We often encounter 16-bit retrocomputers, particularly those using Intel-based chips like the 8086 and 8088. While they may not pack the horsepower of modern devices, they were robust in their day. A notable project that brings these machines to life with a Linux-like experience is ELKS (Embeddedable Linux Kernel Subset).
The system’s hardware requirements are surprisingly lightweight. You can run ELKS with as little as 256K of RAM, and if you’re using ROM, you can get by with just 128K. The clever design allows it to function without a memory management unit (MMU), enabling users to remap memory without the complexities severe for other operating systems.
ELKS has seen several updates recently, enhancing both its runtime and build systems. Now, it can be built using Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) or the Open Watcom C compiler. New features include compressed executables and a caching system, while performance has been improved by removing long division from the kernel and standard library.
If you’d like to give ELKS a try, you can boot the system in an emulator directly from your web browser. Just log in as "root," and you’ll have access to several capabilities, including playing classic games like Adventure or Doom.
ELKS has appeared in a variety of unexpected contexts, showcasing the versatility and retro appeal of 16-bit computing. For those who are nostalgic about older technology, ELKS is certainly worth exploring.
For more information, you can check out the ELKS GitHub repository. You can also try the emulator here.
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