The ZX Spectrum ULA: How to Design a Microcomputer " by Chris Smith is widely considered a "masterclass in technical forensics" and the definitive guide for understanding the "soul" of the Sinclair ZX Spectrum. Based on extensive reverse-engineering of the original Ferranti Uncommitted Logic Array (ULA) chip, the book provides a transistor-level deconstruction of the hardware that powered the iconic 1980s microcomputer.
Enthusiasts often use "Harlequin" boards, which replace the single ULA chip with many small, widely available 74-series logic chips. This is great for learning exactly how the timing and video generation work step-by-step. Designing for Portability The ZX Spectrum ULA: How to Design a
After six months of burnt fingertips and thousands of lines of code to simulate the ULA's video timing, the moment arrived. He flicked the toggle switch. This is great for learning exactly how the