CPCWiki forum

My UlifAC has arrived! 

One question regarding the 5v external power supply.

Is it required for all usage, or can I use some functions without?

I recall someone discussing an external supply on the USIfAC II thread, but I can't remember what it was for?

I've had a dig around the manual, but other than the diagram, I can't see a reference to it. 

I'm guessing it's Centre +. I can look at buying/ making a splitter cable if necessary.

My 6128 is going through a keyboard retr0brite session at the moment, so I'm not in a super rush  ;D

Cheers!

Just received the new board and start learning its functions!!!  :D

I printed the case as described in the relevant topic  USIfAC II:Convert a PC or USB stick to Amstrad HDD,access dsk's,and many more! (cpcwiki.eu) (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/amstrad-cpc-hardware/usifac-iimake-your-pc-or-usb-stick-an-hdd-for-amstrad-access-dsk-and-many-more!/) from the thingiverse repository (https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4974135) board doesn't seem to exactly fit  :o

Do you have similar results?

Quote from: JankyComps on 19:18, 13 April 23My UlifAC has arrived!
One question regarding the 5v external power supply.
Is it required for all usage, or can I use some functions without?
I recall someone discussing an external supply on the USIfAC II thread, but I can't remember what it was for?
I've had a dig around the manual, but other than the diagram, I can't see a reference to it.
I'm guessing it's Centre +. I can look at buying/ making a splitter cable if necessary.
My 6128 is going through a keyboard retr0brite session at the moment, so I'm not in a super rush  ;D
Cheers!

Normally you don't need external power, board get supply from Amstrad's expansion port directly. But, if you have multiple boards, or use an esp8266 wifi module (which draws quite a lot current) and Amstrad's power supply (especially the old ones, inside monitors) can't supply the required power, then you have an alternative to use the external supply connector, in which case you MUST remove the cap from internal power supply jumper next to power connector.

Quote from: mdal on 07:46, 14 April 23Just received the new board and start learning its functions!!!  :D
I printed the case as described in the relevant topic  USIfAC II:Convert a PC or USB stick to Amstrad HDD,access dsk's,and many more! (cpcwiki.eu) (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/amstrad-cpc-hardware/usifac-iimake-your-pc-or-usb-stick-an-hdd-for-amstrad-access-dsk-and-many-more!/) from the thingiverse repository (https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4974135) board doesn't seem to exactly fit  :o
Do you have similar results?

Well, that's because 3D case is for USIfAC II not for ULIfAC, which has quite larger board.
If anyone designed a case for ULIfAC please share it here.

Quote from: mdal on 07:46, 14 April 23Just received the new board and start learning its functions!!!  :D

I printed the case as described in the relevant topic  USIfAC II:Convert a PC or USB stick to Amstrad HDD,access dsk's,and many more! (cpcwiki.eu) (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/amstrad-cpc-hardware/usifac-iimake-your-pc-or-usb-stick-an-hdd-for-amstrad-access-dsk-and-many-more!/) from the thingiverse repository (https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4974135) board doesn't seem to exactly fit  :o

Do you have similar results?

Sorry, my bad, I have posted to the wrong thread. My board is the USIfAC II not the ULIfAC.
I will repost on USIfAC II issues thread. 

Ah, 16x 16 KB ROM plus 16x 16 KB expansion RAM at the same time - excellent!  :) :) :)

Quote from: mdal on 07:46, 14 April 23Just received the new board and start learning its functions!!!  :D

I printed the case as described in the relevant topic  USIfAC II:Convert a PC or USB stick to Amstrad HDD,access dsk's,and many more! (cpcwiki.eu) (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/amstrad-cpc-hardware/usifac-iimake-your-pc-or-usb-stick-an-hdd-for-amstrad-access-dsk-and-many-more!/) from the thingiverse repository (https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4974135) board doesn't seem to exactly fit  :o

Do you have similar results?

I will upload to the thingiverse updated case for the USIFAC II which matches better new boards.  :)

Recieved mine a little while ago. Looking forward to getting to grips with it 

received mine. i'm very happy:
my favorite rom list works:

• maxam
• protext
• hdcpm with 2 x big drives

i dont need more now  ;)

I'm having a great time with my ULIfAC on my CPC 6128! 
Starting to record content for my TikTok channel with it  ;D

One thing I'm struggling with is running Orion Prime via the four .dsk image positions.

I can allocate each image fine. And the SMG command confirms their locations. 

To run the first image I use FM or FSM and navigate to the .dsk. The ULIfAC enables FDC and I can run the first disc. 

The opening sequence runs perfectly. But when I'm prompted to change discs, the CPC can't seem to detect it.

As a comparison/ process of elimination, I can confirm that the same dsk images on the same USB stick run fine in my DDI5 on my 464. In fact, the game is quite forgiving if I accidentally load the wrong disk. It's happy to wait for me to move back and forth.
I presume that the this should also be the case with the ULIfAC and the way it cycles when the "image swap" button is pressed.

I'm wondering if it's something to do with the fact that the ULIfAC knows to enable FDC for the the first image because I manually select it in FM/FSM?

I'm guessing I need to do something prior to running the first dsk, so that the ULIfAC runs FDC for each image 🤔 

Or perhaps by running the first image via the FSM command I'm somehow disassociating the first image from the rest?

Does the GoTek in the DDI5 unpack the files automatically? 

I got the dsk images from CPC power. I select the images with the help of SHIFT and COPY (because my UK keyboard has no tilde key). 

@JankyComps just use the single dsk image of orion prime (https://www.dropbox.com/s/dy1e1fphn5cys7h/Orion_Prime_EN_3p5.dsk?dl=0)  (that's the good thing about having a real low level 765 Floppy Disk Controller emulation  ;D ) and no more need for disk swap ;-)
I've tested it with USIfAC II (and ULIfAC on Amstrad CPC 464) and works perfect, i could also save/load games without problems. In fact i played it for quite a few hours ;)

Hi John

ULIfAC Concern

I wanted to add a Protext rom to the ULIFAC
BUT it is unable to do this ?

I have tried this on 4 various CPCs (Non Plus) which have various power supplies and the edge connectors are VERRY Clean

I have used the following command (also trying various rom numbers)

|MROM,"PROTEXTH.ROM",3   ALSO TRIED 6 8 9 ETC

If I then type |P. The computer informs me "UNKNOWN COMMAND"

If I use |ROM then it indicates that EG; Rom 3 is enabled ????

If I turn the Power off and then type |ROM then Rom3 is shown as OFF

Where do I go from here ??

Thank

Keep Safe

Ray

have you switched on the ROM with |sw or ROM/RAM button after loading the ROM?

@charger73 

Thanks for that it was not mentioned in the Guide
I will have a look Tomorrow (Thursday)

Thanks

Keep Safe

Ray

A small guide inside the manual for such a task would be great!  :) :) :)

Quote from: ikonsgr on 19:33, 02 May 23@JankyComps just use the single dsk image of orion prime (https://www.dropbox.com/s/dy1e1fphn5cys7h/Orion_Prime_EN_3p5.dsk?dl=0)  (that's the good thing about having a real low level 765 Floppy Disk Controller emulation  ;D ) and no more need for disk swap ;-)
I've tested it with USIfAC II (and ULIfAC on Amstrad CPC 464) and works perfect, i could also save/load games without problems. In fact i played it for quite a few hours 

That's brilliant! Thank you  :D

It would also be cool to know what I'm doing wrong with the dsk images for other multi disc games.

I was also curious to see if I could load my game save from playing on my CPC464 + DDI5. I was a good few hours into Orion Prime, but my 464 setup is in a separate location.  ;D

@ankyComps, you must mount the dsk image slots with the appropriate files, using rsx commands |MG, |MG2, |MG3 and |MG4. After that, you can cyclic select image (1->2->3->4->1 etc), by pressing the "dsk swap" button. You can also use |SMG command to see contents of the the 4 slots and the currently selected.

Quote from: Audronic on 13:45, 03 May 23@charger73

Thanks for that it was not mentioned in the Guide
I will have a look Tomorrow (Thursday)

 Well,i suppose i took it for granted that you must swap to rom/dual mode in order for the roms to be activated  :)

@ikonsgr

Ok I am getting tired of trying to set this thing up ?

The |SW comes back with the machine Crashing ?
Thats wonderfull

If I Press the RAM/ROM switch Then The Machine Crashes.

Is there some way to do a master reset ?

Not Happy

Ray

Quote from: charger73 on 06:02, 29 April 23received mine. i'm very happy:
my favorite rom list works:

• maxam
• protext
• hdcpm with 2 x big drives

i dont need more now  ;)

Hi, charger73

Did you face any problems while installing HDCPM in ULIFAC? 

In my case, after creating the image file, I executed "IDIS" to be able to run CPM from Disk, loaded the HDMGR utility, but in the "Log Disk" screen, my Image is not shown at all, so I cannot proceed further.

Any feedback will be welcomed,

Takis

Hi Takis

I checked the site:
https://www.cpcwiki.eu/index.php/HDCPM (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/index.php/HDCPM)
 
Please download the ROM:
https://www.cpcwiki.eu/imgs/b/b1/Hdcpm106.dsk (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/imgs/b/b1/Hdcpm106.dsk)
Copy the HDCPM.ROM to the USB stick (root) (For example with the Filemanager in WinAPE)
 
Please download the Diskimages here:
https://www.cpcwiki.eu/imgs/4/4a/CPMDSK01%2602.zip (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/imgs/4/4a/CPMDSK01%2602.zip)
CPMDSK01.IMG
CPMDISK02.IMG
Copy them to the USB Stick  (root directory)
(you even can make a copy of the image files to 03 and 04)
On the CPC I plugged the rom in slot 9 with ¦MROM,"HDCPM.ROM",9
Activate it with ¦SW
start the CPM with ¦HDCPM

Good luck and best regards
Tobie

Quote from: Audronic on 06:01, 04 May 23@ikonsgr

Ok I am getting tired of trying to set this thing up ?

The |SW comes back with the machine Crashing ?
Thats wonderfull

If I Press the RAM/ROM switch Then The Machine Crashes.

Is there some way to do a master reset ?

Not Happy

Ray

Can you please post to this thread (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/hardware-related/usifac-ii-technical-problems-support/)? It's the thread for technical support & problem report about USIfAC/ULIfAC.

Hi John

I am still awaiting an answer ?

Can you put a link to the PIC Files for the ULIFAC PLEASE

Ray

Quote from: charger73 on 12:28, 04 May 23Hi Takis

I checked the site:
https://www.cpcwiki.eu/index.php/HDCPM (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/index.php/HDCPM)
 
Please download the ROM:
https://www.cpcwiki.eu/imgs/b/b1/Hdcpm106.dsk (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/imgs/b/b1/Hdcpm106.dsk)
Copy the HDCPM.ROM to the USB stick (root) (For example with the Filemanager in WinAPE)
 
Please download the Diskimages here:
https://www.cpcwiki.eu/imgs/4/4a/CPMDSK01%2602.zip (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/imgs/4/4a/CPMDSK01%2602.zip)
CPMDSK01.IMG
CPMDISK02.IMG
Copy them to the USB Stick  (root directory)
(you even can make a copy of the image files to 03 and 04)
On the CPC I plugged the rom in slot 9 with ¦MROM,"HDCPM.ROM",9
Activate it with ¦SW
start the CPM with ¦HDCPM

Good luck and best regards
Tobie

Hi Tobie,

While booting with  ¦HDCPM, I get the message that CPMDSK01 file is fragmented. Did you face any similar message?

Best regards,

Takis

Hi Takis

No, i have no Messages like that.

Please try with my HD CPM Image files... copy them to the Stick and reboot.

Tobie

Quote from: Takis Kalatzis on 09:49, 05 May 23

Quote from: charger73 on 12:28, 04 May 23Hi Takis

I checked the site:
https://www.cpcwiki.eu/index.php/HDCPM (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/index.php/HDCPM)
 
Please download the ROM:
https://www.cpcwiki.eu/imgs/b/b1/Hdcpm106.dsk (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/imgs/b/b1/Hdcpm106.dsk)
Copy the HDCPM.ROM to the USB stick (root) (For example with the Filemanager in WinAPE)
 
Please download the Diskimages here:
https://www.cpcwiki.eu/imgs/4/4a/CPMDSK01%2602.zip (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/imgs/4/4a/CPMDSK01%2602.zip)
CPMDSK01.IMG
CPMDISK02.IMG
Copy them to the USB Stick  (root directory)
(you even can make a copy of the image files to 03 and 04)
On the CPC I plugged the rom in slot 9 with ¦MROM,"HDCPM.ROM",9
Activate it with ¦SW
start the CPM with ¦HDCPM

Good luck and best regards
Tobie

Hi Tobie,

While booting with  ¦HDCPM, I get the message that CPMDSK01 file is fragmented. Did you face any similar message?

Best regards,

Takis

I just tried and it says the image is not formatted...

Very, very strange...

Thanks, anyway, Tobie!

Since all the above posts have to do more with HDCPM and not ULIfAC, could it be possible to "move" the discussion to HDCPM thread (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/applications/hdcpm-boot-and-run-cpm-plus-from-hard-disk/) or even USIFAC/ULIFAC technical problems & support thread (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/hardware-related/usifac-ii-technical-problems-support/)?
 I really wouldn't like this new thread about ULIfAC, to end up like the huge and practically unreadable USIfAC II thread (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/amstrad-cpc-hardware/usifac-iimake-your-pc-or-usb-stick-an-hdd-for-amstrad-access-dsk-and-many-more!/), as the few useful posts about updates and further progress of USIfAC II project, were  lost between dozens and dozens of posts about problems and support. ::) 

Quote from: Audronic on 00:08, 05 May 23Hi John
I am still awaiting an answer ?
Can you put a link to the PIC Files for the ULIFAC PLEASE
Ray

All done (to the other thread). Mind the time difference, europe is half a day apart from Australia!  ;)

Hello,

Two questions from my side:

1. Can I use ICD command with a directory level >1? So, if I have "Folder1/SubFolder1" under the root of the USB, is there a way I can change directory directly to "SubFolder1"? I know I can do it with two subsequent ICD calls but is there another way?

2. Is it possible to copy files from inside a .dsk image (after enabling FDC emulation) to a normal subfolder of the USB? I know you can copy the .dsk image to a floppy disk and then copy to USB, but I was wondering if there was a more "direct" way.

Congrats to John on his amazing work on ULIfAC board!

Best regards,

Takis  

Quote from: Takis Kalatzis on 15:29, 10 May 231. Can I use ICD command with a directory level >1? So, if I have "Folder1/SubFolder1" under the root of the USB, is there a way I can change directory directly to "SubFolder1"? I know I can do it with two subsequent ICD calls but is there another way?

You can't do it. You need to use multiple |CD commands for each deeper subfolder. Mind also that there is a limit of 3 subfolders e.g. Folder/folder1/folder2, although i don't think anyone would ever need more levels than that  :)

Quote from: Takis Kalatzis on 15:29, 10 May 232. Is it possible to copy files from inside a .dsk image (after enabling FDC emulation) to a normal subfolder of the USB? I know you can copy the .dsk image to a floppy disk and then copy to USB, but I was wondering if there was a more "direct" way.

