Background Information:
The National Museum of Computing is home to a cluster of BBC Micros and a small collection of 32-bit Acorn machines, used to recreate a 1980s Classroom as part of the Museum's successful Education Programme. The Museum intends to expand the working collection of 32-bit machines, complementing our current Education Programme and celebrating our British Computing history.
Despite daily use and being over 20 years old, the machines in our 1980s Classroom are typically very reliable. However, from time to time failures do occur, meaning there is a need for a float of back-up machines to be maintained.
Acorn Restoration Day/s:
Through donations, the Museum has acquired a considerable number of 32-bit Acorn machines, in need of examination, sorting and servicing. The purpose of our 'Acorn Restoration Day' is to bring together individuals capable of performing these tasks to return these machines to operational status.
This is a two-day event. Attendees may choose to attend 'Day 1', 'Day 2' or both days, dependant on their skills and interests.
Day 1: Saturday 22nd January: The machines will be categorised and set up in suitable locations ready for their restoration.
Day 2: Sunday 23rd January: Attendees will be allocated restoration tasks based on their skills and knowledge.
Requirements:
Attendees will need experience maintaining 32-bit Acorn machines and will need to provide their own toolkit (unfortunately, the Museum does not have the resources to provide enough toolkits for each attendee).
We are searching for a range of skills from attendees: From basic RISC OS knowledge to a demon solderer! If you meet any of the skills listed below, we want you to attend our Acorn Restoration Day!
Useful Skills:
Unboxing machines, switching them on and assessing their condition. Reviewing the contents of their HDD and installing new items.
Dismantling machines and swapping cards/components to produce a working machine.
Soldering skills and knowledge of electrical safety, including confidence working on switch mode power supplies.
Fine soldering skills, including surface mount and the ability to change an Archimedes clock chip.
Refreshments will be provided!
To help us plan ahead, we ask that you provide us with a basic overview of your skill level. Please include any particular areas of expertise or special interests, as you feel is appropriate. Please send this information via email to the Museum at museum@tnmoc.org, using the subject line 'Acorn Restoration Day.'
For any queries or further information please contact Jacqui Garrad, the Museum Director, at museum@tnmoc.org. Alternatively, you can contact the Museum via telephone on 01908 374708.
