Show HN: I made a discrete logic network card (qdiv.dev)

Article summary

The author built a discrete logic network card, a continuation of their project to create a complete computer system using discrete logic components. The card can run network applications like an HTTP server or a LAN game, with a ping round trip average of 85 ms and an HTTP server download speed of 2.6 kB/s. The project involved designing and building a MAC layer module, a receiver, and a transmitter, as well as writing a C compiler. The author's goal was to create a network-capable computer without using commercial CPUs or special chips.

Main themes

• Discrete logic computer design
• Network card implementation
• C compiler development
• Computer architecture
• Network security
• Hardware design

What commenters say

• The project is an impressive achievement, demonstrating the feasibility of building a network-capable computer using discrete logic components.
• The lack of interrupts in the custom CPU design is a significant limitation, but the author chose to prioritize simplicity over complexity.
• The use of custom hardware and software can provide a sense of security and control, but it also requires a significant investment of time and effort.
• The existence of unknown vulnerabilities in commercial network hardware and software is a significant concern, and projects like this one can help raise awareness about the importance of transparency and verifiability.
• The average user may not be concerned about potential backdoors in their hardware and software, but this lack of awareness can have significant consequences for individuals and society as a whole.
• The development of a C compiler for the custom CPU is a notable achievement, and the project's use of a custom CPU and network card can provide a unique learning experience.
• The project's performance is impressive considering the limitations of the discrete logic design, and it demonstrates the potential for innovative solutions in computer design and networking.
• The discussion around the project highlights the trade-offs between complexity, security, and performance in computer design, and the importance of considering these factors in the development of new systems.