No,i'm afraid there is no more "direct way" for that too. The reason is that i can't have dsk image access and direct file access modes function together at the same time which is mandatory for a direct file transfer from dsk image to usb stick. Of course there is the "side way" to do it, by writing dsk image to a real disk. In any case, in order to extract one or many files from one or many dsk images, i suggest to use CPC LOAD (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/72u23q2jmoxzjbh/AABioenUJ8FS0TyogwIkTH7Ma?dl=0) and the included dsk image extract function which i also describe in USer's manual, it's by far, the fastest and easiest way to do it! ;)

I just had a note from someone that got ULIfAC recently ,telling me that board (or more specific CH376 usb host module) works fine with usb SDcard readers too!
In fact, he told me that he had problems with usb sticks, but it worked fine using an sdcard and a usb reader for it!
Just another alternative for anyone having problems with specific usb sticks  ;)

Hi guys,

For those who need one, I've designed a case for ULIFAC. You can find it in Thingiverse: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6035835

Best regards,
Rafal

Thanks a lot for the case. Printed mine, add the button to swap between 464 & 6128 and had to correct the "M" button as my version of card is an earlier one and the button is a bit more on the down/right near the PIC.

Great case anyway. 
Thanks a lot.
Phil

Quote from: me72_rafal on 13:08, 20 May 23Hi guys,

For those who need one, I've designed a case for ULIFAC. You can find it in Thingiverse: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6035835

Best regards,
Rafal

Great work, excellent! I just started to design a new case, but yours is way better. Thanks a lot! :-)
best regards
Vokgear

Interested in buying on of these with both ribbon cables :-)

We just hit 400 units sold of USIfAC II (350) and ULIfAC (50) boards!  :)

Hello,

does some have the experience of running Symbos with ULIFAC ? Thank for advice.

Hi everyone, 
I just bought a 464 with external DD1 / FD1. 
I would like to buy that ULIFAC, but can I plug it directl to the second connector of the ribbon cable that links the external drive to the DD1?
I'm not sure of what I need to order.
Thank you very much for your support.
Philippe 

No, it needs to be plugged to the expansion port, and after that you connect the DDI-1 to the expansion port too. (Drive through connector).
The first post contain links to the documentation.

Also the ULIfAC contains a MX4 connector, this can be plugged into the Mother X4 expansion backplane (google it)  or you can make an cable adaptor. Imagina a 50 pin flat cable connecting to the CPC, then there is a plug for the ULIfAC then it ends with a connector for the DDI-1.

Maybe someone with a 464 can post a picture of their setup?

Quote from: steph072 on 12:59, 14 June 23Hello,

does some have the experience of running Symbos with ULIFAC ? Thank for advice.

Hello
I was able to install Symbos on the ULIFAC:

1. Load the ROM's
|MROM,"sym-romA.rom",2
|MROM,"sym-romB.rom",3
|MROM,"sym-romC.rom",4
|MROM,"sym-romD.rom",8
2. Activate ROM's:
|SW
3. Mount important drive:
|MG,"SYMBOS.DSK"    (original dsk-name: "SymbOS-CPC-AppsStandard.dsk")
|FDC
4. Start Symbos
|SYM

Very impressing software  :)

Tobie

Here is my version of an ULIFAC case, specifically made for CPC464. It is intended to stay on the CPC and therefore attached to the small slots on the top back of it. All buttons (except the 464/6128 selector) are present (and illuminated) as well as a second USB connector for a direct connection to a PC.
The case is based on an older one I made for the USIFAC II in a similar way.
If anybody is interested I can provide the drawings for Autocaf Fusion 360, it can of course be modified to accept other buttons or whatever you want to improve.

Finally, an UPDATE!  (rev.2) :)
Check the Video (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/upgici0jt1156vfulpvg1/VID_20230715_200034.mp4?rlkey=f6hbxwkcb2js7u9gcipwjxc9m&dl=0)
Yes, it is what it seems, Added a Great new feature: Automatic loading of Roms upon cold booting!
On the above video you see a CPC 464 and the auto loading feature from usb stick, of all three CPC 6128 Roms (FW+BASIC1.1+AMSDOS) + 3 Rom Games (6 Roms in total)!
Now, in order to do that, i use a simple text file, named: "CONFIG.TXT", if such a file is found in root directory of the connected usb stick, then ULIfAC will try to load the roms declared in the file (if not,or if any error occurs, it will continue booting in 512K Ram mode as usual), and then reboot in dual RAM/ROM mode!
Configuration text file structure is very simple too, just lines in quotes, containing rom name and desired rom number, for example:

"OVERKOB.ROM,4"
"CH.ROM,3"
"AMSDOS.ROM,7"
(larger than one-digit rom numbers are supported too, like 10,12,13 etc)

Now, as you probably found out in the small video demonstration, low Roms are also supported, as well as upper rom 0 when low rom is enabled at the same time.
To declare a Low Rom, you place '00' after Low Rom name, and '01' for mapping upper Rom 0 in rom slot 1 (if you want to use upper Rom 0 without lower rom at the same time, you can also give a simple :"NAME.ROM,0")
The reason i use quotes in configuration file, is because i wanted to easily create such boot files directly on Amstrad CPC (although you can perfectly use a PC to create the configuration text file),using a simple BASIC program:

10 OPENOUT"config.txt"   
20 WRITE #9,"ch.rom,4"
30 WRITE #9,"overkob.ROM,3"
40 WRITE #9,"relent.rom,2"
50 WRITE #9,"os_6128.rom,00"
60 WRITE #9,"basic11.rom,01"
70 WRITE #9,"amsdos.rom,7"
100 CLOSEOUT   

The above program creates the required "Config.txt" ASCII file, and each line adds a rom. The specific example, is the one used for the creation of the config.txt file for the video demonstration (of course all roms, must exist in the root dir of the usb stick too :) ). Mind also that you can check any time your current configuration file by giving at BASIC prompt: |TYPE,"config.txt" (or: a$="config.txt":|TYPE,@a$ for CPC 464)
You can also see how you declare a low Rom ("os_6128.rom,00") and a remapped upper Rom 0 ("basic11.rom,01") at the same time.
You can download the new firmware from here (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/8j7rcs361aujomo2do62s/ULIFAC_v2.zip?rlkey=lrrlgasnfv2l4j54pjv1rclmr&dl=0).
Now, although i've tested the new fw with my CPC 464 & CPC 6128's i would really appreciate any feedback from anyone able to flash their PIC mcu (use the 6pin connector on top of the board to reflash the ULIfAC PIC, just like with USifAC II) and find out any potential problems/ bugs.
The only small annoyance i  discovered so far,is with CPC 464, after auto loading of roms, automatic reset sometime fails (Amstrad hungs up), but if you just press the Reset button, it will reboot in dual mode without problems, so no big deal ::)

p.s. and one extra minor Rev.2 update: |6128 command will not disable all roms before reboot, so now, if you use |MROM command to add extra roms and then give |6128, all extra roms will be retained along with the three CPC6128 roms.

Great work! And lots of work done! Congratulations!!!  :) :) :)

Quote from: ikonsgr on 18:49, 15 July 23Finally, an UPDATE!  (rev.2) :)
Check the Video (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/upgici0jt1156vfulpvg1/VID_20230715_200034.mp4?rlkey=f6hbxwkcb2js7u9gcipwjxc9m&dl=0)
Yes, it is what it seems, Added a Great new feature: Automatic loading of Roms upon cold booting!
On the above video you see a CPC 464 and the auto loading feature from usb stick, of all three CPC 6128 Roms (FW+BASIC1.1+AMSDOS) + 3 Rom Games (6 Roms in total)!
Now, in order to do that, i use a simple text file, named: "CONFIG.TXT", if such a file is found in root directory of the connected usb stick, then ULIfAC will try to load the roms declared in the file (if not,or if any error occurs, it will continue booting in 512K Ram mode as usual), and then reboot in dual RAM/ROM mode!
Configuration text file structure is very simple too, just lines in quotes, containing rom name and desired rom number, for example:
"OVERKOB.ROM,4"
"CH.ROM,3"
"AMSDOS.ROM,7"
(larger than one-digit rom numbers are supported too, like 10,12,13 etc)
Now, as you probably found out in the small video demonstration, low Roms are also supported, as well as upper rom 0 when low rom is enabled at the same time.
To declare a Low Rom, you place '00' after Low Rom name, and '01' for mapping upper Rom 0 in rom slot 1 (if you want to use upper Rom 0 without lower rom at the same time, you can also give a simple :"NAME.ROM,0")
The reason i use quotes in configuration file, is because i wanted to easily create such boot files directly on Amstrad CPC (although you can perfectly use a PC to create the configuration text file),using a simple BASIC program:
10 OPENOUT"config.txt"    20 WRITE #9,"ch.rom,4"30 WRITE #9,"overkob.ROM,3"40 WRITE #9,"relent.rom,2"50 WRITE #9,"os_6128.rom,00"60 WRITE #9,"basic11.rom,01"70 WRITE #9,"amsdos.rom,7"100 CLOSEOUT   
The above program creates the required "Config.txt" ASCII file, and each line adds a rom. The specific example, is the one used for the creation of the config.txt file for the video demonstration (of course all roms, must exist in the root dir of the usb stick too :) ). Mind also that you can check any time your current configuration file by giving at BASIC prompt: |TYPE,"config.txt" (or: a$="config.txt":|TYPE,@a$ for CPC 464)
You can also see how you declare a low Rom ("os_6128.rom,00") and a remapped upper Rom 0 ("basic11.rom,01") at the same time.
You can download the new firmware from here (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/8j7rcs361aujomo2do62s/ULIFAC_v2.zip?rlkey=lrrlgasnfv2l4j54pjv1rclmr&dl=0).
Now, although i've tested the new fw with my CPC 464 & CPC 6128's i would really appreciate any feedback from anyone able to flash their PIC mcu (use the 6pin connector on top of the board to reflash the ULIfAC PIC, just like with USifAC II) and find out any potential problems/ bugs.
The only small annoyance i  discovered so far,is with CPC 464, after auto loading of roms, automatic reset sometime fails (Amstrad hungs up), but if you just press the Reset button, it will reboot in dual mode without problems, so no big deal ::)
p.s. and one extra minor Rev.2 update: |6128 command will not disable all roms before reboot, so now, if you use |MROM command to add extra roms and then give |6128, all extra roms will be retained along with the three CPC6128 roms.

Great work! Can we also update the USIfAC II board with this update??

John, when I go to update ULIIfAC with the method similar to ULIIfAC II I get an error message that I attached in the image. this error message does not appear in USIfAC II. Has the flashing method changed anything compared to USIfAC II that I haven't noticed?

(https://ibb.co/41jwHzr)(https://i.ibb.co/7kGxqPm/Captura-de-pantalla-27.png) (https://ibb.co/41jwHzr)

Quote from: shacpc on 19:56, 17 July 23Great work! Can we also update the USIfAC II board with this update??

Well, let me think: loading of roms require to have extra RAM on board, USIfAC II doesn't have any,so... :)

Quote from: shacpc on 20:17, 17 July 23John, when I go to update ULIIfAC with the method similar to ULIIfAC II I get an error message that I attached in the image. this error message does not appear in USIfAC II. Has the flashing method changed anything compared to USIfAC II that I haven't noticed?
(https://ibb.co/41jwHzr)(https://i.ibb.co/7kGxqPm/Captura-de-pantalla-27.png) (https://ibb.co/41jwHzr)

Did you try to connect the 6pin connector to ULifAC the other way?

Quote from: ikonsgr on 20:27, 17 July 23

Quote from: shacpc on 19:56, 17 July 23Great work! Can we also update the USIfAC II board with this update??

Well, let me think: loading of roms require to have extra RAM on board, USIfAC II doesn't have any,so... :)

and those of us who have two USIfAC II + 2 Memory Expansions ;) 

Quote from: ikonsgr on 20:30, 17 July 23

Quote from: shacpc on 20:17, 17 July 23John, when I go to update ULIIfAC with the method similar to ULIIfAC II I get an error message that I attached in the image. this error message does not appear in USIfAC II. Has the flashing method changed anything compared to USIfAC II that I haven't noticed?
(https://ibb.co/41jwHzr)(https://i.ibb.co/7kGxqPm/Captura-de-pantalla-27.png) (https://ibb.co/41jwHzr)

Did you try to connect the 6pin connector to ULifAC the other way?

No, I have connected it as always, updated, with the lights of the Pic facing the device. The case is that the device recognizes it when connected by USB. But unlike USIfAC II, I get this error message and have stopped the update.

Quote from: shacpc on 20:42, 17 July 23No, I have connected it as always, updated, with the lights of the Pic facing the device. The case is that the device recognizes it when connected by USB. But unlike USIfAC II, I get this error message and have stopped the update.

This is how you should connect board with PICKIT:
IMG_20230717_224507_864.jpg

Quote from: shacpc on 20:39, 17 July 23and those of us who have two USIfAC II + 2 Memory Expansions ;)

Well,i'm afraid it can only be done with ULifAC board,as it uses ULIfAC's internal methods and routines to mount the roms.
Moreover the auto rom loading feature adds ~250 extra bytes in PIC's 128k flash memory and unfortunately USIfAC II firmware is almost full in size (~only 50 bytes left)

Quote from: ikonsgr on 20:49, 17 July 23

Quote from: shacpc on 20:42, 17 July 23No, I have connected it as always, updated, with the lights of the Pic facing the device. The case is that the device recognizes it when connected by USB. But unlike USIfAC II, I get this error message and have stopped the update.

This is how you should connect board with PICKIT:
IMG_20230717_224507_864.jpg (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;attach=39841;type=preview;file)

I have updated USIfAC II perfectly in the way that it appears in the image and I have tried to update ULIIfAC as it appears in the image, placed in a similar position::
(https://ibb.co/pLjcBWS)(https://i.ibb.co/VqYRcHs/Whats-App-Image-2023-07-17-at-22-04-05.jpg) (https://ibb.co/pLjcBWS)

(https://ibb.co/KhDZc7M)(https://i.ibb.co/ZXSsRKn/Whats-App-Image-2023-07-17-at-22-04-04.jpg) (https://ibb.co/KhDZc7M)

Quote from: shacpc on 21:10, 17 July 23I have updated USIfAC II perfectly in the way that it appears in the image and I have tried to update ULIIfAC as it appears in the image, placed in a similar position::

No,with ULIfAC you should plug programmer the other way

Quote from: ikonsgr on 21:14, 17 July 23

Quote from: shacpc on 21:10, 17 July 23I have updated USIfAC II perfectly in the way that it appears in the image and I have tried to update ULIIfAC as it appears in the image, placed in a similar position::

No,with ULIfAC you should plug programmer the other way

I've gone through the ULIfAC guide and haven't found any reference to a ULIIfAC fw upgrade tutorial. That's why I tried to use the USIfAC II method.. As it is different from USIfAC II, maybe some notes or tutorial on how to do it would be needed, John. And as always, thank you very much for your feedback.

Quote from: shacpc on 21:30, 17 July 23I've gone through the ULIfAC guide and haven't found any reference to a ULIIfAC fw upgrade tutorial. That's why I tried to use the USIfAC II method.. As it is different from USIfAC II, maybe some notes or tutorial on how to do it would be needed, John. And as always, thank you very much for your feedback.

you are right, its just that until now, there was no fw update available, so no need to do that  :)

Quote from: ikonsgr on 21:47, 17 July 23

Quote from: shacpc on 21:30, 17 July 23I've gone through the ULIfAC guide and haven't found any reference to a ULIIfAC fw upgrade tutorial. That's why I tried to use the USIfAC II method.. As it is different from USIfAC II, maybe some notes or tutorial on how to do it would be needed, John. And as always, thank you very much for your feedback.

you are right, its just that until now, there was no fw update available, so no need to do that  :)

Quote from: shacpc on 21:30, 17 July 23

Quote from: ikonsgr on 21:14, 17 July 23

Quote from: shacpc on 21:10, 17 July 23I have updated USIfAC II perfectly in the way that it appears in the image and I have tried to update ULIIfAC as it appears in the image, placed in a similar position::

No,with ULIfAC you should plug programmer the other way

I've gone through the ULIfAC guide and haven't found any reference to a ULIIfAC fw upgrade tutorial. That's why I tried to use the USIfAC II method.. As it is different from USIfAC II, maybe some notes or tutorial on how to do it would be needed, John. And as always, thank you very much for your feedback.

