The N8VEM Single Board Computer (SBC) is a home brew Z80 small computer project. It is made in the style of vintage computers of the mid to late 1970's and early 1980's using a mix of classic and modern technologies.
Low cost development and assembly by hobbyist amateurs is encouraged by using common tools such as 25 watt soldering iron, VOM, logic probe (optional), and common hand tools. An oscilloscope is recommended but not required. Some basic electronic skills are good but the PCB is designed for relative beginners.
Designed with the free KiCad EDA toolset. PCB routing provided by FreeRouting.net All software is developed in Z80/8085 assembler using the following toolset for MSDOS called Telemark Cross Assembler (a.k.a. TASM) A major design goal is to use freely available tools to the maximum extent possible. You can help out too! See the help wanted section below. The PCB design is supplemented using component libraries available here KiCad Libraries, specifically the Zilog Z80 CPU and Intel 8255 PPI chips.
Design principles include using low cost commonly available standard TTL DIP components such as 74LSxxx using 0.1" spaced through hole technology. Design avoids usage of advanced PCB construction techniques such as SMT and custom and/or hard to obtain components. Also avoids usage of programmable devices such as PALs, GALs, CPLDs, and FPGAs except for standard EPROM components.
The computer is designed to be a low cost Single Board Computer with simple IO. The current design supports a UART for serial IO and PPI for parallel IO. Includes RTC for time keeping with battery back up and a small amount of NVRAM storage. While low cost is a key goal, the SBC is also designed to be a component in a larger bus based system. The SBC includes an ECB connector.
Detailed Design Information:
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