5 open source boards using the Z80CPU
Real designs built with the Z80CPU, 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.
Z80-cmos nmos tester
djtersteegc
81.3 × 86.4 mm38 parts2LMIT61
BitStack-DigiTrainer
RetroStack
320 × 150 mm262 parts2LMIT2
Z80-cmos nmos tester
Vakon84
81.3 × 86.4 mm38 parts2LMIT2
ReZyklus.Z80BufferBoard
jeroenhn
69.2 × 64.1 mm36 parts2LNo license12
NXPMCLZ8
41 × 62.6 mm6 parts2LNo license12
The Z80CPU in open source designs
The gallery holds 5 open source boards using the Z80CPU from 4 GitHub repositories; a typical one measures about 81.3 × 86.4 mm and carries around 38 components.
100% are two-layer designs, the rest use four layers or more, and 60% carry an open source license.
The most starred is Z80-cmos nmos tester by djtersteegc.
Microcontrollers on boards using the Z80CPU
What boards using the Z80CPU are built for
Z80CPU: common questions
Where can I find a Z80CPU reference design?
Each of the 5 boards on this page is a real design using the Z80CPU. 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 Z80CPU?
The 74LS02, 27C512, 74LS193 and 74LS573 appear in the most repositories here.
Which microcontrollers do boards using the Z80CPU use?
Most are built on NXP (1).
How big is a typical board using the Z80CPU?
The median is 81.3 × 86.4 mm, and 100% are two-layer designs.
What is the most popular open source board using the Z80CPU?
By GitHub stars, Z80-cmos nmos tester by djtersteegc, with 61 stars.
Can I simulate one of these boards using the Z80CPU 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.