ZedRipper: A 16-core Z80 laptop (chrisfenton.com)

Article summary

The ZedRipper is a custom-built laptop featuring a 16-core Z80 processor, with each core having 64KB of dedicated RAM. The system is designed for multitasking and runs CP/M 2.2, with a custom network architecture called the Z-Ring. The laptop's design is based on an FPGA board and includes a 10.1-inch display, a keyboard, and a battery life of over 3 hours. The project's goal is to explore alternative computer architectures and provide a fun, portable system for writing small programs.

Main themes

• Alternative Computer Architectures
• Retro Computing
• Input Devices
• FPGA Development
• Multitasking
• CP/M and Vintage Operating Systems
• Experimental Computing

What commenters say

• The ZedRipper's architecture is similar to the ZMOB, a 256-processor machine built in the 1980s for AI research.
• The use of a high-end FPGA board makes the project less accessible to others, but similar results could be achieved with more affordable alternatives.
• Implementing multiple cursors on modern systems is not trivial and would require significant modifications to the window system and user interface toolkit.
• The TrackPoint is a unique and useful input device that has a loyal following, but its implementation on non-IBM/Lenovo devices is often inferior.
• Some users prefer alternative input devices, such as trackballs, due to their own set of advantages and disadvantages.
• The idea of adaptive curves for input devices, such as the TrackPoint, is an interesting area of research that could lead to improved user experience.
• The ZedRipper project is an example of a 'what if' scenario, exploring alternative paths that computer architecture could have taken in the past.
• The project's focus on excess and experimentation is seen as a positive aspect, allowing for the exploration of new ideas and concepts.