Greg I was thinking about going the module route so I could use the eZ80F91
(same chip Byron is using). Sounds like I should just start getting some of
the parts together, the board cost is not too bad which is nice. I know a
few other people around who would probably also be interested even outside
of NuttX.
Too bad you cannot get access to the Ethernet from the module.
When you get an estimate of the cost, I might be interested. My
motivation for board work has been low lately but I haven't passed on a
retro project yet!
An improvement might be to get better serial console support. In the
current board, there are two PS/2 connectors labeled KBD/PTR and
PTR/COM. The UART is shared with the COM PS/2 connector and a
serial-USB bridge (MCP2221A). The thing that was maddening for me was
that there was no reset button so I had to cycle power to reset. If you
don't have a the MCP2221A isolated from the reset, then you lose the
serial connection to the serial console Windows. That makes it
essentially impossible to see debug output from power-up initialization.
I ended up removing the MCP2221A and using the socket to connect a RS232
converter. Perhaps it is outdated, but there is nothing like an RS232
to keep a stable connection during bring-up. (I should have been able to
get to the UART via the PS/2 connector as well.).
The LCD is a purchased separately from the board. It is a 7" SSD1963
LCD. Really quite nice. I suppose these are still available. You could
order them from Alibaba or from eBay at that time. We just need to make
sure that the pin arrangement is the same.
The board also works with the RC2014,
https://www.tindie.com/products/semachthemonkey/rc2014-classic-homebrew-z80-computer-kit/
