Task: Build a New Amiga 1200 Computer with Modern Parts Using the a1200 NG Emulation Board
Needed: AmigaKit a1200 NG Emulation Board, Case, Keyboard
Time: 30-60 minutes
Disclosure: Note that as an eBay Partner Network Affiliate, I may earn from qualifying purchases
Introduction
I have previously posted about the AmigaKit a600 GS that emulates an Amiga computer using a modern Orange Pi. This is a nice standalone emulation solution because it has a small footprint. However, AmigaKit also offers the a1200 NG which has motherboard designed to fit into an Amiga 1200 case with the standard connectors and the ability to use an Amiga keyboard. I purchased an a1200 NG along with my a600 GS at VCF West in 2025 and have finally gotten around to assembling it in a newly made Amiga 1200 case with a newly made keyboard. This is a really nice option for the full-sized Amiga 1200 experience with all new hardware.
The feature list for the a1200 NG is extensive. Briefly, it runs original 68k software and games (OCS, ECS, AGA) through an intuitive launcher, outputs 1080p HDMI video, and connects wirelessly for updates. A nice feature is its 34-pin floppy header, which lets you read and write real 880 KB Amiga floppy disks through an external disk drive or drive emulator such as a Gotek. It also supports classic 9-pin Atari-style joysticks, Bluetooth audio, and external USB devices such as mice, MIDI interfaces, and flash drives.
Instructions
The first step is to purchase the a1200 NG from AmigaKit. The base package will set you back about $270 before taxes, tariffs, and shipping.
The second step is to purchase a new (or used) case for the a1200. I went with the Asahi blue case from a1200.net. I bought mine from RetroPassionUK on eBay. They seem to sell for $100 to $150 without a keyboard. Several colors are available including retro white.
The third step is to buy a new (or used) keyboard. There are several sources for these, and they usually run around $200 to $250 or more. Here is one from AmigaStore.eu. Amiga on the Lake is a U.S. seller that has these in stock for about $260. You can also find these on eBay. I bought mine at VCF Midwest in Chicago in 2025 from a U.S. seller who had several prototypes. I have lost his business card and can’t recall his name (sorry!).
The fourth step is to assemble the parts. This is pretty easy. The a1200 NG fits neatly into the Amiga 1200 case. Simply screw it in. Next, install the keyboard by lifting the keyboard connector on the board and inserting the keyboard ribbon gently. Once inserted slide the top piece down to hold it on. Then install the top of the case and screw it together. The only confusing thing for me was the HDMI connector that came with the a1200 NG. My case did not come with a back trapdoor piece for the HDMI (see below). I will need to find an STL and 3D print one or find one for sale.
Finally, follow the instructions that come with the a1200 NG to get the software and OS up and running. Here is a PDF of the a1200 NG manual.
Comments
This was a pretty easy project. My only frustration was the mounting of the HDMI port. Also, my a1200 NG kit was missing a hex screw for holding the mouse connector to the baseplate. I really like having a fully modern Amiga 1200 to complement the original I purchase recently. I look forward to playing with it more.
Here is a nice build with lots of details including loading games onto the a1200 NG.