A Fully Functional Gaming PC Inside a Commodore PET 2001? Absolutely, It's Been Done!

Retro Reimagined: The PET Gets a Gaming Makeover

In a feat of technological alchemy that would make both retro enthusiasts and modern gamers do a double-take, one intrepid individual has resurrected the iconic Commodore PET 2001, transforming it into a fully capable gaming PC for the 21st century. This isn't just a cosmetic upgrade; this project integrates contemporary hardware within the unmistakable shell of a computing legend, with some original components still finding their purpose.

A Ghost in the Machine: Modern Internals, Vintage Soul

The mastermind behind this incredible build, Reddit user Kirkwood1994, has eschewed conventional PC towers for a much more evocative home. The Commodore PET 2001's original chassis now cradles a powerful modern PC. While the author notes that the PET's internal guts were already absent when acquired, paving the way for this ambitious undertaking, the integration of new hardware is a testament to ingenuity. Although the internal arrangement might not be perfectly pristine, it remains entirely hidden once the PET is assembled, preserving the vintage aesthetic.

The Tactile Triumph: A Keyboard Reborn

The undisputed star of this show is the original PET 2001 keyboard. Miraculously, it still functions, seamlessly integrated into the new gaming rig. As noted by Tom's Hardware, this tactile marvel is cleverly connected via a USB controller that, in turn, interfaces with the motherboard. It's a fascinating juxtaposition, considering that the PET's chiclet-style keyboard was once considered a notable drawback, a far cry from the beloved mechanical keyboards favored by today's retro connoisseurs, much like the cherished IBM Model M.

A Display of Vision: iPad Retina Meets PET

The visual centerpiece of this hybrid creation is a Retina LCD salvaged from an old iPad. This display is ingeniously connected through a dedicated controller board. The accompanying imagery reveals the PET running macOS, suggesting it doubles as a high-resolution external monitor. Inside this unassuming retro exterior, a robust set of components awaits: an 8th-generation Intel Core i5 processor, an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 graphics card, and a substantial 4TB WD Black solid-state drive. While the builder hasn't divulged exhaustive technical specifications, the visible components – an EVGA power supply, a Corsair AIO liquid cooler, Noctua fans, and an Asus motherboard – paint a clear picture of a potent system.

More Than a Museum Piece: A Functional Masterpiece

It's crucial to understand that this project isn't an exercise in historical preservation; it's a bold reimagining. The Commodore PET 2001 has transcended its status as a potential museum exhibit, emerging as a fully functional PC capable of tackling contemporary demands. While the internal hardware might not be the absolute bleeding edge, it represents a configuration that the creator enjoyed for years, with the 8th-gen Core i5 still offering ample power for many gaming and productivity tasks. This build is a brilliant fusion of nostalgia and performance, proving that the spirit of innovation knows no temporal bounds.