Why it matters: If you’re a fan of vintage computing and miss those iconic startup sounds from classic PCs, there’s a neat new accessory that can bring back that nostalgic feeling. A specialized M.2 adapter lets you recreate the Japanese NEC PC-9800 series system’s legendary startup chime on modern desktops and laptops.
The adapter is the brainchild of the hardware group Project C, as reported by Japanese publication GDM.Co. It takes the form of a simple M.2 card that slots into an available M.2 slot on your motherboard – either a storage slot (M.2 Key B/M version) or a WLAN slot (M.2 Key A/E version). The B/M version supports M.2 2242/2260/2280 lengths and can be cut to fit 2230. Both models retail for around $18, although you’ll likely end up spending significantly more on shipping and import fees.
The NEC PC-9800 series, launched with the PC-9801 in 1982, is a lineup of Japanese 16-bit and 32-bit personal computers manufactured by NEC from 1982 to 2000 for businesses. While based on x86 architecture for MS-DOS compatibility, it stood out with color graphics, a distinctive startup sound, and premium build quality. The series quickly gained traction in Japanese offices, spawning portable models like the 1986 PC-98LT laptop. It was so successful that by 1999, over 18 million units had been sold.
This new M.2 adapter essentially resurrects that bleepy startup noise for nostalgic kicks. Once installed on a PCIe-equipped desktop or laptop, it taps into the bus reset signal to automatically play the chime when booting or restarting the system. A wheel even lets you tweak the length of the beep.
The design is plug and play without any soldering required. However, there are some potential compatibility hurdles. The adapter is slightly thicker than usual, measuring around 3mm versus the 2mm on most standard M.2 cards. That’s probably because of the built-in speaker. GDM also notes that due to space limitations, that speaker is pretty small and the volume is “low.”
For most modern desktops and many laptops, this could be the perfect novelty for reminding you of the good old days of Japanese home computing. The unique beeps and boops that once filled office cubicles across the country can now fire up your rig, giving a fun flair to your everyday startup routine.
You can purchase these cards from Japanese online shop Kadenken.
Image credit: GDM.Co
