MPC: My Personal Computer

Today’s “personal computers” are anything but personal. Though we use them every day, their inner workings are hidden and too complex.

This is a computer you can actually see, learn from, and connect with. It’s not just a tool, but a truly personal machine built with care and artistic intent. M-PC is also an electronical, living body; a machine with health. Designed and crafted to be transparent and interactive.
Strijp-S
Sustainability
This project is part of
Art Tech Fun AI Robots Manifestations
B14
VEEM floor 8 - home of Manifestations
Torenallee 100
5617BE

Entrance fee

Free access

By

Marijn Brussel

Hosted by

Manifestations, Art & Technology
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Opening hours

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Tactile
Tactile
Wheelchair Friendly Fully wheelchair accessible

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Architecture

The M-PC architecture is made up of physical modules (circuit boards), each with its own function. Each module has input port(s) at the top and output port(s) and the bottom. These modules can be connected together to make your own “computer”, personalized to your needs. There is an online simulator available too.

Sustainability

All the electronics components were manufactured in the 70/80's, and are reused/repurposed this way. Compared to modern microcontrollers, this saves a lot of energy and resources, as these old components are still abundant and usually thrown away. Not only are they still very useful on a smaller scale, but also very beautiful. Hand-drawn diagrams, schematics and circuit boards were the norm in the 70/80's, allowing for creative expression and a human touch like curved copper lines.

Language

The shapes are inspired by the inside of 80's logic chips. They reveal a silicone structure, which is still the basis for modern technology, albeit on a much smaller scale. There is no programming required (everything is analog-esque), and I developed a custom set of symbols that can be used to read the state of the machine.

Installation.
Installation.
Marijn Brussel
Input switches panel.
Input switches panel.
Marijn Brussel
Output panel.
Output panel.
Marijn Brussel

Colofon

Designer & Maker
Marijn Brussel

Partners

Sponsored by MPC: My Personal Computer
Sponsored by MPC: My Personal Computer
Sponsored by MPC: My Personal Computer
Sponsored by MPC: My Personal Computer

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