8-BIT MICROPROCESSOR
A Project by Computer Engineering Students
Course Title and Section: BSCpE - 3B
Instructor: Mr. Emerson Facelo
Date: May 16, 2025
Team Members:
Vergara, Aron Ephraim L.
Luver, Jonalyn M
Patulot, Ern
Deasis, Jay-r’
Rambonga, Mark Vincent
Guevarra, Richard
Guiyab, Melvie
Pananggilan, Anton
Romero, Mark Andre
Arca, Vincent
Idala, Marvin
Table of Contents
1.1. Introduction
2.2. System Overview
3.3. Features
4.4. Hardware Setup
5.5. Instruction Set Architecture (ISA)
6.6. How to Use
7.7. Sample Applications
8.8. Troubleshooting Guide
9.9. Maintenance and Safety
10.10. Glossary
11.11. Appendix
12.12. References
1. Introduction
An 8-bit microprocessor is a central processing unit (CPU) that handles data in
8-bit blocks, or 8 bits of data at a time. Implementing an 8-bit microprocessor
using 74LS series TTL ICs is a hands-on learning experience of computer
architecture basics. The 74LS series includes a variety of logic gates, flip-flops,
counters, and other components needed to develop the basic building blocks of
a CPU. These ICs are high speed and reliable and thus are ideal for project
development and prototyping. Through construction of these components on a
breadboard, hobbyists get to have a working microprocessor that performs
basic computing operations.
This 8- bit microprocessor project which utilizes 74LS series ICs to demonstrate
the inner workings of a CPU. This project guides users through building modules
like the clock, registers, arithmetic logic unit (ALU), and control logic, all
interconnected via a common bus. The modular design allows for step-by-step
construction and testing, providing a clear understanding of each component's
role within the system. Additionally, the use of LEDs and switches offers visual
feedback, enhancing the learning experience. Such projects not only deepen
one's knowledge of digital electronics but also inspire further exploration into
more complex computing systems.
He objective of making an 8-bit microprocessor with 74LS series TTL ICs is to
offer a hands-on learning experience that supports knowledge in fundamental
computer architecture and digital logic design. By building all the parts of the
CPU such as the arithmetic logic unit (ALU), registers, control unit, and memory
using individual discrete logic chips, students understand in practice how these
individual components of hardware join and work together in order to process
computing tasks. This method helps to easily understand the microprocessor's
internal mechanism as it makes elements such as data flow, execution of
instructions, and timing controls concrete.
2. System Overview
2.1 Architectural Overview
The 8-bit computer we built is a simplified version of a real computer processor. It's
designed to help us understand how computers work from the ground up. Inspired by
Ben Eater’s popular breadboard computer, this project breaks down a CPU into visible,
easy-to-follow parts that you can build, test, and debug by hand.
At the heart of this computer is the bus system, a set of wires that allows different parts
to share data. Each component connects to the bus and communicates based on timing
signals controlled by the clock and instructions from the control unit.
2.2 Key Components
Clock Module - Provides timing signals to synchronize operations
Program Counter (PC) - Holds the address of the next instruction in memory. After each
instruction is fetched, the PC is usually incremented so it points to the next one.
Program Counter - Holds the address of the next instruction to execute.
Memory Address Register (MAR) - Temporarily holds the memory address provided by
the Program Counter (or other components). It sends this address to RAM so the system
knows where to fetch or write data.
RAM - Stores both instructions and data.
Instruction Register - Temporarily holds the current instruction being executed.
Control Unit - Decodes the instruction and generates control signals.
Registers A & B - General-purpose registers for holding values used in ALU operations.
ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) - Performs addition, subtraction, and other basic operations.
Output Register - Displays the result of ALU or memory operations using LEDs .
Bus - A shared 8-bit pathway connecting all modules for data transfer.
2.3 Complete components list
QTY Description
14 Breadboard
1 22 AWG Solid Tinned-Copper Hook-Up Wire
10 1kΩ resistor
9 10kΩ resistor
1 100kΩ resistor
24 470Ω resistor
1 1MΩ resistor
1 1MΩ potentiometer
6 0.01µF capacitor
16 0.1µF capacitor
1 1µF capacitor
4 555 timer IC
2 74LS00 (Quad NAND gate)
1 74LS02 (Quad NOR gate)
5 74LS04 (Hex inverter)
3 74LS08 (Quad AND gate)
1 74LS32 (Quad OR gate)
1 74LS76 (Dual JK flip-flop)
2 74LS86 (Quad XOR gate)
1 74LS138 (3-to-8 line decoder)
1 74LS139 (Dual 2-line to 4-line decoder)
4 74LS157 (Quad 2-to-1 line data selector)
2 74LS161 (4-bit synchronous binary counter)
8 74LS173 (4-bit D-type register)
2 74189 (64-bit random access memory)
6 74LS245 (Octal bus transceiver)
1 74LS273 (Octal D flip-flop)
2 74LS283 (4-bit binary full adder)
3 28C16 EEPROM
3 Double-throw toggle switch
3 Momentary 6mm tact switch
1 8-position DIP switch
1 4-position DIP switch
50 Red LED
4 Common cathode 7-segment display
8 Yellow LED
12 Green LED
21 Blue LED
2.4 Block diagram
3. Features
A. 8-bit data bus - All data operations like arithmetic and memory access are
using 8-bit values.
