The Zeta is a minimal Z80 toggle-switch computer. It has a Zilog Z80 microprocessor, 256 bytes of RAM and the only interface is the front panel which directly sets and reads the address and data buses.
There is a video of it executing Euclidâs algorithm:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0GmY_UrbXnA
At the moment, there is only one real source file in this repository, an Inkscape-produced SVG which contains the stripboard layout and lasercut paths along with the image for the box top. In the future Iâll try to add a KiCad circuit diagram. This file doesnât preview well in github because there are some very thin and zero-width lines â turn on outline mode (View -> Display mode -> Outline) in Inkscape to view it.
Note that this isnât a foolproof guide to building a replica â there are several parts not recorded yet, such as where to cut the track on the stripboard, and some extra components for the voltage regulators.
There are some errata in the current source â please see the issues section for details.
Why is your circuit diagram in SVG?
Because of the number of DIP chips in this project, it suits stripboard well, and I havenât found a good program for designing stripboard layouts yet. Fritzing supports small stripboard, but has performance problems when you use a layout as big as this one.
How does it work?
The Z80 has two pins called !BUSREQ and !BUSACK. !BUSREQ is an input, normally high (5V), which means the Z80 is in control of the address and data buses, except when RD is high which means the RAM chip can control the data bus. The âFront Panel/Processorâ switch on the front panel pulls !BUSREQ to 0V when âFront Panelâ is selected. After a few clock cycles, the Z80 will then drop the output !BUSACK. This is connected to the output enable pins of the two input buffers (the SN74LVC245AN chips). The switch positions are then driven onto the buses, and you can enter data into the RAM using the write button.
For more detail: The Zeta minimal Z80 toggle-switch computer
About The Author
Ibrar Ayyub
I am an experienced technical writer holding a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan, Pakistan University. With a background spanning various industries, particularly in home automation and engineering, I have honed my skills in crafting clear and concise content. Proficient in leveraging infographics and diagrams, I strive to simplify complex concepts for readers. My strength lies in thorough research and presenting information in a structured and logical format.
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