Homemade computer

Blake built his own computer completely from scratch – the Z80 Microcomputer!
“This is an actual computer, built completely from scratch. I began the project in the spring of 2006, while I was taking a course on microcomputers. My Z80 system will remain a work in progress as long as I can think of new things to add to it.

The current specs are:

• 2MHz 8 bit Zilog Z80 processor
• 56 KB static RAM (7 x 8k x 8)
• 8 KB EEPROM
• 1 Mb Flash Memory “hard drive”
• Interrupt controller with 8 interrupt levels
• 20 character x 2 line backlit LCD with contrast control
• RS232 serial port
• 2 programmable timers
• Programmable beeper
• 8X DIP switch and 8X LED’s for general purpose I/O
• Strobe button for clocked input from the DIP switches
• Parallel port programming interface with parity

I am often asked “what does it do” when I show this to someone. The answer I always give is, “Whatever I program it to.” “

Source and schematic included – Link & other electronic projects from Blake.

From the pages of MAKE:

• My First Computer, by Gareth Palidwor – Remembering how my dad built an Apple II from scratch. Subscribers–read this article now in your digital edition!