Idea:
THT technology for self assembly, i use orginal amstrad chips.
Slot's for Toto and my extension boards.
PS2 keyboard interface
So something like this, board drawing almost done.
(http://images52.fotosik.pl/587/3707897ee3c722fdm.jpg) (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/%5BURL=http://www.fotosik.pl/showFullSize.php?id=3707897ee3c722fd)](http://images52.fotosik.pl/587/3707897ee3c722fdm.jpg) (http://www.fotosik.pl/showFullSize.php?id=3707897ee3c722fd)
To do: replace 8 DRAM memory chips for one SRAM memory chip and order prototype board :D
If you are doing a complete re-build I'd advise adding a few other bits, such as onboard voltage regulation to avoid people blowing this up with the wrong voltage/polarity.
It all looks very compact and neat, but have you tried routing this yet?
Bryce.
Bryce, good question i think add bridge and 2,6 amp voltage regulator. Bridge prevent wrong polarity, voltage regulator do a correct power for all extensions. Yes i have routed board, 4 layers .
oh my f... god, this is one dream of mine, make a cpc-atx board, 100% compatible with all the original chips!! (as bryce knows :) )
if this is going to happen, i have only one thing to say: shut up and take my money!!! :P
Oooo, four layers, that will be an expensive PCB :o .
A simple diode for polarity protection and a 3A 5V regulator shouldn't be too difficult to add. Are those expansion headers not too close to each other?
Bryce.
Yeach, 7 USD per board in my China factory. Dimension 20x13 cm. Is little to close i still working on PCB so is time for good ideas :D Diode only prevent connect wrong polarity power supply . With bridge you can connect any polarity power supply.Is more universal i think.
If you want to get the size down, then use SMD for the resistors and decoupling capacitors. Maybe consider going SMD for the standard logic too?
Bryce.
Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/profile/?u=1104) are you going to make it itx compatible??? please! :D
Bryce, idea was make it in DIP (THT) for people who don't have enough soldering skills and equipment but looks for fun to self assembly own board.
Of course i can sit and redraw it for smd 0603 and soic, solder board using my hot air station,plus flux run board using my Saleae logic analyzer and Attend digital 100mhz oscilloscope but where is fun? ;D
Why would you need an oscilloscope and a Logic analyser to run the board? :D
My suggestions were just to reduce the size. 1206 and SMD LS parts shouldn't be beyond the skills of someone who is willing to solder a board this size themselves.
Bryce.
Becouse looks like proffesional? Lots of measurment stuff on desk :D
For me is easier do it on SMD but i try do something usefull for others, like always i publish project and maybe somebody do it .
Size is important Bruce , but smaller is better? ;D
Sorry but i have specyfic kind of humor so don't take it very serious, excluding this board project, to be honest i made it for myself becouse standart CPC464 take too many space on my desk, it is like piano.
I am well used to French humour :) and I also make my projects for others to build, but in my experience, even through-hole projects are only made by very few people, the rest of the scene want to buy them assembled.
Bryce.
Looks quite nice! Can on comment on this? If yes...
- A 6128 instead of the 464 would be neat!!!
- The slots of the X-cards are too close to each other, cards will not fit
- Try using bigger RAM chips, the old types are hard to find (even 32 KB is better than 8 KB)
- Adding some more RAM and FlashROM on board would be nice to have
Now it you would like, and this is too much work anyway, you could use discrete chips instead of the GA. The way they did it for the KCc for example.
That's an interesting project, keep it going. :)
I want one, take my money lol.
There is a vga Dsub connector on the boad, right? :o
The boards looks great !!!!
I love the ideea of DIY CPC project :D
HHHHHHHHHOOO MMMMMYYYYY
I want to be a part of it !!!!!!! I want to assemble, to build, to solder !!!!!!!
Can i help you ??? ?? pleeeaaassse ??? ??? ?
I'm in the top list priority because i'm French too !!! (French humour inside again.....)
Hi! I love this project!! I will follow your progress!
Will it also be possible to connect a mouse?
Quote from: radu14m on 20:13, 07 January 15
There is a vga Dsub connector on the boad, right? :o
The boards looks great !!!!
I love the ideea of DIY CPC project :D
I think that's the Joystick Port, not VGA.
@TFM (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=179): Making the GA from discrete parts would make the PCB about 6 times bigger!
Bryce.
Quote from: radu14m on 20:13, 07 January 15
There is a vga Dsub connector on the boad, right? :o
there is not need for a vga port nowadays, with the new TV and PC monitors the right choice is a RGB to HDMI/scaler conversor like this:
XRGB Mini Framemeister - A PAL torture test (http://www.videogameperfection.com/2012/06/28/xrgb-mini-framemeister-a-pal-torture-test/)
Quote from: Bryce on 21:20, 07 January 15
@TFM (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=179): Making the GA from discrete parts would make the PCB about 6 times bigger!
Ah no, just check out the KCc and then put it in a small FPGA. Easy does it.
Else... Where do you get the GA from? You're going to slaughter a 464 to build one new on another PCB or what?
Well i have some GA in my drawer. Canibalize one CPC to made second is a stiupid idea. Problem is i reach maximum pads in my PCB design software so i have two option, divide board for 2 or buy upgrade for 200 euro :-[
About memory i replace it for one chip. Video out be a standart minidin 8. And i'm Polish, not French. I only living close to Paris from few years.
Anyway, work in progress...
Any mouse interface schematic is aviable?
Quote from: TFM on 02:34, 08 January 15
Ah no, just check out the KCc and then put it in a small FPGA. Easy does it.
Else... Where do you get the GA from? You're going to slaughter a 464 to build one new on another PCB or what?
That's not what you said earlier, you said:
Quote from: TFM on 18:41, 07 January 15
you could use discrete chips instead of the GA.
Now you are saying "Clone the GA with an FPGA". Which is also a bad idea, because it would mean adding a further ROM and other circuitry. A CPLD clone of the GA would be a nice idea though.
Bryce.
I think that this must be a 100% preservation board, all the original components included (even the chip ram, 128k's with the 6128 pal)
The boards corrode, the contacts loose, this board with good materials is for a good conservation i think.
i'll only add a ps2 keyboard, a ps2 mouse and a standard db9 rgb port, the expansion ports (like pci ports on pcboard) will bring us the rest... and nothing about dsub ports, with the db9 rgb you can put anything you want with a scandoubler or (better) a rgb to hdmi converter like i said before.
this is not only to canivalize one cpc for this board, because this board bring more flexibility expansions, a little plus with the ps2 ports, if you stay on itx format, you can put it on a mini case, this, a ps2 mouse, a ps2 keyboard and 2 pads is the only you need for gaming and work with the cpc!!
I'd still include a header for original keyboards for those who intend using it in an original case.
Bryce.
Or build a new, smaller case with this and a 6128 plus keyboard, which are still available complete from trade in post.
The fact to build an board to be used as desktop is a nice project.
Please, make the board size and the connectors output match with standard PC form-factor to be properly cased.
Great to support MX4 slots for expansions. Take care that slots are 1.00-inch spaced.
Don't built it too fast! 3D mock-ups are nice, but are definitively not what the reality allow. :)
This got me excited, but I think there's much more potential to it than the state it's currently in... Indeed, as others have mentioned, why not incorporate some of the projects that have been widely available? Finally, after all the talk of a "future CPC" new model we're at a stage where one is actually feasible, even though it'd be more conservative in its scope than, say, DVI, 8GB and a 200MHz CPU.
Also, as TFM said: why a 464 and not a 6128?
Regarding SMDs and Bryce's comments: I think there are people willing to invest in time to build such a thing but without the technical expertise required for SMDs.
Still not sure how it could be built without cannibalising an existing machine though?
cannibalising is not a way.
No, definitely not.
PS RIP Wolinksi, I grew up with his comics...
Well , here is,
http://www.sellmyretro.com/offer/details/Amstrad-CPC464-ULA-40007-chip-IC-3874 (http://www.sellmyretro.com/offer/details/Amstrad-CPC464-ULA-40007-chip-IC-3874)
Other IC from Ebay and drawer. And i can add lot's of things on the PCB but in this case people start cry "expensive".So for now, simply board, all extras like floppy or hdd controller as extensions. Just Lego ;D
too expensive... Business over the CPC community.
Better to design a GA CPLD.
Or write core for this board, for example zx spectrum running ok.
(http://images47.fotosik.pl/1842/77e5e14a0423ca23med.jpg) (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/%5BURL=http://www.fotosik.pl/pokaz_obrazek/77e5e14a0423ca23.html)](http://images47.fotosik.pl/1842/77e5e14a0423ca23med.jpg) (http://www.fotosik.pl/pokaz_obrazek/77e5e14a0423ca23.html)
Ralferoo already has a very good (WIP) FPGA Core for the Amstrad.
Bryce.
Hmm but i'm too stiupid to adapt it to this board..........
Quote from: Bryce on 09:55, 08 January 15
That's not what you said earlier,
Oh come on, don't turn around ones word in the mouth. Do you always need to be right? Take it easy! :)
If we all can work together then this could really bring us the CPC next Generation
Some changes, still unfinished, mouse support added,edge slot added separate board for extension cards.
(http://images53.fotosik.pl/591/3cae38985e340f41med.jpg)
Quote from: Piotr on 07:44, 10 January 15
Some changes, still unfinished, mouse support added,edge slot added separate board for extension cards.
(http://images53.fotosik.pl/591/3cae38985e340f41med.jpg)
any chance of a centronics expansion connector (schneider\plus style) and 6128 spec for a floppy drive.
Quote from: Piotr on 07:44, 10 January 15
Some changes, still unfinished, mouse support added,edge slot added separate board for extension cards.
(http://images53.fotosik.pl/591/3cae38985e340f41med.jpg)
I like this much more :D
A separate board for expansions is a much better idea I think (keep the motherboard nice and small).
But why not have 128K RAM? I suppose with the X-Mem it's no problem though...
The edge connector will need to extend out from the PCB. Unlike the Spectrum, the CPC edge connector has endpoints and on some expansions has quite a bit of plastic at both ends.
Bryce.
as Bryce Said, is imperative to put a keyboard connector for use with the old keyboard, the ps/2 is very important, but never will replace the cpc keyboard response and the "feel"
Quote from: Bryce on 20:43, 10 January 15
The edge connector will need to extend out from the PCB. Unlike the Spectrum, the CPC edge connector has endpoints and on some expansions has quite a bit of plastic at both ends.
Bryce.
Just to add my couple of cents (or pence or øre or whatever);
The female edge connectors aren't that easy to get by these days (still not impossible, but, you know).
Personally I think I would use an IDC box connector and use a 50 pin ribbon cable to IDC connectors for new boards. Then just make a small board with IDC box connector and the edge connector for use with the old expansions. Added bonus is that you don't run into the "need more space around the connector" problem. I'm sure there are issues with this way of doing it too, but it might be worth considering at least?
KarlMag
Quote from: Piotr on 07:44, 10 January 15Some changes, still unfinished, mouse support added,edge slot added separate board for extension cards.
It look to have no screw hole to be case mounded...
As already suggested, take time to design something that is really usable. It will cost money! :)
Any news about this project?
Prototype board ordered today, so i waiting for delivery, approx 7-10 days.
Wow, let's see the result... :)
Well, still a long way but I'm stubborn :D
With DHL courier, 8) 2 layers 16x14 cm dimensions. And is a prototype so dont push me down.
(http://images54.fotosik.pl/613/d4a0056a3a914fbfm.jpg) (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/%5BURL=http://www.fotosik.pl/showFullSize.php?id=d4a0056a3a914fbf)](http://images54.fotosik.pl/613/d4a0056a3a914fbfm.jpg) (http://www.fotosik.pl/showFullSize.php?id=d4a0056a3a914fbf)
I know it's your logo and all that, but writing "Speccy" on a CPC board is a bit of an insult that might put people off.
Otherwise looking good! Although I doubt you'll find many CPC expansion that fits on that edge connector, the gaps left and right are much too small for most expansions.
Bryce.
It is a reason why it is prototype, for me is easier continue job on real board not in drawing software. Speccy.pl is my base community and i always put this logo on all my boards, sorry :D Left and right gaps is enough for my DDI clone socket. Anyway is lot to do.
and what about integrating a motherx4 board like on pc's and the isa/pci expansions?
we can put all the hardware expansions ordered and is more atx friendly for who wants to put this board on a pc tower.
I think he wants to confirm the CPC base core with this prototype first before adding additional stuff.
Bryce.
Quote from: Bryce on 11:05, 03 February 15
I think he wants to confirm the CPC base core with this prototype first before adding additional stuff.
Bryce.
well I'll be buying one, it'll stop me cannibalising a working CPC 6128 for my tower CPC project. I have the rgb to VGA card and plans to incorporate an mother 4x or 2 so I can include all of TotO's boards and have some spare slots for an upcoming Ethernet card and rtc.
Craig.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk
A tower CPC is just a CPC in a big clumsy box. Why not pack all that inside an original case?
Bryce.
Quote from: Bryce on 11:37, 03 February 15
A tower CPC is just a CPC in a big clumsy box. Why not pack all that inside an original case?
Bryce.
There are ITX cases that are very little, original and different than a standard pc tower, i think that some itx cases will be very pretty if you put inside a cpc computer :)
Quote from: Bryce on 11:37, 03 February 15
A tower CPC is just a CPC in a big clumsy box. Why not pack all that inside an original case?
Bryce.
because I want it on my KVM switch to use only one monitor and no desk space.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk
is the board going ahead and if so what will be the specs ?
would like to write an article for this and all info and specs much appreciated thanks
Well.....specification is very flexible ;) For now is :
464 without printer port, without tape recorder, without keyboard,64 kb ram, so nothing impressive , but this is today ;D Work in progress.......
Quick question about mouse. I found this PS2Mouse - CPCWiki (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/index.php/PS2Mouse) . So questions for authors, can i feel free to use this design in this board?
ask Bryce.
Ok. Bryce can i use this?
Certainly, it's all open source. If you need schematic, layout or firmware files let me know.
Bryce.
Stage 1, assembled.
(http://images52.fotosik.pl/618/f6502567439669f8med.jpg)
looks great !!!!
Beautiful!!
This is amazing!!
what is the size of the board at the moment?
I certainly want one. But please offer a 6128 spec one. Floppy controller and 128k would seen essential.
One with cpc6128 specs would be great :)
Well , working :D
Amstrad CPC clone, under tests. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=51Iymj_V_aY#)
it's working !!!! Great work ! ;) ;) ;)
Good work there Piotr :)
Oh wow, this rocks!!!
Quote from: Piotr on 18:04, 07 February 15
Well , working :D
Amstrad CPC clone, under tests. - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=51Iymj_V_aY&feature=youtu.be)
Awww greetz to our wiki =)
Three words: impressive, amazing, astonishing
@Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104) how can you make sure that the board is 100% bug free, that is 100% cpc identical?
It must be very hard to test that all the lines are there and nothing is missing i suppose...
I don't suppose anyone has a spare stockpile of acids and asics to make a plus version LOL.
Quote from: Piotr on 18:04, 07 February 15
Well , working :D
Amstrad CPC clone, under tests. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=51Iymj_V_aY#)
FR:
Trés beau boulot. Respect. (http://i42.servimg.com/u/f42/11/72/80/31/merci10.gif) (http://i38.servimg.com/u/f38/11/72/80/31/eek-1e10.gif)
Mais moi je vois un clone de CPC 6128. (http://i42.servimg.com/u/f42/11/72/80/31/pasmaf10.gif)
"Amstrad 128K Microcomputer (v3)
1985 Amstrad Consumer Electronics plc
and Locomotive Software Ltd.
Basic 1.1"
Et pas de slot datacorder...
Pourquoi le nommer CPC 464 Clone, dans ce cas là ? (http://i42.servimg.com/u/f42/11/72/80/31/gratt10.gif)
Parce-qu'il n'y a pas de gestion disque ?
------------------------------
ENG:
Very nice job. Respect. (http://i42.servimg.com/u/f42/11/72/80/31/merci10.gif) (http://i38.servimg.com/u/f38/11/72/80/31/eek-1e10.gif)
But I see a CPC 6128 clone. (http://i42.servimg.com/u/f42/11/72/80/31/pasmaf10.gif)
"Amstrad 128K Microcomputer (v3)
1985 Amstrad Consumer Electronics plc
and Locomotive Software Ltd.
Basic 1.1"
And no datacorder slot ...
Why name the Clone CPC 464, in this case ? (http://i42.servimg.com/u/f42/11/72/80/31/gratt10.gif)
Because there is no disk management?
Totally amazing !
If there are some with 6128 specs, i'm on it .
Subaru : Answer is : "PROTOTYPE" . :D I built this board for check some things (and myself) ,of course on board is few errors. For example i made clock circut from schematic first version 464 on 7400, this clock not working well with 40010 so on board is glued circut on 74hcu04, few wrong connections with RAM memory,some wrong dimension and socket placement .
