The z81/xz81 software offers emulation for two popular Sinclair computers, the ZX81 and ZX80, using svgalib and X. It provides users with the ability to run software and games designed for the original machines on modern systems.
The z81/xz81 software is an amazing emulator that replicates the ZX81 (TS1000) and ZX80 machines for both svgalib and X. It has the ability to load and save Xtender-format .p files, and supports the ZX81's pseudo-hi-res mode, overscanned modes, the ZX Printer, as well as the VSYNC-based and AY-3-891x-based sound. Additionally, the software comes with a few ZX81-related utils (including a tape reader and a programme to save the ROM from a ZX81), as well as Public Domain games.
As a user, if you wish to install the z81/xz81 software, you will need an ANSI C compiler. gcc is the recommended option for installation. Firstly, it is advised that you check and edit the Makefile for compatibility with your Linux system. On non-Linux systems, if you only want the X version, or if you're unsure of what the developer is talking about, you can run `make xz81' then (as root) `make install', which will compile/install only the X version. If you only want the X version, remember that the zx81get program will not be compiled, hence the command `make xz81 zx81get' is recommended (then `make install').
On the other hand, if you have a Linux machine with svgalib installed, you can simply run `make' then (as root) `make install'. This will compile z81/xz81 and zx81get, and install them in /usr/local/bin. Once the installation process is completed, make sure to read the man page for detailed instructions on usage.
The latest version of z81/xz81 software comes with several updates and improvements. Firstly, several compilation warnings with gcc have been fixed, as well as an "error" preventing compilation of z81 2.0 with current versions. Many thanks to Adam J. Richter and Brian Schau for identifying these issues. Moreover, a "saverom" program has been added for the ZX81, which allows users to save their own ZX81's ROM. Additionally, the ZX80 VSYNC behaviour has been slightly changed, fixing the Space Invaders clone issue. Various sound fixes have also been made, including the post-death sound in QS Defender, a slight 'spike' problem on VSYNC tones, and the removal of AY tone/noise counter wraparound (which was mistaken). Finally, signal handling has been improved.
Overall, the z81/xz81 software is highly recommended to anyone looking for an effective emulator for ZX81 and ZX80 machines. Its features, ease of installation and regular updates make it an indispensable tool for any software developer or enthusiast.
As a user, if you wish to install the z81/xz81 software, you will need an ANSI C compiler. gcc is the recommended option for installation. Firstly, it is advised that you check and edit the Makefile for compatibility with your Linux system. On non-Linux systems, if you only want the X version, or if you're unsure of what the developer is talking about, you can run `make xz81' then (as root) `make install', which will compile/install only the X version. If you only want the X version, remember that the zx81get program will not be compiled, hence the command `make xz81 zx81get' is recommended (then `make install').
On the other hand, if you have a Linux machine with svgalib installed, you can simply run `make' then (as root) `make install'. This will compile z81/xz81 and zx81get, and install them in /usr/local/bin. Once the installation process is completed, make sure to read the man page for detailed instructions on usage.
The latest version of z81/xz81 software comes with several updates and improvements. Firstly, several compilation warnings with gcc have been fixed, as well as an "error" preventing compilation of z81 2.0 with current versions. Many thanks to Adam J. Richter and Brian Schau for identifying these issues. Moreover, a "saverom" program has been added for the ZX81, which allows users to save their own ZX81's ROM. Additionally, the ZX80 VSYNC behaviour has been slightly changed, fixing the Space Invaders clone issue. Various sound fixes have also been made, including the post-death sound in QS Defender, a slight 'spike' problem on VSYNC tones, and the removal of AY tone/noise counter wraparound (which was mistaken). Finally, signal handling has been improved.
Overall, the z81/xz81 software is highly recommended to anyone looking for an effective emulator for ZX81 and ZX80 machines. Its features, ease of installation and regular updates make it an indispensable tool for any software developer or enthusiast.
What's New
Version 2.1: N/A