Developer Launches BBRouter, a 3D Virtual Breadboard Simulator for Ben Eater's 8-Bit Computer

A software developer has introduced BBRouter, a realistic virtual breadboard editor designed specifically for Ben Eater’s well-known 8-bit computer architecture. The creator built the platform after repeatedly miswiring the physical hardware project.

The simulator features a three-dimensional environment where users can examine the SAP-1 computer model, orbit the view, and adjust the clock speed. Key functionalities of the tool include side-by-side comparisons, an oscilloscope feature to probe specific circuit holes, virtual displays for debugging, and automated schematic synchronization. Additionally, the software includes an auto-router and allows users to upload code directly from the standard Arduino Integrated Development Environment.

A notable capability of the platform is its Model Context Protocol (MCP) server integration, which enables artificial intelligence applications such as Claude to interact with user projects. By connecting an AI assistant, users can work collaboratively to construct circuits or diagnose troubleshooting issues. The system allows AI apps to securely access, modify, and run user projects after an initial authentication process via the MCP server settings.

The creator’s broader objective is to foster an online community around the tool, noting that existing simulators are frequently offline or overly abstract for practical physical builds, often lacking modern user interfaces or trackpad and mobile compatibility. The platform offers a Maker subscription plan priced at $7 per month, with a promotional discount code reducing the first month to free and subsequent months to $5 for active subscribers.

Sources: Hacker News

Aggregated summary. Original: Hacker News