Now I’ve gained some experience with CAD for the PiDP’s new switches, I’d like to explore the manufacturing aspects of ‘Kit Making’ a bit more. For a more ambitious PDP-11 replica - the other machine I always wanted but never had. The PDP-11/70 in particular had a very special form factor:

You really want those cosmetics for a replica as well: the sculpted white frame, the peculiar switches. Over the last two weeks, two people offered to share the financial risk of making an injection-molded case. One being a right proper Venture Capitalist (although this is a hobby sponsorship for him too – thanks!), who also set up a meeting with the team of one of his companies, people who have proper expertise in the field of injection molding.

Funny how one thing leads to another. If I look back over the past few months, it's amazing how much knowledge-sharing and help was available. People who offered to send someone to China to help source parts, people who beta-tested, supplied original parts to replicate… And how that really can lead to getting you into things you had no clue about just a few months ago!

Although the PiDP-8 project will only be completed when the new switches are in, it’s drawing to a close. On to the next & bigger thing :)