KIM-1 / PAL-1

KIM-1 History

The KIM-1 (Keyboard Input Monitor, 1975) by MOS Technology was one of the first single-board computers. Featuring the 6502 processor at 1 MHz, 1KB RAM, and a 6-digit LED display with hex keypad, it retailed for $245.

The PAL-1 is a modern clone by Liu Ganning, functionally identical to the KIM-1, using through-hole components.

GTKTerm Configuration

Connect to the PAL-1 via USB-to-serial adapter:

Port:     /dev/ttyUSB0 (or ttyACM0)
Baud:     9600
Bits:     8
Parity:   None
Stopbits: 1
Flow:     None

Or with minicom:

minicom -D /dev/ttyUSB0 -b 9600

KIM-1 Monitor Commands

Entered on the hex keypad:

AD    Address mode — enter address on keypad
DA    Data mode — enter/modify data at current address
+     Increment address
PC    Program Counter — set PC to current address
GO    Execute program at current PC
RS    Reset

KimVenture

KimVenture is a text adventure game for the KIM-1, fitting into the 1KB RAM:

Load via paper tape or serial:

; Load tape, then:
AD 0200 PC GO

Navigation: N/S/E/W The game fits the entire adventure framework into ~900 bytes of 6502 machine code.