The plan for now is first to create a clone.
I’m collecting parts, based on the schematics and photographs I have.
I have all the IC’s, most of them double or tripple. Encoders, displays etc.
In progress:
Creating a stock sheet, seperate pages for Logic, Resistors, Diodes, Capacitors, Power Supply stuff, Connectors. Based on the schematics and photos.Sourcing and collecting the parts. I’m trying to get the most authenitc parts I can get. Same brand and type midi connectors, encoders etc.Redesinging the PCB’s in software, to later on get them printed.- Going through the source code. This is a major task. Everything is written in Z80 assembly. I have some 386 Assembler experience, but it’s been a while. Thankfully, the code is excellently documented.
Sourcing the correct assembler software so I can re-compile it.
This alone is quite an undertaking to get to the stage where I have a working clone, but that’s the absolute fun of it.
From that point on there are several routes open:
- Add features by extending the existing software
- Release everything including the PCB design plans and stock list as open source so eveyrbody who wants one, can build their own (similar to for example the Gigatron TTL Computer).
- Replatform to a more modern CPU
- ………..
Update Oct 2024
A lot has been done since. We have a nice little community going and with the help of everyone and one Gentleman Paul in particular, the cloning went very fast.
Follow the blog for more updates on where we’re at right now.