Programmable 512 KB ROM emulator for 8/16-bit data buses (RP2350) — core module for Atari ST/STE & Amiga
The SidecarTridge ROM Emulator is a signal-accurate ROM emulation module based on the RP2350. It’s designed for developers, builders, and hardware makers who need to emulate EPROM/EEPROM/Flash devices on 8- or 16-bit buses.
It is also the core ROM-emulation board used by:
- SidecarTridge TOS emulator (Atari ST/STE/Mega ST/Mega STE)
- SidecarTridge Kickstart emulator (Classic Amiga)
Important: The SidecarTridge ROM Emulator is a module intended for integration into host hardware. It is not a standalone consumer product and requires a compatible host/carrier to function.
Choose the right product
If your goal is to replace internal ROMs without swapping chips:
- Atari ST/STE (TOS): Use the SidecarTridge TOS emulator
- Amiga (Kickstart): Use the SidecarTridge Kickstart emulator
If you are building your own hardware (or integrating into another 8/16‑bit system), this ROM Emulator module is the right building block.
Why choose SidecarTridge ROM Emulator?
- Versatile ROM emulation: Load binary images as ROMs from 4 KB to 512 KB, in 8- or 16-bit width, with selectable bus-speed grades.
- Signal-accurate behavior: Uses RP2350 PIO to drive address/data/control lines and mimic real ROM devices at the electrical/protocol level.
- USB connectivity: Load and manage images on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Host integration: Control from the host system using a simple API.
Key features
- Bit-banged emulation via RP2350 PIO: Emulates ROMs at the signal level.
- Multi-image storage: Up to 64 images stored in 16 MB flash (no physical ROM swaps).
- USB mass storage (FAT12): The on-board flash appears as a USB drive for easy file management.
- Hot swapping: Image switching can be triggered by reads to specific addresses (no power-cycle required, depending on host design).
How it works
- PIO-driven bus emulation: Drives address, data, and control signals to mimic ROM/EEPROM/Flash devices.
- Flash as storage: 16 MB non-volatile flash exposed as a USB mass-storage volume.
- Boot + emulate: Becomes active on power-up and starts serving ROM data to the host.
- Optional address-triggered switching: Certain reads can switch images without powering off.
Perfect for makers
Ideal for makers, developers, and hobbyists—especially when emulating ROMs for vintage computers or custom 8/16‑bit hardware.
The board features several characteristics that make it a powerful module for your projects:
- 55mm x 25mm size
- Single-side PCB
- Castellated edges and mounting holes
- USB-C connector
- DEBUG and UART JST connector (optional)
- Dual power supply inputs (USB or external)
- 5V power supply
- 5V and TTL logic levels
FAQ
Is this a software “ROM emulator”?
No. This is a hardware ROM emulation module that mimics EPROM/EEPROM/Flash devices at the signal/bus level.
Do I need a host board / carrier?
Yes. This module is designed to be integrated into host hardware and is not a standalone consumer product.
I want to run a different TOS / Kickstart without swapping chips. Is this the right product?
Most users should use the dedicated products:
- TOS Emulator
- Kickstart Emulator They use this ROM emulator module internally.
What ROM sizes and bus widths are supported?
Binary images from 4 KB to 512 KB, with 8-bit or 16-bit width.
How do I load ROM images?
Images are stored in on-board flash exposed as a USB mass-storage volume (FAT12), and can also be managed via host API.
Can it be used for other 8/16-bit systems?
Potentially yes, as long as you provide compatible host integration (pinout, bus timing, voltage/logic levels).
Is this product for me?
This is a homebrew product designed for hobbyists with a keen interest in experimenting with their computers. If you seek a seamless, Apple-like experience, it will not meet your expectations.
Why can’t I access the store or Discord even though you ship to my country?
Access to our products and community spaces requires basic respect. We have zero tolerance for harassment, personal attacks, abusive behavior, or defamatory content toward our team or community. We operate under a simple principle: don’t be abusive. If that principle is violated, access will be revoked. We build for people who enjoy experimenting, not creating hostility.
Contact us for more information
If you have any questions about the SidecarTridge ROM Emulator, please contact us. We are happy to assist you.
