Back to home
Technology

Retro computing enthusiast creates perforated tape reader designed 'from scratch' — reads data at about 50 bytes per second

Source

Tom's Hardware

Published

TL;DR

AI Generated

A retro computing enthusiast has developed a perforated tape reader called the Putapre, designed from scratch with modern components for faster data reading at around 50 bytes per second. Inspired by vintage computing technology, the device uses an optical sensor and microcontroller for data transfer. The project details, including hardware and software decisions, are shared on Skyriver's blog, with a focus on adjusting LED strength and sensor configuration. Future plans include creating a device to generate punched tapes, adding a playful element to the project.

Read Full Article

Similar Articles

Slimline Commodore 64C Ultimate Edition computers go up for pre-order — firm reintroduces the C64’s sleeker 1986-1994 styling across the range

Slimline Commodore 64C Ultimate Edition computers go up for pre-order — firm reintroduces the C64’s sleeker 1986-1994 styling across the range

Commodore is reintroducing the C64C Ultimate Edition computers, featuring the sleeker 1986-1994 design, available for pre-order starting at $299. The new C64C models will be made using original injection molds and tooling from the 1980s. These machines will offer the same high-performance recreation of the original Commodore 64 using FPGA technology. Additionally, different editions like BASIC Beige, Starlight, and Founder's Edition will be available for pre-order, with shipping expected to begin in late 2026. Commodore hints at more retro tech initiatives to come in 2026.

Tom's Hardware
Legendary ZSNES Nintendo emulator rewritten from scratch with GPU-acceleration, no vibe coding — new Super ZSNES has ‘far more accurate CPU and audio cores than the original’

Legendary ZSNES Nintendo emulator rewritten from scratch with GPU-acceleration, no vibe coding — new Super ZSNES has ‘far more accurate CPU and audio cores than the original’

The legendary ZSNES Nintendo emulator has been completely rewritten with GPU acceleration, resulting in the new Super ZSNES. This reboot, created by zsKnight and Demo, offers more accurate CPU and audio cores than the original version. The emulator now utilizes a GPU-powered PPU core and features a Super Enhancement Engine for improved performance. Despite being in its early stages with bugs to be fixed, Super ZSNES is available for Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android, with an iOS release on the way.

Tom's Hardware
Turtle Beach's new mouse has a 2.25-inch touchscreen and hotswap batteries that last 15 hours apiece — 'MC7' costs $160, part of company's new Command Series peripheral lineup

Turtle Beach's new mouse has a 2.25-inch touchscreen and hotswap batteries that last 15 hours apiece — 'MC7' costs $160, part of company's new Command Series peripheral lineup

Turtle Beach has unveiled its new Command Series peripherals, including the flagship MC7 mouse with a 2.25-inch touchscreen, hotswap batteries lasting 15 hours each, and a $160 price tag. The mouse features a 30,000 DPI sensor, optical switches, and customizable buttons, along with OBS and Streamlabs compatibility. Additionally, there are more affordable options like the MC5 and MC3 with varying features. The company also introduced new keyboards, such as the KB7 with a 4.3-inch touchscreen, hall-effect switches, and a $200 price tag. The peripherals are available for pre-order on Turtle Beach's website.

Tom's Hardware
Steam Controller leaked review points to $99 MSRP — more expensive than PS5 and Xbox controllers and Nintendo Joy-Cons

Steam Controller leaked review points to $99 MSRP — more expensive than PS5 and Xbox controllers and Nintendo Joy-Cons

A leaked review of the Steam Controller revealed a $99 price tag, making it more expensive than controllers for PS5, Xbox, and Nintendo. The controller features dual trackpads, which the reviewer highlighted as a standout feature. Valve announced the Steam Controller alongside other hardware in late 2025, but due to the chip crisis, the release has been delayed to the first half of 2026. Despite its higher price, the Steam Controller's unique features, like dual touchpads, make it a compelling option for PC gaming. Valve has yet to announce an official release date for its new hardware lineup.

Tom's Hardware

We use cookies

We use cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. For more information on how we use cookies, please see our cookie policy.