Year 2014

uClinux penguin logo

Building uClinux for a 68000 Target

Compiling the Linux kernel is fun! uClinux is a version of regular desktop Linux that’s designed for low-end embedded hardware, especially CPU’s that lack a memory management unit and can’t support virtual memory. It looks like a good fit for…

BASIC running on the 68K breadboard computer

Breadboarding the 68K

My 68K breadboard computer is alive! It’s always a thrill when a pile of random chips does something recognizably computer-ish for the first time. Blinking some LEDs in sequence is great; running BASIC is super extra great. I’m excited. This…

Scope trace of a bouncing reset signal

Reset Debouncing Gives Me Ulcers

Who knew that getting a decent /RESET signal could be so difficult? I’ve been working on a scaled-down breadboard version of my 68000 system design. It mostly works so far, running a simple program that echoes serial port bytes. (More…

Clear acrylic Floppy Emu case

Floppy Emu Cases are Here!

Custom-made cases for Floppy Emu are finally here, and available for sale now on the Floppy Emu home page! These laser-cut enclosures will keep your board protected in style. The clear acrylic universal case is $17, and fits all models…

LM317 voltage regulator

Overheating a Voltage Regulator

How much current can a typical linear voltage regulator provide, like an LM317? The datasheet says 1.5 amps, which should be plenty for most hobbyist breadboard projects – or so I thought. Years ago I bought a little LM317-based power…

68008 free-run test on a breadboard

68K Free Run

Some small progress on the 68K single board computer: I have a 68008 working in “free run” mode on a breadboard. Free run isn’t really a processor mode, it’s just what happens when you connect all the CPU data lines…

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