Galaksija
DIY magazine computer
The 1983 Yugoslav computer whose complete schematics were published in a magazine, allowing hobbyists to build their own computers from available parts—the ultimate bedroom computing story.
The Galaksija was a Yugoslav home computer designed by Voja Antonić in 1983 and published as complete schematics in January 1984. Readers built their own computers from locally available parts—no manufacturer required. This represents the ultimate “bedroom computing” achievement.
Fast facts
- Designer: Voja Antonić
- Published: January 1984, price 200 dinars
- Where: Računari u vašoj kući (“Computers in Your Home”), a special edition of the popular-science magazine Galaksija
- CPU: Z80 @ 3.07 MHz
- RAM: 2-6 KB expandable
- Built: Estimated 8,000+ units
Specifications
| Component | Detail |
|---|---|
| CPU | Z80A @ 3.07 MHz |
| RAM | 2KB standard, 6KB expanded |
| ROM | 4KB (BASIC, monitor) |
| Display | RF to TV, 32×16 text |
| Keyboard | User-built membrane or mechanical |
| Storage | Cassette |
The Magazine Publication
| Element | Published |
|---|---|
| Schematics | Complete circuit diagrams |
| PCB layout | For etching |
| Parts list | All components |
| ROM contents | Hex dumps |
| Assembly guide | Step-by-step |
The publication was a campaign, not a one-off
The special edition presents the machine as the culmination of something already running: two years of popularising home computers in Galaksija, crowned by a concrete project readers could build. Its cover sells it plainly — za samogradnju kućnog kompjutera, for self-building a home computer — at 200 dinars, in January 1984.
The editorial is also clear that this was one person’s design rather than a committee’s or a company’s: Računar „Galaksija“ je projektovao jedan čovek, Voja Antonić.
The held scan is OCR-damaged Serbian, so the fragments above are quoted and the surrounding argument described rather than reproduced.
Why it worked
| Factor | Importance |
|---|---|
| Parts availability | Used common components |
| Minimal chip count | Fewer parts to source, and fewer to get wrong |
| Import restrictions | Couldn’t buy computers |
| Enthusiasm | Strong hobbyist culture |
| Magazine quality | Clear, accurate documentation |
Voja Antonić
The designer intended Galaksija as accessible computing for everyone. His philosophy: if you can’t buy a computer, build one. The design prioritised buildability over features.
Legacy
The Galaksija represents computing democracy at its purest—complete instructions published freely, built by individuals. It demonstrated that computing knowledge could spread without commercial channels and inspired a generation of Yugoslav engineers.