I answer myself: I have managed to update ULIIfAC without incident. It uses the same update system as with USIfAC II (using MPLAB X IPE and the tutorial that is in English and Spanish in the USIfAC II cpcwiki) but unlike USIfAC II, with ULIfAC you have to use the Pic Kit accessory cable , and in the position of colors that is placed in the images that ikonsgr put on his device and in which I have put my Pic Kit model. Over the weekend we started testing this new update at the CPC. Thank you very much John!
(https://i.ibb.co/G2wLJgb/Whats-App-Image-2023-07-17-at-22-41-40-1.jpg) (https://ibb.co/VSyZNXP)
(https://i.ibb.co/Lpr0rnq/Whats-App-Image-2023-07-17-at-22-41-40.jpg) (https://ibb.co/w67d7Mb)

I'm a bit confused. It seems that the only way to update the Ulifac firmware is using a hardware device. Isn't there a software only way to do it?

Quote from: Pedro José Rodríguez on 07:49, 18 July 23I'm a bit confused. It seems that the only way to update the Ulifac firmware is using a hardware device. Isn't there a software only way to do it?

The PIC microcontroller unfortunately can only be programmed with additional hardware. The PicKit 3 ist the cheapest possible solution afaik.

Quote from: eto on 08:15, 18 July 23

Quote from: Pedro José Rodríguez on 07:49, 18 July 23I'm a bit confused. It seems that the only way to update the Ulifac firmware is using a hardware device. Isn't there a software only way to do it?

The PIC microcontroller unfortunately can only be programmed with additional hardware. The PicKit 3 ist the cheapest possible solution afaik.

Thank you for the quick replay. Where can I purchase that PicKit 3?

Quote from: Pedro José Rodríguez on 07:49, 18 July 23I'm a bit confused. It seems that the only way to update the Ulifac firmware is using a hardware device. Isn't there a software only way to do it?

No, i'm afraid you need a PICkit programmer in order to update firmwmare, but procedure is rather easy and PICKIt3 programmers are still rather cheap (https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005002264405424.html?spm=a2g0o.productlist.main.7.761a25223ehnTZ&algo_pvid=dc500946-bdf1-458d-b643-1ab811efb4e1&algo_exp_id=dc500946-bdf1-458d-b643-1ab811efb4e1-3&pdp_npi=3%40dis%21EUR%2124.50%2121.56%21%21%21193.07%21%21%40212278bd16896651231252083d078d%2112000019811659723%21sea%21GR%213746394506&curPageLogUid=6YfrG7HoQy9H) too (and here (https://www.ebay.ie/itm/192010297539) is from ebay).I'll soon upload a new Manual with a small firmware update guide included.
Btw, one other option would be to send you a PIC chip with new firmware to replace it , for a few euros ;)

Quote from: ikonsgr on 08:28, 18 July 23are still rather cheap (https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005002264405424.html?spm=a2g0o.productlist.main.7.761a25223ehnTZ&algo_pvid=dc500946-bdf1-458d-b643-1ab811efb4e1&algo_exp_id=dc500946-bdf1-458d-b643-1ab811efb4e1-3&pdp_npi=3%40dis!EUR!24.50!21.56!!!193.07!!%40212278bd16896651231252083d078d!12000019811659723!sea!GR!3746394506&curPageLogUid=6YfrG7HoQy9H) too (and here (https://www.ebay.ie/itm/192010297539) is from ebay).

but be aware that many very cheap offers that have "pickit 3" in the title but next to a "pickit 2" text are almost always pickit 2 models. They will not work with the microcontroller used on the USIFAC. I tried ;-)

Real Pickit 3 models can be found on Amazon starting at around 30€

I just upload a revised V2.0 User's Guide (https://www.dropbox.com/s/k3ul9awhgv26sv2/ULIFAC%20User%20Guide_v2.pdf?dl=0), with lots of additions and corrections:

- Add a new section for "Automatic Rom mounting upon boot"
- Add a new section for "Updating ULIfAC firmware"
- Add the OUT commands for enable/disable "auto usb" function and "return to root directory upon boot" under "RSX Commands" section
- Add the important note of mandatory disable of "auto usb" function, for permenantly use of ESP WiFi module at the beginning of "Configure ESP8266 WiFi Module" section
- Some minor additions/corrections

About firmware update, and since i currently have a lot of PIC chips in stock,if anyone wants to try it, and doesn't have, or don't want to buy a pickit programmer only for this, i can send you a PIC Chip with the new Firmware to replace it, for 5euros (including economy postage)

And finally,i upload an official ULIfAC page (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/index.php/ULIfAC) at cpcwiki  :)

Quote from: ikonsgr on 11:19, 18 July 23And finally,i upload an official ULIfAC page (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/index.php/ULIfAC) at cpcwiki :)

Hi John, When updating the ULIFAC firmware, it is still necessary to enter the OUT &FBD2,5 command when we reconnect ULIfAC  it to the CPC at the end of the update?. It's just that I didn't do this step out of curiosity and ULIfAC has been working fine for me (the little I've tested, loading 2-3 games). What function does this command OUT &FBD2,5 have in ULIIfAC ?? Thank you.

Quote from: shacpc on 20:13, 18 July 23Hi John, When updating the ULIFAC firmware, it is still necessary to enter the OUT &FBD2,5 command when we reconnect ULIfAC  it to the CPC at the end of the update?. It's just that I didn't do this step out of curiosity and ULIfAC has been working fine for me (the little I've tested, loading 2-3 games). What function does this command OUT &FBD2,5 have in ULIIfAC ?? Thank you.

OUT &FBD2,X sets the rom number for ULIfAC and saves it in PIC MCU internal eeprom for "remembering" it. If you don't set rom number after flashing PIC, it might not work, although in most cases it will work, because i check the rom number at boot, and if it's not set (no valid number is saved in eeprom), then the default '5' will be chosen. In anycase, better set rom number after updating firmware to be on safe side  :)

Ok,i thought it would be a good idea to create a "Rom configuration" folder to place ready made configurations (e.g. zip files containing config.txt +rom files), and upload them there, for easy access by anyone who wants to use them.
Here (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/ufddkml9c39fvfazyfcvk/h?rlkey=u39ac4d2tmzbym79yg8ettxam&dl=0) you can find the folder. Just send me the zip file and i'll upload it. I've already add the CPC464_TO_CPC6128 (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/jagi4g33vsb0b1mnnmnh8/CPC464_TO_6128.zip?rlkey=6u9asj166wby3po8tpwyooyon&dl=0) configuration files for automatic conversion of a CPC464 to CPC6128 upon cold boot ;-)

Quote from: ikonsgr on 21:11, 18 July 23Ok,i thought it would be a good idea to create a "Rom configuration" folder to place ready made configurations (e.g. zip files containing config.txt +rom files), and upload them there, for easy access by anyone who wants to use them.
Here (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/ufddkml9c39fvfazyfcvk/h?rlkey=u39ac4d2tmzbym79yg8ettxam&dl=0) you can find the folder. Just send me the zip file and i'll upload it. I've already add the CPC464_TO_CPC6128 (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/jagi4g33vsb0b1mnnmnh8/CPC464_TO_6128.zip?rlkey=6u9asj166wby3po8tpwyooyon&dl=0) configuration files for automatic conversion of a CPC464 to CPC6128 upon cold boot ;-)

Is there any way to put the keyboard in Spanish? Your configuration is in English: It has been executed very well. I have tried to replace the OS_6128.ROM with the mod that Duke made for M4 (link (https://mega.nz/folder/93pR2KiA#qlkiFakrZhSzmko65EbTWw/file/YvAH0SrD)) ( os6128_mod_spanish.rom ) but then ULIIfAC when turning on the CPC stays in an infinite reboot loop.

Quote from: shacpc on 08:34, 19 July 23Is there any way to put the keyboard in Spanish? Your configuration is in English: It has been executed very well. I have tried to replace the OS_6128.ROM with the mod that Duke made for M4 (link (https://mega.nz/folder/93pR2KiA#qlkiFakrZhSzmko65EbTWw/file/YvAH0SrD)) ( os6128_mod_spanish.rom ) but then ULIIfAC when turning on the CPC stays in an infinite reboot loop.

Language pack needs both OS and basic roms to function, Duke's link has only the OS rom. Anyway, i use the roms from certified rom list of  cpcwiki: https://www.cpcwiki.eu/index.php/ROM_List
I download Spanish OS+BASIC from there, and it works fine on CPC464. I also upload the zip file for conversion of CPC464 to Spanish CPC6128:
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/bze7siluk53ozz51uvkpx/CPC64_TO_CPC6128_SPANISH.zip?rlkey=2dhybtjpxzsbnkicbvw9sefua&dl=0

Quote from: charger73 on 07:43, 16 June 23

Quote from: steph072 on 12:59, 14 June 23Hello,
does some have the experience of running Symbos with ULIFAC ? Thank for advice.

Hello
I was able to install Symbos on the ULIFAC:
1. Load the ROM's
|MROM,"sym-romA.rom",2
|MROM,"sym-romB.rom",3
|MROM,"sym-romC.rom",4
|MROM,"sym-romD.rom",8
2. Activate ROM's:
|SW
3. Mount important drive:
|MG,"SYMBOS.DSK"    (original dsk-name: "SymbOS-CPC-AppsStandard.dsk")
|FDC
4. Start Symbos
|SYM
Very impressing software  :)
Tobie

I have not been able to make it work in ULIIfAC + 464. I have loaded the roms in the assignments that you indicate, with the new ikonsgr system. I have followed the steps literally, but at the time of |SYM the system stops. I have used the files that you indicate from the official website.

Quote from: shacpc on 08:19, 21 July 23I have not been able to make it work in ULIIfAC + 464. I have loaded the roms in the assignments that you indicate, with the new ikonsgr system. I have followed the steps literally, but at the time of |SYM the system stops. I have used the files that you indicate from the official website.

 Unfortunately Symbos is one of the few programrs that doesn't like the MREQ masking (that is required in order to have expansion ram on CPC464), that's why it doesn't load on CPC464. I'm currently searching a way to disable the internal 64K RAM completely and use a 64k block on the expansion RAM, in order for ULIfAC to take full control of memory management thus, eliminate the need of MREQ masking (and possibly offer a fully functioning C3 mode too, mainly for loading CPM+ on CPC464). Practically you will have 64k less total RAM, but hopefully it will function exactly like with a real CPC6128 and be able to use the few programs that currently doesn't work on CPC464

Hi John,

Just upgraded mine and seems to be working fine with my 464 with the 6128 rom etc loading. Reporting basic 2.1. Haven't tested much as have DIN socket issues to sort but all seems good.

Iain

Quote from: demig on 13:57, 26 July 23Reporting basic 2.1. Haven't tested much as have DIN socket issues to sort but all seems good.
Iain

Well, this actually is Basic 1.1, i just changed it to 2.1, when i was testing the procedures ,for easy finding that rom is successfully loaded and activated  ;)
Anyway, i've restore the correct version number so now it should be ok ;-)

Quote from: ikonsgr on 10:39, 21 July 23Unfortunately Symbos is one of the few programrs that doesn't like the MREQ masking (that is required in order to have expansion ram on CPC464), that's why it doesn't load on CPC464. 

Does SymbOS not work on other RAM expansions on the 464 ? (Most of them also mask MREQ for external RAM writes)

R.

Some 464 ram expansions are limited to C4,C5,C6,C7 AFAIK.
SymbOS requires C1 and C2 as well.
Unfortunately I am not a hardware guy, so I have no idea how this is realized in hardware on 464 or 6128.

Quote from: Prodatron on 23:07, 28 July 23Some 464 ram expansions are limited to C4,C5,C6,C7 AFAIK.
SymbOS requires C1 and C2 as well.
Unfortunately I am not a hardware guy, so I have no idea how this is realized in hardware on 464 or 6128.

Since Symbos (also FutureOS, and practically any program/game/demo i've tried), works perfect with my RAM/ROM board (as well as ULIfAC too) on a CPC6128, it means that all configuration modes are implemented correctly. The problem starts only when the MREQ masking is activated

Quote from: ikonsgr on 20:58, 29 July 23

Quote from: Prodatron on 23:07, 28 July 23Some 464 ram expansions are limited to C4,C5,C6,C7 AFAIK.
SymbOS requires C1 and C2 as well.
Unfortunately I am not a hardware guy, so I have no idea how this is realized in hardware on 464 or 6128.

Since Symbos (also FutureOS, and practically any program/game/demo i've tried), works perfect with my RAM/ROM board (as well as ULIfAC too) on a CPC6128, it means that all configuration modes are implemented correctly. The problem starts only when the MREQ masking is activated

I hadn't realised that. My RAM card works fine with SymbOS on a 464 so I had just assumed all the others did too, but it is the case that mine doesn't mask MREQ and instead asserts RD to write protect internal RAM from external RAM writes.

Quote from: revaldinho on 22:53, 29 July 23I hadn't realised that. My RAM card works fine with SymbOS on a 464 so I had just assumed all the others did too, but it is the case that mine doesn't mask MREQ and instead asserts RD to write protect internal RAM from external RAM writes.

 What exactly you mean by "asserts RD"? You activate RD when WR is active at the same time, and that protects internal RAM?

@revaldinho 
But what happens when upper ROM is enabled and also &C1 or &C2 RAM mode is selected?
Then writing to addresses >= &C000 would also assert RD instructing the GA to enable the ROM. And that would cause data bus contention between  the upper ROM and the external RAM.
Which explains what I have experienced with HDCPM not working until I altered my code so that it didn't use &C1 mode while the upper ROM was enabled.

d_kef

Quote from: ikonsgr on 19:42, 27 July 23Well, this actually is Basic 1.1, i just changed it to 2.1, when i was testing the procedures ,for easy finding that rom is successfully loaded and activated ;)

I have done the same, but "1.2", because it is the real BASIC ROM version of the CPC 6128.

Quote from: ikonsgr on 23:24, 29 July 23

Quote from: revaldinho on 22:53, 29 July 23I hadn't realised that. My RAM card works fine with SymbOS on a 464 so I had just assumed all the others did too, but it is the case that mine doesn't mask MREQ and instead asserts RD to write protect internal RAM from external RAM writes.

 What exactly you mean by "asserts RD"? You activate RD when WR is active at the same time, and that protects internal RAM?

Yes. The gate array doesn't have both read and write inputs . It has just one "writenotread". The logic asserts read after the first positive edge of call following mreq (which is all in the published verilog).

Quote from: d_kef on 23:40, 29 July 23@revaldinho
But what happens when upper ROM is enabled and also &C1 or &C2 RAM mode is selected?
Then writing to addresses >= &C000 would also assert RD instructing the GA to enable the ROM. And that would cause data bus contention between  the upper ROM and the external RAM.
Which explains what I have experienced with HDCPM not working until I altered my code so that it didn't use &C1 mode while the upper ROM was enabled.

d_kef

I'll open a bug report in GitHub to check this . I think that sounds possible but would need to check because all the ram test programs I have used , including Duke's which specifically test C1, C2 and C3 modes all report passes on multiple 464 motherboards and different testing voltages but if they didn't enable the upper rom they won't have created this condition. I think Duke published his source so that'd be the one to try.

