Every year [Len Bales] designs and builds a new clock. His 2006 clock runs on the classic Intel 8008 microprocessor. The design is definitely not for the faint of heart, but he includes all code, diagrams and a good description on his site. The project is an interesting look into the not-so-distant past of computing. While the function of the project is a clock, it is actually a fully programmable 8008 computer running at 500khz with 16k of memory space and 4io ports. [Len] also links a lot of useful 8008 resources for anyone wanting to tackle a project of their own.
Intel 8008 Clock
11 thoughts on “Intel 8008 Clock”
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Why build something like this? Because it’s so amazingly cool!
Every year I teach a course in computer architecture and we design cpu’s from gates up using emulators. Its like reliving the not-so-distant past. Building something like this is a wonderful exercise in not forgetting the foundations of digital logic. If I had more time, I’d have the students put one of Len’s designs together. Kudos!
at least me and the other tony think the same. high level languages and extremely advances processors take something away from the entire learning experience. you have to crawl before you can walk.
Cute!
I’ve got a few of those old fellows roosting someplace. I might even borrow his ideas to make them work.
As for what? Well I’ve got a copy of the TVT Cookbook as well…..
I built that TV Typewriter video card thanks to Don Lancaster . . . what a flashback
Holy crap!
I am all for DIY but this is just pointlessly overcomplicated, it is basically a Rube Goldberg
@lukes-this is pointedly overcomplicated.
@kyle… why build that? because it teaches you real stuff about computers. Most CS majors know nothing about computers.
@LukeS:
This isn’t overly complicated at all. This is how all computers used to be made. Fifteen years ago this is what they taught in schools. It’s a step backwards for sure, when you can buy a digital watch for $1, but the satisfaction of building an entire computer from the ground up is irreplaceable. It’s only being used as a clock here, but the possibilities are endless.
I just needed to say that I found your site via Goolge and I am glad I did. Keep up the good work and I will make sure to bookmark you for when I have more free time away from the books. Thanks again!