The S1-MU provides a hands-on way to explore how computer memory works using 7400 series ICs. It is a unique and rewarding soldering exercise for computing enthusiasts, hobbyists, students and makers.
The S1-MU Mk1 is a beautifully engineered 8-bit memory unit designed with classic 7400 series ICs. It is not only a unique and rewarding soldering exercise, but also a practical introduction to the binary mechanisms required to read and write data to RAM.
Featuring a LY62256PL RAM IC for main memory, 74HC173 registers for temporary data storage and 74HC193 counters for sequential memory access, the assembled board will help you explore how computers address, read from, write to, and sequentially access RAM.
It doesn’t just blindly process memory operations through the 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 computer memory really works!
The S1-MU 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-MU is a standalone kit, it does not interface with the S1-AU.
What is a memory unit?
A memory unit is a collection of digital circuitry used to store and access binary information. Although in modern computer architectures memory units can take many forms, they are typically used to store the instructions and data used to execute computer software.
"This is one of the nicest kits I've assembled, and I've assembled more kits than I care to remember. "
- Thomas @MrTomsWorld, UK
What's included in the S1-MU Mk1 Kit?
The kit contains all the through-hole electronic components you’ll need to build a standalone 8-bit memory unit and includes:
- S1-MU Mk1 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 memory unit is and how memory stores are used more generally in computers.
The manual also explains how to fully construct and operate the S1-MU and gives a primer on binary notation for those who may not be familiar with binary operations.
The S1-MU Mk1 is recommended for ages 16+ and some soldering experience is required to construct the kit.
List of 7400 series and RAM ICs
The S1-MU is constructed through a set of 7400 series integrated circuits, including:
- 2x Register / Quad D-Type Flip-Flop (CD74HC173E)
- 1x Hex Inverting Schmitt Trigger (CD74HC14E)
- 1x 8-bit Buffer (CD74HC244E)
- 2x 4-bit Counter (CD74HC193)
- 1x SRAM IC (LY62256PL)
Behind the snappy red buttons and pretty LEDs lies some great engineering that will give you some real insight in to how computer memory really works.
- Spencer (RC2014) @ZxSpectROM, UK