Succesfully updated the Ulifac firmware.

I'm preparing a HUGE update, hopefully for BOTH ULIfAC and USIfAC II!
This will include a couple of fixes for ULIfAC (the hung up upon booting after auto rom loading, freezes when Amstrad boots without a usb stick plugged), a new RSX command (it's an old request, but i recently figure out how to do it rather easily), and perhaps the greatest new feature:a BOOTLOADER for easy update of firmware using only a cheap usb2serial cable and the free  TinyMultiBootLoader utility ;-)
Keep in touch!  8)

Quote from: ikonsgr on 17:09, 10 August 23I'm preparing a HUGE update, hopefully for BOTH ULIfAC and USIfAC II!
This will include a couple of fixes for ULIfAC (the hung up upon booting after auto rom loading, freezes when Amstrad boots without a usb stick plugged), a new RSX command (it's an old request, but i recently figure out how to do it rather easily), and perhaps the greatest new feature:a BOOTLOADER for easy update of firmware using only a cheap usb2serial cable and the free  TinyMultiBootLoader utility ;-)
Keep in touch!  8)

This sounds great would make life easier for updates, lovely to see the continuing work you put into this

MAJOR FIRMWARE UPDATE (rev.3):

New Firmware can be found here (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/mu12yglmfnuaniq3dbzai/h?rlkey=aovw0pwzx1vly48r9l3xdewfd&dl=0). ("ULIFAC_REV3(with bootloader).zip" file is the one with the bootloader, which needs to be flashed ONLY ONCE using a PICKIT programmer, "ULIFAC_v3.zip" is for updating firmware using the new serial programming/PIC kit programmer) .

Updates include:

- New Firmware is now equipped with a Bootloader, meaning that you can use a free program utility and a simple USB2SERIAL cable adapter (for a couple of euros...) for updating/fixing firmware! Of course this new ability requires revision 3 (rev3) firmware or newer to be installed on your board. So, you must program ONCE the PIC MCU chip, using a pickit programmer as before, or i can send you a replacement PIC chip with the new Firmware installed, and any future firmware update/fix needed, you can do it yourself, very easy and almost for nothing! ;-)
You will need a usb2serial cable adapter like this (https://www.ebay.ie/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p3814320.m570.l1313&_nkw=PL2303TA&_sacat=0)(PL2303TA) or adapter like this (https://www.ebay.ie/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2334524.m570.l1313&_nkw=6pin+cp2102+usb+2+ttl) (CP2102,for this type you will also need 4 female to female DuPont cables). For the most common PL2303 usb2ttl adapter cables, you can find drivers here (https://www.prolific.com.tw/US/ShowProduct.aspx?p_id=225&pcid=41) (also verify which chip version you need for the windows version you use)
Just, download and install the TinyMultiBootloaderPlus software (https://sourceforge.net/projects/tinypicbootload/files/latest/download) (TBL), Connect the ULIfAC board to the usb2serial adapter AND THEN to a usb port of your PC:

uart1.jpg

Start TBL utility, set com PORT & speed to 115200bps, and select firmware HEX file. Then just click "Write Device" button and immediately push 'Reset" button on ULIfAC board. Flashing Firmware should start:

TBL.jpg

After completion of the process (in ~2minutes), disconnect usb2serial adapter , reconnect the ULIfAC card to Amstrad CPC and power up.
At the BASIC prompt enter: OUT &FBD2,5, Restart/Reset the Amstrad CPC and the ULIfAC message should now appear on the Startup Screen, that's it!  :)

- User's Guide (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/cr9uvl1mrtdwwvauk5ru7/ULIFAC-User-Guide_v3.pdf?rlkey=7ajdzef4nwv7vjr8c1qhv0peu&dl=0) updated: Add the new rsx command and "Updating the Firmware" section is updated.

Bug fixes:

- |FM, |FSM didn't run program/game in Dual RAM/ROM mode, when multiple roms are loaded and himem was reduced. Up until now, i used a fix value for setting hi memory  which was the value you got after resetting an Amstrad CPC 6128 (42615). But some roms might use a small portion of RAM so this could be reduced, thus trying setting the above fix value, returns an error. So, instead of  using a fix value, i save himem value before loading Filemanager, and restore it just before loading a program/game.

- Amstrad hangs upon boot, if "Auto usb" is enabled without usb device plugged.

- On CPC464, Auto rom loading freezes after reset to Dual RAM./ROM mode .Although this was easily fixed by simply pressing RAM/ROM button, now it should reset without problems.

New Rsx Command:

-|EXT,"filename": Extract a file from a dsk image to USB storage device. This was an old request, but i recently found out a rather easy way to do it, although with some limitations. I simply use AMSDOS disk routines to load file on memory (exactly as with RUN/LOAD commands) and then disable FDC emulation and use again AMSDOS disk routines to save file on usb device. ;-)
This method works for most BAS/BIN files, except for some games that use a binary file (usually of more than 42kb) which loads data into system memory areas, causing Amstrad CPC to reset or hang. I've also noticed that with some binaries i got a "syntax error" message at the end, in that case, although file is extracted correctly, you need to reset Amstrad afterwards.

Updated RSX commands:

- |FORMAT,"D/S","A/B": As with file extraction from dsk images, i think this was an old request too. So, instead of having repeated questions for each disk you want to format (Select Drive A/B and Format Type DATA/SYSTEM),i modify Format command to be more direct: Without arguments (|FORMAT) it will directly format a disk using Data Format in Drive A (it just give a msg "insert Disk and press any key"). For System format and/or use of Drive "B" you must give extra arguments, for example: |FORMAT,"S","B" will use System format on Drive B. After each format completion, you return in Basic prompt, as with every other RSX command.

- |HELP: An optional argument is added (|HELP,2  or |HELP,3) which shows directly 2nd or 3rd help page. So, if for example, you want to see something on 3rd page, you wont have to view all help pages from the start ;-)

Hi John. thanks for your update. I understand that future updates there is no problem in continuing to use the pickit, right?

Quote from: shacpc on 20:44, 19 August 23Hi John. thanks for your update. I understand that future updates there is no problem in continuing to use the pickit, right?

I answer myself. there is no problem to continue programming with pickit3 after this update.

Of course you can still use PICKIT programmer, bootloader just gives you another option for flashing Firmware

Quote from: ikonsgr on 08:23, 20 August 23bootloader just gives you another option for flashing Firmware

great feature... just a few € for the adapter, even on Amazon - and much easier than the Pickit.

Suggestion:  |VERIFY  to verify disk

I guest the program check the format disk and then read each track/sector.

En primer lugar, gracias por el Ulifac. La verdad es que estoy muy contento con él. Tengo algunas dudas sobre su funcionamiento; Cuando estoy dentro de un dsk y quiero salir al directorio raíz del USB, no puedo hacerlo de ninguna de las formas que he intentado... Solo puedo hacerlo reiniciando el ulifac. Los comandos que he probado, como CDR, FDC y algunos otros, no me funcionan. Por favor, ¿podría aclararme esto?

Quote from: ikonsgr on 08:23, 20 August 23Of course you can still use PICKIT programmer, bootloader just gives you another option for flashing Firmware

First of all, thank you for having developed that device. The truth is that I love it and it has resurrected my cpc 464. It works very well but I have some doubts about its operation. 
When I am inside a dsk I can only exit by pressing reset. I tried several commands such as FDC and CDR and I cannot exit from the dsk to the main directory of the USB. Surely I'm doing something wrong. I would appreciate if you could explain this to me. I also have a question (I have cpc 464) if I can change the position of the switch on the board to 6128. Can it be changed? Will I spoil something? Is more performance achieved in this position?
 Thank you so much.

@Manuel3D giving |FDC will either enable or disable FDC emulation depending on what was previous state. Of course you will be informed with a message accordingly (either FDC enabled or FDC disabled). When FDC emulation is disabled, you need to give |EN command to re enable the direct file mode. Now, if you want to DIRECTLY enable "direct file" mode, to access usb stick, AFTER having FDC emulation enabled, you can simply give |EN command. this will disable FDC emulation and enable "direct file" mode at the same time ;)  Mind also that you can check state of various functions (usb, fdc, direct file etc) at any time, by giving |STAT command.
About the 464/6128 switch, this is to activate the MREQ suppression in order for the extra ram to work on CPC464. Although this works on CPC6128 too, some programs (most notably SYMBOS) will not function properly, so i recommend to set it on 6128 when board is connected on CPC6128 to get best compatibility. Also for CPC 6128, switching "on the fly" usually doesn't affect amstrad operation (i've done it several times without problem)

Btw,i've added a french version of user's guide: https://www.dropbox.com/s/o9cx9mijhsspr34/ULIFAC%20Guide_Utilisateur_v3.pdf?dl=0
Thanks pascal  ;)

Hi, I have a question:

I want to copy files from tape to disk images and tried with the program speedtrans which seems to do exactly that.
Unfortunately it does not work, I have a CPC464 and an ULIFAC latest firmware (v3), I have to start the program speedtrans from a disk image, because otherwise (starting it directly from the USB stick) it reclaims that no disk is inserted.
It asks for a filename for the disk file to create, reads the file from the tape and then exits (not sure if that is normal) but does not save it on the disk image.
I do not have a real disk unit so I cannot test it in another way.
Should it work with ULIFAC and disk images?

I mainly want to copy data files (some BASIC programs I typed in and saved on tapes as well as text files written in Amsword tape version around 40 years ago) not games or other software.

Does anyone know if this should work or can recommend another method?

Hi again,

issue resolved, the program COPY-Master does exactly that, copy any simple file (including BASIC programs) from cassette to disk or vice versa, the only thing is that you need to know and specify the exact filename from the cassette.
Works perfectly, files are on the disk image and can be used normally.
I just mention it here in case anybody wants to save old cassette files as well. :D

I got mine today and it worked first try!
After months of struggling with my Gotek I can stop loading code via the tape port every time I want to test a new build!

Ok,i just make some modifications on ULIfAC REV3 firmware, in order to resolve the "hang up upon boot" problem with some CPC464, as it is suggested by @GL here (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/hardware-related/usifac-ii-technical-problems-support/msg233907/#msg233907).
So with the new fw, board boots with FDC emulation active and then deactivated, after "dual boot" of CPC464 at the end of ULIfAC Board ROM initialization.
I've tried it on both CPC6128 & CPC464 of mine, and it seems to work ok, but as i don't have a "sticky boot" CPC464,i can't tell if it actually resolve the problem.
So, anyone having this weird "hang-up upon boot/reset" on a CPC464, try to update with this firmware (REV3a, for the moment, NOT an official firmware): https://www.dropbox.com/s/buwa93cknc48eiq/ULIFAC_v3a.zip?dl=0
Note this is the plain hex, WITHOUT the bootloader, so you can use either PICKIT to update, or if you have REV3. board, you can use the simpler method with the usb2serial cable too.

Ok ,since i had same problem with second board that @ikonsgr sent to me, i have tried this "beta" firmware.
And it works, after power on, nothing but after i push reset (need to press twice) but it works.
Afterwards it works normally with regular reset.

Quote from: Josip on 19:09, 14 December 23Ok ,since i had same problem with second board that @ikonsgr sent to me, i have tried this "beta" firmware.
And it works, after power on, nothing but after i push reset (need to press twice) but it works.
Afterwards it works normally with regular reset.

Did you also try the "auto rom mount" feature? If you want, copy all files from here (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/jagi4g33vsb0b1mnnmnh8/CPC464_TO_6128.zip?rlkey=6u9asj166wby3po8tpwyooyon&dl=0) to usb stick boot dir and see if it mounts roms and reboots to dual rom mode without problems.

No, will try now.

EDIT: Tried, need to press reset after power on machine, after that it says booting and this screen appear
Add boot screenshot:

(https://i.postimg.cc/9rYVxJVG/20231214192313.png) (https://postimg.cc/9rYVxJVG)

(https://i.postimg.cc/ctY14SVj/20231214191803.png) (https://postimg.cc/ctY14SVj)

Quote from: Josip on 19:15, 14 December 23No, will try now.

EDIT: Tried, need to press reset after power on machine, after that it says booting and this screen appear

(https://i.postimg.cc/ctY14SVj/20231214191803.png) (https://postimg.cc/ctY14SVj)

Great! You have just convert your CPC464 to a CPC6128 with 256k expansion ram ;-)
Btw, this needing for reset, might indicate some problem with the usb stick, if a usb device is too slow upon booting it might cause such boot problems. I remember @Audronic mentioned that he resolve similar problems by using a different usb stick.

Will try with another usb stick, but i am happy now, works :)

@Josip, believe me, if you try once the "464 to 6128" conversion (especially if you hadn't any previous experience with a real CPC 6128), you will NEVER use your CPC 464 without it again!  ;)

I made some changes and update the 3a firmware, that might have better results with "sticky 464".
So, @Josip or anyone having the "hang-up upon boot/reset" on a CPC464, try to update with this firmware (REV3a, for the moment, NOT an official firmware):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/buwa93cknc48eiq/ULIFAC_v3a.zip?dl=0
Note this is the plain hex, WITHOUT the bootloader, so you can use either PICKIT to update, or if you have REV3. board, you can use the simpler method with the usb2serial cable too.

Will try tonight.

Updated, left files on USB stick that automatically enables CPC6128 mode.
After power on, needs to press reset once, and after that works without any problem.

Is anything else that can i see as change?

Quote from: Josip on 18:55, 18 December 23Updated, left files on USB stick that automatically enables CPC6128 mode.
After power on, needs to press reset once, and after that works without any problem.
Is anything else that can i see as change?

So, now instead of needing to press reset twice, you only need to press once?
Did you also try it without automatic rom mounting (just rename/delete config.txt file in usb root dir)

Yes, now only one reset is needed.
No, will try in next days.

Ok, removed files, and again i need to press twice reset or RAM/ROM button to start device.

With these files to start in 6128 automatically, just one press is needed.

Quote from: Josip on 19:18, 19 December 23Ok, removed files, and again i need to press twice reset or RAM/ROM button to start device.
With these files to start in 6128 automatically, just one press is needed.

I see...Well,in any case,it seems that this modification indeed helped with your "Sticky 464", as now you can use ULIfAC (with just pressing reset button :) ), while before you couldn't use it at all right?

I could use it, but i need to remove USB stick and then after restart computer booted, then i inserted stick, need to enter mount command for USB stick.
But again after restart problem will occur.

At least now it is usable, thanks for your work.

We have passed the 500 limit for both boards, 400 USifAC II+ 105 ULIfAC sold worldwide!

Quote from: ikonsgr on 19:47, 20 December 23We have passed the 500 limit for both boards, 400 USifAC II+ 105 ULIfAC sold worldwide!

This is probably the most versatile hardware for CPC today. Unmatched in terms of price/performance!

I just had a contact with someone having this weird CPC 464 freezing problems upon booting with a ULIfAC board (which fortunately with REV 3a fw, can easily overcome by just pressing reset button 1 or 2 times), but this time, he sent me a couple of photos of his CPC464 and i verified that it's indeed an early version with "tall keys" and a GA40007 with heat sink installed.
So, as my CPC464 is a later version (with normal keys and a GA40010 installed) with which i never had such problems (either with USIfAC or ULIfAC), i would like to ask anyone with these old "Sticky" CPC464's, to test a new fw (Rev3b) i upload here (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/0uvk5nfk4t9qcke6nl4dp/ULIFAC_FINAL3b.zip?rlkey=kykdot0hjqekygagxu9tctq7p&dl=0), and note if it resolves the problem, or if there are any differences in Amstrad booting behavior.

