The developers of the NetBSD operating system recently unveiled a new port called hb68k, which introduces support for systems based on Motorola 680×0 processors first developed in 1979. These processors are still utilized in DIY computer kits and educational tools for electronic design. Additionally, this port will cater to retro system enthusiasts, such as the recent endeavors to run Linux on game consoles like the Atari Jaguar and Sega MegaDrive that are powered by a Motorola 68000 CPU.
This port underwent testing on the Phaethon 1 computer, a project by an enthusiast. The Phaethon 1 boasts a homemade memory management unit, 8MB RAM, two 16650 serial ports, DS3231/3232 timer, VME bus for peripheral connections, and various controllers for managing interrupts, I/O, I2C, and ATA functionalities.