PiStorm68K v1.8 by AmiCube

The PiStorm68K v1.8 by AmiCube is a special edition PiStorm accelerator board for retro computing enthusiasts, developers, and hardware tinkerers who want modern Raspberry Pi-based 68000 CPU emulation while keeping the option to use a real Motorola 68000 CPU.

The onboard selector lets you choose between the PiStorm/Raspberry Pi side and a physical MC68000 CPU without opening the system and manually swapping CPU hardware. This makes testing, development, compatibility checks, and everyday use much more convenient.

Important: Raspberry Pi and MC68000 CPU are not included. They must be sourced separately.

Dual CPU SelectorSwitch between the PiStorm/Raspberry Pi side and a real Motorola 68000 CPU.

Real 68000 OptionInstall a physical MC68000 CPU for compatibility checks and original hardware behavior.

PiStorm AccelerationUse Raspberry Pi-based 68000 emulation when paired with compatible PiStorm software.

Electronic SwitchingTPS22975NDSGT load switches handle CPU power path current electronically.

Rail ProtectionSBRT10U50SP5-13 protection diodes improve robustness on major power rails.

CPU and Rail LEDsSelection, signal, and rail LEDs help with quick visual diagnostics.

6-Layer ENIG PCBPremium 6-layer PCB stackup with ENIG finish for signal integrity and durability.

Larger Pi ClearanceLayout is designed to provide more room for larger Raspberry Pi boards.

Key Features

Dual CPU option: switch between Raspberry Pi-based 68000 CPU emulation and a real Motorola 68000 CPU using the onboard selector switch.
Electronic CPU power switching: TPS22975NDSGT N-channel load switch devices handle CPU power path control, so the mechanical selector is used as a control signal rather than carrying CPU supply current directly.
CPU selection LEDs: dedicated indicators show which CPU path is currently selected.
CPU signal LEDs: additional activity LEDs assist with visual diagnostics, testing, and development.
Special +5 V voltage regulation: the LTC3119IUFD synchronous buck-boost DC/DC converter helps provide a cleaner and more stable +5 V rail.
Rail protection diodes: SBRT10U50SP5-13 devices are used on major rails to improve power design robustness.
Power rail LEDs: onboard LEDs show +5 V, +3.3 V, and +1.8 V rail activity.
Premium PCB construction: 6-layer PCB with ENIG gold immersion finish.
Resettable fuse protection: helps protect against certain overcurrent conditions.
Improved decoupling: additional decoupling supports stable operation under changing load conditions.
Designed for larger Raspberry Pi boards: the layout provides better clearance and easier installation.

Why This Version Is Useful

PiStorm boards are powerful tools for experimentation, acceleration, and 68K system development. This AmiCube version adds a practical hardware selector so you can compare the PiStorm/Raspberry Pi path against a real 68000 CPU without repeatedly opening the system.

That is valuable when debugging software, checking hardware behavior, testing compatibility, or comparing original 68000 behavior against accelerated PiStorm operation.

Compatibility Notes

Designed with Minimig and 68000-based retro systems in mind.
Compatibility with Amiga 500 and Amiga 2000 has not yet been fully tested, so use in those systems is currently experimental and at your own risk.
Performance and available features depend on the Raspberry Pi model, PiStorm software build, host system, and configuration.