Modular Backplanes (RC2014)

My goal is to produce a number of backplane sections which can be joined together to form a larger backplane, or used individually for small systems.

Not only can the backplane be of variable length, but it can be made of sections that have any special features required. It could even allow cards with different types of bus connector to be used together.

2018-08-12 - Backplane SC105+SC113

The picture above shows three backplane sections. From left to right: SC113, SC113, SC105. Note SC105 uses an edge mounted expansion connector, while the other two use through-hole mounted expansion connectors.

Each backplane section is described by:

  • Input expansion connector or feature
  • Card/module connectors
  • Output expansion connector or feature

The following backplane sections are available:

  • SC105
    • Input: Power supply
    • Cards: 6 x RC2014/80 sockets
    • Output: Edge mounted BP80 socket
  • SC106
    • Input: Edge mounted BP80 plug
    • Cards: 6 x RC2014/80 sockets
    • Output: Edge mounted BP80 socket
  •  SC107
    • Input: Edge mounted BP80 plug
    • Cards: 6 x RC2014/80 sockets
    • Output: Edge mounted BP80 socket
    • Pins 37 and 38 form an interrupt daisy chain
  • SC109
    • Input: Through hole BP80 plug
    • Cards: 3 x RC2014/80 sockets
    • Cards: 2 x Z50Bus sockets
    • Input: Edge mounted Z50Bus plug
    • Acts as a bridge between RC2014 and Z50Bus
  • SC112
    • Input: Power supply
    • Cards: 6 x RC2014/80 sockets
    • Output: Through hole BP80 socket
  • SC113
    • Input: Through hole BP80 plug
    • Cards: 6 x RC2014/80 sockets
    • Output: Through hole BP80 socket

Connectors used:

  • BP80
    • Backplane expansion connector
    • 80 pin header style
    • Based on RC2014
  • RC2014/80
    • Card/module socket
    • 80 pin header style socket
    • Based on RC2014
    • Pins 40 and 80 form an interrupt daisy chain
  • Z50Bus
    • Card/module socket
    • 50 pin header style socket
    • Z50Bus compatible

You can purchase the printed circuit boards from Tindie.

Downloads

Homebrew 8-bit retro computing