PICOZX Retro Computing Platform

Hardware Specifications

• Display: 2.8" IPS Screen delivering exceptional clarity with vibrant color reproduction
• Processor: Powered by the versatile Raspberry Pi PICO microcontroller
• Connectivity: Micro USB-C interface for data transfer and programming
• Power: Integrated 18650 lithium battery charging circuit
• Input: Comfortable 49-button QWERTY keyboard layout
• Audio: AY sound chip emulation for authentic retro gaming audio
• Dimensions: Compact 180 × 120 mm form factor

Use Cases

• Educational Tool: Perfect platform for learning programming concepts
• Retro Gaming: Runs MCUME multi-emulator platform for classic systems including ZX Spectrum, Commodore 64, Atari 800, and more (MCUME GitHub Repository)
• ZX Spectrum: Specially optimized for ZX Spectrum emulation, which perfectly matches the 320×240 screen resolution (PICO ZX Spectrum by Fruit-Bat)

SD Card Setup Instructions

To properly configure your device, create the following directory structure on your SD card:

• /zxspectrum/snapshots - Directory for storing .z80 game snapshot files
• /zxspectrum/quicksaves - Dedicated folder for your quick-save states
• /zxspectrum/tapes - Storage location for .tap tape image files

Purchase Options

Choose from three configurations:

1. PCB Set Only

   • Complete set of 7 circuit boards:
     • 1× main circuit board
     • 1× front panel board
     • 1× bottom board
     • 1× left side board
     • 1× right side board
     • 1× bottom side board
     • 1× top side board
   • No electronic components included (DIY assembly required)

2. Assembled "Slim" Device

   • Fully assembled and tested, ready-to-use unit
   • LCD display only configuration
   • Requires 18650 Li-Ion battery (not included)

3. Assembled "Full" Device

   • Fully assembled and tested, ready-to-use unit with expanded connectivity
   • Includes VGA output, joystick port, and USB host functionality
   • Requires 18650 Li-Ion battery (not included)

Note: The standard 18650 battery holder can be removed to accommodate flat LiPo batteries inside the case if a slimmer profile is desired.

Model Comparison: Slim vs. Full

Physical Differences

• FULL Version:

  • Triangle-shaped side board design
  • Upper side cover includes cutouts for VGA port, joystick connector, USB host port, and additional interfaces
  • Maximized connectivity options

• SLIM Version:

  • Uniform side board dimensions for sleeker appearance
  • Upper cover features only essential openings for SD card access and USB charging
  • Optimized for portability

Modification Potential

• With some modifications, the main board can be adapted to work with original ZX Spectrum membrane keyboards and cases for authentic retro builds

Component List for DIY Assembly

Important: We do not currently offer component kits or individual parts. Only bare PCB sets or fully assembled units are available.

Essential Components:

Electronic Components:

Software Resources

CircuitPython Implementation:

• Raspberry Pi PICO CircuitPython Installation - Official firmware download
• Main Code Repository and Libraries - Source code and required libraries

Community and Support Resources

Stay connected with our development community and receive the latest updates:

• YouTube Channel - First access to new features and demonstrations
• Facebook Group - Join our active community discussion
• Patreon - Support ongoing development with any contribution amount
• Twitter - Follow for immediate announcements and updates
• Instagram - Visual documentation of new prototypes and builds

Development Roadmap

We're constantly improving the PICOZX platform with new features and capabilities. Current development focuses include:

• Expanded emulator compatibility
• Enhanced battery management
• Additional input device support
• Improved audio reproduction
• Community-driven feature requests

Join our online community to participate in the evolution of this project!