Description
The RC2014 Zed range of computers are Z80 based modular kit computers that are optimised to run RomWBW 3.6.0 software. The kit comprises of through-hole components that anybody with even basic soldering skills can assemble. At the heart of it is a Zilog Z80 CPU clocked at 7.3728MHz, 512k ROM, 512k RAM and115200 baud serial. RomWBW software provides a complete, commercial quality implementations of CP/M (and work-alike) operating systems and applications. RomWBW supports traditional hardware such as toggle switches/LEDs, floppy discs, hard discs, sound chips, LCD displays, VT100 terminals etc, as well as modern conveniences such as compact flash, USB storage, Micro SD and real time clocks. All RC2014 Expansion Modules plus many 3rd party “Designed for RC2014” modules will work with the RC2014 Zed range of computers.
RC2014 Zed II
The RC2014 Zed II includes an 8 slot backplane and the key 4 modules to support RomWBW 3.6.0; Z80 CPU, 512k ROM/512k RAM, Single-speed clock, single 16C550 UART serial modules. In addition you may wish to add storage, RTC, sound or VGA/Keyboard support for a stand alone machine.
Compact Flash Module – This module includes a 64Mb CF card with the RomWBW hd_combo image on it. Note that the surface mount CF socket is supplied pre-soldered to the PCB.
Micro SD Card Module – This module emulates the Compact Flash Module and allows cheaper and more ubiquitous Micro SD cards to be used with your RC2014. You will need to provide your own Micro SD card.
IDE Hard Drive Module – This has sockets for connecting a 3.5” (desktop) or 2.5” (laptop) IDE hard disc. Either original “spinning rust” drives can be used, or modern emulated ones. You will need to provide your own drive and cable.
CH375 USB Storage Module – This uses modern USB sticks for storage. You can mount the RomWBW hd_combo image on them and/or use a FAT32 partition (in conjunction with the FAT utility in RomWBW) to read files from a modern computer. You will need to provide your own USB stick.
DS1302 Real Time Clock Module – Whilst the original CP/M 2.2 did not support file time/date stamps, later incarnations like Z-System does. You can also read the time from within the operating system. Due to shipping restrictions, you will need to supply your own coin cell battery.
Digital I/O Module – 8 LEDs, 8 tactile switches. The ultimate way for your RC2014 to communicate with the real world! Easily controlled from BASIC, Z80 assembly, Forth etc. If set to operate on Port 0, it doubles as a RomWBW Front Panel. This can then set boot options and show drive status lights for file access.
Why Em-Ulator – This YM2149 (AY-3-8910) emulator allows easy programming of beeps and bloops from BASIC, Z80 assembly or Forth. The included Player utility can also play .pt3 chip tunes from all of your favourite games.
RP2040 VGA Terminal – If you wish to use your RC2014 as a stand alone machine you’ll need to connect it to a monitor and keyboard. This module does just that! The VT-100 serial output of the RC2014 is converted to VGA, and USB keyboard input is converting to serial.
USB CDC Adapter – Unless you are using an RP2040 VGA Serial Terminal or similar to operate your RC2014, you will need some way to connect it to your modern computer. The serial output is FTDI compatible, so you may well already have a suitable USB adapter to do this. If not, this USB-C adapter is just what you need. (You also need a USB-C cable.)
Why choose the RC2014 Zed II
The RC2014 Zed II is the evolution of the RC2014 Zed, and is the most capable and expandable Z80 based kit available, with support for the widest range of hardware. The RC2014 Zed Pro II offers all of the benefits of the Zed II, but with a dual speed dual clock, dual UART and 12 slot Enhanced Bus backplane. Alternatively, the other RC2014 kits get closer to the hardware, with the RC2014 Orton 3C being as low level as you can get.
Buying everything as a kit will work out cheaper, however, all of the modules and backplanes are available individually. So if you are looking to make a totally custom build, or expand an existing kit, please check out the Core Modules and Expansion Modules.
What is included
The RC2014 Zed II kit includes PCBs, sockets, headers, ICs, pre-programmed ROM, passive components and a USB power lead.
It is assumed that you have your own soldering equipment (basic tools are sufficient), and have at least beginner’s experience.
You will need to supply your own USB power adapter (500ma or higher). For connecting to a modern PC/laptop you will also need an FTDI compatible cable.
Further considerations
RomWBW has support for a Front Panel. This allows pre-selecting boot options, drive status lights, and also an LCD screen. These are not required, but if mounting your RC2014 in a Blue Box enclosure, really gives that period professional feel.
