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by mysterydip 3419 days ago
I've been wanting to do a project like this for a while. Specifically, wanting to write a basic program to visualize ALDL data from my 88 fiero on an 8 or 16 bit homebrew mini system, for extra retro goodness. Ideally I want a keyboard and serial port, a vga out, and a spot for a cf or sd card. Maybe running cp/m or similar. I've looked at rc2014 and similar and even some fpga options, but haven't settled on the right starting point yet. Ideas?
3 comments
XtalJ 3419 days ago
The easiest way is probably to buy an old computer from the eighties, but they can be very expensive :0 I don't know much about other homebrew computers, but mine (Calculon/80) could probably be expanded with those things. I haven't tested the expansion port yet, but I will when have some time :-) Also, if it does not have to be using the Z80 CPU, I would recommend the Motorola 68000 CPU, which I will use in my next project.
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mysterydip 3419 days ago
I'll check out the 68000 stuff. I've mostly been looking at z80 and 6502 at this point, so maybe that's the key to a wider world.

I enjoyed reading about the Calculon/80 and look forward to seeing your next project.

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XtalJ 3419 days ago
Thank you :-)

I think that the 68k will be more fun to write OS and other software for as it is 32-bit, has memory protection, and can run UNIX :-)

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Gracana 3419 days ago
You might like the zeta 2 SBC. It's small and easy to build, and if you combine it with the ParPortProp board, it has all the features you mentioned. It runs CP/M, so you can run your editor, compiler, assembler, etc onboard.
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mysterydip 3419 days ago
And down another rabbit hole I go :) looks interesting, I'll definitely research more, thanks!
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jhbruhn 3419 days ago
I just started doing something myself. [0] RC2014 is a solid base, but doing the hardware yourself adds even more fun. I am currently waiting for my PCBs and then will start to assemble and program the thing.

[0] https://github.com/jhbruhn/CPD-80

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mysterydip 3419 days ago
I really like how the RC2014 is laid out. Maybe from a "walk before I run" standpoint I should build one for the experience then make my own expansions cards from there.
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