Modular Computer KIT From Scratch

After very careful planning on paper, I have figured out exactly what I need for the next stage. It involves a functioning computer running BASIC, that interfaces with my PC monitor and keyboard. This is a massive step that is very daunting. This step was fairly expensive as I had to buy some equipment that I will use for the rest of the project. The main budget killer was the EEPROM Programmer. Some set backs include: I had to order an ACIA (Asynchronous Communications Interface Adapter, don't worry I had to google it too) from the US as they are no longer manufactured by my supplier here in Australia and also my supplier had to move some stuff here from their UK warehouse. I am starting to worry that I may not be able to make it by August, we will see, I was already planning to do this before the prize was on offer anyway... A full parts list in my previous orders will be posted on my tumblr blog once I get a chance!

I have decided the best place to start would be to test the microprocessor I would be using... I bought these off eBay as "New Old Stock". This was a great exercise as it introduced me to some great sites for components and the real basics of the Z80 microprocessor that I plan to use. I chose the Z80 for a number of reasons; it runs on 5 volts, it is 8-bit, very simple architecture, cheap and there seems to be a lot of information on the web about using one of these. Of course, as I am starting with absolutely no knowledge of how to do this, I had to borrow the schematics from someone else. Here they are: 

http://z80.info/z80test0.htm

This was a great build as it can be easily put together on a breadboard, I got the 5V supply from an old phone charger and the components are very easy to get. I purchased them all from one online store based in my local city. This was a very exciting build, as I see it as a stepping stone to my future projects... which I am already ordering the parts for the next step.