What is it?

RC2014 Micro is a simple 8 bit Z80 based single board computer. It is based on the modular RC2014 [0], but all on a single PCB. The RC2014 itself is inspired by the home computers of the late 70s and computer revolution of the early 80s. It is not a clone of anything specific, but there are suggestions of the ZX81, UK101, S100, Superboard II and Apple I in there.

Why did you make it?

The original RC2014 has been very popular with the homebrew computer crowd, but the modular nature of it does dictate a lot of soldering, an inefficient use of logic chips and a relatively large footprint. The RC2014 Micro requires much less soldering, has 4 less ICs and takes up the space of a standard RC2014 module

What makes it special?

• Z80 CPU
• 8k ROM with Microsoft BASIC and SCM Monitor ROM [1]
• 32k RAM
• 7.3728 Mhz
• 6 pin FTDI compatible header
• Connect over TTL serial at 115,200bps
• Standard RC2014 bus for use with many RC2014 compatible modules
• Compatible with Backplane8 and Backplane5 backplanes
• Power from FTDI cable

Which RC2014 Should I buy?

The RC2014 Micro, RC2014 Mini, the Full Monty Modular RC2014 and the individual modules will effectively give you the same computer at the end of the day. So, which one is best for you? The RC2014 Micro is designed as a low budget RC2014 Mini, and is aimed towards workshops, clubs and events. Both the Micro and Mini are very easy to build, although the Mini offers a bit more flexibility and the addition of a Pi Header makes adding a Pi Zero as a terminal a much easier option. If flexibility is what you are looking for, then the modular approach, with the Classic, or Pro is probably the way to go. For example, if you wish to run at a different clock speed, or upgrade the RAM, then this can be done simply by changing a module on the Classic Full Monty kit. The backplane and individual module approach has worked out better for people that want to design their own computer based loosely around the RC2014 framework, but with a different CPU for example.

If you simply want to build an RC2014 as easily as possible, plug it in and start programming in BASIC or Z80 assembly, then the Micro would certainly be an excellent way to go.

To keep prices (and the profile!) down, chip sockets, 40 pin expansion connector and 8 bank ROM selector jumpers are not included in the standard kit. These are not required to build and use the RC2014 Micro with BASIC or SCM, however, if you prefer to use sockets, want to expand it or run other images from the ROM, then an upgrade kit is available.

Substantial discounts are available for bulk purchase (see below), with each kit being individually packaged with a short Getting Started guide. If you are running a workshop, places can then be sold with enough profit to cover your time and expense costs. I will be happy to help promote your workshop if I can.

USB CDC Serial Adapter (5v) The RC2014 is designed to work with a standard 5v FTDI cable. Most USB to Serial adapters will work just fine too, but if you don't already have one, why not add this USB CDC Serial Adapter by 8086 Consultancy to your order Or buy direct from the creator here

• [0] which is itself based around Grant Searles excellent Simple Z80 design (used with his express permission)

• [1] SCM is Small Computer Monitor written for the RC2014 by Steve Cousins

RC2014 is a trademark of RFC2795 Ltd.