Sol-20 Reproduction

The Sol-20 Reproduction project replicates a classic 1976 microcomputer by combining modern single-board computing, custom hardware fabrication, and software emulation. At the core of the system is a Raspberry Pi 4 Model B running Python 3 and PyGame. Instead of original vintage silicon, a custom Python-based Intel 8080 CPU emulator executes within the Raspberry Pi operating environment, accurately processing machine instructions just like the historical microprocessor. To recreate the authentic software experience, the system loads the original SOLOS ROM alongside classic languages like MS-BASIC and BASIC-5. User input is handled via a Unified Retro Keyboard kit featuring mechanical Cherry switches, wired directly into the system to capture keystrokes. For output, the Raspberry Pi connects to an external monitor or display to render text and graphics. Structurally, the electronic components are housed inside an enclosure constructed from custom 3D-printed case parts and aesthetic wood panels, mimicking the physical form factor of the historic Sol-20 terminal. Wiring for the serial port facilitates communication and debugging. Together, this blend of modern additive manufacturing, mechanical keyboard switches, and software emulation creates a fully interactive, historically faithful computing terminal driven by a hidden Linux-based single-board computer.