Soviet Computers

FRANK supports multiple Soviet computer firmware. Each firmware has its own set of features and capabilities. You can choose the firmware that best suits your needs and preferences.

emu80

The emulator supports PC Radio-86RK, Apogey, Partner, Mikrosha, Elektronika KR-04, Specialist, Eureka, Specialist-MX, Orion, Mikrosha, PC-8000, Vector, Lvov, Corvette, and some of their modifications.

BK-0011M

The Elektronika BK-0011M was a 16-bit Soviet home computer released in 1990 as an improved version of the BK-0011, designed and manufactured by NPO Scientific Center under the Elektronika brand. Built around the К1801ВМ1 microprocessor (a Soviet clone of the DEC PDP-11) running at 4 MHz, it featured 128 kilobytes of RAM and was capable of displaying graphics in either 512×256 monochrome or 256×256 with 4 colors from selectable palettes. Unlike its predecessor, the BK-0011M restored full compatibility with the earlier BK-0010 series while adding a built-in floppy disk controller. The computer included a simple internal beeper for sound output, with many users later adding the more capable AY-3-8910 sound chip as an aftermarket enhancement. Despite its relatively high cost of 600-650 Soviet Rubles (equivalent to 3-3.5 times a monthly engineer’s salary), it became one of the most popular home computers in the Soviet Union. The BK-0011M remained in active use well into the late 1990s, particularly popular in educational settings and among the demoscene community, who appreciated its powerful CPU despite its limited graphics capabilities.