“ 16-bit addressing is not used instead, program counter and memory
addressing are limited to 8-bit, so the memory space is 256 bytes by default. ”
B. Instruction Set This 8-bit microprocessor uses a custom and had a minimal
instruction set. Instruction included are:
i. Load value from memory to A register o A register will get updated with
the inputted value
ii. Add memory value to A register o Example: A = A + value from
memory
iii. Subtract memory value from A register o Example: A = A -
value from memory iv. Store A register value into memory o Whatever is
in A gets saved to memory
v. Load instant value to A register o A gets set directly to that value
vi. Output value from A register to output o A's value lights up.
C. Clock
The clock provides a regular timing signal that synchronizes all operations in the
microprocessor, ensuring that data is moved, processed, and stored in the correct
sequence and at the correct time. - Clock is generated using a 555 timer. It can
be adjusted using a potentiometer or manually chang using a push button.
Has a manual step button you can press it once to move the CPU forward one
step. You can also switch to automatic mode, where the CPU runs continuously
D. Input/Output Support
i. anual input mechanism using DIP switches for setting memory values in
EEPROM.
Ii. 8-bit output register are connected to 8 LEDs to show outputted values.
Iii. Also 8-bit 7-segment display can be used to display the outputted values, that
is connected to an 8-bit output register.
E. Memory
Memory plays a critical role in enabling the CPU to execute instructions and store
data.
In context of our 8-bit microprocessor:
The RAM module uses EEPROM (AT28C16) that stores programs.
Default memory space is 256 bytes for 8-bit addressing.
F. Registers
i. Registers are memory units inside the CPU that hold data temporarily during
instruction execution. Our 8-bit microprocessor features Registers:
ii. A Register - Stores the result of arithmetic/logic operations also the primary
working register.
iii. B Register - Temporary storage used in two-register operations like add and
subtract.
iv. Instruction Register - Holds the current instruction fetched from memory.
v. Program Counter - Holds the address of the next instruction to fetch from
EEPROM.
vi. Memory Address Register - Holds the address of the RAM location to read
from or write to.
vii. Output Register - Stores data to that display on the output device like LEDs
or 7- segment display.
viii. Flag Register - Stores condition flags like zero or carry (used in conditional
jumps)
G. ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit)
i. Supports basic 8-bit arithmetic: does math like adding and. subtracting.
ii. Built using 74LS181
4. Hardware Setup
5. Instruction Set Architecture (ISA)
6. How to Use
7. Sample Applications
8. Troubleshooting Guide
A. LEDs are flickering, on their own or when fingers approach them.
This is likely caused by floating inputs on the ICs, either not connected or, if connected,
having no active signal on the wire. ICs are designed to lean towards logic HIGH when
receiving no signal, but there is no guarantee.
The best practice is to ensure that all input pins are connected and receiving a signal.
B. Noticeable voltage drop across breadboards
i. Cross-connecting breadboard power rails in as many ways as possible (e.g.
horizontally, in the case of the 8-bit CPU).
ii. Using higher gauge wire for power wires (e.g. AWG 18 or 20).
We improved power distribution by cross-connecting the power rails, using thicker wires
(AWG 18), and supplying power from both sides of the breadboard.
C. Faulty data transfer through bus
This can happen when more than one chip tries to send data on the bus at the same
time or if the signals are weak or noisy.
To fix this, we make sure only one chip drives the bus at a time.
D, Eeprom not working
i. This might be because of wrong wiring on the address, data, or control lines, or the
timing of the control signals is not correct.
ii. Another possible reason is that the chip ’ s write protection is enabled, and the
programmer software is not turning it off before writing the file.
We checked the wiring carefully to make sure the address, data, and control lines were
connected correctly based on the EEPROM datasheet. We also made sure that the timing
of the control signals like WE, OE, and CE was correct. If the EEPROM had a write protect
(WP) pin, we connected it to VCC to turn off the write protection.
9. Maintenance and Safety
A. Maintenance
i. Always Check Your Wires - Jumper wires can sometimes get loose or shift around. It’
s a good habit to check the connections now and then to make sure everything is
working smoothly.
ii. Keep It Clean - Breadboards and chips easily collect dust. Gently blow it off or use a
soft brush. Avoid using water. If needed, a little isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab
will do the job.
iii. Check for Faulty Components - Some parts might stop working without obvious
signs. It's a good idea to test things like the clock circuit, EEPROM, and logic chips
once in a while to catch any issues early.
iv. Be Careful When Reprogramming - When reprogramming the EEPROM, follow the
correct steps. A small mistake can corrupt your program or damage the chip.
v. Always Save a Backup - Before changing your program, save a copy on your
computer. That way, if something goes wrong, you won’t lose your work
B. Safety Tips
i. Use the Right Power Supply - Make sure you're only using a 5V regulated power
supply. Anything higher can damage your components.
ii. Avoid Static Damage - Before touching any chips, touch something metal to
discharge static electricity from your body. Even small static shocks can ruin sensitive
parts.
iii. Watch Out for Overheating - Don’t leave the circuit on for too long if you're not
using it. Touch the chips sometimes — if any feel hot, turn off the power and check
for wiring issues.
iv. Insert Components Properly - Handle chips by the edges and double-check their
orientation. Putting one in the wrong way can cause permanent damage when
powered.
v. Double-Check Before Powering On - One wrong wire can short the whole system.
Always review your wiring before turning on the power.
10. Glossary
11. Appendix
