MicroBeast Is an 8-Bit Computer Kit with Unique Display You Can Solder Together Yourself
Plus CP/M in the ROM and there is an emulator too!
Building an eight-bit computer is a fun way to understand digital design. However, many kits rely on overkill components like modern Arm-based processors emulating old hardware or discontinued chips. However, neither of those conditions applies to Andy Toone's eight-bit MicroBeast Computer Kit. This Z80-based computer uses readily available parts with a built-in keyboard, unique display, and ample I/O options.
Once assembled, MicroBeast is a self-contained computer measuring 235 by 160 by 35 millimeters. It includes the digital electronics, a 47-key keyboard, and a unique 24-character display with 14-segment elements. One of Toone's design goals was to pick only currently-manufactured and available components.
The Z80 CPU runs 8 MHz with 512 kilobytes of RAM and 512 kilobytes of Flash ROM. The ROM contains the CP/M operating system and a monitor. In early home computers, monitors were utilities built into the ROM to enable users to read and modify memory, among other low-level activities.
Several I/O options are available. The CPU connects to a Z80 Parallel I/O (PIO) chip. The PIO is an interrupt-driven I/O controller with two 8-bit ports. MicroBeast provides 12 GPIO pins through the PIO and a software-driven I2C interface primarily for the display and a battery-backed real-time clock.
A 16550 universal asynchronous receiver transmitter (UART) provides serial communication. The chip connects to an FTDI-style header and the USB-C interface via a CP2102N converter.
The serial signals are also available on the RC2014-compatible expansion header. This module/header section provides expansion cards with direct access to the Z80 CPU's bus.
Power for MicroBeast can come from either USB-C or an auxiliary barrel jack.
To help determine if this computer is a good fit for you, Toone has also been working on a MicroBeast emulator called BeastEm. Like the computer kit, the emulator is a work in progress but offers core functionality today.
A limited number of MicroBeast kits are available for pre-order. Since Toone is hand assembling the kits on a first-come, first-served basis, the estimated lead time is two weeks. Prices are available in regional currency and are currently $240 (£190/€220).