Home computer remake

For other uses, see Remake (disambiguation).

A home computer remake is a re-creation or re-implementation of classic home computer hardware, usually using updated technology, such as FPGAs.

Description

A remake is a hardware realization, in contrast to an emulator, which is a virtual realization. A remake can also be described as a hardware-based emulator. Some re-makes can function as more than one computer model or architecture. Disputed examples of hardware emulators (which could involve software emulators) are more recent Sega Genesis/Megadrive clones that are cartridge-compatible and can run the games, but use ARM processors as opposed to the Motorola 68k processors of the original Sega Genesis.

Remakes and emulators are a way to keep old software, games, and operating systems alive without having to port them to newer computers or code them again from scratch. Remakes and emulators are methods of digital preservation.

Remakes are not to be confused with hardware clones. Hardware clones are made during a product's initial commercial run, intentionally competing with the original. Remakes are revivals of old, obsolete, or discontinued models. They fill a niche market for retrocomputing researchers, experimenters, hobbyists, gamers, and collectors. Demand for authentic antique hardware often exceeds supply.

Examples

Examples of home computer remakes include:

FPGA-based designs that emulate multiple platforms include:

Remakes of early minicomputer and supercomputers have been also made:

Remakes of other early computers include:

Homebrew computers based on early microprocessors include:

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