Tomy Tutor - Restoration and Review
The 8-Bit Guy・2 minutes read
The rare Tomy Tutor, a 16-bit machine with 16K of RAM and 256x192 pixel resolution, is being restored by the 8-Bit Guy. The restoration process involves cleaning the keyboard, data recorder, and cartridges using various techniques to bring the vintage computer back to life.
Insights
- The Tomy Tutor, a rare 16-bit machine sold in the early 1980s, had limited RAM and resolution but featured endorsements from Sarah Purcell and innovative accessories like the DataCorder.
- Restoration efforts on the Tomy Tutor involved meticulous cleaning processes using Windex, Deoxit, and retrobrite treatments, showcasing the dedication to preserving and enhancing this unique piece of computing history.
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What is the Tomy Tutor?
A rare 16-bit machine with limited RAM and video resolution.
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Summary
00:00
Restoring the Rare Tomy Tutor: 1983 Gem
- The Tomy Tutor is a rare piece of equipment being restored by the 8-Bit Guy.
- The Tomy Tutor was sold in Japan and briefly in North America in 1983 for $380.
- It was marketed as a 16-bit machine but only had 16K of RAM and a video resolution of 256x192 pixels with 16 colors.
- The Tomy Tutor shares similarities with the TI 99/4 series but has slightly improved versions of the CPU and Video chip.
- The Tomy Tutor was endorsed by Sarah Purcell, host of "Real People," unlike TI which used Bill Cosby.
- The Tomy Tutor comes with a DataCorder and controllers similar to Intellivision controllers.
- The Tomy Tutor has a cartridge port, IO port, controller port, and a tape recorder port.
- The Tomy Tutor's keyboard had issues with the top row of arrow keys not working initially.
- The keyboard was cleaned using Windex and Deoxit, and missing rubber feet were replaced with Commodore machine feet.
- The Tomy Data Recorder, requiring a 6-volt negative center power adapter, was also restored successfully.
12:08
Cleaning and Restoring Audio Cassette Players
- The cassette door is removed to begin the cleaning process, with caution exercised around the text to prevent damage.
- Alcohol-soaked paper towels are used to clean the cassette, preparing it for retrobrite treatment.
- Rocks are added to the retrobrite solution to prevent the cassette from floating to the top.
- The cassette is reassembled after cleaning the mechanism with canned air and alcohol, applying lithium grease to moving parts.
- Attempts to play an audio cassette reveal issues with sound output, possibly due to the device's design.
- Cartridges are cleaned successfully with Windex, but retrobrite treatment is avoided due to paper labels that could be damaged.
