MicroBeast is A Z80-Based DIY 8-Bit Computer Kit

MicroBeast is an eight-bit, Z80-based DIY computer kit built using readily available components. The device features a built-in keyboard, a unique 24-character display,  USB-C for power, and various I/O options. Additionally, it integrates the CP/M operating system, which allows users to experience building and operating a retro-style computer using currently available components.

As an embedded engineer we all have worked with 8-bit computers, like Arduino, PIC, and many other controllers and processors. but most of those processors are overkill and include a lot of features that we often don’t use, but that is not the case for Andy Toone’s eight-bit MicroBeast Computer Kit.

The Z80 chipset is a famous microprocessor developed by Zilog in the late 1970s. It was a well-known CPU used in early computers, gadgets, and embedded computers. It was more advanced than similar chips of its time and played a big role in the early days of personal computers.

The Z80 CPU operates at 8 MHz and has 512 KB of RAM and 512 KB of Flash ROM. This ROM contains the CP/M operating system and a built-in monitor utility for managing low-level tasks. For I/O, it features a Z80 Parallel I/O (PIO) chip with two 8-bit ports, 12 GPIO pins, and a software-driven I2C interface, which is primarily used for the display and a real-time clock.

The MicroBeast includes a 16550 UART for serial communication, connecting to both an FTDI-style header and a USB-C interface via a CP2102N converter. Additionally, it features an RC2014-compatible expansion header, allowing expansion cards to directly access the Z80 CPU’s bus.

MicroBeast can be powered via USB-C or an auxiliary barrel jack. Additionally, there’s a work-in-progress emulator, BeastEm, which mirrors the MicroBeast’s core functionality, helping users evaluate the computer kit.

Features and Specifications of MicroBeast 8-Bit Computer Kit

• CPU: Z80 CPU, 8-10MHz.
• Memory: 512K RAM, 512K Flash ROM.
• Display: Unique 24-character, 14-segment display & virtual console.
• Keyboard: Integrated 47-key keyboard.
• Power: USB-C for power and data; auxiliary barrel jack also available.
• Operating System: Running CP/M 2.2.
• I/O Options:
  • GPIO Header with 12 I/O pins.
  • FTDI port.
  • Speaker output.
  • I2C Header for controlling I2C devices.
  • RC2014 compatible expansion bus.
• Connectivity: USB-C for power and serial communication; built-in serial to USB adapter.
• Assembly: Comes with all components; PCB with surface mount parts pre-assembled; includes schematics and assembly guide. Requires basic soldering equipment and skills.
• Additional Features:
  • Battery-backed real-time clock.
  • Laser-cut keyboard frame.
  • Kit is designed for expansion, customization, and hacking with full access to the CPU bus.
• Resources and Support:
  • Online wiki for documentation.
  • BeastEm Emulator for software development and debugging.
  • GitHub for source code and examples.
  • Discord channel for community support.

The MicroBeast kit can be pre-ordered on feertech.com, offered on a first-come, first-served basis with an estimated lead time of two weeks. It is priced at $240, with regional equivalents being £190 and €220.

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