But board is small and cheap. Is really hard to do big board with all extensions without human errors. Display 6128 becouse i fit rom from 6128. I can install rom from 464, no problem ;)
Board with Xmem
(http://images53.fotosik.pl/619/909922820aef3891med.jpg)
Quote from: Piotr on 09:18, 08 February 15
Subaru : Answer is : "PROTOTYPE" . :D I built this board for check some things (and myself) ,of course on board is few errors. For example i made clock circut from schematic first version 464 on 7400, this clock not working well with 40010 so on board is glued circut on 74hcu04, few wrong connections with RAM memory,some wrong dimension and socket placement .
But board is small and cheap. Is really hard to do big board with all extensions without human errors. Display 6128 becouse i fit rom from 6128. I can install rom from 464, no problem ;)
Board with Xmem
(http://images53.fotosik.pl/619/909922820aef3891med.jpg)
I like that too. But... As a 464 remake with no tape support then its restricted on available software. If you added an FDC and amsdos the resulting 664 or 6128 would be far more usable when adding drives and HxC emulators don't you think?
Quote from: Piotr on 09:18, 08 February 15
For example i made clock circut from schematic first version 464 on 7400, this clock not working well with 40010 so on board is glued circut on 74hcu04...
I looked at the two schematics and you're right the 464 uses different circuitry to manage de 16mhz crystal than the 6128, i think that it's very very very curious, i wonder why this differents? timing?
i have a 464 with the 4007, if you need some multimeter test on it, let me know!!
@CraigsBar (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=482) I think that piotr wants a bug free 464 (more easy if easy is the word) and then, add the 6128 expansions to the board, after all the 6128 it's a 464 with some cuts and addons :laugh:
Quote from: Joseman on 12:05, 08 February 15@CraigsBar[/url] I think that piotr wants a bug free 464 (more easy if easy is the word) and then, add the 6128 expansions, after all the 6128 it's a 464 with some cuts and addons :laugh:
either way. This is an awesome project and so long as a ddi1 remake is also (still) available to order at the same time I guess I really want both lol.
More tests, MX4 ,XMEM and DDI connected, run demo.
YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9rIPpTI_LYM)
Quote from: Piotr on 17:16, 08 February 15
More tests, MX4 ,XMEM and DDI connected, run demo.
YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9rIPpTI_LYM)
it says that it's a private video...
I change settings.
what are you using to connect the cpc to the ips monitor?
rgb to hdmi converter / scaler?
Nothing, it is TV/monitor so have scart socket.
Really this project is simply amazing
Not long ago i've tried to start something similar but for not enough time for this task the project was always delayed and only started about 2-3% of the schematic.
I'm really really interested in this project, @Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104) i'll like to know what kind of rules you followed to interconnect the different chips, when i worked on my project, the principal doubt was in what order i'll put the chips, i mean, we now that on pc exist two big form factors, AT and ATX, when the pc moved from at to atx was because the components where better placed and the signals between critical components become shorter...
I don't know if on a cpc this is indifferent or the location of the chips can be better placed and optimized that amstrad did on his design...
what are your opinions about this?
Nice solid SCART signal there, the MODE 2 ROM-hack works nicely.
Several amendments , the board is already stable (i hope). Earlier hung up on demos.
DTC demo
Amstrad CPC 464 clone ,DTC demo running - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ezp70clr5YA&feature=youtu.be)
Batman demo also run all, earlier hung up.
Joseman, hmm i more practicial, i just connect wires and looking for smoke ;) Rules like in digital, capacitors for filtering, short clock signals etc.
Quote from: Joseman on 20:05, 07 February 15
Three words: impressive, amazing, astonishing
@Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104) how can you make sure that the board is 100% bug free, that is 100% cpc identical?
It must be very hard to test that all the lines are there and nothing is missing i suppose...
You just have to run great Cpc hardware demos as chany's vertical split, from scratch and still rising from vanity and some other great stuffs as overflow's demos using hardware featuring. I would also speak about s&koh remakes demo from Grim to see what's happenning...
People,please this "child" is 4 days old ;) And after 4 days from born can walk , dont expect fly ;) Anyway:
Batman demo running complete, without artefact, hanging etc
DTC , running ok,
Still rising, running ok
Pheelone ok
From scratch, i'm not sure
So is good idea, becouse i'm newbie in CPC world, to give me name demo or game and i test it. Also for next board i need serious betatester.
I'm just speaking of Cpc hardware demos tests' just to see how it works.... :laugh:
I know ;) and i thank you for your help and sugesstions ;) Is exactly what i need. Some help with software. I'm newbie in Amstrad world. Digging Pouet net for demos take time so is good to me recive list. I spend my time to do better board. ;)
Take your Times, No problem, and do your best!
Overflow demos : s&koh, the other world intro, ...etc...
Semilanceata demo : s&koh remakes. You can find this demo in synergy 2 demo by impact (great hardware stuff demos from Cmp/iMPACT)
Try from scratch from vanity. It's also a great hardware test...
From Arkos : try the Megademo, demo is art.
From symbiosis (hello Prodatron), try Digital Orgasm.
From Chany/Nps, try dream demos....
Cool, thank's for your support. This list made my job much easier . I stop waste time for search random Amstrad demos on Pouet.net like before. Is exactly what i need :D Focus on board ;)
If you need a bêta tester in France, I'm free to test it....
Quote from: Piotr on 22:44, 09 February 15
Also for next board i need serious betatester.
If you need betatesters, count me in, i've knowledge of soldering, desoldering, multimeter, frecuencymeter, analog an digital electronic, flashing roms... i've spares of all the components to build a cpc, i've an amstrad cpc onto a pc tower with the original keyboard inside a pc keyboard, i play games every week on a real cpc and i know the precise behaviour of a lot of games on a real CPC.
if you want i can be one betatester :)
Quote from: Ast on 23:35, 09 February 15
If you need a bêta tester in France, I'm free to test it....
(http://i42.servimg.com/u/f42/11/72/80/31/panne110.gif)
Moi aussi.
Tape loading module test 8)
(http://images51.fotosik.pl/622/709bf4975eea7994med.jpg)
Now the FDC please! :)
On the cpc6128 service manual, pages 28-29, there is the schematic for the disc drive "expansion", I suspect that is very similar than the DDI, even on this 6128 manual the FDC is apart from the main schematic :laugh:
Service Manuals - CPCWiki (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/index.php/Service_Manuals)
I think that it's good idea to implement the FDC like on a 6128 and not let it on a expansion card. I work/play a lot with my 6128-at and i know how sensitive is the FDC with bad data cables and too much connects that interfere between the floppy data and the cpc
Good work by the way ;)
FDC controller,
(http://images53.fotosik.pl/482/833aea98179aa1bdmed.jpg)
I know that there are DDI's clones, but I really think that better put it on the main board.
This DDI Clone have an edge conector but no passthrough connector, then you need one more cable to attach hardware like the SF2 and this, trust me, this way the CPC gets way inestable, mine even not power on correctly all the times when i put the SF2 and the passthrough cable.
At least put 2 or 3 mx4 connectors on the board and let the people expand the cpc with a connector more reliable like the mx4. But at the end, the FDC better on the main board!! :laugh:
It's my opinion though
Price raising.... Also i almost reach limit of pins in my design software 748 /1000) .250 pins what i have i keep for keyboard/mouse/tape/printer port/and slot for extensions. Upgrade software to 2000 pins, cost is 250 euro, so sorry i don't have choice . Also is not big deal to redesign DDI board.
Echh im crazy but i extend Diptrace. So flopy controller go on board and next 64 ram too. Happy? :D
oh my f*** god!
today i'm very busy, as soon as i can i'll send you a PM with an idea that I had yesterday !
Send me cash, not idea ;D
(http://i3.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/newsfeed/000/264/241/9e9.gif)
Quote from: Piotr on 09:54, 13 February 15
Send me cash, not idea ;D
Spread the price of the upgrade across the cost you sell the PCBs for.
Bryce.
64kb ram added ,floppy added, printer port added , so it is 6128 now , big mess :
(http://images54.fotosik.pl/624/b46ff5c4eb47fa1dm.jpg) (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/%5BURL=http://www.fotosik.pl/showFullSize.php?id=b46ff5c4eb47fa1d)](http://images54.fotosik.pl/624/b46ff5c4eb47fa1dm.jpg) (http://www.fotosik.pl/showFullSize.php?id=b46ff5c4eb47fa1d)
i didn't tell you what my idea is!! so don't say anything yet ;)
Quote from: Piotr on 12:40, 13 February 15
64kb ram added ,floppy added, printer port added , so it is 6128 now , big mess
Amazing! Can't wait to see how small you can keep it with FDC, keyboard and mouse interfaces...
A RTC can be added ? :)
A 6128 is good! To make a real CPC next generation it needs more RAM and Flash(=ROM), an RTC (Dallas f.e.) and couple other standard expansions. :)
Really good news! 6128 is perfect for enjoying cpc!
Quote from: TFM on 18:19, 13 February 15
A 6128 is good! To make a real CPC next generation it needs more RAM and Flash(=ROM), an RTC (Dallas f.e.) and couple other standard expansions. :)
I'm happy with 6128 spec. If you want more, just add it with a motherx4 and xmem, xmass, play city, mini booster, etc.....
Quote from: CraigsBar on 21:53, 13 February 15
I'm happy with 6128 spec. If you want more, just add it with a motherx4 and xmem, xmass, play city, mini booster, etc.....
Well, that's exactly what I already to with a real CPC6128. ;D
Quote from: TFM on 22:32, 13 February 15
Well, that's exactly what I already to with a real CPC6128. ;D
But you can't put it on a little case unless you use a chainsaw!!
Friday 13,........ i connect board to 9 volt......... Echh, run again but i waste lot of time. So today only fast load test:
CPC clone, fast load test direct from PC sound card - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNNsnB9hHk0&feature=youtu.be)
About RTC is any schematic and standart?
What are the features we get adding a RTC? I am a noob
in addition to the obvious known what time and hour it is (some games or apps can benefit of that), a real and precise ramdon number generator (real useful for games).
Anyway i think that all the expansions that come after the "6128 specs" should be allowed to be disabled via jumpers to stay on the 6128 specs or to go ahead, the first benefit wil be avoid compatibility problems and stay 100% standard.
Personally I think it is best to have it at 6128 specs plus PS/2 mouse and keyboard interfaces.
As discussed in another thread, the "standard" RTC is not compatible with X-MEM, MegaROM, SF2 etc. Also, it is not currently supported by SymbOS. The other option is a SF2 compatible version, but this requires more implementation work as it is not ROM based AFAIK.
Having a PS/2 based 6128 with a smaller motherboard and a connector for a mother X4 is perfect for adding everything else, I think :D
The PS/2 mouse adapter would need a switch/jumper to disable it, otherwise it will disrupt the signals if a Joystick is connected.
Bryce.
In mean time, board converted to 6128, stability tests in progress. But looks fine.
Full Batman demo .
My amstrad CPC clone prototype, now is 6128 ;) - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CiJKtdmkNKE&feature=youtu.be)
Board looks like total disaster but working fine ;)
So , is time to finsh drawing and routing and order second prototype.
Quote from: Bryce on 13:14, 14 February 15
The PS/2 mouse adapter would need a switch/jumper to disable it, otherwise it will disrupt the signals if a Joystick is connected.
Bryce.
Here is one example, i think that upgrade de cpc specs is a very tricky work, because that ANY (even little) incompatibilty problem introduced by any upgrade will ruin the board.
The upgrades have to be carefully chosen (and essentials) like keyboard connector, and even this, it must be easy to dissable it via jumpers or something like this.
For the rest of upgrades, simply put some mx4 connectors and make mx4 cards that can be disconnected.
Echh, people ,people. Idea was simply 464 plus slots for expansion cards. Now is full 6128 , so nothing more , STOP, ENOUGH !!! ;D All internial extras can be disable via jumpers or dipswitch. Anyway, COVOX added.
Quote from: Piotr on 14:52, 14 February 15
Echh, people ,people. Idea was simply 464 plus slots for expansion cards. Now is full 6128 , so nothing more , STOP, ENOUGH !!! ;D All internial extras can be disable via jumpers or dipswitch. Anyway, COVOX added.
You're totally agree, 6128 is enough. The rest, via expansions, like mx4 or whatever.
If any, and only beause with this, the CPC will totally free of his case, is a ps/2 interface for keyboard (not need mouse) like ps2cpc on the other thread, and even this expansion must be jumper enabled!. Not forgetting that the original keyboard lines must end on a connector to allow people to connect the original keyboard (the only 100% precise and software compatible!)
@Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104) for me what you made until now is more than a miracle, is a gift for the CPC community that i don't think that we really realised how important is what you achieved with this board, for me you're a new god on this community.
Case for this board, similiar like this (for my expansion card for ZX Spectrum) 2 Plexi boards, top and bottom.
(http://images53.fotosik.pl/625/016c8d00fc14e917med.jpg)
Great Work Piotr !!!! ;)
I don't understand why peoples said that a RTC will be not compatible with the X-MEM???
They don't use the same address port... I have made RTC tests w/o problem.
Quote from: Munchausen on 13:00, 14 February 15
As discussed in another thread, the "standard" RTC is not compatible with X-MEM, MegaROM, SF2 etc. Also, it is not currently supported by SymbOS. The other option is a SF2 compatible version, but this requires more implementation work as it is not ROM based AFAIK.
That other thread is : Real Time Clock Board (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/amstrad-cpc-hardware/real-time-clock-board/)
But no one said this is the "standard" RTC.
Quote from: TotO on 23:41, 14 February 15
I don't understand why peoples said that a RTC will be not compatible with the X-MEM???
They don't use the same address port... I have made RTC tests w/o problem.
There are many different RTC solutions for the CPC. The mentioned thread covers the Dobbertin smart watch, which takes place in a ROM slot, and unless you put it in a ROM slot not covered by the XMEM/SF2/Megaflash/MegaROM, there will be a conflict.
Now it would be better to discuss this on the other thread ;)
DIY Amstrad, DIY case :D
(http://images52.fotosik.pl/627/f5d3eb6a24c364e2med.jpg)
Quote from: gerald on 11:10, 15 February 15
That other thread is : Real Time Clock Board (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/amstrad-cpc-hardware/real-time-clock-board/)
But no one said this is the "standard" RTC.There are many different RTC solutions for the CPC. The mentioned thread covers the Dobbertin smart watch, which takes place in a ROM slot, and unless you put it in a ROM slot not covered by the XMEM/SF2/Megaflash/MegaROM, there will be a conflict.
Now it would be better to discuss this on the other thread ;)
Sure it's not exactly standard because there isn't a standard, hence putting it in quotes. But it seems to be the most common one until the SF2 appeared on the scene.
Quote from: TotO on 23:41, 14 February 15
I don't understand why peoples said that a RTC will be not compatible with the X-MEM???
They don't use the same address port... I have made RTC tests w/o problem.
Only the dobbertin smart watch RTC... not the SF2!
Ok some calculation, board price (if i order minimum 20) cost is approx 25 EURO. So question is who really want this?
From Scratch, working ;)
Amstrad CPC 6128 clone, demo "From Scratch" - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1I71Nt_388&feature=youtu.be)
the final version will have the FDC on board as you said in the last modification?
Yes, FDC, 128 ram , ps2 keyboard/mouse ,one or two slot for mx board .
3 for me please :D
1 for me please, Thanks.
One cpc for me please :)
Another one for me, please
AMAZING!! I'll take 3 please :D :D
Board dimension , 24x15 cm
First routing so is only for imagine how it looks.
One slot for mx cards, i do a separate board with slots.
(http://images51.fotosik.pl/626/043c5c49cf8a86ffmed.jpg)
@Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104) Where will be located the mounting holes?
If you accept advices, there are a lot of lovely itx cases where this board can be mounted!. So only 4 holes in the correct situation and nothing more!
Mini-ITX - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mini-ITX)
it sounds great.
i'd like to order 2 motherboards please.
Joseman i draw it to catch dimension for board estimate, all is flexible. ITX size, power connector for atx supply , power button, reset but what about edge slots?
The dimensions are flexible on an itx-case, i mean, it's not necessary to be 17x17 (with the cpc components it's impossible), your dimensions are correct.
In case that you put on an itx-case, the edge slots must be used with an scsi cable and locate the boards on anoter location (i made this way on my cpc-at) so no problem.
About puting the atx connector on the board... i don't think that it's absolutely necessary, i made the atx connections using a little board next to the cpc. And i don't think that all the people will put this board on a pc case.
Maybe the people can give his opinions about this?
I'll take also one!
Hmm, now this board takes 1 amp with DDI-connected so good power supply is important, i working on it anway. ATX power as option (extra socket) plus small circut to ATX style power on/off.
