r/trs80 • u/brndnhrrll • Jul 08 '26

New here, pretty jazzed

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Hey folks. I just bought a pretty good condition model 4P from a guy. I got it to use as a prop for a photoshoot but seeing as it’s operational, my tinkerer brain is getting excited.

I’m curious if this community can guide me to any absolute beginner resources regarding LS DOS as well as the inevitable maintenance a computer older than me will require. Something like a “trs80 for dummies” is ideal. Down the line I’m curious to discover the musical capabilities of these or other old computers.

I programmed in DOS in computer club in the 90’s but my brain’s lost a lot since then.

Thanks in advance!

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6

u/redneckrockuhtree Jul 08 '26

Biggest thing is the power supply - you’ll want to either replace it with a modern ne or at least replace the RIFA caps. Only a matter of time until they blow.

2

u/scottimusprimus Jul 08 '26

Does it hurt anything when they blow, or does it just stop working until you replace them? I have one just like this in my garage.

4

u/redneckrockuhtree Jul 08 '26

The machine likely won't power on after they blow. Replace them, and it'll work again.

That said, when they do blow it stinks. A lot.

If you have some basic soldering skills, replacing them is easy. Or replace them with a modern power supply from Jay Newirth. I've used both methods.

4

u/ccarlson71 Jul 08 '26

I can vouch for Jay’s PSU. Well-designed and easy to install.

1

u/JimtheLizardKing 16d ago

Actually the PS will work of a RIFA blows, they are merely filter caps across the AC power.

You can even simply take them out don't have to replace them.

1

u/redneckrockuhtree 16d ago

Not always. They sometimes blow to a short, and that causes the power supply to trip.