Nano Retro 8-Bit Computer Kit with Arduino Nano + LED
Build a Retro 8-Bit Computer with Arduino Nano: Z80 Emulator & BASIC Interpreter Kit
Every part needed, pre-tested for compatibility, with an AI build companion trained on this exact project. Shipped from Bengaluru in 3-5 days.
Relive the golden era of computing by building a fully functional 8-bit microcomputer powered by an Arduino Nano. This kit emulates the legendary Z80 processor and presents a genuine BASIC interpreter prompt on a crisp 0.96-inch OLED display. Type commands through a compact 4x4 matrix keypad and save your programs to a microSD card—just like the home computers of the early 1980s.
What You'll Build
You’ll construct a pocket-sized retro computer that boots into a BASIC environment, ready for immediate programming. The kit becomes a standalone device with its own enclosure, real-time clock for timestamped file saves, and non-volatile storage for your code. Whether you’re exploring computer history, writing small games, or demonstrating low-level emulation techniques, this hands-on project turns abstract concepts into a physical, operational machine.
What You'll Learn
- Implementing a full Z80 instruction set emulator in C/C++ on the ATmega328
- Scanning a 4x4 matrix keypad and mapping raw inputs to ASCII characters
- Interfacing I2C OLED and SPI microSD card modules with Arduino Nano
- Soldering and assembling a multi-board system within a compact enclosure
Kit Contents
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arduino Nano | 1 |
| 4x4 Keypad | 1 |
| 0.96in OLED | 1 |
| DS3231 RTC | 1 |
| MicroSD Module | 1 |
| 4.7kΩ Resistors | 5 |
| 100nF Capacitors | 5 |
| PCB Prototype Board | 3 |
| ABS Enclosure Box | 1 |
| 9V Battery Snap | 1 |
| Soldering Iron | 1 |
| Solder Wire | 1 |
Why Buy This Kit Instead of Sourcing Parts Separately
| Factor | Sourcing Separately | Compoden Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility checks | You verify every part | Pre-tested as a system |
| Build support | Forums and scattered tutorials | AI companion trained on this exact project |
| Time to first working build | Days of debugging | Hours, with step-by-step guidance |
| Shipping coordination | Multiple sellers, multiple delays | One shipment from Bengaluru in 3-5 days |
Who This Kit Is For
This advanced kit is designed for B.Tech students in ECE, EEE, or Computer Science who want a capstone project that demonstrates embedded systems, emulation, and retro computing. It’s ideal for participants of the Smart India Hackathon working on educational or IoT gadgets, and for hobbyists at premier institutions like IIT, NIT, VIT, and BITS Pilani who crave a deep dive into digital electronics and vintage programming.
Built and Backed by Compoden
Every Compoden kit ships with an AI build companion trained on this exact project — accessible via a QR code on the box, with WhatsApp and email backup. We've spent 10 years building projects for makers, schools, and institutions across India. If a part fails because of a manufacturing defect, replace it free within 7 days.
What if I get stuck during the build?
Our AI companion provides step-by-step guidance for this exact kit, from soldering to software upload. If you need extra help, WhatsApp support from our team is just a message away.
Is prior experience with soldering or Arduino required?
Yes, this kit expects familiarity with soldering and the Arduino IDE. The multi-board assembly and custom firmware assume you’ve completed basic electronics projects before.
Can I expand the retro computer with more features?
Absolutely. The kit exposes spare GPIO pins on the Arduino Nano, allowing you to add a VGA output, sound, or a tiny speaker. The open-source Z80 emulator code can be modified to support new peripherals.
What programming languages can I use on the machine?
Out of the box, the computer runs a BASIC interpreter, but because the emulator is written in C/C++ for Arduino, you can modify the firmware to support other 8-bit languages like Forth or assembly. BASIC programs are saved to the microSD card.
ATmega328 runs a Z80 emulator. Tiny keyboard matrix input. OLED displays BASIC interpreter prompt.
What's in this kit
Choose your assembly option:
- Soldering Kit — 25W soldering iron, 60/40 solder wire, flux, and small perfboard for permanent assembly.
- Breadboard Combo — 800-point full-size breadboard with 65-piece jumper wire pack for solderless prototyping.
Shipping Information
- Prepaid Orders: ₹75 for orders up to ₹999, FREE shipping above ₹999
- COD Orders: ₹125 shipping + ₹50 COD fee = ₹175 total
- Delivery Timeline: Dispatch in 1-2 days, delivery in 2-7 days depending on location
Returns & Warranty
- 7-Day Return: Manufacturing defects only (approval required)
- Warranty: 7 days from delivery
- Non-Returnable: Batteries, consumables, cut wires, clearance items