Maybe somebody have try to build first version? I have 4 spare board,
Things to correct on prototype board for 464:
reverse power supply for memory chips,
4 lines for memory need swap
clock generator need change for 74hcu04.
(http://images55.fotosik.pl/627/67c7f92361f66371med.jpg)
I'd be happy to try building your first version :D I have an original DDI and both your remakes (small and large) so testing disks shouldn't be a problem either :D
I want 1 spare board of the first versión.
Quote from: Piotr on 00:06, 16 February 15
Ok some calculation, board price (if i order minimum 20) cost is approx 25 EURO. So question is who really want this?
I imagine that you are speaking about the PCB alone, and not the mounted CPC board?
Because, when I see peoples wanting 2 or 3 of them, I have a doubt about what they order and the final price. ;D
Upss , price is for PCB only, no components no assembled of course. Is not obvious for the price? :o
It seemed clear to me. I wouldn't intend to make 3 boards immediately, but am looking for two spares for future projects I have in mind, as it isn't clear that they would be available into the future. The DIY aspect is fine for me, and should save Piotr some time and effort too :)
It's totally clear for the price, i'm fine with that. soldering time!! :laugh:
About testing the 464 board without FDC, i don't have any external DDI controller, i think it's nearly useless test this way the board :laugh:
The cpc6128 clone is other thing! i think in test this board to the end of time :laugh:
but if it is totally necessary i can help then
I am interested in 1 PCB.
Quote from: Piotr on 13:15, 16 February 15
Upss , price is for PCB only, no components no assembled of course. Is not obvious for the price? :o
May be not enough obvious when an used CPC is sold less than 50€.
So, I prefered that you clarify the situation as most peoples don't have soldering skill. ;D
TotO, btw where is my disk interface for CPC?? I'm waiting and waiting?
Quote from: Piotr on 15:51, 16 February 15
TotO, btw where is my disk interface for CPC?? I'm waiting and waiting?
You missed it today...
@Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104) I had a thought - why don't you use smaller RAM chips with 4 or 8 bits instead of the 1 bit RAM in the 464/6128? You could save a lot of space.
The 6128 plus uses 4 bit RAM so you only need 4 RAM chips instead of 16... you could use the same as the plus (41464) or even 8 bit RAM so you would only need two chips. I think it doesn't require any other changes to the schematic than just wiring the 8 data lines that normally go to 8 separate chips to a single one (or two in the case of 41464)!
what would be the price for a complete cpc, not only the board ?
I would like also the ideea of a building kit like a DIY :)
In next weekend i do some test with SRAM memory replacement . Low power consumption and more space on board.
Complete CPC, no idea to be honest i don't have time to assembly it. I made lot's other extensions
I'd love a board please.
Hi Piotr,
I've only just noticed this thread, looks good... :)
As has been suggested, I'd definitely suggest looking at SRAM - you can even get them in large old style packages, for example a very early prototype of mine: CPC FPGA: SRAM board (http://ralferoo.blogspot.co.uk/2011/12/sram-board_8065.html) - the SRAM chip is the big huge thing!
The advantage of the SRAM is that it's relatively big (512KB in this case), cheap (around €5 in single unit quantities in this case) and is 8-bit so you can simplify your design a lot. It'd also allow you to overclock your board as it'll happily run at up to 16MHz (I think it's actually specified at around 18MHz).
This particular one is 3.3V, but you can still get 5V ones but they do cost a little more. Probably easier to source than a bunch of 4164s though... :D
Anyway, looking good. Even though I prefer FPGAs for their reconfigurability, it's really nice to see an oldschool design with lots of DIP chips placed very compactly. Great work! :)
Cheers,
Ralf.
I am interested in 1 PCB.
MY favourite as6c4008 ;) I monthly use over a 50-70 this chips.
I made Sram for Speccy, small module what replace 8x3264 upper ram.
(http://images51.fotosik.pl/624/4c6e851fb5bb1eb9med.jpg)
But in this board, like in orginal lines Din and Dout from memory is separated so i need do a multiplexer for SRAM i think ?
Only one question, yes i know that i'm a little paraonid with that :laugh:
Can we ensure a 100% compatibility with the original chips?
and i mean, speed, behavior... the refresh thing on the CRTC and Z80...
Bad memory emulation it's like a bad memory module at all, a lot of sofware will crash or be inestable or be erratic...
Is any software to test? i watching lots of demos and all looks fine ? But maybe i'm wrong? ALso on board is orginal chips so ??? :o
zaxoniec - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq0qTOm1ux2WOhEDPbe0Ofg)
Quote from: Piotr on 10:14, 17 February 15
Is any software to test? i watching lots of demos and all looks fine ? But maybe i'm wrong? ALso on board is orginal chips so ??? :o
zaxoniec - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq0qTOm1ux2WOhEDPbe0Ofg)
I meant with SRAM chips! or 8bit chips!
I really afraid of modifications on the original design...
Even Amstrad screwed up with the plus range :laugh:
This is a one more reason why first i build prototype, i connect it and check it practically ;)
Quote from: Piotr on 10:21, 17 February 15
This is a one more reason why first i build prototype, i connect it and check it practically ;)
I always wonderer why there isn't a memtest type program on cpc?
Memtest86+ - Advanced Memory Diagnostic Tool (http://www.memtest.org/)
Quote from: Joseman on 10:24, 17 February 15
I always wonderer why there isn't a memtest type program on cpc?
Memtest86+ - Advanced Memory Diagnostic Tool (http://www.memtest.org/)
There is, but I forget where to find it. A good idea!
However I think you shouldn't worry - using a different RAM is not really something that can fail in some intricate way causing some subtle different behaviour, it will basically either work or not!
@Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104) the FDC connector will be a standard 34 pin PC connector to allow connect directly a 3.5" PC floppy drive?
I don't think that for this board the use of an old 3" disk drive will be reasonable... and even then, you can make a conversor cable (like the same cable that we made for the 3,5" drives ;D )
34 pins, i just copy paste DDI clone to project.
Quote from: Piotr on 10:37, 18 February 15
34 pins, i just copy paste DDI clone to project.
How is managed the ready signal? or it relay in enabling the ready signal on the the pc floppy itself?
Probably interested in one of these as well when they are ready, its not like I don't have enough soldering to be doing..
Tough job avoiding the inevitable feature creep :D
Just came back from years away from here, and this is what I find! Amazing!
I'll definitely have one of these.
Tom
Second board ordered 8)
64 kb
ps2 keyboard
DDI-1 floppy drive, holes on board allow fit HXC floppy emulator slim
40010 controller
"Tape in" socket
reset button
3 MX4 compatibile slots on board.
Dimensions 24x15 cm
(http://images53.fotosik.pl/641/89ed4f95054cb27d.jpg)
This just gets better.
With delivery courier ;D
(http://images51.fotosik.pl/648/b0ea41533c3c66a7.jpg)
looking good :)
do you start to assembly them now ? ;)
Boards is on the way, somewhere in DHL storage or in transit ;) Alone.... with strangers...
Factory send me photos as proof . I expect it in wenesday, first what i do , sit and assembly ;D Other good news, i just buy 20 pieces 40010 really,really cheap so one problem is solved.
So are you assembling 20 then?! Could you share where you buy cheap 40010s, as many people are going to want to buy them when you finish this board!
Looking forward to seeing how this revision goes! Will you do a 3rd revision with, e.g. different RAM, PS/2 mouse?
I buy last 20 ones. Today i order CRTC-1 and rest of chips for 20 boards . Estimate cost assembled board will be approx 120-130 euro. I know is not cheap and i don't expect miracles ;)
@Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104) This last version is 64kb? any problem with the 64 ram expansion that already you have routed?
will be another revision with the 64k expansion? or this is the last one!
Hmm, extra 64 ram or slots for mx board, not both. From my point of view is better fit X-mem card a, in one shoot we have 576 ram and usefull rombox. Maybe i'm wrong?
Is peoples asking you the PCB alone are okay to pay it 130€?
Because, you asked to nobody boefore buying your parts... How they does??? ???
People ask me about price for fully assembled board, so i give price. Each board is all day work so price is as is. Not forcing anyone to buy. I order lot's of components, i pay for it from my own pocket so to be honest, my money and my problem. And it's not big deal for me, so why is for you? Strange.....I really don't need your permission :D
I do also only PCB, for self component collect , do you have any problem with it too?
Hmm i'm confused.
Don't worry - TotO doesn't understand such concepts as getting compensated for one's time and effort :) I don't know how he affords food.
Maybe he understands way more than others ever will. :)
[quote(http://cdncache-a.akamaihd.net/items/it/img/arrow-10x10.png) author=TFM link=topic=10108.msg94905#msg94905 date=1425750373]
Maybe he understands way more than others ever will. :)
[/quote(http://cdncache-a.akamaihd.net/items/it/img/arrow-10x10.png)]
Well spoken!!
Quote from: Piotr on 17:16, 07 March 15it's not big deal for me, so why is for you? Strange.....
I do also only PCB, for self component collect , do you have any problem with it too?
Don't be confused, I just found strange that you order parts before asking if peoples are OK. But sure, you do as you want ; It is your business.....
130... I'm definitely having one :]
IMHO Its a good thing that people actually charge real prices. If you spend a day putting a board together I'd expect to have to pay for it, we're not 10 year olds trying to buy things with pocket money anymore, we're 30's, 40's or even 50's with a bit of disposable income to spend on our CPC hobby. We should reward somebody for the experience and time they spend. ToTo you undersell you products selling them at near cost, and you deserve a lot more reward for the hardware you produce even if you don't actually need it financially.
If somebody spends hundreds of hours designing,making or coding and the results are great we should all pay if we want it. My one bugbear about retro computing is that software is expected to be free. If people received even a small amount of reward it would push them to make more, and we'd have a bigger and more vibrant scene with more software and hardware.
Totally agree with Trebmint
I even suggested sometimes to crowfunding some projects like games or anything for our beloved CPC
Quote from: Joseman on 10:54, 08 March 15
Totally agree with Trebmint
I even suggested sometimes to crowfunding some projects like games or anything for our beloved CPC
Thanks, but obviously I don't want to take this thread away from Piotrs cool hardware. We probably need a separate thread for it. And of course hardware & software are different as nobody expects hardware for free, just at cost price :)
Personally I'd like to see the Wiki have a monthly download subscription where a paid % of a subscribers fee was given to the author.
Quote from: Trebmint on 10:28, 08 March 15If somebody spends hundreds of hours designing,making or coding and the results are great we should all pay if we want it. My one bugbear about retro computing is that software is expected to be free. If people received even a small amount of reward it would push them to make more, and we'd have a bigger and more vibrant scene with more software and hardware.
All those things are only possible because they are hobby works and peoples don't ask for the time spent, as it is a pleasure to do that.
If you really want to pay the good price, you will probably have to give around 200€ for a Batman Forever demo and 1000€ for a Orion Prime copy.
Don't open the Pandora's box, because you will not create a vibrant scene with more software of hardware, but only peoples coming on CPC to make money.
The best is to create yourself things in return. :)
Quote from: TotO on 14:21, 08 March 15
All those things are only possible because they are hobby works and peoples don't ask for the time spent, as it is a pleasure to do that.
If you really want to pay the good price, you will probably have to give around 200€ for a Batman Forever demo and 1000€ for a Orion Prime copy.
Don't open the Pandora's box, because you will not create a vibrant scene with more software of hardware, but only peoples coming on CPC to make money.
The best is to create yourself things in return. :)
Haha I'm not suggesting we return to a commercial business model, and anyone who tried to make a living from the CPC would be homeless pretty quick. Im just saying its respectful to give the developers of hardware and software encouragement and support them a bit, even it that means they get a free beer for their efforts. And I'm also not so idealistic to think there will ever be a vibrant scene on the CPC again, we're just too few now
Quote from: Trebmint on 10:28, 08 March 15
ToTo you undersell you products selling them at near cost, and you deserve a lot more reward for the hardware you produce even if you don't actually need it financially.
You can donate very easy: ;)
Thank you! - Cent Pour Cent (http://www.centpourcent.net/store/p69/Thank_you%21.html)
Quote from: TotO on 14:21, 08 March 15Don't open the Pandora's box, because you will not create a vibrant scene with more software of hardware, but only peoples coming on CPC to make money. The best is to create yourself things in return. :)
1.000.000 Like for that! :) :) :)
Hmm, let me explain something. If I wanted to make money I would take overtime in my company. Much simpler for me, really ;D
Anyway, board:
(http://images53.fotosik.pl/652/3aead6ff3329ad02.jpg)
Short video,
Just CPC, my clone of Amstrad CPC computer.Final version. - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2CplsobNsNQ&feature=youtu.be)
I have. Silly I thought that maybe someone else would want. But I will not impose.
@Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104) The RGB signal is soldered and taken directly on the board without connector?
No, is db9 connector for RGB out but i forget order a plug so i connect it "in short".
Quote from: Piotr on 19:03, 09 March 15
Hmm, let me explain something. If I wanted to make money I would take overtime in my company. Much simpler for me, really ;D
Anyway, board:
(http://images53.fotosik.pl/652/3aead6ff3329ad02.jpg)
Short video,
Just CPC, my clone of Amstrad CPC computer.Final version. - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2CplsobNsNQ&feature=youtu.be)
I have. Silly I thought that maybe someone else would want. But I will not impose.
is the white HxC connected? Is the external one is working what purpose does the white one serve?
Becouse my slimHXC is faulty, i fit it to show how it looks.
Quote from: Piotr on 20:18, 09 March 15
Becouse my slimHXC is faulty, i fit it to show how it looks.
ahhh, I see. One more question.... Have you tested it with parados, or just amsdos? I see the ic's are socketed, so I assume a chipswap is easy enough.
Both, plus with X-mem. I design it in THT for easy change, mods etc. But i see the major problem is "i try do money" so ok, in attachment is full project, schematic, board,gerbers . Have fun. It is no my problem longer.
Quote from: Piotr on 22:07, 09 March 15
Both, plus with X-mem. I design it in THT for easy change, mods etc. But i see the major problem is "i try do money" so ok, in attachment is full project, schematic, board,gerbers . Have fun. It is no my problem longer.
just let me know when I can buy one from you. I can honestly see one of these becoming my main CPC.
Quote from: Piotr on 22:07, 09 March 15
Both, plus with X-mem. I design it in THT for easy change, mods etc. But i see the major problem is "i try do money" so ok, in attachment is full project, schematic, board,gerbers . Have fun. It is no my problem longer.
As I said, don't be confused, I just found strange that you order parts before asking if peoples are OK. As you said, you will sold PCB only and PCB mounted, so you have answered to my question. Next, you are free to do as you want if they are interrested (like CraigsBar and others).
By the way, is the holes match with an existing enclosure?
Quote from: CraigsBar on 22:30, 09 March 15
just let me know when I can buy one from you. I can honestly see one of these becoming my main CPC.
I second that!
If I buy one, will you promise to make the Dragon 32/64 your next project? :P :P :P
Quote from: the KING on 23:09, 09 March 15
I second that!
If I buy one, will you promise to make the Dragon 32/64 your next project :P :P :P
but you can still get new old stock dragon 64s here.....
http://www.cadigital.com/computer.htm
Enjoy.
Craig
Quote from: CraigsBar on 23:21, 09 March 15
but you can still get new old stock dragon 64s here.....
tano dragon (http://www.cadigital.com/computer.htm)
Enjoy.
Craig
I know ;-) I have a few Dragons, but I fancy the smaller form factor of this cool project! :D
Tom
Next is speccy ....
(http://images51.fotosik.pl/649/ed94bc81a726e724.jpg)
Hmmmm, maybe an msx turbo r, pcw16 or c64 (sorry)?
My friend working on c64 board but is secret ;D I finish this boards and i do hollidays ;) In one year i do 21 diffrent interfaces, i need break.
There are already too many C64 boards, why is he doing that instead of something that was less abundant like a Plus/4 or C116?
Bryce.
@Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104), talking about JustCPC, when do you think that it will go on production and we can have our own JustCPC ;)
Board pass 24 hour stress test and i watch lots of demos, looks ok ;) I order enclosure, QS-101 Red Edition Information (http://www.aerocool.com.tw/index.php/pgs/pgs-q/37-case/pgs-q/1101-qs-101-red-edition-information) , so i change socket position and mouting holes for this case, is standart miniAtx so holes be universal.
Ok, so:
Who ordered assembled board? Cost 130 euro, shipping included in Europe.
PCB only, 25 Euro shipping included.
I wait a week for yours declarations.
As i said, i want 3 PCB's (only board, not assembled) :)
I declare I want one assembled please. But I don't have spare retro money until pay day on the 25th reserve me one if you can and I'll PayPal 130 over then.
