It’s over! After nearly five decades, the Z80 Microprocessor has been officially discontinued. This marks the end of an era for one of the most iconic chips in computing history.
Launched in 1976, the Z80 powered a generation of personal computers and embedded systems, including the Radio Shack TRS-80, Sinclair ZX81, and Texas Instruments graphing calculators.
The Z80’s influence extended far beyond its original market, shaping the development of computing technology and leaving a legacy that will be remembered by enthusiasts and professionals alike. Although production has ceased, the Z80’s design lives on in various forms, including FPGA implementations and emulated cores.
This discontinuation is part of the natural progression of technology, as newer and more efficient processors have taken the Z80’s place in contemporary applications. However, its impact on the early personal computer industry and its enduring presence in the embedded world ensure that the Z80’s contributions will not be forgotten.
For more details on the Z80’s history and its significance in the world of microprocessors, you can read the full article here.