I’ve always been fascinated by old retro computers, even though I didn’t have one, so it is hard for me to explain why I feel such a connection with these old machines.

It was a couple of months ago when I was reading something about Commodore 64 and was looking around to buy myself one of these 8-bit machines. That’s when I found out about My Retro Computer and was pleasantly surpised that they build and sell computer cases of the famous Commodore-64 and VIC-20 machines.

Now, the nice thing about these computer cases is that you can actually put a modern Mini-ITX motherboard, so I pulled the trigger and ordered myself the My64 case.

Having the computer case it was time to think about the various computer parts I need in order to build a modern computer within a retro case. I also have two kids, so it will be a fun experience for each of us to build a computer together.

And without further ado here is the full list of parts I’ve ordered.

• My64 computer case
• ASRock J5040-ITX motherboard
• picoPSU-90 12V Plug-in DC-DC ATX PSU
• 80W AC Universal Adapter 12V 6.6A with 2.5/5.5mm DC Power Connector
• Intel Wireless-Ac 9260, Key E WiFi module
• IPEX MHF4 Antenna WiFi Cable for NGFF/M.2 WiFi/WLAN Card Module
• Samsung 500GB 870 Evo SATA 2.5”, SATA 6 Gb/s
• DDR4 SODIMM 8GB 2400MHz, Team Group Elite, CL16-16-16-39, 1.2V
• 40cm Mini SATA Cable for SATA Slimline Optical Drives

So, once we had the machine assembled it was time to install the operating system. We downloaded Debian GNU/Linux and my 6 year old son took care of installing it with a bit of assistance from my side.

And here’s the final result with my kids playing games on a modern Commodore 64 computer.

Next thing we will do is to get VICE installed, so we can enjoy some 8-bit magic.