Mine is GA40009, but will try later and post here.

Ok, removed files that are booting machine directly to 6128 mode, and just pressing reset once, computer boots as normal 464.
Can switch to 6128 without problem.

Great stuff :)

Quote from: Josip on 18:27, 14 January 24Ok, removed files that are booting machine directly to 6128 mode, and just pressing reset once, computer boots as normal 464.
Can switch to 6128 without problem.
Great stuff :)

So, is there any difference with previous fw? Does CPC464 boots without needing to press reset anymore, either with "auto boot to 6128" or not?

Before i have to remove stick to boot, and then put stick back and it will work until i restart computer, then i need to repeat procedure with remove stick, reset insert stick again.
Now works with with only one reset on cold boot (stick is plugged in device), after reset boots normally to 464 mode

Did not tried with files on stick, will try to put files on stick and check.

Probably in next few days.

Quote from: Josip on 19:49, 14 January 24Before i have to remove stick to boot, and then put stick back and it will work until i restart computer, then i need to repeat procedure with remove stick, reset insert stick again.
Now works with with only one reset on cold boot (stick is plugged in device), after reset boots normally to 464 mode

Did not tried with files on stick, will try to put files on stick and check.

Probably in next few days.

So, i guess there is no difference with previous rev 3a fw, which also needed one reset, right?

No, i needed to press twice reset or ram/rom key. 
With cpc6128 files only one reset was needed.

Now, just one reset is needed to start machine, so there is improvement comparing to previous firmware.

Will try with 6128 to see how machine works.

ok, so if now only one reset is needed to start in normal 512k mode, it might start in "auto 6128" mode , without freezing problems at all.
In any case, it seems that there is indeed an improvement, so i will use this fw revision for any future ULIfAC boards, thanks again for the support ;)

Just to confirm, with files for starting auto 6128 mode, works without any problems :)
No reset needed, just boots.

@Josip can you please try this firmware (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/5pekeshly6hcpxdnp1h6f/ULIFAC_FINAL3b_new.zip?rlkey=byib6s5rfmm93juci5d4eog00&dl=0) and tell me if it works the same with the previous latest fw? (which also had the best booting results, right?)
I expect to need to press reset only once if no "Auto boot to 6128" is active, and boots automatically without problems if "Auto 6128" is active.

Ok have flashed this FW.

Behaviour is the same.
Without files to boot in CPC6128 mode, regular CPC464 one reset is needed after machine is powered on
With files to boot in CPC6128 mode, boots without any problem, no reset press is needed.

Quote from: Josip on 17:56, 21 January 24Ok have flashed this FW.
Behaviour is the same.
Without files to boot in CPC6128 mode, regular CPC464 one reset is needed after machine is powered on
With files to boot in CPC6128 mode, boots without any problem, no reset press is needed.

And i suppose it doesn't freeze after resetting Amstrad too, as with the previous fw, right?
Anyway, thanks for the feedback, i've simplify the init code a bit, and i wanted to know if it has any differences with "sticky" CPC 464, (unfortunately my CPC464 seemed to work fine even with the 1st fw revision, so i couldn't troubleshoot it myself... :)  )

No freezes after reset, regardless which mode i use

Quote from: Josip on 22:25, 21 January 24No freezes after reset, regardless which mode i use

This happened with the last previous firmware too?
If previous fw had the same cold booting behavior, but it didn't freeze upon subsequent resets, then better keep the previous fw...  ::)

I did not see any difference between those two firmware, both behave same.
Without autoboot to CPC6128, one reset is needed upon cold boot, afterwards works without problem
With autoboot to CPC6128, no reset needed on cold boot.

So will stay on this firmware

Quote from: Josip on 09:26, 22 January 24I did not see any difference between those two firmware, both behave same.
Without autoboot to CPC6128, one reset is needed upon cold boot, afterwards works without problem
With autoboot to CPC6128, no reset needed on cold boot.

So will stay on this firmware

:picard: mea culpa, how i understand the opposite (that it freezes after reset), only God knows...  ::)

Just got another CPC464, this one is some strange mix, grey keys like Schneider, but in Amstrad case, on power led is label EIN, sticker on bottom is in german, on joystick port and audio output writing is in spanish :D

So i will have another to test Ulifacusb, i hope because machine is bought as untested, but price was excellent.


(https://i.postimg.cc/H8WzL31F/3.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/H8WzL31F)

Hi

Someone know if command line tools exist that allow you to send a bin or a dsk via the USB connection to Ulifac, and which the amstrad will execute automatically?

Or any tools that allow you to control the ULIFAC from the command line (always via USB), it's interesting for automating tasks !

Fixed this Amstrad, GateArray was bad.

Just for info, ulifac works on this revision of board (MC0046A Z70378) without any problems, no need for any additional restart.

Hello,

HDCPM do not want to boot with my CPC 6128 (ULIFAC 3B). Just see the loading of boths HDs, if using the HDCPM program (the ROM doesn't work at all).
After that: crash of the ULIFAC. Power off at CPC power switch necessary. several attempts. 
Isn't it working with all CPC 6128 ?

Thank you.

Quote from: steph072 on 19:17, 04 March 24Hello,

HDCPM do not want to boot with my CPC 6128 (ULIFAC 3B). Just see the loading of boths HDs, if using the HDCPM program (the ROM doesn't work at all).
After that: crash of the ULIFAC. Power off at CPC power switch necessary. several attempts.
Isn't it working with all CPC 6128 ?

Thank you.

Make sure that the switch is set to "6128", otherwise you can't load CPM+. Other than that, i suppose the best person to consult is @d_kef that created HDCPM  (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/applications/hdcpm-boot-and-run-cpm-plus-from-hard-disk/) and test it with ULIfAC board too.

Dear @ikonsgr,
dear CPC friends,

After testing my ULIfAC extensively for a while, I can really recommend it to every CPC user. Basically, the device does what it is supposed to do very well, even if it seems to have a few "teething troubles" here and there, at least in my case. I'll list these little "problems" one by one here:

Firstly: This is version 3 of the ULIfAC, when switching on the screen shows that the device is equipped with version 3b.

The user manual states that automatic activation of USB is activated by default, this is apparently not the case with my ULIfAC and I have not yet been able to find out how to change this. I have copied the ROM configuration 464-to-6128 along with a few games onto a USB stick. The config.txt is created correctly according to the description. After switching on the CPC with the ULIfAC connected and the USB stick inserted, I get a message on the screen that no USB device is present. If I then type |usb, I get confirmation that the stick is now active. If I now press the reset button on the ULIfAC, the CPC boots directly into the 6128-Rom, as desired. Normally this should work automatically, but how do I do this? Is there any way to completely reset the ULIfAC to the default settings? 

Since the file ULIFAC_FINAL3b.zip in the dropbox of @ikonsgr was apparently updated, I had the idea to reflash the firmware as described in the current version of the user manual. Unfortunately, this did not work, or I am doing something wrong. I connected the PL2303TA to the ULIfAC as shown in the first attached picture. Windows apparently also recognizes the ULIfAC with usb2serial cable as a device with virtual COM port (COM3), it is listed in the device manager as "Prolific USB-to-Serial Comm Port (COM3)".


If I now try to carry out the flashing by selecting the corresponding COM port and the baud rate of 115200 bps specified in the user manual and clicking on "Write Device" and then immediately pressing the reset button on the ULIfAC, the process does not start. Instead, the "Tiny Multi Bootloader+" displays the error message "No Device Detected", as can be seen in the second picture. It does not work under Windows 10 or Windows 11. What is the reason for this? Maybe because the same firmware is already installed? Or is the actual bootloader missing on the ULIfAC? As I said, the installed version is version 3b and I haven't done anything to the device yet.
Apart from these rather minor problems, the device has worked pretty well so far. Nevertheless, the problems bother me a little.

Btw: The joyport adapter from @ikonsgr is also excellent. It ensures that my ArcadeR joystick now works properly on the CPC, including auto-fire, even if I rarely use the latter. I am very pleased. :)

Many thanks in advance for your help.

Best regards from Germany

Constantin

Tried with many programmers and non of them work, except Pickit 3.
With PL2303 had sam issues like you.
So try to find if some of your friends have Pickit.

Quote from: Josip on 07:31, 18 April 24Tried with many programmers and non of them work, except Pickit 3.
With PL2303 had sam issues like you.
So try to find if some of your friends have Pickit.

it's a crapshoot trying to find a pl2303 that works - the drivers for modern systems have code to brick fake pl2303 devices - your best bet is to find a cheap (and known genuine) one, or get a pickit3 and program it that way.

Quote from: Devlin on 08:17, 18 April 24the drivers for modern systems have code to brick fake pl2303 devices

You're confusing it with FTDI's very shortlived attempt at doing that - they got so much bad publicity from wrecking customer devices they rolled it back almost instantly. I refuse to use their hardware if I can avoid it to this day.

The PL2303 drivers don't brick devices, they just corrupt the link with periodic "unauthorized hardware" messages. I'm not even legitimate old pl2303 devices work - Prolific discontinued the part and moved onto another part number/usb id iirc. The old driver actually still works, if you can find a copy.

Of course, this only matters on Windows; linux doesn't need third-party drivers to talk to serial hardware.

@linuxkostik64, about the non-recognize of usb stick upon booting, most probable the usb stick you use, takes too long to initialize, so Amstrad can't access it on time, it gives you the "no USB device found" message, but after a few seconds, when you give |USB by hand, it's activated as it should. Try a different usb stick and most probable the problem will solve.
About flashing PIC, first let me note 2 important things:
- Check that Tx and Rx are correctly plugged,a typical cause for "No device found" error, is misplacement of these 2 pins, you can even try to swap them and see if it works.
- You MUST have the ULIfAC plugged into usb2serial cable, BEFORE plugging it to a usb port of your PC.
Having said that, maybe the prolific PL2303TA doesn't function correctly on Windows 10/11,as i had same issues with it too. Although it seems that driver is installed correctly and serial port is functioning, in reality it didn't... The best alternative i found for windows 10 (and possibly windows 11), is CP102:
https://www.ebay.ie/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_nkw=6pin+cp2102+usb+2+ttl
This is tested many times, works perfect, and as you can see, costs almost nothing  ;)
Finally ,a hint i discover lately: pressing constantly reset button on ULIfAC, and then click on Write Device button, 99% will start re-program without problems.

Hi John,
hi CPC folks,

With the CP2102 adapter, I was able to upgrade the firmware on my ULIfAC with the one that was uploaded to @ikonsgr's Dropbox a few days ago. I don't really know if the updated version is different from the one that was pre-installed on my ULIfAC when I got it in early April, but the upgrade worked fine according to the software. I connected Tx from the adapter to Tx from the ULIfAC and Rx to Rx. Apparently this was correct.
I'm absolutely delighted with the ULIfAC and can highly recommend thinking about buying it if someone is considering equipping a CPC with a Gotek and/or a RAM expansion or similar. I also think that such work needs to be supported. :) Now I just hope that there will soon be a solution for Pinball Dreams and the memory problem associated with it, so that the game will also run with the ULIfAC.

Apart from that, I'm also thinking of buying an additional CPC 6128, but we'll see. :)

Thank you very much for your help and your friendly support! :)

Kind regards from Germany

Constantin

New prices (mostly cuts):

ULIfAC Board:32 Euros
Edge connector Ribbon cable: 3 Euros
Centronics connector Ribbon cable: 4 Euros
Registered/tracked postage: 8 Euros (+1euro for overseas Australia,US,Canada)

Can I use an Arduino Leonardo loaded with the serial-pass-through script to make a serial connection with the Ulifac?

My Ulifac behaves weird after power-on. I need to press reset as well to make the computer work. If I just power it on I see all until
and Locomotive Software Ltd.
I can't do anything as there is no ready and cursor.
If I press reset on the ULIFAC I also get:
ULIfAC Enhanced (3b) + 512Kb Ram
BASIC 1.0
Ready
I would rather have the ULIfAC boot into the CPC 6128 mode directly without the need to reset. How to do that?

Another question:
As the ULIfAC seems to be able to mimic a CPC6128, it must also carry its ROM. Is there a way to mod this ROM to alter the colours. I like border and ink0 to be 0 (black) and ink1 to be 26 (white).

Quote from: retro space on 15:07, 20 May 24My Ulifac behaves weird after power-on. I need to press reset as well to make the computer work. If I just power it on I see all until

Code Select Expand

and Locomotive Software Ltd.
I can't do anything as there is no ready and cursor.
If I press reset on the ULIFAC I also get:

Code Select Expand

ULIfAC Enhanced (3b) + 512Kb Ram
BASIC 1.0
Ready
I would rather have the ULIfAC boot into the CPC 6128 mode directly without the need to reset. How to do that?

Another question:
As the ULIfAC seems to be able to mimic a CPC6128, it must also carry its ROM. Is there a way to mod this ROM to alter the colours. I like border and ink0 to be 0 (black) and ink1 to be 26 (white).

  With some old CPC464 it's normal behavior to need to press reset once after cold boot. But it's easy to auto load 6128 mode, here (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/ufddkml9c39fvfazyfcvk/h?rlkey=u39ac4d2tmzbym79yg8ettxam&dl=0) you can find ready setups for English, French and Spanish 6128, just unzip all files into usb drive root directory and Amstrad will automatically boot to 6128 mode. For more information check user's guide (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/cr9uvl1mrtdwwvauk5ru7/ULIFAC-User-Guide_v3.pdf?rlkey=7ajdzef4nwv7vjr8c1qhv0peu&dl=0) in "Automatic mounting of Roms upon cold booting" section.

Quote from: ikonsgr on 08:58, 24 May 24

Quote from: retro space on 15:07, 20 May 24My Ulifac behaves weird after power-on. I need to press reset as well to make the computer work. If I just power it on I see all until

Code Select Expand

and Locomotive Software Ltd.
I can't do anything as there is no ready and cursor.
If I press reset on the ULIFAC I also get:

Code Select Expand

ULIfAC Enhanced (3b) + 512Kb Ram
BASIC 1.0
Ready
I would rather have the ULIfAC boot into the CPC 6128 mode directly without the need to reset. How to do that?

Another question:
As the ULIfAC seems to be able to mimic a CPC6128, it must also carry its ROM. Is there a way to mod this ROM to alter the colours. I like border and ink0 to be 0 (black) and ink1 to be 26 (white).

  With some old CPC464 it's normal behavior to need to press reset once after cold boot. But it's easy to auto load 6128 mode, here (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/ufddkml9c39fvfazyfcvk/h?rlkey=u39ac4d2tmzbym79yg8ettxam&dl=0) you can find ready setups for English, French and Spanish 6128, just unzip all files into usb drive root directory and Amstrad will automatically boot to 6128 mode. For more information check user's guide (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/cr9uvl1mrtdwwvauk5ru7/ULIFAC-User-Guide_v3.pdf?rlkey=7ajdzef4nwv7vjr8c1qhv0peu&dl=0) in "Automatic mounting of Roms upon cold booting" section.

Great, I've got it all working now, and the Ulifac is inside the CPC (see my other post).
One more question: do you know if and how I can mod the ROM files on the USB drive to make the CPC boot in white-on-black instead of yellow on blue? Please for both 40 and 80 column, and preferable auto-boot into 80 column.