To be clear, i don't collect any money ;) I just check how many PCB i need order.
Here i put 3 current boards for unpatient ;) Just CPC, PCB for self assembly amstrad clone (http://www.sellmyretro.com/offer/details/4203)
Quote from: Piotr on 16:11, 10 March 15
Here i put 3 current boards for unpatient ;) Just CPC, PCB for self assembly amstrad clone (http://www.sellmyretro.com/offer/details/4203)
Ok, i ordered only 1 and left 2 for other people, but i will want another 2!! :laugh:
Quote from: Piotr on 15:47, 10 March 15
Who ordered assembled board? Cost 130 euro, shipping included in Europe.
PCB only, 25 Euro shipping included.
I wait a week for yours declarations.
As I possibly want one: and re-reading the thread I can't find the full info:
the fully assembled version comes with all chips on it ? You don't need to take any from an existing cpc ?
( it is hinted but not explicitely said )
Sorry if I missed it :D
@Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104) i'm pretty sure that you said that you will let the connections for the original cpc keyboard, but i can't see where they are... tell me that we can put an original keyboard please! :laugh:
I ordered another one. Thank you. But, where are the complete component list?
Edit: Ok, I see the list will be with the PCB.
Question deleted.... my fault
I prepare part list for tommorow,also i do more photos of my assembled PCB.
Quote from: Piotr on 17:42, 10 March 15
I prepare part list for tommorow,also i do more photos of my assembled PCB.
Ok, thank you.
Oh man, they disappeared FAST!
@Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104) I would like 3 bare boards please!
I think that I tell you before.
I want I mounted of this and one of the other PCB (the first 464 prototype), thanks.
Its just 1 bare pcb I'm looking for.
Hi Piotr,
I'll gladly buy one bare PCB from you! Thank you!
Last test before release:
Just CPC and symbOS, booting from hard drive. - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tfvgbh1UdY4&feature=youtu.be)
Does FutureOS run with it?
Hi, I would like one fully assembled board for 130 EUR please ;D
Hello,
I commit to buy a fully assembled,
but I would need a confimation that it is fully functional without any additional chips.
( I know you must be dead busy but please confirm by a simple "yes" or "no" )
I really look forward to making an aluminium enclosure, just like you showed in one of your test videos ;)
Wow, that looks really good! I am impressed! Beside all the original functionality I like the direct support of MotherX4-based hardware! Thank you for this nice video! (and somehow it seems, that a mouse is missing :) )
Amstrad like amstrad, system is impressive. When port for ZX Spectrum with Profi?
Mouse is not missing is in PCB factory ;) Externial.
(http://images53.fotosik.pl/660/02ff58f7d9cf5473med.jpg)
On final board is integrated on board.
Why not replicate the ps/2 mouse protocol that is on the Symbiface 2?
AMX mouse support enabled if i understood correctly will cause problems with port joysticks. maybe a jumper to disable it?
But even so, i think that nowadays is meaningless search for AMX mouses when there is millions of optical ps/2 mouses (and wireless!!)
I think on the PS/2 mouse because feels "incredible" that you're using an optical mouse on CPC. Symbos works fantastic with this mouse.
But is only my opinion!, what you want to do @Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104) is always ok ;)
Quote from: Joseman on 10:47, 17 March 15
I think on the PS/2 mouse because feels "incredible" that you're using an optical mouse on CPC. Symbos works fantastic with this mouse.
Oh yes, and FutureOS too. But the point is: The firmware doesn't! [nb]It would require a serious patch.[/nb]
Yes, i know that the firmware doesn't support any other than AMX, but i think that this "support" is because it goes through the joystick port :laugh:
Anyway how many applications or games uses the AMX protocol? and in all of them, how many are used nowadays?
I never have an AMX mouse, one question: in games that uses de joystick to control a pointer (Gunship), an AMX mouse can use this pointer or this games need a patch for use the amx mouse anyway?
maybe the solution is a ps/2 to AMX converter... something like the ps/2 keyboard to AMS keyboard.
Quote from: Joseman on 11:22, 18 March 15
Yes, i know that the firmware doesn't support any other than AMX, but i think that this "support" is because it goes through the joystick port :laugh:
Anyway how many applications or games uses the AMX protocol? and in all of them, how many are used nowadays?
I never have an AMX mouse, one question: in games that uses de joystick to control a pointer (Gunship), an AMX mouse can use this pointer or this games need a patch for use the amx mouse anyway?
maybe the solution is a ps/2 to AMX converter... something like the ps/2 keyboard to AMS keyboard.
you mean like the @bryce mouse adaptor? Some were made last year, if you are *very* lucky there might still be one or two available.
The Bryce adapter is PS/2 -> Joystick, which doesn't work very good compared to a real proportional mouse. But AFAIK the AMX mouse has a proportional mode, too, which is not just sending joystick compatible signals, so I guess Joseman is speaking about this.
Quote from: Prodatron on 12:13, 18 March 15
The Bryce adapter is PS/2 -> Joystick, which doesn't work very good compared to a real proportional mouse. But AFAIK the AMX mouse has a proportional mode, too, which is not just sending joystick compatible signals, so I guess Joseman is speaking about this.
really? I see no difference between the Bryce adaptor and an AMX one in terms of functionality or accuracy. No offence here but..... Both are crap compared to the symbiface solution.
Such a shame that no one seems interested in making the symbiface mouse a new standard. With all these new hardware cards etc, a new mouse card that is mother4x and symbiface compatible would be brilliant. Finally we would have a full replacement for what remains the greatest CPC expansion to date.
I would like 1 bare PCB please.
Quote from: CraigsBar on 12:39, 18 March 15
really? I see no difference between the Bryce adaptor and an AMX one in terms of functionality or accuracy. No offence here but..... Both are crap compared to the symbiface solution.
Oh, TBH, I never saw the AMX mouse live in action. I thought it would behave like an MSX mouse (which comes very close to the SYMBiFACE II mouse) or at least better than only a "joystick-compatible" mouse, which is - yes - very crippled...
Quote from: CraigsBar on 12:39, 18 March 15
Such a shame that no one seems interested in making the symbiface mouse a new standard. With all these new hardware cards etc, a new mouse card that is mother4x and symbiface compatible would be brilliant. Finally we would have a full replacement for what remains the greatest CPC expansion to date.
Totally agree...
Time to stop the proliferation of urban legends here...
1. The AMX mouse: It is Joystick compatible and with AMX Stop Press you see a great and smooth mouse pointer. If you only use the interrupts then you only get 300 Mickeys of course.
2. Again: AMX mouse is ONLY joystick compatible.[nb]I got one. So I could analyze.[/nb]
3. Well, somehow it's boring if I can only talk about my own productions and people get pissed off about that. But as a matter of fact there is not much out there using mouses at all. So what do we have [nb]ignoring what I made[/nb]. We got some software (Stop Press, OCP) using mice with joystick compatibility, and we got some software using proportional mouses (G-Paint, Arkanoid patched by Nilquader). [nb]Of course there is a bit more, I just don't remember now.[/nb]
Eventually taken all together: Few software is using mice at all. So why bother that much about it? And - yes - let's at least do one thing. Let't stick with some mouse protocol already existing. [nb]I know seven of them![/nb]
You fight.I finish housing cover for Just CPC.
(http://images52.fotosik.pl/662/e26ed702cde4b695.jpg)
No fight here. Only general discussions. :)
Case looks nice, but a lot of space needs to get filled up. ;)
Well, maybe i add Amiga board inside :o I fit power supply,and any drive and space go on. Also only on photo this case looks long it is 30 cm dimension.
Why not having more computers in one box, they can share PSU, drives or HxC or so. :)
I have, all shared one motherboard, one power supply, one monitor ;) Top secret codename "emulators " ;) Heheheh
Quote from: Piotr on 15:59, 18 March 15
You fight.I finish housing cover for Just CPC.
;D :D ;D :D
Hi,
As far as I can see Piotrs adapter is my AMX adapter, so it will work fine, but yes, if it's permanently connected you should add a power switch, because it does disturb joysticks.
The original AMX didn't have anything more than an optical digital motion sensor and some basic logic. It didn't have any proportional mode. It's a pure motion-pulse=Joystick direction pulse. The "smoothness" depends on how often the port is poled and how the software reacts to the pulses. Even a joystick can be made proportional in software.
The Symbiface solution is obviously an improvement on this and offers higher resolution, because it can be poled more often and has a real multi-bit value for each direction, whereas the AMX only offers on and off. But the AMX solution needs no drivers at all, it can be used on any game that uses a joystick, whereas the SymbiFace always needs drivers. So they both have their advantages/disadvantages.
Very nice layout Piotr. You've got it down to a very compact size.
Bryce.
Bryce, is your adapter, i only redraw it. Lest do something for Amstrad, don't waste time ?
Very nice. If I had time, then I would :D Time is my biggest enemy.
Bryce.
Quote from: Bryce on 22:08, 19 March 15so it will work fine
"Working fine" is relative/comparative.
It's a huge difference if you have for each X/Y direction a maximum of...
6 bits = +/-32 (SYMBiFACE II)
2 bits = +/-1 (AMX)
...on each poll.
You can boost the AMX by polling it on each IRQ, then you will have +/-6 instead of +/-1 which is still not compareable to a proportional mouse. Polling it more often isn't useful in practice if you have other things to do beside only checking your mouse position.
The AMX methode is a nice help for software which only support joysticks, but unfortunately it's quite limited if you really want to use a mouse as a mouse on the CPC.
Erm yes, it was the Reisware mouse (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/index.php/CPC-Mousepack_2.0 (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/index.php/CPC-Mousepack_2.0)), not the AMX mouse, which provided an optional proportional mouse protocol (with 8bits for each direction like the MSX).
Quote from: Bryce on 22:08, 19 March 15
As far as I can see Piotrs adapter is my AMX adapter, so it will work fine, but yes, if it's permanently connected you should add a power switch, because it does disturb joysticks.
Loooong time ago I tried to adapt a PS/2 mouse adapter to Amiga mouse based PIC circuit, to CPC mouse. Because of the strange Atari port at the CPC, and the fake ground, I tried this:
http://www.nxp.com/documents/data_sheet/74HC_HCT4066.pdf (http://www.nxp.com/documents/data_sheet/74HC_HCT4066.pdf)
It's an analog gate, controled by digital signal. What I did was to tie all the joystick signals to the "select" (fake ground) throught the gates and use the digital signal from the PIC to control the gates. This way I isolated the PIC from the CPC joy port, and when the PIC generates a 5V "1", the gate just makes the select pass to the joy dir or fire pin.
blew... my circuit just worked fine for mouse buttons, but for axis movement, I had to roll the mouse over the floor meter and a half to move just 2 o 3 character wide at the screen >:( Then I quit the circuit :laugh:
Quote from: Bryce on 22:08, 19 March 15
Even a joystick can be made proportional in software.
No it can't. And that's the difference to all joystick compatible mice. A joystick either sends a signal or not (open or close) while a joystick compatible mouse sends pulses (opens and closes very often per second).
@Prodatron (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=13): With "works fine" I meant "works like the original AMX did".
@KaosOverride (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=431): My circuit uses the 74LS240 to do a similar trick with the "Fake GND" as you call it.
@TFM (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=179): Yes, they work slightly different, but I meant that you can do something like this to give a "proportional feel" with a digital joystick:
First Poll: Move one pixel.
Second poll: If still activated move 2 pixels
Third poll: If still activated move 5 pixels
etc.
Bryce.
Quote from: Bryce on 21:24, 20 March 15
@TFM (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=179): Yes, they work slightly different, but I meant that you can do something like this to give a "proportional feel" with a digital joystick:
First Poll: Move one pixel.
Second poll: If still activated move 2 pixels
Third poll: If still activated move 5 pixels
etc.
Well, then you just see the mouse pointer jump, because it checks usually 300 time per second.
I remember some games having got it quite well. I think it was Beachhead that did it quite well (not 100% sure though).
Bryce.
In meantime i almost finish my JustCPC.
JUST CPC, my clone of Amstrad CPC, final - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QT6JmjpTJXI&list=UUq0qTOm1ux2WOhEDPbe0Ofg)
Nice to see this brain storm how do better mouse ;)
@Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104) Just received the Jcpc board, can we assure that is the last version? or with this last chat of mouse on cpc the Jcpc board will have more versions?
by the way we should open a new thread for the assembling of the board? (capacitor values, socket ideas, components ordering, internet sites where we can buy the components, etc..)
what do you think?
I've received the board too but where is the component list?
Is this for sale somewhere now? Did I miss a post?!
Quote from: Munchausen on 01:01, 25 March 15
Is this for sale somewhere now? Did I miss a post?!
Nope, only three of the first batch.
But Piotr is counting right now how many people wants one (or more) pcb's
you should post here that you want the board and how many.
Quote from: Joseman on 08:46, 25 March 15
Nope, only three of the first batch.
But Piotr is counting right now how many people wants one (or more) pcb's
you should post here that you want the board and how many.
I hope he counts me in for an assembled board :)
Quote from: CraigsBar on 08:48, 25 March 15
I hope he counts me in for an assembled board :)
with one post will be enough (I suppose).
When he wants to do another batch, I think that he will count all the boards that the people say and make a list with the people and the quantity, and, if there is some mistake then correct it in that time.
but i'm not @Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104) :P
Hello, my apologise for delay, here is BOM for this 2 prototype board http://www.eightbitclone.com/bom.rar (http://www.eightbitclone.com/bom.rar) , about boards in final version, i almost finish ZX spectrum clone too so i planning order both this boards in one time, bigger order so i can negotiate prices.
Quote from: Piotr on 09:18, 25 March 15
about boards in final version...
Just CPC final board will be any different of this three that you sent us?
just out of curiosity!
No i only change position of keyboard and sound socket and fix few mistakes on pcb . Anyway ( i know is bad idea show it here ;D ) but maybe somebody looking for Just Speccy 128? Heheh
Just Speccy 128, my clone of ZX Spectrum toastrack. - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xnviS5OYygU&list=UUq0qTOm1ux2WOhEDPbe0Ofg)
Quote from: Piotr on 09:58, 25 March 15
No i only change position of keyboard and sound socket and fix few mistakes on pcb .
what kind of mistakes? relative with the cpc structure itself? the youtube videos seems to work 100% right...
Quote from: Joseman on 08:46, 25 March 15
Nope, only three of the first batch.
But Piotr is counting right now how many people wants one (or more) pcb's
you should post here that you want the board and how many.
Ah ok. Well I said very early in the thread that I wanted three, and maybe again since then, but just in case: I want three bare PCBs please! :D
Quote from: Piotr on 09:18, 25 March 15
Hello, my apologise for delay, here is BOM for this 2 prototype board http://www.eightbitclone.com/bom.rar (http://www.eightbitclone.com/bom.rar) , about boards in final version, i almost finish ZX spectrum clone too so i planning order both this boards in one time, bigger order so i can negotiate prices.
Thanks. I want to know the few mistakes too. To correct them in the assembly.
Also, I want one final PCB too.
Done. Final version. Becouse i lost control how many boards people need i do a simply preorder with small deposit here : Just CPC, amstrad CPC clone PCB board. (http://www.sellmyretro.com/offer/details/4212)
(http://images53.fotosik.pl/673/6b2556d120cb3b4b.jpg)
Just out of curiosity... How much $ does speccy.pl pay for the advertisement space on the board? ;) :)
100 usd + VAT per cm2.
:o :laugh:
;D ;D ;D It is my base portal so i always put this logo on board. I think add CPC Wiki logo too but i don't know who ask for permission?
@Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104) Amazing job with this final board!
X2 is perhaps de mouse port? ;)
I miss one DB9 port, perhaps the second joystick is gone?
Quote from: Piotr on 18:58, 28 March 15
Done. Final version. Becouse i lost control how many boards people need i do a simply preorder with small deposit here : Just CPC, amstrad CPC clone PCB board. (http://www.sellmyretro.com/offer/details/4212)
(http://images53.fotosik.pl/673/6b2556d120cb3b4b.jpg)
hi @Piotr do those of us looking for fully assembled boards need to pre order yet?
Yes please
@Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104) how will you differentiate between those wanting fully assembled and those not?
Quote from: Piotr on 20:18, 28 March 15
;D ;D ;D It is my base portal so i always put this logo on board. I think add CPC Wiki logo too but i don't know who ask for permission?
Permission? It'd be an honor man!
I have pre-ordered. Will prefer a fully assembled board. Will also be OK with a "DIY-kit", with the board and the various components, but not assembled. Either is fine.
Pre-ordered as well.
I pre-order one. I want the PCB only.
Pre-ordered one as well, but I would prefer fully assembled as my soldering skills are a bit rusty...
Hi here !
Sorry : I am late on this thread but I have some essential questions :
- If you use original Amstrad ships only, that means we have to cannibalize :o a real CPC for each board you sell ? cannibalizing = killing a marvelous
computer with its beautiful original casing :'( in order to substitute it with a nude PC-like motherboard... what the hell for ?
