This is a one in all board (SBC) containing a Z180 CPU and with 512 RAM and 512k ROM (flash) running CP/M 2.2 and with two serial connectors.

What makes this product special?

It is a self-contained unit (module) which can run CP/M without any extras. The C180 CPU is basically a Z80 processor with added functionality like memory management (DMA) addressing up to 1MB of memory, a clock-timer-counter (CTC) and a dual serial interface (SIOs). The CPU is clocked at 18,432Mhz but can be doubled by changing internal registers (requires a newer processor version). The 512K RAM and ROM are fully accessible thanks to the DMA. Using a flash ROM enables writing to the ROM using special software (not tested).

Versatility

The module can be run with ROMWBW (Wayne Warthen) or SCM (Steve Cousins) as bootloaders giving access to many systems and applications, making this a very versatile module compared to other modules. The module is compatible with many modules and backplanes in the RC2014 ecosystem.

Requirements

For interaction, an FTDI to USB adapter is required (alternative FTDI to RS232), communicating at 385000/8/N/1. By reprogramming the ROM, other communication setups can be used. If used as an SBC, a reset circuit needs to be added (a push-button + 1k ohm resistor). Not required but recommended is a backplane with either 40 or 80 pin headers, and a storage module.

Recommended setup

• Z180 Micro
• Storage module using Compact Flash cards
• SC112 Modular Backplane Kit
• Serial interface (USB-FTDI and cables)

Content

The kit contains all parts to make a functional module. (PCB, sockets, integrated circuits, resistors, capacitors, headers, and jumpers). You only need to solder it together.

Assembly

This kit is not for the beginner but should be fairly easy to assemble for some with little experience with this type of kit. It is important to use a thin soldering wire and soldering tip for the fine soldering, especially with the PLCC sockets. Estimated assembly time is 1-2 hours. Many parts have to be mounted in the correct orientation, namely the chips, clock, and resistor networks, but this is pointed out in the assembly instruction.

ASSEMBLY GUIDE

You find more information about this and other modules on my homepage www.z80.no.

Notes

• This is a hobby electronic kit and only intended for educational and hobby use.
• The kit is provided as parts and is not assembled, some parts may be new old stock or recycled parts since they may be out of production.
• ROMWBW is copyright Wayne Warthen (https://github.com/wwarthen/RomWBW)
• SCM is copyright Steve Cousins (https://smallcomputercentral.wordpress.com)
• RC2014 is a trademark of RFC2795 Ltd (www.rc2014.co.uk).