Quote from: retro space on 14:38, 26 May 24One more question: do you know if and how I can mod the ROM files on the USB drive to make the CPC boot in white-on-black instead of yellow on blue? Please for both 40 and 80 column, and preferable auto-boot into 80 column.

In order to do that in "rom level", you must have access to the source assembly code of the rom (either firmware or basic), modify it, and recompile it, and as far as i know there is no rom in such form available (here  (https://cpctech.cpc-live.com/docs.html)you can find various roms in disassemble form, which is close, but not the "clean" source code)
 Now,i can think of 2 alternatives about your "problem".
One is to use Fw 3.15 (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/imgs/3/37/FW315.zip), instead of original 6128 fw rom, which uses black/white and 80 columns mode upon boot.  Just replace the OS6128.ROM with FW315.ROM in config.txt file.
The other is to create a small basic program:
10 ink 0,0:ink 1,26
20 border 0:Mode 2save it to usb stick with a convinient small name like "set.bas" and then, the only thing you need to do after booting is just give: run"set to execute it, and get what you want  ;)

fw315 uses white on blue.
Usually changing color does not need a source code or recompiling. It is just a matter of changing 3 bytes in the ROM that store the colours for ink 0, ink 1 and border. If you know where they are!

Same question goes for the |fm function, it gives yellow on black. Is that configurable?

Also I found the browser you get with |fm is VERY senstive on the cursor keys, very hard to select the correct disk image. Maybe the repeat delay can be a bit longer in a future firmware version.

Quote from: retro space on 18:31, 26 May 24If you know where they are

Exactly  :)   If you have time and patience, maybe you could check the disassemble code of 6128 fw rom to find out and modify it.

Bit of an odd question, but my 6128 has some kind of problem with the upper memory bank where 64k programs work fine but 128k ones either crash or get graphical glitches.

I know the Ulifac can effectively turn a 464 into a 6128, so is it possible to disable the top 64k on my machine then use the Ulifac's memory to bring it back up to 128k?

Quote from: Amagni on 01:52, 31 May 24Bit of an odd question, but my 6128 has some kind of problem with the upper memory bank where 64k programs work fine but 128k ones either crash or get graphical glitches.

I know the Ulifac can effectively turn a 464 into a 6128, so is it possible to disable the top 64k on my machine then use the Ulifac's memory to bring it back up to 128k?

When you connect ULIfAC on a CPC6128, the 2nd bank of 64k on Amstrad board, will practically disable,and only the 512k/256k extra ram on ULIfAC board (depending on the mode you are),will be used. So, most probable it will resolve the problem with the 2nd bank on your Amstrad.

Quote from: ikonsgr on 08:34, 01 June 24

Quote from: Amagni on 01:52, 31 May 24Bit of an odd question, but my 6128 has some kind of problem with the upper memory bank where 64k programs work fine but 128k ones either crash or get graphical glitches.

I know the Ulifac can effectively turn a 464 into a 6128, so is it possible to disable the top 64k on my machine then use the Ulifac's memory to bring it back up to 128k?

When you connect ULIfAC on a CPC6128, the 2nd bank of 64k on Amstrad board, will practically disable,and only the 512k/256k extra ram on ULIfAC board (depending on the mode you are),will be used. So, most probable it will resolve the problem with the 2nd bank on your Amstrad.

So you can't have 128k but only 256 or 512?

Quote from: vasilisk on 16:06, 01 June 24So you can't have 128k but only 256 or 512?

You have 320kb or 576kb total ram (256+64k internal or 512+64k internal)

Quote from: ikonsgr on 21:43, 01 June 24

Quote from: vasilisk on 16:06, 01 June 24So you can't have 128k but only 256 or 512?

You have 320kb or 576kb total ram (256+64k internal or 512+64k internal)

I was only asking about @Amagni 's "problem". For example, dragon ninja have speech samples if 128k is present. Is it going to see the total ram or the 64+256, 64+512.

Quote from: vasilisk on 22:11, 01 June 24

Quote from: ikonsgr on 21:43, 01 June 24

Quote from: vasilisk on 16:06, 01 June 24So you can't have 128k but only 256 or 512?

You have 320kb or 576kb total ram (256+64k internal or 512+64k internal)

I was only asking about @Amagni 's "problem". For example, dragon ninja have speech samples if 128k is present. Is it going to see the total ram or the 64+256, 64+512.

Part of the ULifAC RAM will replace the internal 64K (as it would if that RAM worked). Whether or not it will fix the issue might depend on exactly how it has failed. I don't think anyone could say for certain without actually just trying it, though there is a good chance it would fix it.

I dont know if @Amagni is talking about failed memory.

Ok, I did a bit more testing and now I'm even less sure of the issue!

If I run the |DIA utility on the Ulifac, it shows lower RAM as ok, but upper RAM gives some error codes (see the first image below).  I assume this is the CPC's internal memory and not the added RAM, right?  It doesn't continue past bank 0 and the computer locks up and needs to be rebooted.

It also gives odd results for the ROM test but I don't know if it that's a problem.

I tried copying the "Logon's Run" demo to a floppy, and if I run it without the Ulifac it just fills the screen with dots that gradually settle into the stripes shown in the 4th image below, while the speaker emits a single tone.
If I run it with the Ulifac, either from floppy or USB, it runs but gets lots of visual artefacts and random characters.  I tested it on a friend's original Amstrad CRT monitor and it looks the same, so it's not just my HDMI converter acting up.

Some other games and demos get the same kind of video noise, but others (presumably 64k ones) work just fine with no glitches at all.

Is it possible that the faulty RAM is still having an effect when the Ulifac is in use, or that some other related chip is causing the issues?

@Amagni ,first thing, did you set the small switch on ULIfAC to "6128" position? Otherwise, it will enable the MREQ signal depression (required for extra ram to function on CPC464) which might cause problems on CPC 6128.
 Now, if you still get same problems with "6128" mode, then, apart from maybe having a faulty internal ram interfere, there is also a chance of having a faulty (or maybe bad contacts) of PAL/GAL 16L8 chip (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/index.php/PAL16L8) which implements the memory management on CPC6128.

Ok, it was in 6128 mode, so I tried switching to 464 mode and it actually works better!

The upper RAM test completes and all looks good.
The "Wolf 128" demo no longer has glitches and works fine.
The "Women & Dragons" demo now runs instead of halting at the initial "loading" message, but it does glitch in one of the scenes.
"Pinball Dreams" runs the intro screen with the nice animated lightning but freezes after a few seconds of the title music.
"Logon's Run" looks even worse, it's just the red screen below with weird snow flying around.

Do you think it's worth pulling the HAL1618 chip and popping it back in?

Quote from: Amagni on 14:57, 02 June 24Ok, it was in 6128 mode, so I tried switching to 464 mode and it actually works better!

The upper RAM test completes and all looks good.
The "Wolf 128" demo no longer has glitches and works fine.
The "Women & Dragons" demo now runs instead of halting at the initial "loading" message, but it does glitch in one of the scenes.
"Pinball Dreams" runs the intro screen with the nice animated lightning but freezes after a few seconds of the title music.
"Logon's Run" looks even worse, it's just the red screen below with weird snow flying around.

Do you think it's worth pulling the HAL1618 chip and popping it back in?

 Hmmm, it seems that the MREQ signal masking on CPC464 mode, somehow "masks" the problem too... ::)  And that, indeed indicates some kind of problem with the HAL chip. Fortunately this chip is in socket, so you can easily unplug it, spray some contact cleaner onto socket and replug it. If again you have the same symptoms, then maybe the chip went bad.
Btw, if you unplug ULIfAC, or swap to 32xrom mode (so Amstrad will use the internal 64k extra ram) you also get the same problems?

p.s. unfortunately the MREQ masking has some limitations: C3 mode is not supported, symbos, futureos and cpm+ are not working, and also a few games too, one of which, is  pinball dreams. I'm actually in a process of redesigning the hole extra memory management  for cpc464, by replacing completely the internal 64k main ram, with a block of 64k from the external 512k ram, in order to fully emulate all memory configuration modes without problems, i recently manage to load symbos and pinball dreams on CPC464 in dual 256k ram/16x rom mode, but i get some kind of video noise on screen when specific configuration modes 1,2,3 are active (e.g. use &C000-&FFFF video ram memory range from external ram), which i'm afraid is because CRTC video chip always access the 16k  video ram from internal ram, so i have to somehow find a way to "selectively" disable writing internal ram -possibly using the same mreq masking method- but ONLY when Amstrad access video ram range and the specific configuration modes are active. Hopefully this will resolve the problem...

As we exceeded 600 Boards sold worldwide (USIfAC II + ULIfAC),
I've decided to make a summer offer for ULIfAC board:

ULIfAC Board: 25 Euros
Edge connector Ribbon cable: 3 Euros
Centronics connector Ribbon cable: 4 Euros
Registered/tracked postage: 8 Euros (+1euro for overseas Australia,US,Canada)

Offer is valid for current ULIfAC pcb stock (~25 boards)

update about the summer offer: 19 boards left...
Btw, you think that an RSX command to create an empty formatted dsk image would be useful?
This is something that a couple of people requested in the past, but as you can easily create any kind of an empty dsk image (for example using cpcdiskxp utility),and simply transfer it to your Amstrad usb stick, i don't know if it has any practical value (and worth the trouble to develop it)...  ::)

Yes could be interesting.

Quote from: ikonsgr on 10:34, 20 July 24Btw, you think that an RSX command to create an empty formatted dsk image would be useful?

I had it on the Gotek a few times that I had to unplug the USB stick, go to the PC, create the image, go back, when I wanted to copy some files between a real drive and a DSK. I am not sure if that's a valid use case for the ULIFAC.

But if it's a lot work, then I guess we can live with it anyway. 

Quote from: eto on 18:11, 22 July 24

Quote from: ikonsgr on 10:34, 20 July 24Btw, you think that an RSX command to create an empty formatted dsk image would be useful?

I had it on the Gotek a few times that I had to unplug the USB stick, go to the PC, create the image, go back, when I wanted to copy some files between a real drive and a DSK. I am not sure if that's a valid use case for the ULIFAC.

But if it's a lot work, then I guess we can live with it anyway.

Routine is almost ready  :)   It will be included in the next firmware update along with a few more things.

FIRMWARE UPDATE (rev.3c):

New Rsx Command:

-|FMG,"filename": Creates an empty Data format disk image. Using extra argument: |FMG,1/2 creates a system/ibm format disk image. Image creation takes ~8-15seconds depending on usb stick used.

Updated RSX commands:

-|EXT,"filename",1: Inserts a file from USB storage device to a dsk image. This extended the previous function of |EXT,"filename" (extract a file from a dsk image to USB storage device). I've also revised the code routine, possibly reducing incompatible files  (usually of more than 42kb).

- |WF,1: This replaced the |WIFI command used to configure and connect a WiFi module. Now you will be asked directly to give WiFi settings (Access point ssid, password, Host ip/name, port) and these settings can be saved to board's eeprom. From then, you will be able to connect WiFi module instantly (after cold boot or in case of a hang-up) by giving a simple:|WF command!
Notes:- Don't forget to disable "Auto usb" before using WiFi module, by giving: OUT &FBD1,93
           -Communication speed with WiFi module is now fixed at 921600bps
           -Saving configuration of WiFi module will overwrite any saved code you might had on eeprom (using the |WROM, |LROM commands)

- |HELP: Update the rsx list, help is now 4 pages long, which can be viewed directly, by giving: |HELP,2  |HELP,3  |HELP,4   

Bug fixes:

- Major update of windows utility program, mostly for WiFi connection. TCP server now behaves much more stable (mostly in "direct mode", where practically program/tcp server never hangs up anymore), and automatically disconnects/reconnects WiFi module. Also, support for read/write ASCII files was added, when use WIiFi modules.
For ULIfAC with rev.3c or newer firmware, this version is mandatory.
You can find the new version here  (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/93ta0tbkyhzx89cvenjgm/AmstradUtilityII.exe?rlkey=yi0iq04dz45w98jl71j7bq64d&dl=0)(program will be labeled as: Amstrad CPC Serial Communication Utility II (rev.2) )

New Firmware can be found here  (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/1p0dgdz5r8lgjk0qouurk/ULIFAC_v3c.zip?rlkey=1l40t254ayh7oq835bgwm4zv7&dl=0) for update with bootloader and serial cable, or here  (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/s8a1pk0jvbdvby8y9gxbp/ULIFAC_v3C_BOOTLOADER.zip?rlkey=q49dg5t10o67079u2k7p1oahk&dl=0)for updating using a PICKIT programmer.


 

Hi ikonsgr
It seems that the filenames for the last update are reversed. The .hex file in the link for updating using a PICKIT is ULIFAC_v3C_BOOTLOADER but in fact is the right file for the PICKIT.
Thank you for the update and for keeping this wonderful device alive.

I 3d-printed this case and installed it yesterday, looks great!
https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6035835

@ikonsgr : There is a manual for updating firmware. Great! However, it's in Spanish. Could you please put the original text in here (not the PDF), then I can convert it into English. This would be great for non-Spanish-Speakers.  :) :) :)

Quote from: GUNHED on 15:23, 08 August 24@ikonsgr : There is a manual for updating firmware. Great! However, it's in Spanish. Could you please put the original text in here (not the PDF), then I can convert it into English. This would be great for non-Spanish-Speakers.  :) :) :)

I didn't made the specific guide in Spanish. :) 
It is actually the older programming method with PICKIT programmer described in the older manuals, and it should be a translate from this english guide: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/mou7h8urikz5og3i2o4qu/Updating-the-Firmware-of-USIfAC-II-via-ICSP-v1.pdf?rlkey=w8p2omunhchx3msre6graogk2&dl=0

Quote from: pjrodriguez on 11:41, 07 August 24Hi ikonsgr
It seems that the filenames for the last update are reversed. The .hex file in the link for updating using a PICKIT is ULIFAC_v3C_BOOTLOADER but in fact is the right file for the PICKIT.
Thank you for the update and for keeping this wonderful device alive.

 The ULIFAC_v3C_BOOTLOADER hex file is the one for PICKIT, i named it "bootloader", because it includes the bootloader too. The other file is without the bootloader and should be used for the serial programming.

I would like to purchase this, is it still available?

I made a quick video about the ULIFAC the other day, showing what I do with it and how some of the commands work.

Just curious, how did you replace the internal 464 ram?

Quote from: zhulien on 10:52, 28 August 24Just curious, how did you replace the internal 464 ram?

I have the "ram disable" signal always active, which prevents Z80 on CPC 464 to read from internal RAM completely. Also, to prevent writing to internal ram (which on CPC464 is not disabled with "Ram dis" signal), i mask MREQ signal too.
But the most difficult part regarding the correct functioning of internal "Shadow ram" is the fact that 6845 CRT controller can read ONLY the REAL internal video ram, which means that if you use a shadow video ram, the screen will ALWAYS show you contents of internal video ram, no matter what!
So, for video ram only (&C000-&FFFF), you must write both internal and "shadow ram" (e.g. part of the 512k ram expansion that acts as internal ram) at the same time, in order for both Z80 (which reads from shadow video ram) and 6845 CRT (which reads from internal video ram) read the same thing and have proper code execution and video out...  ???
And there is even worst... Try to get all this mess, work right with C3 configuration mode...  :)

Quote from: ambifx on 07:38, 20 August 24I would like to purchase this, is it still available?

Give me a note to ikonsgr745@hotmail.com to arrange it.

Quote from: ikonsgr on 16:15, 28 August 24So, for video ram only (&C000-&FFFF), you must write both internal and "shadow ram" (e.g. part of the 512k ram expansion that acts as internal ram) at the same time, 

So what happens if software moves the video RAM into one of the other RAM banks?

