Elektor Junior Computer SBC PCB and display board.

This is a listing for the printed circuit board and display board for the Elektor Junior Computer that featured in the May 1980 edition.

It also has a new display board to accommodate more recent seven segment displays as there are some components that are now obsolete or very hard to find.

The board is exactly like the original with two differences. I had to replace the 1MHz crystal, as it is hard to source and very expensive. It is obtainable from Unicorn Electronics in the States and cost $5.95.

The 2708 EPROM. I replaced it with the AT28C16 EEPROM or you can use the 2716 EPROM. I can supply the binary for the monitor program. I am also busy with a 28C64 to 28C16 converter board. Other than that, it is the same.

The original design uses DIGITAST switches. Very expensive. You can get them from Mantech at circa R30 a pop. The one with the LED is a bit cheaper. R23. Normal tactile switches can be used in the place of the DIGITAST switches

The 1MHZ crystal is also available from Mantech for about R10.

This was my first SBC project way back in 1980. The pc board was made for me by a lecturer and it was not plated through, so I had to use special sockets. The 2708 EPROM was programmed for me by a guy at the Apple shop. It worked first-time.

So if you feel a bit nostalgic and want to learn how to program in machine code, this might be just for you. You will need the Junior Computer Book 1 for that, and I have a copy, as well as access to other resources.

If you do not have good soldering skills and little electronic experience, this is not for you.

If you REALLY want the original board, I do have the GERBER files for it, but I expect you to make a donation, as it took me 4 weeks to finish it. If is was not for the lockdown, it would have taken me 4 months.