In my spare time, I'm currently following a tutorial created by Ben Eater which details how to build an 8-bit breadboard computer. A link to Ben's tutorial can be found here. Below is an image featuring the 1st three modules of the computer - the clock module (top breadboard) and two registers (bottom two breadboards). Thus far, each module has used a combination of dual in-line ICs to provide the build functionality, including octal bus transceivers, 4-bit registers, 555 timers, and a variety of passive components.
Ben's tutorial gives thorough explanations concerning each module's purpose toward the overall system, and ultimately, this exercise provides valuable practice regarding troubleshooting, stripping wires, and applying computer architecture and circuit theories.
Ben's tutorial gives thorough explanations concerning each module's purpose toward the overall system, and ultimately, this exercise provides valuable practice regarding troubleshooting, stripping wires, and applying computer architecture and circuit theories.
First three modules of Eater's 8-bit breadboard computer. Includes the clock module (top breadboard) and two 8-bit registers (two bottom breadboards).