The ZX Spectrum computer was 40 years old in 2022.
These days, ZX Spectrums are rare, but they can be emulated.
A British-built computer that you may be more familiar with is the Raspberry Pi.
What Is a Bare Metal Emulator?
With bare metal emulation, however, the emulated or virtualized environment runs without an OS.
This has various advantages, not least reduced latency.
What Is a ZX Spectrum Computer?
An 8-bit computer released in 1982, the ZX Spectrum sold 5 million units until its retirement in 1992.
Instead, licensed clones were produced, such as the Timex T/S 2068.
Elsewhere, such as in Eastern Europe, Russia, and south-east Asia, unofficial clones were released.
As with most 8-bit systems, the ZX Spectrum mainboard is housed in a case with a top-mounted keyboard.
Many big name games were adapted for the ZX Spectrum.
All this despite the computer being able to handle multicolored sprites and games often lacking music.
Which Raspberry Pi Does ZXBaremulator Run On?
Any Raspberry Pi up to and including the Raspberry Pi 3 B+ can run ZXBaremulator.
For this guide, Ive installed ZXBaremulator on an original Raspberry Pi.
Why Not Use an Emulator on Raspberry Pi OS?
Various ZX Spectrum emulators are available.
In fact, you should notice little difference in performance.
Instead, just install an emulator.
You should also have the Raspberry Pi connected to a suitable display.
The first,F1, is used for selecting TAP files (more on that below).
The second,ALT + K, provides a visual reference of the ZX Spectrums keyboard.
HitESCin any of these screens to return to whatever is being emulated.
By default, the keys default to the commands printed on them rather than the corresponding letter.
This is very useful, but can take some getting used to.
you’re able to input a basic program to get used to the keyboard.
If you choose the latter, you might end it later by pressing the keyboardsPausebutton.
With your keyboards arrow keys, go for the game you wish to load, and tapSPACE.
Next, pressF1again to return to the command line.
Here, press:
The game should begin loading.
There is no underlying Linux operating system to contend with, and no latency.
