DekuNukem's Compact Adapter Board Adds USB Type-C Power to Any Vintage BBC Micro

Pseudonymous vintage computing enthusiast dekuNukem has launched a must-have accessory for fans of the BBC Micro family of eight-bit microcomputers — adapting it so you can power the entire system from a USB Type-C connector.

"This adapter lets you power your BBC Micro via USB-C charger or power bank," dekuNukem explains of the board design. "[It's] non-destructive and reversible. Universal voltage. Efficient and reliable. This adapter comes either as a kit, or fully assembled and ready-to-install."

The adapter is simple enough, with only two externally-visible components: a USB Type-C connector as a power input and a physical on/off switch. internally, connectors are provided to wire the relevant voltages to the BBC Micro motherboard in place of its stock power supply — home to capacitors which, given the hardware launched back in 1981, have a tendency to explode if left in place.

This isn't the first replacement power supply dekuNukem has developed. Back in October last year we highlighted the ATX4VC, which converts modern ATX-standard power supplies for use with almost any vintage system — originally developed as part of the RGBeeb project, a blinged-out BBC Micro housed in an illuminated chassis.

The BBC Micro USB-C adapter is a spin-off from PicoRC, dekuNukem's project to provide pico-ATX compatibility in a range of systems requiring new power supplies — including a selection of classic Apple systems such as the Apple II and Apple Macintosh families, the Apricot PC range, and the classic Osborne 1 portable. Its use of a USB Type-C connector, though, means there's no need to have a dedicated power supply to hand: a smartphone charger should do just fine.

The BBC Micro USB-C adapter is now available on dekuNukem's Tindie store, at $34.99 as a kit or $54.99 fully assembled — BBC Micro, naturally, not included.