What is this?

The rosco_m68k is a self-build Motorola 68k computer designed for experimentation, education, and hacking.
It is based on the Motorola 68010 CPU and provides a clean, approachable platform for low-level and retro computing work.

Overview

Featuring a 16/32-bit MC68010 processor running at 10 MHz, 1 MB RAM, 1 MB Flash ROM (with in-system programming), and advanced I/O via the on-board XR68C681 dual UART, the rosco_m68k is straightforward to assemble and enjoyable to work with.

With open-source serial firmware, an Easy68K-compatible I/O layer, and starter projects in both C and assembly, the board is ready to run your own code as soon as assembly is complete.

Ships with Firmware 2.4 and SD Card support.

Features

• MC68010 16/32-bit CPU @ 10 MHz
• 1 MB RAM
• 1 MB Flash ROM (in-system programmable)
• On-board dual UART (115200 bps standard)
• SD Card support (requires Arduino SD adapter, not supplied)
• Expansion connector supporting new and legacy (MC6800) peripherals
• Serial bootloader using the Kermit protocol
• Easy68K I/O compatibility layer in firmware
• Example programs and quick-start code
• Built-in support for Xosera retro video adapter (additional hardware required)

Who Is This For?

The rosco_m68k is designed to be approachable and forgiving to build.

• All through-hole components
• No special tools required beyond a standard soldering iron
• 4-layer PCB with generous spacing
• High-quality solder mask and tented vias to reduce soldering errors

This makes it suitable for: - Embedded and low-level developers
- Retro computing enthusiasts
- Students learning computer architecture
- Anyone interested in building and understanding a classic CPU-based system

What’s Included in This Kit

• rosco_m68k PCB
• Required electronic components for a standard build
• SPI MicroSD Card Adapter Module
• Assembly and bring-up documentation

The kit is prepared and supplied by Solder Demon, with attention to component quality and consistency.

What You’ll Also Need

Recommended: - USB-to-serial (FTDI) adapter
- USB-to-Dupont power lead
- Multimeter for debugging

Useful for development: - Logic analyser
- Breadboards and jumper wires
- Arduino or other MCU
- EEPROM programmer (only needed for custom ROM or glue logic work)

Software & Firmware

All hardware designs, firmware, and software for the rosco_m68k are fully open source.

You’ll find: - Standard firmware
- Example projects in C and 68k assembly
- Libraries for serial I/O, GPIO, and more

Development is typically done on macOS or Linux using a GCC-based m68k toolchain (Windows users can use a WSL). Programs are loaded via serial using the Kermit protocol.

The standard firmware includes an Easy68K-compatible I/O layer, allowing many Easy68K simulator programs to run on real hardware with little or no modification.

And if you prefer, you’re free to replace the firmware entirely with your own code for full control.

Open-Source Notice

The rosco_m68k is an open-source hardware project.
This kit is a third-party curated distribution supplied by Solder Demon, intended to make building and experimenting with the platform more accessible while respecting the original project and community.