Quote from: andycadley on 22:59, 28 August 24So what happens if software moves the video RAM into one of the other RAM banks?

The software can't actually "move" the video ram, what you see on screen is ALWAYS the contents of internal video ram (&C000-&FFFF) as this is the ONLY ram that 6845CRT video controller can access. Of course, using different ram configuration modes you can access video ram of external 64k blocks (still what you get on screen will be the contents of the internal video ram...), with the ONLY notable exception, the notorious "C3 mode", where access to internal video ram is done through &4000-&7FFF memory range.
And because CPC464 had no provision for external memory management, it's quite difficult to make C3 mode works correctly on CPC464. Afaik, only revaldino ram expansion can do that, and soon one more board...  :)

Quote from: ikonsgr on 09:48, 29 August 24

Quote from: andycadley on 22:59, 28 August 24So what happens if software moves the video RAM into one of the other RAM banks?

The software can't actually "move" the video ram, what you see on screen is ALWAYS the contents of internal video ram (&C000-&FFFF) as this is the ONLY ram that 6845CRT video controller can access.

I guess Andycadley is speaking about placing the video at #0000, #4000 or #8000 within the first (internal) 64K, something what many games and most demos are doing. Anyway I think this is obvious and will work fine as well with Ulifac.

MAJOR ULIfAC Board Revision (v.5) & Firmware Update (rev.4):

New Revised board:

IMG_20240827_163909_028.jpg

On CPC 664/6128 Basic Modes of operation, and the CPC 464 512K Ram expansion mode, new board functions exactly like previous one.
BUT, on CPC 464 Basic Mode, there is a new Dual RAM/ROM board mode, which implements a 64k internal shadow RAM (e.g. replace completely the internal 64K Ram with a 64K block of the 512K SRAM),and adds extra logic to correctly support the C3 Ram configuration mode.
This results in having a CPC 464 dual mode with 192K Ram expansion (256k in total)+ 16X Rom board mode, where you can now load:
CP/M Plus:
FututeOS:
Symbos:
And some previously non-working demos/games, most notably Pinball Dreams game:
and Phortem demo:
So, practically you will have almost 100% compatibility with a real CPC 6128!
Τhe small switch that used to select CPC 664/6128 or CPC 464 mode of operation is removed, and now the choice is done, using a new RSX Command:|SM. Also active Mode of operation is shown upon boot screen too.


New Rsx Commands:

|SM: Shows current ULIfAC's Basic mode of operation: CPC 664/6128  or CPC 464. Using an extra argument '1' (|SM,1 for CPC 664/6128) or '2' (|SM,2 for CPC 464), sets mode of operation. Board will "remember" your choice and cold boot with it.

|R: Installs a small routine (https://www.cpc-power.com/index.php?page=detail&num=13720) that allows an easier way of using string arguments with Basic & RSX Commands on CPC464. It would be especially useful for easier "manually" mounting of roms e.g. instead of giving:
a$="rom_name":|MROM,@a$,rom_slot
you can give directly:
|MROM,"rom_name",rom_slot.
Use only with CPC464 and default 512K Ram expansion mode!


Updated RSX commands:

- |HELP: Update the rsx list, help is now 4 pages long, which can be viewed directly, by giving: |HELP,2  |HELP,3  |HELP,4 


New v.4 Firmware Update can be found here  (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/dkq6kljf77gt2soito61h/ULIFAC_4.zip?rlkey=yff8mdbk8hqcw61oaj74h12vr&dl=0)for update with bootloader and serial cable, or here  (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/qvytj4xlgkz6pm2qsymn6/ULIFAC_4_bootlader.zip?rlkey=qllzsnmaw5a2ams7fuqd8bw1q&dl=0)for updating using a PICKIT programmer.
User's Guide for new ULIfAC baord, can be found here (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/a49200lebugw8okfk4yvi/ULIFAC-User-Guide_v5.pdf?rlkey=jewodf9u7aikvumjbl0swtth5&dl=0)
Important Note:This firmware update CAN'T be used with older boards, but ONLY with the new revised v.5 ULIfAC Board!


Prices are:
New ULIfAC Revised Board: 32 Euros
Edge connector Ribbon cable: 3 Euros
Centronics connector Ribbon cable: 4 Euros
Registered/tracked postage: 8 Euros (+1euro for overseas Australia,US,Canada)

WoW!!!  :) :) :)

Quote]Important Note:This firmware update CAN'T be used with older boards, but ONLY with the new revised v.5 ULIfAC Board![/size][/size][/size][/size][/size][/size]

I've the board since may or so, is that a v5? Can you tweak a V4 to become a V5?

Quote from: retro space on 16:59, 03 September 24

Quote]Important Note:This firmware update CAN'T be used with older boards, but ONLY with the new revised v.5 ULIfAC Board![/size][/size][/size][/size][/size][/size]

I've the board since may or so, is that a v5? Can you tweak a V4 to become a V5?

Look at the hardware: It's different.

Quote from: retro space on 16:59, 03 September 24I've the board since may or so, is that a v5? Can you tweak a V4 to become a V5?

v.5 boards are only available since last week or so.
And, i'm afraid you can't tweak older ULIfAC boards too. As Gunhed noted, v.5 board has extensive modifications on hardware level, along with substantial changes of the PIC MCU firmware, that controls the RAM expansion and ROM board functions:

compare_ulifac.jpg

 Different 3-state buffer chips are used (an octal buffer 74LS241 along with an inverting quad buffer 74LS125, instead of the inverting hex buffer 74LS367 with non-inverting quad buffer 74LS126 that previous version used) and also, a complete new circuit was added in order to implement the C3 mode:

c3_mode.jpg

As CPC 464 doesn't have any build-in memory management, and the CRT6845 video chip can only access internal video ram, even if an internal  "Shadow ram" is used (e.g. replace internal ram with a 64k block of the 512k sram expansion), it was rather difficult to implement C3 mode on CPC464 (which requires to access external video ram @&C000-&FFFF and internal video ram @&4000-&7FFF),  because the screen will ALWAYS show you the contents of the internal video ram, no matter what!
So although initially, i manage to expand CPC 464 compatibility by implementing only a shadow ram (allowing SYMBOS and Pinball Dreams to load, for example), this wasn't enough for "C3 mode" (in order to load correctly CP/M Plus and Future OS), which required the addition of an extra logic circuit!

Just received mine yesterday and I have to say that this device is astonishing! Over the years heavily developed and got very mature these days. Together with a full bunch of CPC internal commands / software / support, also with PC software for exchange, this is a complete and super enhancement for the CPCs. Very comfortable to work with and cool performance.
Respect! Like it.

Any chance you can make a unidos driver for usifac ii / ulifac?

Quote from: zhulien on 01:10, 18 September 24Any chance you can make a unidos driver for usifac ii / ulifac?

I think this question should be addressed to Unidos creators. :) 

Hi, just a clarification even after reading the manual...

Looking at the pictures the mode switch only has RAM and RAM/ROM.

but you refer to "512KB Ram/32XROM Board/256K Ram+16X Rom Board"

Do you mean:

RAM Mode - 512kb RAM that is either all RAM and no ROM
RAM/ROM Mode - 256kb of the 512kb RAM is pretending to be ROM so there is only 256kb usable RAM + 16 ROMs
ROM Mode - 512kb all pretending to be 32 ROMs?  Where is this mode?

The confusing bit for me is...   it does sound like 3 modes, but the switch only has 2 positions (at a glance)

If it does have 512kb RAM + 32 ROMs, in what situation would you want to remove half the RAM and half the ROMs?

You can switch the modes also by RSX |SW (see manual page 4), but for ROM Mode or Dual Mode you will need a ROM to be mounted beforehand first time (page 13).
Referring to manual guide v5.

Hi John, received my Version 5 board today & can confirm it fits in the older Version printed case.
I've managed easily to load Rtype on my 464...Also am I right in saying that the newer Version 5 has better compatibility with 464? 

how much is a rev 5 unit, as ive just cheked and mine is a ref 2 unit

Quote from: caver99 on 18:10, 25 September 24how much is a rev 5 unit, as ive just cheked and mine is a ref 2 unit

I paid €40 with UK delivery.

Quote from: jondavb1970 on 18:03, 25 September 24Hi John, received my Version 5 board today & can confirm it fits in the older Version printed case.
I've managed easily to load Rtype on my 464...Also am I right in saying that the newer Version 5 has better compatibility with 464?

Yes, for CPC 464, new version offers better compatibility, most notably ,support for c3 ram configuration mode (to load cp/m plus or future os), load symbos, and a few games/demos like pinball dreams. Check here (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/amstrad-cpc-hardware/ulifacusb-mass-storage-wifi-512kb-ram32xrom-board256k-ram16x-rom-board!/msg242372/#msg242372) a few demos for all the above 

Quote from: zhulien on 17:40, 24 September 24Hi, just a clarification even after reading the manual...

Looking at the pictures the mode switch only has RAM and RAM/ROM.

but you refer to "512KB Ram/32XROM Board/256K Ram+16X Rom Board"

Do you mean:

RAM Mode - 512kb RAM that is either all RAM and no ROM
RAM/ROM Mode - 256kb of the 512kb RAM is pretending to be ROM so there is only 256kb usable RAM + 16 ROMs
ROM Mode - 512kb all pretending to be 32 ROMs?  Where is this mode?

The confusing bit for me is...   it does sound like 3 modes, but the switch only has 2 positions (at a glance)

If it does have 512kb RAM + 32 ROMs, in what situation would you want to remove half the RAM and half the ROMs?

 The available ram is 512k, so you can have either 512k extra ram, or 256k ram+ 16x rom board, or 32x rom board. Of course the last is practically useless, it was designed mostly for cpr file support, but in the end i couldn't make it work right.
 The 6128/464 switch on older ULIfAC boards, have nothing to do with the operation modes, it just activate/deactivate the mreq suppression in order for the extra ram to work on cpc 464.   

Quote from: caver99 on 18:10, 25 September 24how much is a rev 5 unit, as ive just cheked and mine is a ref 2 unit

Prices are:
New ULIfAC Revised Board: 32 Euros
Edge connector Ribbon cable: 3 Euros
Centronics connector Ribbon cable: 4 Euros
Registered/tracked postage: 8 Euros (+1euro for overseas Australia,US,Canada)

Quote from: ikonsgr on 22:04, 25 September 24

Quote from: zhulien on 17:40, 24 September 24Hi, just a clarification even after reading the manual...

Looking at the pictures the mode switch only has RAM and RAM/ROM.

but you refer to "512KB Ram/32XROM Board/256K Ram+16X Rom Board"

Do you mean:

RAM Mode - 512kb RAM that is either all RAM and no ROM
RAM/ROM Mode - 256kb of the 512kb RAM is pretending to be ROM so there is only 256kb usable RAM + 16 ROMs
ROM Mode - 512kb all pretending to be 32 ROMs?  Where is this mode?

The confusing bit for me is...  it does sound like 3 modes, but the switch only has 2 positions (at a glance)

If it does have 512kb RAM + 32 ROMs, in what situation would you want to remove half the RAM and half the ROMs?

 The available ram is 512k, so you can have either 512k extra ram, or 256k ram+ 16x rom board, or 32x rom board. Of course the last is practically useless, it was designed mostly for cpr file support, but in the end i couldn't make it work right.
 The 6128/464 switch on older ULIfAC boards, have nothing to do with the operation modes, it just activate/deactivate the mreq suppression in order for the extra ram to work on cpc 464. 

actually I thought the 32 rom option is the most useful for me if I wanted to use the 2mb or 4mb ram expansion.

Thanks for clarification 

Quote from: ikonsgr on 22:05, 25 September 24

Quote from: caver99 on 18:10, 25 September 24¿Cuánto cuesta una unidad Rev 5, ya que acabo de verificar y la mía es una unidad ref 2?

Los precios son:
Nuevo ULIfAC Tablero revisado: 32 euros
Conector de borde Cable plano: 3 euros
Conector Centronics Cable plano: 4 euros
Franqueo certificado/rastreado: 8 euros (+1 euro para el extranjero Australia, EE. UU., Canadá)

Tengo la versión anterior de ULIFAC. Tengo un par de preguntas con respecto a esta última versión que ha desarrollado:
1) Si nuestro ordenador CPC tiene una memoria RAM defectuosa... ¿Este nuevo ULIFAC restauraría el funcionamiento de la computadora?
2) En mi versión, si se usa el USB, no se puede usar el módulo WiFi. ¿Has sido capaz de resolver esto en el nuevo hardware?
Gracias por desarrollar estos dispositivos con los que nuestros CPCs se adaptan a las nuevas tecnologías.

Quote from: Manuel3D on 19:59, 08 October 241) Si nuestro ordenador CPC tiene una memoria RAM defectuosa... ¿Este nuevo ULIFAC restauraría el funcionamiento de la computadora?[/font][/size]

In dual ram/rom CPC464 mode, the internal ram is replaced by a 64k block of the external 512k sram, so i suppose this might help restore the computer's operation. Only problem is that, you need first to boot amstrad, in order to switch to that mode, so your amstrad must be operational to do that. 

Quote from: Manuel3D on 19:59, 08 October 242) En mi versión, si se usa el USB, no se puede usar el módulo WiFi.[/font][/size][/color] ¿Has sido capaz de resolver esto en el nuevo hardware?
Gracias por desarrollar estos dispositivos con los que nuestros CPCs se adaptan a las nuevas tecnologías.

usb host module and wifi port use internally the same UART port, so obviously they can't be used at the same time.

Just a question: Working with files... Does it work the same way in older ULIfACs and the new ULIfAC 5?

Is there example code to read / write data the the USB stick, or a detailed documentation? (Sorry, from what I did read, it's not clear how to work with files on USB stick.)

Quote from: GUNHED on 12:10, 09 October 24Just a question: Working with files... Does it work the same way in older ULIfACs and the new ULIfAC 5?

Is there example code to read / write data the the USB stick, or a detailed documentation? (Sorry, from what I did read, it's not clear how to work with files on USB stick.)

Yes, all boards (USIfAC II, ULIfAC and the new ULIfAC v5), works the same way regarding the access of files or dsk images. Now, here (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/ikvp9o21khzi8havh2z78/usb-host-ch376.zip?rlkey=05452eq50vx5bb2xpyotd4swn&e=2&dl=0) you can find the manual of CH376 usb host module, an easy tutorial,  and most important, my notes (commands.txt file) for doing the most common jobs, e.g. code sequences (with various responds) for opening a file, reading chunks of data, getting a catalogue, seek to specific position of a file (very useful for accessing dsk images)  ;)

Thank you very much! That's exactly what I needed!  :) :) :)

Quote from: GUNHED on 17:20, 09 October 24Thank you very much! That's exactly what I needed!  :) :) :)

Should we expect soon an official futureos support for USIfAC/ULIfAC boards then?  ;D

Is there a way to copy original dsk image (special tracks, copy protection) to 3" disc?
I suppose IDSK is for normal games , because I tried it. Discology maybe?

Quote from: ikonsgr on 19:49, 09 October 24

Quote from: GUNHED on 17:20, 09 October 24Thank you very much! That's exactly what I needed!  :) :) :)

Should we expect soon an official FutureOS support for USIfAC/ULIfAC boards then?  ;D

I wish it would be soon. But realistically it could be in 2025. Depends on how quick I can proceed to support all features (read DIR, read/write file, rename file, delete file, create sub-directory). In addition it would be nice to have a way to work with files bigger than 64 KB.  :) :) :)

Also (since FutureOS is ROM based) I need to check compatibility with ROM expansions and create a positive list, but that's only the quick part.

