exxos's Atari, Amiga & retro forum

So, yet another replica build is about to unfold - A ZX80!


And yes, it has jumped the queue, but it should be easier to build than the Cosmac Elf II, for which I am still missing some parts. I have almost everything for the ZX80, including keyboard membrane, case and all but 3 IC's and a resonator.

Those are all coming and should be here by the time the bulk of the build is done, and I now have a ROM image too, so looking very positive. I'm hoping to have it ready for CL4 :)

Very nice. :)

mrbombermillzy wrote: 13 Sep 2025 17:24 Very nice. :)

It'll be even better when it's finished :)

:dualthumbup:

Ive got a ZX81 knocking around somewhere. I found a PSU for it the other day.

Back in 1980 me and my brother ordered a ZX80 and Sinclair wrote back saying would we mind waiting because they had the cheaper and better ZX81 coming out.

I never did see a ZX80.

mrbombermillzy wrote: 13 Sep 2025 20:03 :dualthumbup:

Ive got a ZX81 knocking around somewhere. I found a PSU for it the other day.

Cool. Oddly the ZX81 I have came with a ZX80 PSU which also works perfectly with my 2600 light sixer and 2600Jrs. Oh, and the ZX81 too :)

peters wrote: 13 Sep 2025 22:46 Back in 1980 me and my brother ordered a ZX80 and Sinclair wrote back saying would we mind waiting because they had the cheaper and better ZX81 coming out.

I never did see a ZX80.

I was slightly late to the ZX80 game and had a ZX81 instead. Mine came ready assembled, and I think by that time the sale of kits had waned somewhat. That little machine gave me a lot of joy until I got a Spectrum.

Good start, all the diodes and about half the resistors installed.


Having a coffee and custard tart break while I watch Usagi Electric on YouTube, then back to it :)

Well, a couple of hours building and I'm nearly there:


Just waiting on some missing parts to finish the build and then I can do a smoke/voltage test before I install the IC's. I was going to put a Traco voltage regulator in it, though I do have lots of spare 7805's if I can't find one.

rubber_jonnie wrote: 14 Sep 2025 17:56 I was going to put a Traco voltage regulator in it, though I do have lots of spare 7805's if I can't find one.

The TRACO would be a good choice.