My Experience with the Tatung Einstein

By Tony Ellis, Vintage Computer Enthusiast

I first trained as a computer technician in 1986, at a time when the BBC Micro was the standard in schools. During my training, I learned to repair various machines, including the BBC Model B, B+, and BBC Master. So, when I first encountered the Tatung Einstein, it immediately felt familiar. Its solid case and large form factor gave the impression of a high-quality, well-built machine.

Servicing the Einstein

After a conversation with a friend, I was given the opportunity to help repair several Einstein systems. Removing the covers was a simple, straightforward process, and I was delighted to find a large, well-laid-out PCB filled with off-the-shelf components. There were no obscure, custom parts specific to the TC01, which made repairs refreshingly straightforward.

The PCBs themselves are of good quality, and IC removal can be done easily without worrying about lifted tracks. The service manual includes full schematics, and the circuits are clear and logical. Armed with just a soldering iron, a budget oscilloscope, a multimeter, and a diagnostic ROM I found online, I managed to repair the entire batch.

Most of the faults were DRAM failures—something quite expected for machines of this age. My first step with any non-booting system is to remove and test all the RAM, fitting sockets as I go. Among other issues, I found one dead Z80 processor and a few failed 74-series logic chips.

Power Supply

The PSU is also straightforward to repair. Housed in its own metal enclosure, it’s safe to work on the logic board while the system is powered. With appropriate safety precautions in mind, PSU repairs are relatively simple—especially with the available schematics.

In one case, I found the chopper transistor had failed. Fortunately, replacements are inexpensive and easy to find online. Once repaired, I recommend replacing all electrolytic capacitors as a precaution to ensure long-term reliability.

Upgrades and Enhancements

Beyond repair and recapping, one of the most worthwhile upgrades I can suggest is fitting a floppy disk emulator such as the Gotek. After completing the repairs, I had endless fun “testing” the system by playing the Einstein version of Chuckie Egg—purely for diagnostic purposes, of course!

Final Thoughts

In my opinion, the Tatung Einstein was an unfortunate missed opportunity. Its biggest drawback was the use of 3-inch disks instead of the more common 3.5-inch format.

After spending time with both the TC01 and the 256 models, I can’t help but feel that these machines never reached their full potential—especially the later 256. Hopefully, with renewed interest from enthusiasts and the efforts of people like Adam who are helping to spread the word, the Einstein might finally receive the recognition it deserves.