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Evertop
by ericj
A solar-powered E-ink PC emulating classic IBM XT performance.
Pitch

Evertop is an innovative portable PC that emulates the IBM XT using an ultra-low power microcontroller. With its e-ink display, dual 10,000mAh batteries, and solar panel, Evertop achieves exceptional battery life, enabling operation for hundreds or even thousands of hours effortlessly. Ideal for off-grid use, it perfectly blends nostalgia with modern technology.

Description

Evertop is a revolutionary portable PC that emulates the historic IBM XT, powered by an 80186 processor with 1 MB of RAM. This innovative device is capable of running legacy operating systems such as DOS, Minix, and Windows up to version 3.0, while offering an exceptional battery life that allows for hundreds, if not thousands, of hours of use on a single charge.

Key Features

Power Efficiency

Designed with significant energy-saving features, Evertop operates on a powerful yet low-power microcontroller combined with an e-ink display. It is equipped with two 10,000mAh batteries and a dedicated solar panel, ensuring that it can run independently off-grid without persistent concerns about battery life.

Extensive Built-in Peripherals

Evertop comes loaded with various built-in peripherals, including:

  • Detachable keyboard for enhanced usability
  • Ports for external PS/2 keyboard and mouse
  • Full graphics support for CGA, Hercules, and MCGA, with partial EGA and VGA compatibility
  • Comprehensive audio features including PC speaker, Adlib, Covox, and Disney Sound Source output
  • Various connectivity options including a DB9 RS232 serial port, USB flash drive port, RJ45 ethernet, wifi, and LoRa radio

Flexible Charging Options

The device presents multiple options for powering and charging:

  1. A detachable solar panel
  2. 2.5V - 20V DC input via an internal buck/boost circuit
  3. Micro USB connector

These options enable Evertop to charge simultaneously from all sources, allowing for continuous use even while charging.

Longevity on a Single Charge

In power-saving mode, Evertop achieves impressive operational durations, ranging from 200 to 500 hours of interactive use. Optimizations are in place to support extensive use cases, such as a planned e-reader application that could enable thousands of hours of use.

Storage Capabilities

Users can utilize up to a 256 GB SD card (or larger) for floppy and hard disk images, supporting multiple emulated systems, along with this storage allowing for images up to 4 GB each.

Advanced Technology

Powered by the Espressif ESP32 microcontroller, Evertop’s technology offers a modern touch to the vintage computing experience. Its enclosure is crafted from 3D printed matte PETG plastic, ensuring durability and aesthetic appeal.

Compatibility and Application

Evertop is compatible with a wide range of IBM PC/XT DOS software from the 1980s and early 90s, enabling the use of classic applications and games, thereby providing a nostalgic computing experience.

Minimal Version: Evertop Min

For users seeking a lighter and more cost-effective option, Evertop Min omits the built-in keyboard, solar panel, and other features while retaining core functionalities. It supports standard external keyboards and maintains the same e-ink display, making it suitable for basic off-grid computing tasks comfortably.

Overall, Evertop represents a unique blend of retro computing nostalgia and modern sustainability, making it a viable option for tech enthusiasts and anyone seeking long-lasting computing without the constraints of standard power sources.

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