Overview
Zeal 8-bit Computer is presented as a motherboard of size 15x10cm (5.91x3.94 in), containing integrated circuits in both Dual-Inline Package, or DIP, and Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier, or PLCC, format, with sockets. This makes them easy to pull in and out of the computer.
The computer also contains three connectors, the User Port, Extension port and Video Card connector, that are used to connect external boards or components to bring more features or capabilities to the system. These ports are all using the standard and well-known 2.54mm female sockets.
Some 2.54mm jumpers are also present on the motherboard. They let the user choose between configurations, they shall be properly set before powering it on. More about them later.
The following picture names the components and parts that are present on the board:
- Zilog Z80 CPU
- Zilog Z80 PIO
- Two register files for the Memory Management Unit
- Octal buffer for the Memory Management Unit
- Programmable Logic Device acting as the Logic Glue
- 256KB NOR Flash acting as the ROM
- 512KB RAM
- Two 8-bit shifters used to decode the PS/2 Keyboard protocol
- Connector for the PS/2 Keyboard
- 10MHz active oscillator, main clock of the system
- 50-pin extension port
- 16-pin user port
- 40-pin video card connector
- I²C EEPROM
- I²C RTC
- Internal I²C connector
- Open-drain octal buffer used for I²C and blank video signals
- Reset switch
- Reset supervisory circuit
- 1A fuse
- Power switch
- USB-C power supply
- Power LED
- Battery for the I²C RTC
📝 Note
Components name marked on the Printed Board Circuit, or PCB, are here for reference, they may not always match the actual component that is plugged in. Before replacing or plugging any component, please refer to its datasheet and check whether it is compatible with the original one.