- In case we find a way to buy most of common components like the Z80 which is still found on used sale, how are we supposed to do with genuine Amstrad in-house components like the Gate Array ? Again by cannibalizing working CPCs and stealing their heart or their liver ??? ?
- The only real use of this project I can see consists in retro engineering the Gate-Array in order to build substitute components.
Thank you for clarifying this matter. :(
Quote from: Piotr on 13:29, 07 January 15
Idea:
THT technology for self assembly, i use orginal amstrad chips.
Slot's for Toto and my extension boards.
PS2 keyboard interface
So something like this, board drawing almost done.
(http://images52.fotosik.pl/587/3707897ee3c722fdm.jpg)][url=http://www.fotosik.pl/showFullSize.php?id=3707897ee3c722fd](http://images52.fotosik.pl/587/3707897ee3c722fdm.jpg) (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/%5BURL=http://www.fotosik.pl/showFullSize.php?id=3707897ee3c722fd)
To do: replace 8 DRAM memory chips for one SRAM memory chip and order prototype board :D
What's the problem with take som parts from a real CPC to this project? i Have some cpc boards that are broken and rust (without case), they do nothing this way :laugh: .
Some people already told that the goal is to have the CPC on a minimal case to save space on our desks.
this project is for CLONE the cpc, no FPGA, no substitute components, only the original components. It was discussed some pages ago. There are a lot of similar projects on other 8bits computers and consoles, why not the CPC? If you have one CPC broken board, why not use it for this project?.
If you don't want to cannibalize a CPC, Just don't do it!.
Qbert, few weeks ago i buy without any problems lot of 40010, 8255 and all other components including 500 pieces 4164 ram so where is problem ? I have enough parts to assembly 20 boards for beginning without canibalise any CPC.
I really like when people make me stiupid before read all in topic. OMG I killed your puppy? or what? Be a man, do not cry.
(http://images51.fotosik.pl/674/23992353e813bde0.jpg)
I also pre-ordered one, and I'd like it fully assembled (otherwise, I would surely mess it up with my rags :D)
Quote from: Joseman on 01:23, 31 March 15
Some people already told that the goal is to have the CPC on a minimal case to save space on our desks.
Hahaha! The CPC is as big as it's keyboard (ok, and maybe a little bit space for floppy / tape). So do you like to use a cell phone keyboard or what? :laugh: ;) :)
Quote from: qbert on 00:58, 31 March 15
snip - The only real use of this project I can see consists in retro engineering the Gate-Array in order to build substitute components.
That was already done nearly 30 years ago in the former Eastern Germany and it did lead to the KCc.
Quote from: Piotr on 06:57, 31 March 15
Qbert, few weeks ago i buy without any problems lot of 40010, 8255 and all other components including 500 pieces 4164 ram so where is problem ? I have enough parts to assembly 20 boards for beginning without canibalise any CPC.
I don't want to sound too pessimistic, but what, if you buy all available CPC related chips, and a real CPC user will not be able to fix his CPC, because no more original parts? :D :P
Be nice, maybe lazy people from Amstrad community finally move ass to do it in FPGA or something? ;D
Sure that require more ass moves than simply cloning copyrighted schematics... :laugh:
Or cloning the ASIC of the Plus, which has it all. But that's probably not an easy option. :-X
So the future is in singing:
"Weird Al" Yankovic - I Think I'm A Clone Now *With Lyrics* (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1d-aWMQuoS4#ws)
Quote from: TotO on 19:59, 31 March 15
Sure that require more ass moves than simply cloning copyrighted schematics... [emoji23]
that's not fair...
I don't have to be when I read that. That not make me smile at all.
Quote from: Joseman on 01:23, 31 March 15
What's the problem with take som parts from a real CPC to this project? i Have some cpc boards that are broken and rust (without case), they do nothing this way :laugh: .
[...]
If you have one CPC broken board, why not use it for this project?.
[...]
Oh really ? Too bad the main non-repairable hardware failures for the CPC are the Gate-Array and CRTC faillures... the parts you are precisely cannibalizing for ! (The fully CPC-compatible variations of the CRTC being not so common)
If not one of these twos, your broken boards are probably more easily repairable by replacing one or two more common chip (Intel's old series being thankfully still quite common) or discrete components (the later being more tricky on diagnosis, I agree).
Quote from: Joseman on 01:23, 31 March 15
There are a lot of similar projects on other 8bits computers and consoles, why not the CPC?
First reason is probably that the Commodore 64 and the Spectrum, for example, are much much more common that the CPC. I don't care that people around the world may cannibalize their brown breadbin 'coz I can have 4 of them for 1 CPC in the world ! Thankfully, the CPCs are all much more robust and cleanly soldered than the original C64.
I like the idea much of having a hardware based 100% compatible CPC clone.
But I really feel a bit bad about need of using last old stocks...
Oil will also not be available our whole life, but nobody wants to walk, so people think about alternatives....
Think about it otherwise, 25 (or more) new CPC's will come to life this year!
If this parts were waiting years (10+) for a CPC to fail they will be nothing but an useless chip (and perhaps never used again), is not better to make them work together again and bring back new cpc's to our community?
Quote from: Devilmarkus on 23:20, 31 March 15
I like the idea much of having a hardware based 100% compatible CPC clone.
The main source of misunderstanding on this thread is simply that this project is
not a CPC clone as it has been prematuraly stated here but only a CPC motherboard remanufacturing (up to this day).
Any professional cloning will guarantee perenity of the supply chain of the design and clone or substitute components themselves in case they are obsoletes (which has not been made here).
What is obvious and
should have been said here is that a motherboard remanufacturing is only relevant by itself if you own an original PCB which is dead of its own (which is precisely what I have never heard of to this day on a CPC, Amstrad's engraving process being a high standard for its time).
On the other extreme, a full FPGA reimplementation of a computer system is a real clone but
not a hardware design. That's probably why the previous jobs that have been done to this day, despite being succesful, have not been very popular (remember Tobiflex's succesful design many years ago : CPC TREX - CPCWiki (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/index.php/CPC_TREX))
Quote
But I really feel a bit bad about need of using last old stocks...
Oil will also not be available our whole life, but nobody wants to walk, so people think about alternatives....
Yes, you are right : Earthlings are currently exploiting savagely the last old stocks of oil (as the recent uncredible falling of crude oil prices may attest !) in order to escape the economic crisis, despite that some scientists that nobody want to listen to have said
decades agos that investments on renewable energies are the only way to escape global warming and the numerous weather and ecological catastrophes that will occur (and are currently occuring!) without fail.
So, the question is : who really want to exploit the few latest stocks of Amstrad's replacement parts in order to build a few PC towers ?
Or maybe prefer to store it for further usage as what they really are : replacement parts for reliving genuine hardware ...
Quote from: Joseman on 09:43, 01 April 15
is not better to make them work together again and bring back new cpc's to our community?
"bring back new" : these 3 words are not matchable together, to my senses.
You may "bring new cpcs" or "bring back old cpcs", but not an hybrid of the two, this is nonsensical. Can you clarify ? ... It makes me quite confused about the real sense of your project.
You're right, english is not my first language and it's a bit rusty sometimes :laugh:
Quote from: qbert on 11:04, 01 April 15
"bring back new" : these 3 words are not matchable together, to my senses.
You may "bring new cpcs" or "bring back old cpcs", but not an hybrid of the two, this is nonsensical. Can you clarify ? ... It makes me quite confused about the real sense of your project.
oh, let's not get picky about grammar. The project is to provide a old CPC in a new format using the original components for total compatibility.
Added features however mean it is not a clone. TotO style expansion connectors and a modern display option add to the classic machines, and this is why I have ore ordered one.
If they are sold to new cpc users as a first machine perfect. If people like me buy one as an additional CPC that can share desk space with my mac and not need an extra display then perfect too. Let's face it. The components used are spares for machines that have not yet gone wrong in 30 years so probably won't. Let's put them to use and make a new, classic CPC.
Now since the asic in the plus is it proving far more fragile overall I think *that* should be preserved, unless anyone knows of a FPGA solution for that and fancies making a new plus/gx4000
You're welcome...
I still do not know your personnal intentions but what I wanted to say is : if you're project simply consists in replacing definitely defective PCBs on genuine CPCs, you have my blessing ( ;D ) but I will continue to disaprove any exploitation of the remaining stocks of parts and of potentially repairable units for the only purpose of
reselling genuine hardware in a "
so fashionable" modern PC
disguise. I'm sure these replacement parts or genuine units shall be missed one day or the other.
Quote from: Joseman on 11:16, 01 April 15
You're right, english is not my first language and it's a bit rusty sometimes :laugh:
Personally i have 2 cpc without case because my 2 best friends (and neighbours on childhood) had 2 CPC, one become faulty 2 years after they buy it (not all games worked well, now i suspect about one chip ram failing on some bits) and they bought another second hand that ended "fist-broken" after a Match Day 2 competition (2 players). The 2 units were opened and the pcb's left outdoors.
Years later i picked the 2 pcb's and saved them. They are rusty, broken and, trust me, non working :laugh:
This 2 PCB's NEVER will be a CPC again until now with this PCB.
As you can see, "new" old cpc's can revive with projects like this (and i'm sure that i'm not the only one)
My god... the
same familly destroyed 2 CPCs in 3 years ? I prefer not to meet the daughter of your ancient neighbors :laugh:
The most astounding thing in this story is that your neighbors opened the broken units, kept the plastic casings and threw away the PCBs.... Maybe they planted flowers inside the colorful 464 casings ? :laugh:
Some people... ::)
Quote from: Joseman on 11:53, 01 April 15
Personally i have 2 cpc without case because my 2 best friends (and neighbours on childhood) had 2 CPC, one become faulty 2 years after they buy it (not all games worked well, now i suspect about one chip ram failing on some bits) and they bought another second hand that ended "fist-broken" after a Match Day 2 competition (2 players). The 2 units were opened and the pcb's left outdoors.
Years later i picked the 2 pcb's and saved them. They are rusty, broken and, trust me, non working :laugh:
This 2 PCB's NEVER will be a CPC again until now with this PCB.
As you can see, "new" old cpc's can revive with projects like this (and i'm sure that i'm not the only one)
Haha! Yes, some like to keep the PCBs and some like the cases. :laugh:
Quote from: qbert on 21:30, 01 April 15
My god... the same familly destroyed 2 CPCs in 3 years ? I prefer not to meet the daughter of your ancient neighbors :laugh:
The most astounding thing in this story is that your neighbors opened the broken units, kept the plastic casings and threw away the PCBs.... Maybe they planted flowers inside the colorful 464 casings ? :laugh:
Some people... ::)
The first CPC 2 years after the bought and the other... mmm i'm not sure but 3 years after the first or so. but... ok... 2 in 3 - 4 years :laugh:
Not only the pcb's ended outdoors, the cases too, but because they opened the CPC's they don't bothered to assemble it again, then the cases ended outdoor and the pcb's too :laugh:
Getting off-topic too... the most crazy thing I ever heard was a guy who willingly destructed his Dobbertin HD20 hard-disc, because he didn't want anybody else to use it. :-\ :-X
Quote from: TFM on 15:48, 02 April 15
Getting off-topic too... the most crazy thing I ever heard was a guy who willingly destructed his Dobbertin HD20 hard-disc, because he didn't want anybody else to use it. :-\ :-X
!??!?!?!!! :'( :-[ :o
I does the same with my condoms. :-\
Time to make a Virus for the CPC then! Well which OS would be preferable? :o
@Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104) :
You know there was a good reason for asking this question ? Simply because
you did'nt talk about this matter before I asked !
Having previously found a dozen 40007 at £16 each was really not convincing for a production run...
You can see other people here have been interrested by your late answer this week. Because they never got any public answer themselves : remember Trabitboy, who was here :
Quote from: trabitboy on 10:53, 16 March 15
Hello,
I commit to buy a fully assembled,
but I would need a confimation that it is fully functional without any additional chips.
( I know you must be dead busy but please confirm by a simple "yes" or "no" )
[...]
Moreover, considering you are french, there should'nt be any cultural gap between us two... that's why the meaning of words like "hello", "sorry" and "please" should be familliar to you. Or maybe you're more used to "kill puppies" on your daytime ?...
I'm glad for you to learn that you like feeling stiupid.
Quote from: Piotr on 06:57, 31 March 15
Qbert, few weeks ago i buy without any problems lot of 40010, 8255 and all other components including 500 pieces 4164 ram so where is problem ? I have enough parts to assembly 20 boards for beginning without canibalise any CPC.
I really like when people make me stiupid before read all in topic. OMG I killed your puppy? or what? Be a man, do not cry.
Quote from: qbert on 23:01, 30 March 15
Hi here !
Sorry : I am late on this thread but I have some essential questions :
- If you use original Amstrad ships only, that means we have to cannibalize :o a real CPC for each board you sell ? cannibalizing = killing a marvelous
computer with its beautiful original casing :'( in order to substitute it with a nude PC-like motherboard... what the hell for ?
- In case we find a way to buy most of common components like the Z80 which is still found on used sale, how are we supposed to do with genuine Amstrad in-house components like the Gate Array ? Again by cannibalizing working CPCs and stealing their heart or their liver ??? ?
- The only real use of this project I can see consists in retro engineering the Gate-Array in order to build substitute components.
Thank you for clarifying this matter. :(
Hmm, I did not expect such hatred. Nice ;D
Back to topic ;
35 boards ordered in preorder so i do a final check and send it to factory in tuesday. So be aviable in end of april. Also assembled.
Good Easter for everybody.
Quote from: Piotr on 20:20, 04 April 15
Hmm, I did not expect such hatred. Nice ;D
Back to topic ;
35 boards ordered in preorder so i do a final check and send it to factory in tuesday. So be aviable in end of april. Also assembled.
Good Easter for everybody.
Eggs-ellent news. A new CPC in a few weeks. Have a good easter and thanks for your hard work on this.
Quote from: Piotr on 20:20, 04 April 15
Hmm, I did not expect such hatred. Nice ;D
Well, calling the CPC scene lazy did probably provoke the one or other answer. Direct or indirect.
Now all together take it easy! :)
Sure, i waiting for CPC demos from Revision party, party is in progress. Results be soon.
Wished to be able to participate, but maybe another time.
Hi @Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104)
Any new regarding the mighty JustCPC?
Boards in factory, 4 may be ready.
Any news with the boards?
Yop, with delivery courier :
(http://images51.fotosik.pl/707/dcaecbefc99c0487med.jpg)
So this is topic for next week.
Boards arrived , so i start assembly it.
(http://images53.fotosik.pl/714/1897a4c3db64fac8med.jpg)
Looking forward to this.... I really want to get my one of those running here. :)
I might actually use it as intended... to try and learn some Assembler LOL.
Once I get it, I suspect additional orders for the essential XMEM, XMASS and HXC for it.
Quote from: CraigsBar on 18:33, 13 May 15
I might actually use it as intended... to try and learn some Assembler LOL.
What prevents you to doing with a classic cpc? :P
Quote from: CraigsBar on 18:33, 13 May 15Once I get it, I suspect additional orders for the essential XMEM, XMASS and HXC for it.
Not sure about the X-MEM, as most CPC users already got it.
Hmm, so , i do board and slots for your extensions but extensions not longer avaiable? Or avaiable only for CPC Users? Really strange.
I don't think that toto intend to say that in that way...
I have just said that most CPC users already own the X-MEM. (and half of them the other boards)
It's why, as answer to Joseman, I doubt that "Just CPC" increase my boards sales.
I think otherwise, JustCPC is for a new case, itx-case, all assembled inside, i doubt that an user of Just CPC that have a classic cpc with X-MEM, will change the board back and forth inside then outside then inside... i think that for sure this people will buy another x-mem (or other boards)
Quote from: Joseman on 09:01, 14 May 15
I think otherwise, JustCPC is for a new case, itx-case, all assembled inside, i doubt that an user of Just CPC that have a classic cpc with X-MEM, will change the board back and forth inside then outside then inside... i think that for sure this people will buy another x-mem (or other boards)
I certainly plan too.
Ha, OK. In this case, no worry... It still available.
Quote from: TotO on 09:37, 14 May 15
Ha, OK. In this case, no worry... It still available.
phew, you worried me there for a minute.
Quote from: Piotr on 17:38, 13 May 15
Boards arrived , so i start assembly it.
And do you accept orders for the board only already?
Quote from: CraigsBar on 10:00, 14 May 15
phew, you worried me there for a minute.
I don't know how... I have never said that I will stop. :-\
Ok, here is.Release in next weekend.
(http://images51.fotosik.pl/728/fa1c0c1eca361d4f.jpg)
That looks awesome. When do we pay you the rest of the price?
