Skip to content
Back to projects
hardware

Zed-80

Custom Z80-based 8-bit microcomputer with full KiCAD schematics and an EEPROM-programmer Arduino shield.

CPU
Zilog Z80
Design tool
KiCAD
Extras
EEPROM-programmer Arduino shield
  • Z80
  • KiCad
  • Arduino
  • UART
Repository

Drag to rotate, scroll to zoom

  • Designed the memory map, address decoding logic, and UART peripheral interfacing
  • Companion EEPROM-programmer Arduino shield handles flashing the system ROM

A custom 8-bit microcomputer built around the Zilog Z80 CPU designed to run Microsoft BASIC.

Full schematics were done in KiCad including the memory map, address decoding logic, and UART peripheral interfacing through a USB-to-UART bridge. Alongside the computer itself, an EEPROM-programmer Arduino shield based on TommyPROM handles flashing the ROM.

The current version sadly does not work due to an unknown issue. It is most likely either a small wiring issue with the CH340 USB-to-UART IC or a faulty old IC. However, the programmer is fully functional and works well.