Information on Building Your Own Mimeo 1

Mimeo 1

Mimeo 1, version 1.01, built up with a number of hard to find vintage components


Why Did I Build the Mimeo 1:

I did this because I somehow get great satisfaction from reverse engineering these old computers.

Reasons Why You Should Build a Mimeo 1:

If you need me to provide reasons, then you should try something else.  Maybe you don't need to build a Mimeo 1, to enjoy it.   I know of one PCB that was framed and hung on the wall.

Who  Has Purchased a Mimeo 1?

Mimeo 1's have been sold to vintage computer buffs around the world.  Several have been purchased by early and current Apple employees, museums, private collectors, movie producers, as well as original Apple 1 owners. 

Check out feedback, blogs, and webpages created by Mimeo owners


How Many Mimeo 1's Do You Need?

After building their first one, a surprising number of people have bought a second or even a third Mimeo 1.


Before You Purchase a Mimeo 1:

Read this entire page
Read my main Mimeo 1 project page
Read my A1 build blog
Read the assembly and build manual - current version is 1.1

Important Accessories

PS/2 adapter
If you want to operate your Mimeo and don't have a ASCII keyboard available, I strongly recommend you obtain an PS/2 keyboard (with mini DIN connector) and also purchase my PS/2 keyboard adapter kit.  Apple II keyboards can be used through the use of an adapter.  Connecting an Apple II keyboard directly to an Apple 1 (or visa versa) will fry the keyboard!  Vince Briel uses an Apple II compatible pinout on his Replica 1, so keyboards are not interchangible between the Replica 1 and a Mimeo (real Apple 1) without using an adapter.
Apple Cassette Interface Reproduction
If you want to run programs on your Mimeo,  I strongly recommend you obtain an iPod and purchase a cassette interface reproduction kit.
Datanetic's Rev B Reproduction
For the most faithful reproduction of a Apple 1 system, build yourself a reproduction Datanetics keyboard.  Note - the PCB's for these keyboards have been sold out, though a rerun is in the planning stages.

Ordering and Availability:

I am not currently offering complete Mimeo kits, but instead am working with Unicorn Electronics who are working to put together parts kits, minus PCBs and PROMs.  Order the Mimeo PCB and PROMs from me and the rest of the parts kit from Unicorn Electronics.   I still supply full  kits for the Apple Cassette Interface and PS/2 adaper.

Send an email mike@willegal.net for stock state and ordering instructions.

Sometime later this year, I plan to offer some built up units, including some in replica wooden cases.    Send me an email to get on a waiting list, if you are interested in exploring that option.
Price List Cost Shipping
Purchase motherboard from me
Purchase PROMs from me
Purchase parts kit from http://www.unicornelectronics.com/
email:sales@unicornelectronics.com for information
N/A
N/A
Bare Mimeo motherboard PCB only 150.00 Within lower 48 USA - $20
Outside lower 48 USA - $35
Replica Cassette Interface Kit - includes all parts required to build your own  Apple Cassette Interface for the Apple 1 or clone 75.00 Within lower 48 USA - $5
Outside lower 48 USA - $10
Apple 1 PROM set - 2  256x4 PROMs programmed with original Apple 1 monitor 30.00 Within lower 48 USA - $5
Outside lower 48 USA - $10
Hard copy of Mimeo Build Manual (same as pdf, but with glossy image of Mimeo on covers) 20.00 Within lower 48 USA - $5
Outside lower 48 USA - $10
PS/2 Keyboard Adapter Kit 35.00 Within lower 48 USA - $5
Outside lower 48 USA - $10
Bare Replica Cassette Interface PCB only 40.00 Within lower 48 USA - $5
Outside lower 48 USA - $10
Bare Reproduction Datanetics Keyboard  PCB and brackets - (sold out - watch my blog for news on re-run) N/A N/A
Individual components - http://www.unicornelectronics.com/ N/A N/A

Multiple Item Shipping Costs:
Before sending money, contact me about discounted combined shipping costs.

Support
:  
free email/chat/telephone support  - please start with a friendly email describing your issue
USA only: free repairs, you pay for shipping both ways
International: due to difficulties with customs, all sales are final, I can not accept returns for repair or other reasons

Apple 1 Physical Specifications
PCB dimensions 15.5 by 9 inches
Layers 2
Replica silkscreen fonts custom designed replica fonts
Ordinary trace width 20 mils
PCB holes of all types 1720
Vias 296
Total number of components 221
Sockets 59
Soldered components 162
Different component types 69


Example original Apple 1 Systems seen on Ebay

I've decided to log the ending prices of those auctions I've noticed on this page.
Year Auction Note Selling price
2009 320431509242 buy it now auction $17000.00
2009 320447681957 buy it now auction $50000.00
2010 160413355114 pristine motherboard and accessories $42766.00
2010 320585219846 motherboard and quite a few accessories $22,766.66
2010 Christie's motherboard and accessories (same unit as 320447681957) £133,250 (pounds)/$212,267


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