After weekend, i need assembly more boards, test, order some components. lot to do but no enough time.
Looks plainly awesome. You are making us impatient :D
Nice work, man :)
Good work ! I liked one board!
I know, it is unacceptable, but after tests board rev 3.0 i made............. revision 4.0. I add:
5 volt power supply on board (lm2596)+bridge , so Just CPC can be powered from almost any power supply.( 9-12 volt, 2 Amp, polarisation is not important)
128 Kb ram on board, 6128 compatibile
Video out is RGB, Minidin 8,
2 slots for extensions cards.
And some design changes for better stability.
(http://images54.fotosik.pl/742/a467f14f64a89838med.jpg)
First assembled boards be aviable from next monday. Price has not changed.
Thank you for news, @Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104). Some quick questions:
- Will you send rev 4.0. boards to all of us who ordered 1?
- Does on-board power supply mean that we could use a standard miniatx power supply?
- Will it be preferably to use a standard mobile charger power supply?
I'm anxious on getting the board, and also a bit worried about my lack of knowledge when dealing with electricity.
Power supply for example:
Amazon.com: 12 Volt 2 Amp Power Adapter, AC to DC, 2.1mm X 5.5mm Plug, Regulated (http://www.amazon.com/Power-Adapter-2-1mm-Regulated-Supply/dp/B00DGG7E36)
I give info for all who preordered it when boards be aviable for sale . Also i can buy more power spupply and add it to board. Also ,i think , video cable too.
Also will be available the board only soon?
Adding 128K RAM for loosing one MX4 slot (X-MEM) is not really a good deal.
But, nice about the PSU input and the MiniDIN RGB.
Quote from: TotO on 20:55, 13 June 15
Adding 128K RAM for loosing one MX4 slot (X-MEM) is not really a good deal.
But, nice about the PSU input and the MiniDIN RGB.
since I'll be adding either a mother 4x or symbiface anyway so the 128k and one less slot does not bother me, actually I'd rather have the 128k and only 2 slots.
In both cases, the 128K are useless because replaced by the connected expansion. :-\
Quote from: TotO on 22:22, 13 June 15
In both cases, the 128K are useless because replaced by the connected expansion. :-\
and I will still be using without any expansion as well. This will become my main CPC basic coding rig. Leaving the pluses to play games and make cart images for c4cpc.
Good to hear from you @Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104)
Version 4.0 is even more interesting
I allways thought on 128k's as main expansion as you know :) . Even with x-mem or symbiface, if you want to remove the boards you still have 128k's and be totally cpc classic compatible.
I'm anxious too for the boards ;)
nice board Piotr !!! :)
Quote from: CraigsBar on 22:53, 13 June 15and I will still be using without any expansion as well.
Quote from: Joseman on 01:13, 14 June 15if you want to remove the boards you still have 128k's and be totally cpc classic compatible.
OK...
Is two slots only becouse i do also expansion board for Just CPC 128 k. So one slot for card, second for something like motherX but internial. Floppy drive interface is on board, so you can connect floppy, gotek, hxc ?
OK. I though that orriginal goal was to be able to have all features on the main board.
(not to need to extend again with an extra-board)
;) Ok, so i add one slot. In next month you do a next 2 cards and... again my board don't have enough slots.....
I have not understood your answer.
Are you doing still new cards, so it still will not be enough slots on my board. Maybe the opposite? Make one integrated card :)
I don't know if I will relase more boards, but other peoples do.
Originaly, your board design was populated with 4 slots, then 3, now 2...
I can suppose the final version will only have 1 to plug a ribbon cable to the internal "motherX4". ;)
After, it is your choice and if peoples are happy to get 128K by default, it is perfect.
But... Now you handle the PAL, why not embedding the 512K RAM directly to the main board?
I think that 1 or 2 slots, then use a motherx4 board is a perfect solution for any case and anybody!
I think that embedding 512k RAM directly is impossible if you use original cpc chips, that (i think) is the goal for this board!.
Just saying...
Besides, I can always do both versions ;) Boards for issue 3 waiting...
(http://images52.fotosik.pl/743/36834a2aabc29267med.jpg)
Quote from: Piotr on 08:35, 14 June 15
Are you doing still new cards, so it still will not be enough slots on my board. Maybe the opposite? Make one integrated card :)
Talking about integration, why do you use 64kx1bit RAM where you could at least use 64kx4bit ? 4 devices instead of 16 !
It still go an expansion port there.
Gerald, becouse i have 3000 pieces in my drawer.
When I read your wishlist, and everybody have different opinion - this reminds me of forum about new Amiga. I meant too many, too different wish it's not help and result is no new Amiga.
So Piotr don't listen them. And if you need ideas what to do with unnecessary parts look here: ;)
https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=sculpture+by+electronic+chips&client=opera&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0CAcQ_AUoAWoVChMI4Na_4JmPxgIVo2fbCh0CswAg&biw=1242&bih=608 (https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=sculpture+by+electronic+chips&client=opera&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0CAcQ_AUoAWoVChMI4Na_4JmPxgIVo2fbCh0CswAg&biw=1242&bih=608)
Quote from: Joseman on 09:27, 14 June 15
I think that embedding 512k RAM directly is impossible if you use original cpc chips, that (i think) is the goal for this board!.
In the German ct computer magazine was an article about replacing RAM chips. So a 6128 became 512 KB RAM - and 256 KB acessible by the CRTC. ;D You can look that up in .... the CPCWiki! ;)
Quote from: TFM on 18:21, 15 June 15
In the German ct computer magazine was an article about replacing RAM chips. So a 6128 became 512 KB RAM - and 256 KB acessible by the CRTC. ;D You can look that up in .... the CPCWiki! ;)
Without modifying nothing on the motherboard? ? ? only the ram chips? ?
Quote from: TFM on 18:21, 15 June 15
--- You can look that up in .... the CPCWiki! ;)
C't 512 KB internal RAM expansion - CPCWiki (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/index.php/C%27t_512_KB_internal_RAM_expansion)
It seems that there are compatibility problems and you have to add a daughterboard with more logic... i don't think that it's necessary right now with a lot of ram expansions available for the cpc...
Quote from: Joseman on 01:46, 16 June 15
C't 512 KB internal RAM expansion - CPCWiki (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/index.php/C%27t_512_KB_internal_RAM_expansion)
It seems that there are compatibility problems and you have to add a daughterboard with more logic... i don't think that it's necessary right now with a lot of ram expansions available for the cpc...
Still, it's a rather neat solution.
Bryce.
Quote from: Bryce on 08:32, 16 June 15
Still, it's a rather neat solution.
Bryce.
Do you think that is recommend to do this from the start on a new cpc board?
i mean, the compatibility is 100% accurate with cpc software-games?
I don't deny that 256kb accessible by the CRT is very interesting...
Quote from: Joseman on 10:34, 16 June 15
Do you think that is recommend to do this from the start on a new cpc board?
i mean, the compatibility is 100% accurate with cpc software-games?
I don't deny that 256kb accessible by the CRT is very interesting...
Only the base 64k are usable for the video, see the note below the equations.
When the GA has access (CPU signal high), all address comes from the CRTC (externally muxed) and the new address (AMUX) bit is forced.
From a compatibility point of view, only the basic scheme are there : C0, C4,C5,C6,C7.
You cannot switch the whole 64k (C2), nor use the C1,C3 mode (extension RAM mapping at 0xc000)
Also, SW using the C1,C2,C3 will indded activate an extension ram mode, but not something expected ;)
Quote from: Joseman on 10:34, 16 June 15
Do you think that is recommend to do this from the start on a new cpc board?
i mean, the compatibility is 100% accurate with cpc software-games?
I don't deny that 256kb accessible by the CRT is very interesting...
No. It doesn't really have any huge advantages. We should stick to the current standard to keep compatibility.
Bryce.
Ruled out this add-on then! 8)
Quote from: Joseman on 12:23, 16 June 15
Ruled out this add-on then! 8)
As it's (almost) just a plug-in and relatively cheap to make, you could make one up and test it pretty easily and then remove it again if it's not to your liking.
Bryce.
Hmm, i specially made Just CPC in THT, all IC is socketed for "easy" changes, modifications ,add ons etc.
The original 6128 has the PAL socketed too.
Bryce.
and that's one of the many reasons why i like so much it!!
Small board for this German expansion to 512, U1 GAL, U4 2x10 pinrow to fit it in old gal socket.
(http://images55.fotosik.pl/745/51887b05e42313f2med.jpg)
Nice. If you overlap the PAL socket/pins and rotate them 90° the PCB would be quite a bit smaller.
Bryce.
Edit: Can you share the files? I'd like to try out a few different layouts.
Yop Bryce, i do it quickly just for example, in 20 minutes. Still need some work, dimensions etc.
Sure i can, but i working on Diptrace
Thanks, I don't usually use DipTrace, but I have it installed. Good time to learn to use it better :)
Bryce.
Have fun, but is a really user friendly soft ;) And free up to 500 points i think?
Yup seems pretty intuitive. Here's my suggestion, something like this. I've flipped the smaller IC over onto the bottom along with the resistors and 2 caps.
Bryce.
Or (easier to route), double sided but with ICs on the side.
Bryce.
Quote from: Bryce on 21:11, 16 June 15
Or (easier to route), double sided but with ICs on the side.
It would be better to have the smd IC on the other side of the PAL. That side is free of component on the main board.
Yes, I didn't check how it fits in the CPC, it was just a layout concept to see how small it can be squeezed. The header is probably on the wrong side too?
Bryce.
It would be better near pin 1 : IC114 is under the PAL, the RAM and IC109 on the right.
Diptrace sometimes do a bad joke and if you flip IC for bottom side PCB don't change pinout so be careful.
dOk, on the way ;) DHL from China.
(http://images53.fotosik.pl/754/457ddee720aed6c4.jpg)
I like it, and I want one soon.
All these pictures that tease lol. Is the only difference between the 128k and 64k models, other than the extra ram bank obviously, the extra m4x slot? If so that will be a tough decision once these become available!
Well ;)
(http://images52.fotosik.pl/758/eba6b790dd3e8961.jpg)
Quote from: Piotr on 22:05, 02 July 15
Well ;)
(http://images52.fotosik.pl/758/eba6b790dd3e8961.jpg)
That looks awesome[emoji3]
Quote from: CraigsBar on 22:16, 02 July 15
That looks awesome(http://emoji.tapatalk-cdn.com/emoji3.png)
indeed :o
As I said on FB, a beauty :D
@TotO would it be possible for you to make a "just CPC" version of the mother 4 x that has a soldered connector instead of a ribbon cable and would therefore act as a riser board on the just CPC boards allowing the normal m4x cards to be installed horizontally in a stacked formation above the ram?
If so I'll have one please to go with my just CPC 128k.
Craig
Quote from: CraigsBar on 11:16, 03 July 15
@TotO (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=290) would it be possible for you to make a "just CPC" version of the mother 4 x that has a soldered connector instead of a ribbon cable and would therefore act as a riser board on the just CPC boards allowing the normal m4x cards to be installed horizontally in a stacked formation above the ram?
If so I'll have one please to go with my just CPC 128k.
Craig
Sadly, if you do that you should lose the internal MX4 connectors.
I have all the required things for... But, I imagine Piotr too.
Quote from: TotO on 12:44, 03 July 15
Sadly, if you do that you should lose the internal MX4 connectors.
I have all the required things for... But, I imagine Piotr too.
Lose? Surelynif you plugged this into the 'front' slot on the just CPC, then the rear 1 (or 2) will still be available plus the 4 on the riser card, meaning either 5 or 6 in total. Or am I missing something that would disable all further expansions once the m4x would be attached?
The only interrest to plug them horizontaly is to save space by including the expansions "inside".
If you keep them "outside", better to left vertically.
Quote from: TotO on 13:54, 03 July 15
The only interrest to plug them horizontaly is to save space by including the expansions "inside".
If you keep them "outside", better to left vertically.
Inside is exactly what I want. ;)
CraigsBar, use Mother X and expansion slot ;) But seriously, i do soon expansion board with more slots.
Quote from: Piotr on 15:06, 03 July 15
CraigsBar, use Mother X and expansion slot ;) But seriously, i do soon expansion board with more slots.
Well the point is... I want to ensure that expansions that won't be removed internally. So... Xmem, xmass, play city and minibooster will all be internal.
The mf2 on the expansion port.
Hence wanting a riser. I guess I can get a normal mother 4 x and mod it myself, but I was hoping not to have to.
Ok, here is, for sale , assembled and tested +scart cable.
Just CPC 6128 fully assembled board (http://www.sellmyretro.com/offer/details/9921)
And one bought and paid for.
Well, sold out already...
Do you do also 64KB version with 3 extension slots?
Ok, i list empty boards for self assembly here : Just CPC 128k PCB for self assembly (http://www.sellmyretro.com/offer/details/9924) . In meantime i do BOM and photos from soldering.
@Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104): Sorry for bothering you but do you do 64kb version with 3x expansion slots? As that answer would strongly influence my buying preferences? Thanks!
Quote from: Piotr on 20:18, 06 July 15
Ok, i list empty boards for self assembly here : Just CPC 128k PCB for self assembly (http://www.sellmyretro.com/offer/details/9924) . In meantime i do BOM and photos from soldering.
Thank you. I've already got mine.
@Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104), please, Can you give me the values of the marked components?
(http://i.imgur.com/5B3Si21.jpg)
Thank you
Quick info, i start posting empty boards and Just CPC assembled from thursday. Sorry about this delay. In meantime, BOM and assembly drawing board is here, I add on board socket for connect audio from Playcity card, power socket for HXC/gotek/ddi/floppy and power for externial mouse interface. So is rev 4.0B.
http://www.eightbitclone.com/justcpc.html (http://www.eightbitclone.com/justcpc.html)
@Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104), I suppose the GAL16V8 has to be programmed. Have you the JED file? Thank you.
Quote from: Piotr on 10:32, 13 July 15
Quick info, i start posting empty boards and Just CPC assembled from thursday. Sorry about this delay. In meantime, BOM and assembly drawing board is here, I add on board socket for connect audio from Playcity card, power socket for HXC/gotek/ddi/floppy and power for externial mouse interface. So is rev 4.0B.
http://www.eightbitclone.com/justcpc.html (http://www.eightbitclone.com/justcpc.html)
Which version are those of us with assembled boards getting, this PlayCity input is a must for me.
All boards, assembled and for self assembly is latest version 4.0 B. Empty boards i post tomorrow, assembled in next week.
(http://images52.fotosik.pl/769/62a7d0e002e9aa67.jpg)
Ok, i post all boards for self assembly today . Before you start assembling it ,visit http://www.eightbitclone.com/justcpc.html (http://www.eightbitclone.com/justcpc.html) for latest updates please. in weekend i also do a photos from assembly board and better description .
Quote from: Piotr on 14:21, 17 July 15
All boards, assembled and for self assembly is latest version 4.0 B. Empty boards i post tomorrow, assembled in next week.
(http://images52.fotosik.pl/769/62a7d0e002e9aa67.jpg)
Yippee, Getting excited again. I have the x-Mem and x-Mass sat here waiting for this.
Updated BOM and list of important changes, http://www.eightbitclone.com/justcpc.html (http://www.eightbitclone.com/justcpc.html)
Quote from: Piotr on 07:56, 06 August 15
Updated BOM and list of important changes, http://www.eightbitclone.com/justcpc.html (http://www.eightbitclone.com/justcpc.html)
Any update on the shipping dates of the assembled boards?
Monday, after this weekend.
Wrong, your board is ready to post today. Sorry.
Yippee
Quote from: Piotr on 07:56, 06 August 15
Updated BOM and list of important changes, http://www.eightbitclone.com/justcpc.html (http://www.eightbitclone.com/justcpc.html)
What about the GAL? What is the program?
In home, here, PAL16L8 - CPCWiki (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/index.php/PAL16L8)
As far as I remember, the gal program does the memory banking.
Yes, it does. It was dumped from my 6128 PAL after I have contacted Charles McDonald, then Porchy.
He does the same with my DK'Tronics PAL too... So, both are available since for the community.
Quote from: TotO on 14:53, 08 August 15
Yes, it does. It was dumped from my 6128 PAL after I have contacted Charles McDonald, then Porchy.
He does the same with my DK'Tronics PAL too... So, both are available since for the community.
Somehow I wished you could dump the Dobbertin memory expansion GAL too, but on the other hand... we got the X-MEM now! :) :) :)
Thanks TotO! Great service for the community!
Great board !!! i love it :)@Piotr: is it possible to add a 6Mhz turbo switch ? :)
Quote from: TFM on 23:01, 08 August 15Somehow I wished you could dump the Dobbertin memory expansion GAL too, but on the other hand... we got the X-MEM now! :) :) :)
Thanks TotO! Great service for the community!
