uCom (micro-Com) is a RS232 adapter for the Z80-MBC2 (or V20-MBC).
It has a power supply for the Z80-MBC2 (or V20-MBC) and a “transparent” serial-USB port.
The uCom board, as the uTerm VT100 board, has a “transparent” USB-serial adapter connector, so you can upload firmware to the Z80-MBC2 (or V20-MBC) (using Arduino IDE) or load an Intel-Hex file (with iLoad) or use XMODEM to exchange files with a PC (running a terminal emulator that supports XMODEM file transfer) while the uCom is in use.
Both the “mixed” power supply scenarios (USB-serial adapter not powered from USB but Z80-MBC2 (or V20-MBC) powered and vice-versa) are managed by the HW, so you don't need to worry about it.
This connector is intended for a better power supply connection for the Z80-MBC2. The use of this connector is recommended only if the uCom and the Z80-MBC2 (or V20-MBC) are connected with a cable.
If they are directly connected (vertically or horizontally) the use of J2 is optional.
The uCom has a “transparent” USB-serial adapter connector, so you can upload firmware to the Z80-MBC2 (or V20-MBC (using Arduino IDE) or load an Intel-Hex file (with iLoad) or use XMODEM to exchange files with a PC (running a terminal emulator that supports XMODEM file transfer) while the uCom is in use.
Both the “mixed” power supply scenarios (USB-serial adapter not powered from USB but Z80-MBC2 (or V20-MBC powered and vice-versa) are managed by the HW, so you don't need to worry about it.
For a solid vertical mounting two 3D printed angled brackets have been created.
The 3D .STL files are the same used for the uTerm, so you can find them there (in the File section).
For a solid horizontal mounting two 3D printed straight brackets have been created.
The 3D .STL files are the same used for the uTerm, so you can find them there (in the File section).
I've prepared an “easy link” to order a small lot (min. 5 pcs) of PCB here.
If you are looking for a kit with all the needed parts (including the 3D printed parts) or an assembled unit ready to use there is a professional seller that can sell both and ship worldwide.
The link to the seller is this one.
All the project files are licensed under GPL v3.
Schematic.
A221218-R090419_SCH.pdf.
PCB Assembling Guide.
A221218-R090419_Assembling_Guide.zip.
BOM file.
A221218-R090419_BOM.ods.
PCB Gerber files (100mm x 53mm).
A221218-R090419_Gerber.zip.