Clem Mayer created a handheld BASIC pc badge with the Arduino UNO Rev3

Though we just lately launched the new 32-bit Arduino UNO R4, Clem Mayer needed to honor its 8-bit predecessor by making one thing particular utilizing the Rev3. Drawing on previous {hardware} designs, the ZX-81 is an 8-bit pc primarily based on the Z80 processor which has 1KB of RAM and 1KB of EEPROM obtainable for the person to make the most of throughout the working atmosphere — sometimes a BASIC interpreter shell. Equally, Mayer needed to have one ATmega328P run the TinyBASIC interpreter whereas a secondary ATmega328P would deal with the exterior keyboard and show on account of useful resource constraints.

The PCB was designed to suit throughout the type issue of an ordinary occasion badge, full with a small multiplexed keyboard and a 20×4 monochrome LCD display screen to suit the retro theme. On the again layer of the board are each AVR MCUs in a surface-mount bundle to avoid wasting on house together with a pair of battery holders and a buzzer/energy supply circuitry.

Though the code was working for essentially the most half, Mayer nonetheless encountered a few issues which he solved primarily via bodges and guaranteeing the LCD was producing ample distinction. As soon as the {hardware} was functioning as meant, he 3D-printed a case and turned it right into a lanyard-attached system — full with blinky lights and a extremely interactive interface.

The completed handheld pc badge is a testomony to the ability and flexibility of the Arduino Uno R3. By using all obtainable pins and house on the chip, Clem efficiently transforms the Arduino Uno right into a handheld pc with capabilities just like the ZX-81. The venture serves as a becoming tribute to the beloved Arduino UNO R3 and showcases the potential for DIY electronics with microcontrollers.

To see extra on this venture, you should definitely watch Mayer’s video under!