We should ask him for dumping your Dobbertin GAL. Sure the X-MEM exist, but better to do it for the posterity.
The fact is that most of them are read protected, but they own a special custom hardware to bypass that. (made for JAMMArcade.net (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/www.jammarcade.net) PCB dump)
The DK'Tronics / DATEL PAL was easy to dump but the Amstrad PAL looked to be very custom and took some weeks to be able to make it working.
Porchy said me that was his more challenging dump to do. (unlinked pins 13, 14, 15 are internally used for magic [nb]More informations about Amstrad HAL chip reversing here (http://www.jammarcade.net/amstrad-6128-hal-chip-reversing/). [/nb] features).
If you want to send me the chip for reversing then PM me and we can work something out.
The HAL16L8 from the 6128 was a huge challenge as it's the first time I'd come across a non registered chip that had latches, coupled with the fact I had no experience using the Amstrad made it hard work. I've since found many chips that use latches and also developed a way to check for them too.
It has arrived some minutes ago! :D
[attach=2]
Some quick questions, @Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104):
- Can I power it directly from a real Amstrad CPC Monitor? (CTM640/CTM644?)
- The +5v Cable is power input? Can be powered from a MiniATX power source?
- An AC/DC Adaptor with 12V/0.5A output would be okay? Is it recommended not to go below 2A output? (Specs: PRI 230V~50Hz 12W, SEC 12V -- 500mA 6VA)
Thank you! :D
Quote from: Porchy on 21:55, 09 August 15
If you want to send me the chip for reversing then PM me and we can work something out.
The HAL16L8 from the 6128 was a huge challenge as it's the first time I'd come across a non registered chip that had latches, coupled with the fact I had no experience using the Amstrad made it hard work. I've since found many chips that use latches and also developed a way to check for them too.
Awesome work!!! :) :) :)
Quote from: Piotr on 09:05, 06 August 15
Wrong, your board is ready to post today. Sorry.
And I collected it from the Post Office this morning. But I cannot get any life out of it. What are the power supply requiremets? I assume 5v about 2a but that's a guess.
This video appears to show it being powered by 12V 1.8A.
I am hoping to complete building mine either this afternoon or sometime tomorrow.
Quote from: CraigsBar on 11:38, 15 August 15
And I collected it from the Post Office this morning. But I cannot get any life out of it. What are the power supply requiremets? I assume 5v about 2a but that's a guess.
OK I got it working. 7.5v 2a
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/15/883ccd616e99b96ea025b735924008b1.jpg)
Wonderful. Works perfectly with the x arcade [emoji3]
OK @Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104) , Having had the board up and running today I noticed a couple of minor "Issues", Not sure how easily solveable these are but hopefully fairly...
1. When a Joypad is plugged in several keys on the keyboard generate 2 characters ('r' produces 're' for example and 'e' does 'e*Break*'
2. quite a few programs I have used demonstrate massive on screen interference. (CPM plus, Batman Forever are badly effected), in these there is lots of garbage marks on the screen - on Batman Forever they seem to match the Disc Activity but I cannot be sure.
The first on I can live with as seen in the photo above I won't be using the Joystick Port much as I will be setting up a custom X-Arcade TankStick definition to provide both Joysticks.
The second will limit what software I can use. See the picture below for an example.
The artefacts correspond to one CRTC position, looks like the CRTC reads &FF instead of V-RAM. Hope this can be fixed!
Quote from: TFM on 22:04, 15 August 15
The artefacts correspond to one CRTC position, looks like the CRTC reads &FF instead of V-RAM. Hope this can be fixed!
You are not the only one. I hope @Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104) has a spare one as I really need one that works without the visual garbage. I can (and have) worked around the joystick issue with the programming function of the X-Arcade Tank stick. But the screen corruption is a deal breaker for me :(
Edit: OK Using a part from my Spares I have swapped out the CRTC - No difference so I returned mine to the Spares box and put back the original one in the board ;)
Have you tried powering you board with 9V? Piotr recommended 9-12 V: 7.5V could be not enough.
Yep. 7.5 to 12v all have the same symptom
OK, apologies @Piotr , I never tested just the Just CPC without the xmem attached. I just did and everything is fine. Does anyone else have oddness when running a just CPC with an xmem?
Unfortunately I just got my power leads back to front and fried my xmem and X-mass :( it seems they really dislike 12v. @TotO , do you think they are fixable? Or should I just order new ones?
Quote from: CraigsBar on 12:48, 16 August 15
Unfortunately I just got my power leads back to front and fried my xmem and X-mass :( it seems they really dislike 12v. @TotO (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=290) , do you think they are fixable? Or should I just order new ones?
This is why I do not like the JustCPC 9V power input !!!
Now for you X-cards, you have to hope that one component protected the others ....
.
Easy mistake, be careful! 6 months ago I did it with my second PCW 8512 mainboard with the wrong psu, 9V instead 5V. Now I have stickers with voltage on them. Luckily, the mainboard run 100%, only the main chip inside the extern keyboard was fried. (quite unexpected)
Quote from: gerald on 12:53, 16 August 15
This is why I do not like the JustCPC 9V power input !!!
Now for you X-cards, you have to hope that one component protected the others ....
Ordering replacements is no biggy, let's face it, they are not expensive.
OK, the same screen corruption occurs with a symbiface connected as well. So I guess external ram is not quite correctly setup on the Just CPC. Time to get additional expansions for the just CPC I guess
Sorry for sounding a bit sarcastic Piotr, but did you do ANY proper timing analysis or compatibility testing on the JustCPC or did you just make a layout that fit on the board and have it produced?
Bryce.
Ok i do some tests and : On orginal HAL (from 6128) Just CPC and XMEM working ok, if i replace HAL to programmed GAL 16v8d 15LP is a lot artefact.... Work in progress...
Amstrad HAL rulez!!!! 8)
Quote from: Piotr on 19:08, 16 August 15
Ok i do some tests and : On orginal HAL (from 6128) Just CPC and XMEM working ok, if i replace HAL to programmed GAL 16v8d 15LP is a lot artefact.... Work in progress...
Back to my Spare Parts bin... YES I have an Original HAL... One Quick Swap later and with the Symbiface connected I have zero Artifacts on either Batman Forever or CPM Plus.
Confirmed that the issue seems to be the GAL vs Original HAL.
I'll keep the HAL in the JustCPC for now..
If however when you find the cause, and create new GALs that work, can I have one please so my spare HAL can return to the parts bin. Unlike Z80's and RAM I only have 1 spare HAL.
Thanks for your work. Now to order replacement Xmem and Xmass.
Is also second option, not solution of course. You can connect pin 4 GAL to GND, artefacting gone but you lose 512 ram from xmem . Anyway i still working to resolve this.
Quote from: Piotr on 20:31, 16 August 15
Is also second option, not solution of course. You can connect pin 4 GAL to GND, artefacting gone but you lose 512 ram from xmem . Anyway i still working to resolve this.
Running fine with an original half. This does not fix the joypad issue however. Any ideas on that one?
Quote from: CraigsBar on 21:43, 16 August 15
Running fine with an original half. This does not fix the joypad issue however. Any ideas on that one?
Is it an AY-3-8912 or AY-3-8912
A ?
If its a A variant, what you see is expected. You need to add pull-up on the keyboard row.
The PS2CPC used for the keyboard handling is not affected by that because it is driving high the pads for 125ns (side effect of AVR IO handling)
Quote from: gerald on 22:08, 16 August 15
Is it an AY-3-8912 or AY-3-8912A ?
If its a A variant, what you see is expected. You need to add pull-up on the keyboard row.
The PS2CPC used for the keyboard handling is not affected by that because it is driving high the pads for 125ns (side effect of AVR IO handling)
Yep. It's an A variant. Back to the parts bin then although I suspect I have to desolder an ay.
Quote from: CraigsBar on 22:11, 16 August 15
Yep. It's an A variant. Back to the parts bin then although I suspect I have to desolder an ay.
AY-3-8912 desoldered, cleaned up and fitted. Now the joystick and keyboard work together.
OK might get a new AY as this one has had a long life already!
Quote from: CraigsBar on 12:48, 16 August 15Unfortunately I just got my power leads back to front and fried my xmem and X-mass :( it seems they really dislike 12v. @TotO (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=290) , do you think they are fixable? Or should I just order new ones?
Send them back, I will see what I can do. :(
Quote from: CraigsBar on 20:24, 16 August 15
Back to my Spare Parts bin... YES I have an Original HAL... One Quick Swap later and with the Symbiface connected I have zero Artifacts on either Batman Forever or CPM Plus.
Confirmed that the issue seems to be the GAL vs Original HAL.
Can you check the GAL in a 6128 ?
Insterested in hearing results of any GAL testing.
I was only able to test games on the 6128 when I made it and don't have any expansions to test out.
Worth noting that a GAL device has a max propagation time of 3.5ns compared to the HAL which is 35ns max. Nothing I can do about that if it turns out to be the issue.
It also entirely possible I missed something completely. I did implement the /RAMDIS operation but never did test it.
31.5ns difference isn't much for a system that used RAM ICs with a 150ns reaction time. I can't imagine that that could be the issue. As well as that, the original CPC6128 doesn't have an issue with using a GAL.
Bryce.
Quote from: Bryce on 20:27, 18 August 15
31.5ns difference isn't much for a system that used RAM ICs with a 150ns reaction time. I can't imagine that that could be the issue. As well as that, the original CPC6128 doesn't have an issue with using a GAL.
Bryce.
Maybe later on, after dinner I'll check my cpc6128 with the justcpc gal
Quote from: Bryce on 20:27, 18 August 15
31.5ns difference isn't much for a system that used RAM ICs with a 150ns reaction time. I can't imagine that that could be the issue. As well as that, the original CPC6128 doesn't have an issue with using a GAL.
Bryce.
Very good point.
I work a lot on arcade hardware and have come across instances where a certain speed of GAL chip just won't work properly and a slower for faster device is needed.
Quote from: CraigsBar on 20:30, 18 August 15
Maybe later on, after dinner I'll check my cpc6128 with the justcpc gal
OK. As promised... Gal in my Schneider CPC 6128 and it has artifacts just like the justcpc.
Wow, wasn't expecting that. Can you tell me how you get the artifacts. I have a 6128 with GAL here, I'd like to test it.
Bryce.
Quote from: Bryce on 22:12, 18 August 15
Wow, wasn't expecting that. Can you tell me how you get the artifacts. I have a 6128 with GAL here, I'd like to test it.
Bryce.
Sure.... Attach a memory expansion (xmem and symbiface both do the same here) and boot CPM either from ROM |ems or disk |CPM. The screen will become a snowstorm of white artifacts. No mem expansion, no problem.
Oh another oddity with the JustCPC. The shift menu in parados does not show unless you press alt as well. It still works with just shift, but the screen is not updated.
I'll test it with a DKTronics 256K expansion.
Bryce.
Quote from: Bryce on 22:33, 18 August 15
I'll test it with a DKTronics 256K expansion.
Bryce.
The only dktronics kit I have is a silicon disk.... With suspect ram. When I get my xmem fixed, it's yours if you need to complete the set ;)
Quote from: CraigsBar on 22:27, 18 August 15
Oh another oddity with the JustCPC. The shift menu in parados does not show unless you press alt as well. It still works with just shift, but the screen is not updated.
I will have a look at that ;)
Quote from: CraigsBar on 22:40, 18 August 15
The only dktronics kit I have is a silicon disk.... With suspect ram. When I get my xmem fixed, it's yours if you need to complete the set ;)
Cool. I'll send you a PM in a minute about that and other IMPORTANT things (Beer drinking).
Bryce.
Today I've received my Just CPC :-)
I've a short try with a power supply 2A 1,5V and it starts up.
Do I have to pay attention on any device I want to use with it?
i.e. X-MEM, X-Mass, Multiface or any other of the latest interfaces?
What kind of case do you use for your Just CPC?
Instead of the 1,5 V you should use 12 Volt. The holes in the board are fine for a Small PC case, they got a special name which I don't remember.
Take care!
CraigsBar have fried his X-MEM and X-MASS by plugging them on it.
I would like to know the issue before the need to fix more boards...
I don't know how can fried cards, on board is only 5 volt so is strange. Anyway, soon i post small service pack for fix issues with X-mem and GAL . Please be patient.
Quote from: TotO on 17:22, 27 August 15
Take care!
CraigsBar have fried his X-MEM and X-MASS by plugging them on it.
I would like to know the issue before the need to fix more boards...
The issue was me! 2 power leads, one 5v one 12v, dangling behind the just CPC, connected then up back to front and fired 12v straight through the m4x to the xmem and xmass.
Just CPC question no. 1,996
Does the floppy connector support 2 drives?
If so is it with a twist (of style) or drive settings (CPC style)?
Another question about JustCPC. How is programmed the Attiny with the J3 pinouts in the board? Which is needed?
The problem with GAL, X-mem card and Just CPC solved. On Monday I will send free replacement chips to the people who bought the assembled PCB. Also in monday i update page about Just CPC and answer for questions . Sorry for delay but my primary job is more important on the moment.
Quote from: Piotr on 19:17, 12 September 15
The problem with GAL, X-mem card and Just CPC solved. On Monday I will send free replacement chips to the people who bought the assembled PCB. Also in monday i update page about Just CPC and answer for questions . Sorry for delay but my primary job is more important on the moment.
Fantastic news. Many thanks.
No need to appologise, we all understand that these wonderfull Hobby Projects have to take 2nd place over earning a living. Personally I think it is amazing the work that You, @gerald (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=250) , @TotO (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=290) , @talrek (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1195) etc do on the hardware side.
Thanks again and I look forward to receiving the Bug Fix GAL :)
Quote from: Piotr on 19:17, 12 September 15
The problem with GAL, X-mem card and Just CPC solved.
Can you elaborate on what was the problem ?
@Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104): Any news on loading/saving from/to audio in / out?
It'd be nice to have a fix for both problems if possible.
Thanks for your effort. We all understand that work is first :)
Gerald, i cheating ;D and override problem for now, i'm to busy and don't have enough knowledge to fight with GAL. Maybe later i connect logic analyzer and do snapshots with HAL and gal diffrences.
50 pieces of orginal HAL ,amstrad 40031
(http://images54.fotosik.pl/813/2b1e6b3c6047c94amed.jpg)
Anyway, with orginal HAL just CPC board + X-mem working ok.
Ronaldo i check it today but later.
Ronaldo, i check loading via tape in port, all looks ok.....
Just CPC and OTLA, fast loading via tape in socket and PC - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xtbsJ-y0xO8&feature=youtu.be)
Try OTLA, sound volume on maximum. Where i can download software in tape format??
@piotr Is there any chance that you can sell me an original HAL chip? (I bought a blank PCB)
Without any problem ;)
Quote from: Piotr on 12:51, 13 September 15
Try OTLA, sound volume on maximum. Where i can download software in tape format??
I didn't tried OTLA games, but if a modified loader like that works, a normal one should have no problem at all.
I have made
a CDT and a WAV of one of my games (https://db.tt/cC4J5Doc), could you please test it?
I'm going to perform some more tests on my board.
Thanks for your time :)
I check it and is loading too (wav file) AIMP player.
Quote from: Piotr on 13:26, 13 September 15
I check it and is loading too (wav file) AIMP player.
Which of the ports is tape in? I use the one nearest the expansion port as a play city mixer? I assumed the other was audio out.... Neither seem to work with tapdancer and breakingbaud.cdt
(http://images54.fotosik.pl/813/4cd7667ba8c75ab5med.jpg)(http://www.fotosik.pl/zdjecie/4cd7667ba8c75ab5)
@Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104): I tested again. When I connect to tape-in nothing happens, no matter which audio I try or how high the volume is. When I connect to audio-out (I input the tape sound through audio-out), sound is played on my TV, but nothing else happens.
Could it be a fault in my board?
Another question, is there any way to save audio to tape? Does audio go through audio-out when saving from BASIC?
All tape in circut is : socket marked tape in is connected straight to pin 25 of 8255 IC , so is only two points: bad signal level, or broken 8255. Saving is not possible without modding board.
@Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104): Sorry, man. I didn't test it properly, After some better test I made it work. It was a problem with audio quality. It seems to be pretty sensitive to quality and volume. After some tests, I've adjusted it and now it works fine.
Sorry for making you lose your time. It was my fault this time.
Quote from: ronaldo on 14:05, 13 September 15
@Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104): I tested again. When I connect to tape-in nothing happens, no matter which audio I try or how high the volume is. When I connect to audio-out (I input the tape sound through audio-out), sound is played on my TV, but nothing else happens.
Could it be a fault in my board?
Another question, is there any way to save audio to tape? Does audio go through audio-out when saving from BASIC?
Same here.. But the tape in needs MASSIVELY high volume. None of my modern devices go high enough.
