Show HN: Discrete6502 – one thing led to another

https://epatel.github.io/discrete6502/
Disclaimer, I have not yet placed the order. But JLCPCB have so far excepted all files and config so I have 1 more button to press. If anyone see some obvious mistake please send feedback.

This project grew out of curiosity. Loved the https://monster6502.com/ project but that is on another level. Here I tried to stay "reasonable" and added a Raspberry Pico 2 W on the back to drive it all. But also, was curious if Claude could pull this off. Guess I will have to place that order to call the cards.

Comments

nubinetworkJul 27, 2026, 6:13 AM
Do you still need the Pico if you connect pins to the outer edge pads?
epatel99Jul 27, 2026, 9:46 AM
Don't think so, the idea is it's just an option.
rbanffyJul 26, 2026, 10:10 PM
I would love more LEDs to see the clock flowing through the processor, but that would be a LOT of LEDs.

Maybe someone could invent an SMD transistor with a built-in LED.

nativeitJul 27, 2026, 1:50 AM
Great work! Now do it using tubes/valves. The more energy hungry and inefficient the better! The power supply can be the same sort of diesel generators hospitals use during power outages.
butvacuumJul 27, 2026, 4:02 AM
This is a fine project- Learning, Teaching, and simply as art.

And, though I risk being black and blue for agreeing- I'm starting to:

Social media made y'all way too comfortable with disrespecting people and not getting punched in the face for it.

- Mike Tyson

nullcJul 27, 2026, 6:28 AM
I found the LLM writing exceptionally distasteful and it made it difficult to look at the page for a subject I'd otherwise find interesting-- it's an extremely bad style, and also characteristic of a lot of dishonest and abusive conduct on the internet of late.