The S1-AU provides a hands-on way to discover the hidden logic of computing using 7400 series ICs. It is a unique and rewarding soldering exercise for computing enthusiasts, hobbyists, students and makers.
Explore the guts of computing with the ARITH-MATIC S1-AU Mk1
The S1-AU Mk1 is a beautifully engineered DIY electronic kit designed with classic 7400 series integrated circuits (ICs). It is a unique and rewarding soldering exercise enabling you to rediscover the hidden logic of computing!
Once you have constructed the S1-AU Mk1, it works as an operational 4-bit arithmetic unit, similar to what was found in early computers. It can perform 4-bit binary addition, subtraction, accumulation and comparison.
It doesn’t just blindly process binary arithmetic through 7400 series ICs either. Using ultra-bright LEDs the board shows you the state of each operation, step by step, so you can actually see and understand how a computer really works!
The S1-AU ships as a bare-board PCB, contains all the electronic components you'll need to construct it, includes a USB cable for power, and comes with a comprehensive ‘Operator's Technical Manual’ to show you how to build and use it.
It is an ideal DIY electronic kit for anybody wanting to learn more about the fundamentals of computing and a perfect project for those wishing to rediscover the joy of 7400 series logic.
Please note, the S1-AU is a standalone kit, it does not interface with the S1-MU.
What is an arithmetic unit?
An arithmetic unit enables computers to perform binary arithmetic. It is one of the most important parts of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and can be found at the heart of every digital computer. An arithmetic unit which also performs bitwise logical operations is commonly referred to as an ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit).
"Really, really insanely nice - I've been assembling PCB kits for about a decade from the likes of Adafruit and EMSL, and you've blown them out the water... Genuinely the classiest kit I've handled."
- Steve @IrregularShed, UK
What's included in the S1-AU Mk1 Kit?
The kit contains all the through-hole electronic components you’ll need to build a standalone 4-bit arithmetic unit and includes:
- S1-AU Mainboard PCB (100mm x 162mm)
- Backplate PCB (with screws and nuts for mounting)
- Electronic Components Kit
- USB Mini Cable (for power only)
- Operator's Technical Manual (downloadable .pdf - English language only)
The kit is supplied with a comprehensive 'Operator's Technical Manual' (as a downloadable .pdf - English language only) which describes in detail what the arithmetic unit is and how ALUs are used more generally in computers. The manual also explains how to fully construct and operate the S1-AU and gives a primer on binary operations (addition, subtraction & twos complement) for those who may not be familiar with binary arithmetic.
The S1-AU Mk1 is recommended for ages 16+ and some soldering experience is required to construct the kit.
List of 7400 series ICs
The S1-AU is constructed through a set of 7400 series integrated circuits, including:
- 1x Multiplexor (CD74HC157E)
- 2x Register / Quad D-Type Flip-Flop (CD74HC173E)
- 1x 4-bit Full Adder (CD74HC283E)
- 1x Hex Inverting Schmitt Trigger (CD74HC14E)
- 1x 4-bit Magnitude Comparator (CD74HC85E)
- 1x Dual 4-input NOR Gate (CD74HC4002E)
- 1x Quad 2-input XOR Gate (CD74HC86E)
"A great little kit, I learnt so much and had fun too!"
- Iain Jones, UK