HTC one m8 - no
Acer a3-a30 - no
IPod classic - no
HTC hero - no
HTC one X - no
But....
Old RadioShack shoebox tape recorder and I loaded "dead on time" and "switchblade". Success!
Still no joy from breaking baud, but that is a fussy bugger tape anyway lol.
Edit: Breaking Baud loads using the macbook pro on max volume with cdt2wav. but the mixing of the tape loading sound and the soundtrack means it sound dire on the just cpc 128k.
ok well at least I can confirm tape load works.
Too weak audio signal, i test on my nokia and Kindle fire and not loading too, only from PC. Hmm i do amplifier fitted under 8255.
Also , i list some orginal HAL 40031 chips for sale for people who buy board for self assembly here ,
Orginal Amstrad 40031 IC for Just CPC 128 clone (http://www.sellmyretro.com/offer/details/10666)
Sorry about price but is no easy and cheap get orginal Amstrad chips.
As I know, the PAL 40031 IC is not required for X-MEM owners.
By the way, better to use originals PAL for fixing real CPC... (I assume that "only 5£" shipping is a joke)
Quote from: TotO on 20:26, 15 September 15
As I know, the PAL 40031 IC is not required for X-MEM owners.
No PAL, no C3 mode ;)
Toto is my IC, so let me dispose of them?Echh, You only criticize. It is sad. Do you try your X-mem and Porky gal? Do you see what happend?
Quote from: gerald on 21:04, 15 September 15
No PAL, no C3 mode ;)
As you know, you can set the X-MEM in 464 mode to have it without PAL.
That avoid to use a PAL IC if not required.
Quote from: Piotr on 06:19, 16 September 15
Toto is my IC, so let me dispose of them?Echh, You only criticize. It is sad. Do you try your X-mem and Porky gal? Do you see what happend?
I said to not buy them if peoples already own a X-MEM, to avoid to lowering the stock and save ICs to repair real CPCs.
Is a criticize? Let me laught... It is more common sense.
(you are more annoyed by my remark about your excessive shipping price)Sure, they will have to link some contacts. I don't know if the JP soldering points are available on your board for that.
Quote from: TotO on 06:24, 16 September 15
As you know, you can set the X-MEM in 464 mode to have it without PAL.
That avoid to use a PAL IC if not required.
the 464 does not handle C3 mode like a 6128. You get the ROM at 4000 if enabled, while it should be at C000.
Quote from: gerald on 09:21, 16 September 15the 464 does not handle C3 mode like a 6128. You get the ROM at 4000 if enabled, while it should be at C000.
Sure, but it is a false problem looking the >10000 existing CPC softwares.
Only Future OS installed in ROM cause that drawback with its pointer (should be fixed by not using C3).
Damn, i planning release Just CPC plus on Christmas, on orginal ASIC... But now i worry about Toto .Very nervous men, when see orginal asic on my board , can get heart attack or something...
Quote from: Piotr on 16:40, 16 September 15
Damn, i planning release Just CPC plus on Christmas, on orginal ASIC... But now i worry about Toto .Very nervous men, when see orginal asic on my board , can get heart attack or something...
I'll have one please... Shhhh we won't tell TotO
ok, it will be an underground edition, I will was selling at night.
Quote from: TotO on 09:48, 16 September 15
Sure, but it is a false problem looking the >10000 existing CPC softwares.
Only Future OS installed in ROM cause that drawback with its pointer (should be fixed by not using C3).
FutureOS needs a working &C3 RAM paging mode because it writes to the screen RAM from ROM. In &C3 the Video-RAM gets moved from &C000 to &4000 while the ROM is still at &C000, so an OS function can access screen RAM (at &4000) from ROM (&C000).
Ok, you may not find so much software using that feature, because there IS just not much real ROM software out there. BUT every CPC6128 and 6128 Plus can handle this mode.
Maybe one day I have time to care about this, but why? FutureOS can run with 64 KB, but it's made for 128 KB and more. I admit it's sad for the 1 or 2 KCc users actually being interested in FutureOS, but at the moment I start coding for an audience of 1-2 I would have too much to do. Meanwhile I care about the big groups of FutureOS users (3-4) wanting me to do the same things. And btw. it's really hard to know what people want!
I know about your C3 usage. ;)
But, it is not related to KC only... 464/664 users can't properly use Future OS too. May be a poll should help to know.
Quote from: Piotr on 16:40, 16 September 15
Damn, i planning release Just CPC plus on Christmas, on orginal ASIC... But now i worry about Toto .Very nervous men, when see orginal asic on my board , can get heart attack or something...
But where do you expect to get the ASICs from? As long as the ASIC is ok, it's always a better solution to repair the original plus. So you would need to remove an ASIC from a working or repairable plus to make your board? What sense does that make?
Bryce.
Quote from: TotO on 17:08, 16 September 15
I know about your C3 usage. ;)
But, it is not related to KC only... 464/664 users can't properly use FutureOS too. May be a poll should help to know.
I know about that. ;)
But, get me three potential users together, who have no 6128 / Plus and I will seriously care about it. I doubt that there are 3. ;)
Quote from: Bryce on 21:27, 16 September 15
But where do you expect to get the ASICs from? As long as the ASIC is ok, it's always a better solution to repair the original plus. So you would need to remove an ASIC from a working or repairable plus to make your board? What sense does that make?
Bryce.
Unless he has a stock of ASICs already. The suggestion was that he did.
Bryce, from the same place from where I have 40010 and 40031.
Quote from: Piotr on 06:51, 17 September 15
Bryce, from the same place from where I have 40010 and 40031.
And where is that?
Bryce.
Gesendet von iPhone mit Tapatalk
Bryce, on internet? Anyway i speak with my supplier, nobody ask about this chips and others from many years. Now, when i buy it is a flame. What is strange becouse few times i give offer for cooperation on this forum. Eerybody ignored me or push me down. So , not my problem anymore ;) I do it for fun, not for stress ;) And last 20 pieces 40031 in home, today delivery ;)
(http://images53.fotosik.pl/819/08a5ef2def27b2c8med.jpg)
Hi! Aehm.... sorry, this isn't looking like an ASIC. However...
Don't take it personal if people ask you where you get ASICs from. It took me years to get ACIDs eventually, not I have no idea where to get real ASICs for the Plus. So please don't feel bad if people just ask you where you get them from. Everybody is just curious. :)
If there is a just plus on the cards, I want one lol. Just so you know ;)
Oh did you say amplification on board for the tape in was possible as an after market mod? If so how, and how much ;)
Craig.
Quote from: TFM on 18:34, 17 September 15
Hi! Aehm.... sorry, this isn't looking like an ASIC. However...
Don't take it personal if people ask you where you get ASICs from. It took me years to get ACIDs eventually, not I have no idea where to get real ASICs for the Plus. So please don't feel bad if people just ask you where you get them from. Everybody is just curious. :)
Looks like some could be available here : Semiconductor: 40489 - AMSTRAD-IC GATE ARRAY (http://www.donberg.ie/catalogue/40489.html)
But buying a NOS GX4000 is cheaper ::)
76 Euros plus shipping... :o
Craig i need to do small cheap PCB board and order it, i have some other projects almost ready too , inc 4MB for Just CPC and PCB for convert GX4000 to 6128 plus so i plan order all pcb in one time for cut postage cost. I working on it.
Quote from: Piotr on 18:00, 17 September 15
Bryce, on internet? Anyway i speak with my supplier, nobody ask about this chips and others from many years. Now, when i buy it is a flame. What is strange becouse few times i give offer for cooperation on this forum. Eerybody ignored me or push me down. So , not my problem anymore ;) I do it for fun, not for stress ;) And last 20 pieces 40031 in home, today delivery ;)
(http://images53.fotosik.pl/819/08a5ef2def27b2c8med.jpg)
It look you're putting down yourself here.
One asked you where you got them and your answer is 'on internet'[nb]which transate to DTC in French[/nb]. How useful is that ?
I don't know why so much criticism on @Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104)
I don't know for sure, but that amount of units of different chips, at that prices... for me is clear that Piotr has contacts with the industry, perhaps some of those chips that he gets never will be on ebay for nobody because of this.
What i'm pretty sure that this chips that Piotr gets, if he didn't do the just CPC, they will stay on shelves forever, it's a question of statistics, the majority will not be used never. however this way we get NEW cpc's on the road... but no, let's criticize Piotr, better have this chips on the shelves forever, it's like that this chips on Just cpc will just fade away of the planet, and they can't be used anymore to repair other cpc's if we want... yes, the chips don't will fade away if they are used on a Just CPC!
He anounces a cpc clone: criticism, he anounces a cpc+ clone: criticism, he anounces a sound card for the cpc: criticism, he anounces memory expansions: criticism, he anounces xxxx expansion: criticism.
I don't get it, i REALLY don't get it guys.
What do you want? other scenes have his computer clone since years, it's normal, things change, things are renewed and improved (ps/2 keyboard, expansion... etc)
Tell me, how many people are developing hardware for the CPC nowadays? 3 - 4? and what they get? CRITICISM.
It's normal that so many people left the cpc scene years ago (hardware and game developers), i can understand it, is so disappointing to waste your time in make something that will be bashed constantly, whatever you do, it will be bashed, if it is a game then it have bad graphics or is a speccy port or why not do double buffering or 128k, if it is hardware, why do you use original chips, why you not use original chips, why don't you make it more small, why don't you make it external when other people will say why don't you make it internal... and so on and so on and so on...
Do you think guys that this is the way to maintain this scene?
don't you see that this way we only get ghettos where 2 people have ps/2 keyboard (and don't want that other ghettos have this), other 2 people have 4mb of memory expansion, 5 people have HDD, but only 3 have a dedicated rom that they programmed and don't want that the ghetto1 that have a ps/2 keyboard (and don't share) have his roms... etc.
I really think that this is wrong, this is not the way to go with the scene and if we continue criticize each others (not only in this thread, they are a lot) the people will leave the scene sooner or later... at last this 2 or 3 ghettos will be tired of this, at the end they will leave too and the scene is OVER.
do we want this? think of it...
Quote from: Joseman on 15:04, 18 September 15
I don't know why so much criticism on @Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104)
I don't know for sure, but that amount of units of different chips, at that prices... for me is clear that Piotr has contacts with the industry, perhaps some of those chips that he gets never will be on ebay for nobody because of this.
What i'm pretty sure that this chips that Piotr gets, if he didn't do the just CPC, they will stay on shelves forever, it's a question of statistics, the majority will not be used never. however this way we get NEW cpc's on the road... but no, let's criticize Piotr, better have this chips on the shelves forever, it's like that this chips on Just cpc will just fade away of the planet, and they can't be used anymore to repair other cpc's if we want... yes, the chips don't will fade away if they are used on a Just CPC!
He anounces a cpc clone: criticism, he anounces a cpc+ clone: criticism, he anounces a sound card for the cpc: criticism, he anounces memory expansions: criticism, he anounces xxxx expansion: criticism.
I don't get it, i REALLY don't get it guys.
What do you want? other scenes have his computer clone since years, it's normal, things change, things are renewed and improved (ps/2 keyboard, expansion... etc)
Tell me, how many people are developing hardware for the CPC nowadays? 3 - 4? and what they get? CRITICISM.
It's normal that so many people left the cpc scene years ago (hardware and game developers), i can understand it, is so disappointing to waste your time in make something that will be bashed constantly, whatever you do, it will be bashed, if it is a game then it have bad graphics or is a speccy port or why not do double buffering or 128k, if it is hardware, why do you use original chips, why you not use original chips, why don't you make it more small, why don't you make it external when other people will say why don't you make it internal... and so on and so on and so on...
Do you think guys that this is the way to maintain this scene?
don't you see that this way we only get ghettos where 2 people have ps/2 keyboard (and don't want that other ghettos have this), other 2 people have 4mb of memory expansion, 5 people have HDD, but only 3 have a dedicated rom that they programmed and don't want that the ghetto1 that have a ps/2 keyboard (and don't share) have his roms... etc.
I really think that this is wrong, this is not the way to go with the scene and if we continue criticize each others (not only in this thread, they are a lot) the people will leave the scene sooner or later... at last this 2 or 3 ghettos will be tired of this, at the end they will leave too and the scene is OVER.
do we want this? think of it...
Exactly. All the hardware we have now is wonderful. We are too small a community for the in fighting. Come on guys, justcpc is an awesome board, I a sure that just plus will be equally great. These chips are lying around let's use them, it's not like there is a shortage of cpc's or plusses at the moment, and Piotr is not suggesting we pull chips from working boards. As I said elsewhere, all hardware guys should be proud of the devices made and the extension to the cpc that together you have achieved.
Let me applaud you all
@Bryce, @Gerald, @TotO, @Talrek and @Piotr
Thanks guys ;)
We all should develop a more thick skin. This is a forum, we only read text. We all mostly speak English as 2nd or 3rd language, ok. It's very easy to have misunderstandings.
People are interested, so they ask. People have ideas, so they tell.
I get shit to hear about my projects every day, if I would take it to the hear then I would have killed myself alrready 13 times or so.
Let us all focus on positive aspects. :) :) :)
I agree with TFM. I see no real criticism, just questions and reactions blown out of all proportion. People have had some valid questions and they're trying to get answers;I don't think anyone jumped to illogical conclusions.
let'scalm down everybody, shall we?
There was no criticism, however if he says his source is "the internet", then I doubt he has sources in the industry. Besides, these are vintage parts, no-one in the current electronics industry would have or stock these parts. Companies like Dönberg are re-sellers. They source parts and try to sell them on for several times the original price. I'm not a fan of such companies. If Piotr has a reliable source (not reseller) for ASICs it would be nice to know, but it's up to him whether he wants to publish or share this information. If you really want some, go search for them yourself, I'm sure that's how Piotr found them.
Bryce.
Quote from: Piotr on 19:17, 12 September 15
The problem with GAL, X-mem card and Just CPC solved. On Monday I will send free replacement chips to the people who bought the assembled PCB. Also in monday i update page about Just CPC and answer for questions . Sorry for delay but my primary job is more important on the moment.
@Piotr , did these replacements get posted yet? I have not received one yet.
Craig
Yesterday ,so this take few days, sorry for delay.
Piotr
Do you have any pcbs left for sale?
I would love to give this build a go.
Boards is here : Second run. http://www.sellmyretro.com/offer/details/10860 (http://www.sellmyretro.com/offer/details/10860)
Just bought one :) I have two 6128 PCBs here in a sorry state (1) The owner tried to swap the Lower ROM and drilled the holes out with a 1mm drill!! (2) Board was physically broken through the middle. I intended removing the parts for spares, but I've decided I'll transfer at least one of them to one of your boards. I'll add a label with the original Serial No. so that the original "lives on" :)
Bryce.
Quote from: Bryce on 22:20, 03 November 15
Just bought one :) I have two 6128 PCBs here in a sorry state (1) The owner tried to swap the Lower ROM and drilled the holes out with a 1mm drill!! (2) Board was physically broken through the middle. I intended removing the parts for spares, but I've decided I'll transfer at least one of them to one of your boards. I'll add a label with the original Serial No. so that the original "lives on" :)
Bryce.
Good call. I think I have found a great case for mine. It's a micro tower from HP, and is exactly big enough to house the just CPC.
Will document the mod once I've got around to it.
Sent from my A3-A30 using Tapatalk
I probably won't keep it, I have enough working CPCs. I'll sell it to someone who doesn't have a 6128 and wants to build / mod one for themselves.
Bryce.
(http://images71.fotosik.pl/35/6ed40cde3a5fc122med.jpg)
Not mine but i plan order similiar with extra hole for extension cards. Also i almost finish my version internial GOTEK + LCD to fit on board.
Ok, second set of PCB arrived. And is ready to post tomorrow. I solder on board Attiny for PS/2 keyboard and i program it.
(http://images72.fotosik.pl/67/4f8be5aff36e0b9emed.jpg)
Hi @Piotr (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1104), I have a question, how can I program the Attiny when is solded on board? I know is with the J3 pinout but, what I need?
I do J3 pinout description right now, give me few minutes. You need AVRStudio or similiar software and programmer for AVR.
Mine still hasn't arrived. The sell my retro site says it was posted, but not when.
Bryce.
J3 programming pinout,
(http://images72.fotosik.pl/67/2c520b276e51abbbgen.jpg)
Bryce, upss, i order boards in factory and i list it (like preorder) , today boards arrived so i pack it and post it tomorrow. Sorry about it.
That's ok, I'm not in a hurry, but you posted this the day I ordered which was very misleading:
Quote from: Piotr on 15:57, 03 November 15
Boards is here : Second run. http://www.sellmyretro.com/offer/details/10860 (http://www.sellmyretro.com/offer/details/10860)
And the SellMyRetro status was changed to "Sent" almost immediately.
Bryce.
Good to know i report it to SMR owner . Thanks for info.