Study the complete source code for a self-hosting compiler that runs on and generates code for CP/M on the Z80 processor. No prior knowledge in the field of compiler construction is required. The T3X/0 language that is discussed and implemented in the book has its roots in Pascal and BCPL and is very simple. A full 20-page manual is contained in the book.
The reader should know at least one procedural programming language, such as C or Pascal, and at least one assembly language, ideally the one for the Z80 CPU. They should also know the basics of the CP/M operating system. For the determined autodicact a short introduction to Z80 assembly language is also included in the book.
The Membership Card is a complete computer that fits in an Altoids tin. Inspired by classic 8-bit computers like the Altair 8800 and Heathkit H8, it is thoroughly documented and easy to build, with big parts, big pads, and big traces and spaces. It uses only generic parts common in the 1980s (and still available today) -- no custom parts, and no surface mount. It's fully self-contained: You don't need PCs, Windows, megabyte compilers, or secret software to use it. Now you can learn about computers right from the ground up, and really understand how they work!
It comes as a two-board set. The Z80 Membership Card itself is a stand-alone single-board computer that can "power up" your projects, like the Parallax BASIC Stamps or Arduino microcomputers. But you need a way to program it, and of course some kind of input and output "shield" to put it to work.
Links to buy the kits are near the end of the page.
A z80 kernel and a collection of programs, tools and documentation that allows you to assemble an OS that can:
- Run on minimal and improvised machines.
- Interface through improvised means (serial, keyboard, display).
- Edit text files.
- Compile assembler source files for a wide range of MCUs and CPUs.
- Read and write from a wide range of storage devices.
- Replicate itself.
Additionally, the goal of this project is to be as self-contained as possible. With a copy of this project, a capable and creative person should be able to manage to build and install Collapse OS without external resources (i.e. internet) on a machine of her design, built from scavenged parts with low-tech tools.