Funhell Breadboard PC

Breadboard computer based on the Little Man Computer architecture

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Inspiration

We were inspired by BenEater's project to create a modular computer based around transistor gates; we took this concept at a slightly higher level, utilising an ATMega328P-PU as the core.

What it does

Currently it acts as an early prototype for an extensible breadboard computer platform for educational purposes, and allowing students to visualise a physical manifestation of the hardware on which assembly code is ran. Processes are loaded in via the ATMega core, but it passes instructions to specific external hardware modules, such as the binary subtract-er/adder and shift registers.

How we built it

By referencing existing plans for various standalone components, we created a modular system which was interlinked by use of the ATMega. As of current, there are five primary modules. 1) Program counter. Counts steps operated and displays to two 7-seg displays 2) Clock generator. Uses a 555 and a variable potentiometer to control the speed, and displays it to an LCD 3) Primary LCD output for the ATMega 4) RAM module for memory using external EEPROM ICs 5) Binary Adder module, with visual output in the form of LEDs

Challenges we ran into

Integrating the individual modules into a cohesive whole was problematic, and will be the next steps forward to improving the project We all agree that we were in the dark for the scope of this project, and didn't realise how much of a challenge it would be to complete within the time limit

Accomplishments that we're proud of

THe individual modules worked well, so we are proud of those however they need work in order to function together. Tom successfully built a Java application to compile assembly code into binary for the system.

What we learned

Testing circuitry and improving schematic-reading skills was a key learning point for all of us, and I think we can all agree that this was a journey of discovery for all of us.

What's next for Funhell Breadboard PC

Making it a cohesive system as originally intended, complete with a java compiler

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