in a very entertaining way. From smart games to complex control processes: It was amazing to see what can be demonstrated with just a primitive device without any electronic circuitry! Sadly enough, many "modern" PC users of today have not the slightest knowledge of these essential basics...

Photos

piko1

The PIKO dat Computer (DDR/GDR) 1969 - PIKO Sonneberg

piko2

The original package, shows wear´n tear

piko5

The original German User Manual and application layers

piko6

The aditional parts (not complete, mostly used to assemble the PIKO).

piko4

Inside the PIKO DAT - the "display" section full assambled
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