Make explorations of the inside Z80 CPU.

The outside view of Z80

It was used the CPU in the series of NEC PC8000 in Japan.



  • Z80 of the 8bit CPU, which is developed by Zilog.


  • Dissolve the package
  • Bore a hole in the center part of CPU.
  • Dissolve the package by an acid during heating.
  • This work is very dangerous!
  • Refernce: S. Katuma, "Jissen IC kaiseki Gijyutu semina",Transistor Technology(CQ Public) 1995,Aug - 1996,Jan.
  • Inside of Z80
    Inside of Z80


  • The main part is very small.
    There is the silicon wafer in the center. The electric circuit are printed here.
    There are bonding wires around the silicon wafer.
  • Z80 40-power


  • Magnify the Z80 with the microscope, 40-power.
    The photo looks like the treasures in Shosoin.
    Careful observation shows that an patter was printed.
  • Z80 100-power


  • Magnify the Z80 with the microscope, 100-power.
    The patters are more clearly. These patters have functions of the electric circuit.
  • Z80 40-power


  • Magnify the part bonding of Z80 with the microscope, 40-power.
  • Z80 100-power


  • Magnify the part bonding of Z80 with the microscope, 100-power.
    The part of bonding is clearly.