An enthusiast named Mike has constructed a custom 8-bit computer utilizing 460 recycled Soviet-era 6N3P vacuum tubes. This machine, dubbed The Tube Computer (MK3), is the third iteration of such a device built by the developer within the current decade.
The hardware architecture features a non-pipelined design with a six-step fetch and single-execute cycle. It performs five core arithmetic logic functions: sum, carry, not, increment, and XNOR. The system requires a 10 to 15-minute warm-up period after power-on, followed by a manual reset.
The 6N3P vacuum tubes have an estimated operational lifespan of approximately 500 hours. Due to the heat generated during operation, the system requires constant monitoring. The setup includes membrane buttons for user input and a flip-digit display sourced from British Rail.
The computer currently runs an airship simulator, allowing users to pilot a British R80 airship from Brighton to Paris. Controls manage various parameters, including ballast, gas release, engine power, elevators, rudder, and bow mooring gear, by sending 5-volt signals to the input board.
