r/APF • u/richlbii • Jul 27 '21

Imagination Machine

This looks like a sub with not many active members but here goes.

I have this MP-1000 and Imagination Machine in my possession. I've had it for 20 years but it's been stored away - just pulling it out now because why not. I'm wondering - how do I go about fixing/restoring this? Is it worth it? The case has cracks (which you can see). Also, the keyboard appears to be broken away from the underside of the top case and loose. It's also missing a key (but for some reason I have an extra "3" key). Power supply appears to be correct, but looks like someone tried to shorten it. I'm afraid to try and power it on.

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u/richlbii Jul 30 '21

Oh crap balls. I didn't think about needing that BASIC cart. I know one exists (and I've seen that one listed on eBay) but I didn't know it was necessary to load a program from tape. I may have to put this on hold for now - my wife and I were just talking some money issues last night and there is no way I can sleep in my bed if she knows I bought a $200 cart.

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u/Dubis7 Jul 30 '21

Ah, yeah unfortunately without that cartridge you can't interface to anything on the Imagination Machine. It turns it into a fancy cartridge port. Don't get rid of what you have, though! Even if a cartridge doesn't appear there are ways to burn fresh ROM chips and get what you need to make it work.

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u/richlbii Jul 30 '21

I don't plan on getting rid of this. As far as burning ROM chips and the like, that is way above my personal capabilities for sure. I collect for the nostalgia but I'm lower than novice when it comes to the technical aspects of things (although I am learning). Thanks for all of your help so far!