ZX Spectrum Recreation Goes Next Level with New Manuals and Pack-In Goodies

One way to keep vintage computers like the Sinclair ZX Spectrum alive is to rebuild them with modern components. For example, it is common to see "reloaded" or redrawn PCBs and modern programmable devices replacing the computer's custom ICs. However, YouTuber Lost Retro Tapes, also known as batemap_ap on Reddit, took this ZX Spectrum Recreation to the next level. Not only does this project recreate the electronics with modern components, but it also has new pack-in items made from scratch! So, is there a name for new-old-recreated-stock (NORS?)

The recreated printed circuit board (PCB) is central to this project's modern electronics. Lost Retro Tapes used a 1:1 clone of the ZX Spectrum 48 Issue 3B. This board, available on PCBway, is a redrawing of the original PCB's traces based on the service manual's documentation.

From there, Lost Retro Tapes acquired all the passive components like capacitors and the discrete active components like transistors. All of these have easy-to-source parts.

The integrated circuits (ICs) have a couple of challenges for modern options. First, you can buy modern 74-series parts along with the Z80 microprocessor. Second, there are plenty of new-old-stock options for the RAM chips. However, the ZX Spectrum's ULA is a different story.

Like many computers in the 1980s, there was a custom chipset to turn off-the-shelf chips into a specific computer. Sometimes these chipsets were discrete components (like the Apple II and II+). However, they were often custom-made application-specific ICs (ASICs.) Sinclair went a slightly different route.

They made extensive use of a Ferranti ULA, or uncommitted logic array. These generic ICs were masked during manufacturing to turn them into an ASIC. They helped combine many digital components into one IC. (Note, these are similar to a re-programmable GAL or PAL, however, once they are masked, they can not be changed.)

Since the ULA is unique, no modern sources exist for the original IC. However, recreations are available, which Lost Retro Tapes used for this ZX Spectrum.

So, in spirit, every component has a modern option... except for one. The LM1889N is a TV modulator IC. Nobody manufactures this chip or a replacement anymore.

While recreating the electronics is fantastic, there is another aspect that sets this particular project apart. Lost Retro Tapes used a recreated keyboard and case. But the next level part is the reprinted manuals, cassette tape, and stickers!

The result is a package of a nearly new and modern ZX Spectrum in a box! This particular build has a special purpose. Lost Retro Tapes plans to give it away as a prize in an upcoming RoseTintedSpectrum Charity stream.

To recreate a ZX Spectrum in this detail, visit Lost Retro Tape's blog. There are build instructions for every step, including PDFs of the recreated printables. In the future, there may also be a more in-depth write-up on the project with an accompanying video. For additional pictures, check out this Reddit post.