6 open source boards using the Z80
Real designs built with the Z80, from public GitHub projects: a quick way to see how others power, decouple and connect it. Each board comes with its KiCad files, full parts list and a render — and you can simulate its firmware on HardLabs.
ZX-Spectrum-Issue-4B
iansbremner
213.4 × 130.8 mm199 parts2LNo license22
CP297s
Danjovic
155.1 × 156 mm127 parts2LGPL-3.04
ZX-Spectrum-48K-Issue-2
liveboxandy
213.1 × 130.1 mm191 parts2LCC0-1.02
ZX Spectrum 48K
Bambelweeny57
213.1 × 129 mm201 parts2LNo license1
Z80-Calculator
BrandonMitchell1920
199.4 × 125.7 mm86 parts2LNo license0
Rev a physical
ddanila
200 × 200 mm119 parts4LNo license1
The Z80 in open source designs
The gallery holds 6 open source boards using the Z80 from 6 GitHub repositories; a typical one measures about 206.6 × 130.4 mm and carries around 159 components.
83% are two-layer designs, the rest use four layers or more, and 33% carry an open source license.
The most starred is ZX-Spectrum-Issue-4B-KiCAD by iansbremner.
What boards using the Z80 are built for
Z80: common questions
Where can I find a Z80 reference design?
Each of the 6 boards on this page is a real design using the Z80. Open one to see how it is wired up, with the full BOM, a render of the layout and links to its KiCad files.
What parts are used alongside the Z80?
The 4116, 4532, 74LS32, LM1889 and ROM appear in the most repositories here.
How big is a typical board using the Z80?
The median is 206.6 × 130.4 mm, and 83% are two-layer designs.
What is the most popular open source board using the Z80?
By GitHub stars, ZX-Spectrum-Issue-4B-KiCAD by iansbremner, with 22 stars.
Can I simulate one of these boards using the Z80 before building it?
Yes. HardLabs turns a board's netlist and BOM into a working simulation, so you can boot and test firmware against it with no hardware on your desk.