IO: The Cardboard Computer

Today, adding computing power to a project is extremely easy and inexpensive. Arduino-based dev boards are available for a few dollars, or individual chips can be had for even less. What if, however, you wanted to build a computer out of junk that uses no integrated circuits?

This is exactly what Mark Nesselhaus, aka Dr. Cockroach, has attempted with his cardboard computer, known as “IO,” or “Inside Out.” The project uses an incredible 230 switching diodes, as well as 95 PNP transistors, 130 NPN transistors, and a single 555 chip to regulate the device’s timing. Instruction modules are made out of cardboard, which hold the needed components together with solder and brads.

As for why a cardboard computer, Nesselhaus reports that, “The cardboard is free as my workplace puts it in the dumpster and I do not have the funds to buy better material.” The computer runs at a 3Hz clock speed to begin with, which is infinitesimally slow compared to modern computers in the GHz range, but this computer is literally built by hand, and as seen in the video below can even control a servo-driven output.

The goal eventually is to turn this into a multi-servo device, perhaps as an arm or X/Y plotter. Its an incredible accomplishment as is, and robotic control would take things to a whole new level!