Quote from: GUNHED on 22:25, 14 October 24In addition it would be nice to have a way to work with files bigger than 64 KB.  :) :) :)

The 64k limit exists only when you use Amsdos routines to access files (CASOPEN, CASDIRECT, etc)  . If you develop your own file access routines (like i've already done for accessing dsk images that can be up to 800kb for parados images), there is practically no limit, as the pointer to a file is 32bit e.g. you can create/read/write files up to... 4GigaBytes in size!

Quote from: vasilisk on 22:22, 14 October 24Is there a way to copy original dsk image (special tracks, copy protection) to 3" disc?
I suppose IDSK is for normal games , because I tried it. Discology maybe?

DSK routine support copying dsk images of  many formats (even mixed ones), various sector lengths (from 256bytes up to 4096 bytes) , tracks (up to 82) and heads (single/dual head), so you might be able to copy some protected games, but it can't handle write/read GAPs (the most common way of copy protections).  Unfortunately 3" disk drive is rather limited in utilizing all available functions of the 765 FDC controller, so even using Discology with a gotek drive (with flash floppy firmware), i don't think you will be able to transfer copy protected images to  3" disks, but  you might be able to do it, with a 3.5" disk drive.
In any case, since nowadays you can find everything in unprotected/cracked images, why bother doing this?  ;)

Quote from: ikonsgr on 08:10, 15 October 24

Quote from: GUNHED on 22:25, 14 October 24In addition it would be nice to have a way to work with files bigger than 64 KB.  :) :) :)

The 64k limit exists only when you use Amsdos routines to access files (CASOPEN, CASDIRECT, etc)  . If you develop your own file access routines (like i've already done for accessing dsk images that can be up to 800kb for parados images), there is practically no limit, as the pointer to a file is 32bit e.g. you can create/read/write files up to... 4GigaBytes in size!

Exzellent! Cause I already have mid-level-functions dealing with that.  :) :) :)

Quote from: ikonsgr on 08:22, 15 October 24

Quote from: vasilisk on 22:22, 14 October 24Is there a way to copy original dsk image (special tracks, copy protection) to 3" disc?
I suppose IDSK is for normal games , because I tried it. Discology maybe?

DSK routine support copying dsk images of  many formats (even mixed ones), various sector lengths (from 256bytes up to 4096 bytes) , tracks (up to 82) and heads (single/dual head), so you might be able to copy some protected games, but it can't handle write/read GAPs (the most common way of copy protections).  Unfortunately 3" disk drive is rather limited in utilizing all available functions of the 765 FDC controller, so even using Discology with a gotek drive (with flash floppy firmware), i don't think you will be able to transfer copy protected images to  3" disks, but  you might be able to do it, with a 3.5" disk drive.
In any case, since nowadays you can find everything in unprotected/cracked images, why bother doing this?  ;)

Call it nostalgia... ZaptBallsAE was one of the few original games I own. Of all the disks I have only this one suddenly is not loading. Could be the drive, but in order to eliminate it, I have to load the disk in another amstrad. Of course I can write the cracked dsk's in the disk but... I would like the original.  :P

Another question about access to files using the USB stick:
Is it true that only upper case characters can be used? Or is there a way to be able to use lower case characters too?

Quote from: GUNHED on 13:09, 17 October 24Is it true that only upper case characters can be used? Or is there a way to be able to use lower case characters too?

Afaik that's a limitation of the  CH376 usb host module. It only supports the ancient 8.3 format :-(

Quote from: eto on 20:29, 17 October 24

Quote from: GUNHED on 13:09, 17 October 24Is it true that only upper case characters can be used? Or is there a way to be able to use lower case characters too?

Afaik that's a limitation of the  CH376 usb host module. It only supports the ancient 8.3 format :-(

So what's the issue with this?
You can either choose between 8+3 (FAT12-32 without long file names) or 256 or more with UTF16 (have a lot of fun with an 8bit machine :D ).
And why complaining? Either you implement your own FAT file system on the Z80, or you are not able to do it and have to use an external CPU (M4Board, CH376) which is 100-10000 times faster like the CPCs Z80, to have access to modern SD cards and USB stick. I prefer the first one, where the CPC is doing the complete job - just because it can do it with no limitations.

Quote from: Prodatron on 21:02, 17 October 24So what's the issue with this?

My (only) issue is that on a USB Stick with hundreds of directories and files it's not easy to navigate when the file and directory names become barely readable.

Quote from: Prodatron on 21:02, 17 October 24And why complaining?

I think I did not complain. I just explained why there is no upper/lower case support and that it's a hard limit with no workaround.  

Quote from: eto on 22:14, 17 October 24

Quote from: Prodatron on 21:02, 17 October 24So what's the issue with this?

My (only) issue is that on a USB Stick with hundreds of directories and files it's not easy to navigate when the file and directory names become barely readable.

Quote from: Prodatron on 21:02, 17 October 24And why complaining?

I think I did not complain. I just explained why there is no upper/lower case support and that it's a hard limit with no workaround. 

The problem for an 8bit system is, that it is really hard to handle long filenames with UTF16 chars. If you don't use long filenames too much and keep most stuff within 8+3 you can still handle a FAT32 filesystem with the CPC quite well. Anyway this has nothing to do with implementing an own filesystem in Z80 or using an external high power chip.
I know that there are implementations like on the Atari8, but for me as a programmer it would be hell to implement it in an OS and support it in an app.

So.... can that system with long file-names work with small letters or not?

Quote from: GUNHED on 22:17, 17 October 24So.... can that system with long file-names work with small letters or not?

As mentioned in my previous post, it is UTF-16 based. You probably know what that means?

Quote from: Prodatron on 22:31, 17 October 24

Quote from: GUNHED on 22:17, 17 October 24So.... can that system with long file-names work with small letters or not?

As mentioned in my previous post, it is UTF-16 based. You probably know what that means?

No, else I wouldn't ask.

Quote from: GUNHED on 23:32, 17 October 24No, else I wouldn't ask.

I am sorry, I didn't know this!

Here you see a screen shot of directory sectors containing long file names (LFNs) on a FAT32 device:

lfn.png

Like in CP/M, when a file is >16K, they are using multiple extends for storing the same file. These extends are used for storing the second _long_ version of the filename. And these are stored in UCS2 (which is a subset of UTF16) encoding, which allows not only to store all standard ASCII, upper/lowercase etc. chars but every char you can imagine, as it is always using 16bit (sometimes even 32bit) for storing one single char.

Here you can find a description:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Design_of_the_FAT_file_system#VFAT

Norecess already implemented LFN support in the HxC manager, like FlashJazzCat for some of his Atari8 stuff. For read only it is ok, but for implementing a full R/W directory handling it will use several more resources than just the 8.3 filename handling.

Anyway somehow I am glad, that the CH376 is still providing the 8.3 way, when using its high level filesystem access, as that still keeps it easier and compatible on an 8bit machine.

Thank you PDT! As you know I'm a pure CPC-guy, while you worked in PC world professionally quite some time. PC related stuff is still strange to me.  ;) :)

From your explanation, I see: Eventually we can use lower cases with the ULIfAC to. And this is done by working with long file-names (what I prefer anyway, due to better readability).  :)

Quote from: GUNHED on 12:22, 18 October 24As you know I'm a pure CPC-guy, while you worked in PC world professionally quite some time.

When you work professionally in the PC world you have nothing to do with low level filesystem stuff ;D

Quote from: GUNHED on 12:22, 18 October 24From your explanation, I see: Eventually we can use lower cases with the ULIfAC to. And this is done by working with long file-names (what I prefer anyway, due to better readability).  :)

I don't know about any documentation how to handle long file names with the CH376. It is limited to 8.3, see "5.15. CMD_SET_FILE_NAME" in the official datasheet. LFN support is mentioned in the specs, but I wonder if anyone found out how to use this?

Well, if I find out I let you know. Maybe I did misread a post before. We'll see.  :)

Quote from: GUNHED on 13:09, 17 October 24Another question about access to files using the USB stick:
Is it true that only upper case characters can be used? Or is there a way to be able to use lower case characters too?

Directly, yes, CH376 needs upper case characters, BUT i've overcome this, by using a small routine that replace "on the fly", the lowercase with uppercase chars, before sending filename to CH376:
do_upper_case:
upper_loop:
ld a,(hl)
cp 32
jr z,cont_upper_loop
call upper_case
out (c),a
cont_upper_loop:
inc hl
dec e
jr nz,upper_loop
ret

upper_case:
    ld    a,(hl)
    cp 'a'                ; A-'a'  C=1 if A<'a'
    jr c, no_offset          ; if character < 'a' is not a lowercase
    cp 'z'+1              ; A-'z'+1 C=0 if A>'z' 
    jr nc, no_offset      ; if character > 'z' is not a lowercase
    sub 32                ; sub 32 to convert it to UPPER case
    ld    (hl),a
no_offset:
    ret
 I'm using this routine for all RSX commands that need string arguments, so practically all rsx commands can take upper/lower case characters without problem  ;)

Quote from: eto on 20:29, 17 October 24Afaik that's a limitation of the  CH376 usb host module. It only supports the ancient 8.3 format :-(

Well, ancient Amstrad CPC and ancient Amsdos, also uses the same ancient format, so why spoil the... "tradition"?  :)

And as prodatron wrote, and i totally agree with that:

Quote from: Prodatron on 08:59, 18 October 24Anyway somehow I am glad, that the CH376 is still providing the 8.3 way, when using its high level filesystem access, as that still keeps it easier and compatible on an 8bit machine.

;)

Quote from: eto on 22:14, 17 October 24I just explained why there is no upper/lower case support and that it's a hard limit with no workaround.   

Actually there is a quite easy workaround for that: https://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/amstrad-cpc-hardware/ulifacusb-mass-storage-wifi-512kb-ram32xrom-board256k-ram16x-rom-board!/msg243866/#msg243866   ;)

Quote from: Prodatron on 12:44, 18 October 24I don't know about any documentation how to handle long file names with the CH376. It is limited to 8.3, see "5.15. CMD_SET_FILE_NAME" in the official datasheet. LFN support is mentioned in the specs, but I wonder if anyone found out how to use this?

@GUNHED , @Prodatron CH376 can perfectly access files with any upper/lower case and long filename, you just have to "translate" it to uppercase 8.3 format!
For example, lets say we have a file, named: "story_of_my_life.bas" . In order to open it for either read or write,  you should call it as: "STORY_~1.BAS".  So if you give an open file sequence to CH376 that has a name of "STORY_~1.BAS", it will actually open the file "story_of_my_life.bas"  ;)

Thank you all for the clarification.  :) :) :)

Quote from: ikonsgr on 17:18, 18 October 24

Quote from: Prodatron on 12:44, 18 October 24I don't know about any documentation how to handle long file names with the CH376. It is limited to 8.3, see "5.15. CMD_SET_FILE_NAME" in the official datasheet. LFN support is mentioned in the specs, but I wonder if anyone found out how to use this?

@GUNHED , @Prodatron CH376 can perfectly access files with any upper/lower case and long filename, you just have to "translate" it to uppercase 8.3 format!
For example, lets say we have a file, named: "story_of_my_life.bas" . In order to open it for either read or write,  you should call it as: "STORY_~1.BAS".  So if you give an open file sequence to CH376 that has a name of "STORY_~1.BAS", it will actually open the file "story_of_my_life.bas"  ;)

Quote from: ikonsgr on 17:18, 18 October 24

Quote from: Prodatron on 12:44, 18 October 24I don't know about any documentation how to handle long file names with the CH376. It is limited to 8.3, see "5.15. CMD_SET_FILE_NAME" in the official datasheet. LFN support is mentioned in the specs, but I wonder if anyone found out how to use this?

@GUNHED , @Prodatron CH376 can perfectly access files with any upper/lower case and long filename, you just have to "translate" it to uppercase 8.3 format!
For example, lets say we have a file, named: "story_of_my_life.bas" . In order to open it for either read or write,  you should call it as: "STORY_~1.BAS".  So if you give an open file sequence to CH376 that has a name of "STORY_~1.BAS", it will actually open the file "story_of_my_life.bas"  ;)

 I have been trying for a week the possibility of communicating with a bbs from the amstrad cpc 464 and thanks to the ULIFAC connected to a WIFI ESP8266MOD 12-F device. I manage to connect my WINDOWS 64 BITS PC to the cpc 464 for which I used the program developed by you (AMSTRAD UTILITY II). The cpc connects to the PC and I manage to do a CAT and see the content of the folder that I have on my PC. The problem comes when doing RUN. It doesn't work. I tried to do LOAD first and I see that the loaded program is missing the last line. I type it by hand but when I run it it doesn't work. The communication program is BBSULIF.BAS from your DROPBOX. It works for another Telegram colleague but not for me. I also tried to load any other program in basic and I see that the last line disappears, I type it by hand but it doesn't work. It could be that more things have been deleted and I don't notice. I don't know if you can give me any advice. Thanks.

@Manuel3D what version of ULIfAC board you have? For rev4 boards you should use this version (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/93ta0tbkyhzx89cvenjgm/AmstradUtilityII.exe?rlkey=yi0iq04dz45w98jl71j7bq64d&dl=0) of the windows program
Also, before running anything when connected to a pc, you should give the |EN command to enable the direct mode of operation

it from 2023, v2

Quote from: ikonsgr on 18:53, 26 October 24@Manuel3D what version of ULIfAC board you have? For rev4 boards you should use this version (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/93ta0tbkyhzx89cvenjgm/AmstradUtilityII.exe?rlkey=yi0iq04dz45w98jl71j7bq64d&dl=0) of the windows program
Also, before running anything when connected to a pc, you should give the |EN command to enable the direct mode of operation

it from 2023, v2. I have already used EN 

I have already used amstrad  AMSTRADUTILITYII

NO, for older board version, you should use the older windows utility (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/m0snf13aswmku404c2raa/AmstradUtilityII_old.exe?rlkey=ljji5fxwwjhqr14dupy5fx4xo&dl=0)

Thanks. With old version it works fine. 
Please, Does anyone know any other BBS besides Amstrad.simulant.uk ?

Quote from: Manuel3D on 17:46, 01 November 24Thanks. With old version it works fine.
Please, Does anyone know any other BBS besides Amstrad.simulant.uk ?

I think this would help: https://www.telnetbbsguide.com/

(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q70/922/AG07Yp.jpg)

Successfully connected to BBS site with Ulifac board, ESP8266 with fantastic ZiModem firmware by Bo Zimmerman (https://github.com/bozimmerman/Zimodem), and flashed with this fork (https://github.com/8bit-bruno/WiFiModem/tree/master/firmware), and EWEN Term Usifac version.
After ESP flashing you need to connect ESP to terminal program on PC (port speed set to 1200 so that you can communicate with wifi modem) and change default speed od 1200bps to 9600 with ATB9600 command. After after that you need to change terminal port speed to 9600 to be able to save setting to flash with AT&W command. Setup on PC is finished so now you can connect ESP to Ulifac board and load EWEN term from disk drive. Type ITerm and type AT+Config to configure WiFi network and set phonebook.


It is possible to load EWEN term from USB (only solution for CPC464), but that way you have to load it first, THEN connect ESP to the Ulifac board and then OUT &FBD1,12 to set ulifac UART speed to 9600 to match with ESP speed. Then enter ITerm command.

You do not need another computer to connect to BBS. You can just do it from ESP itself.

(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q70/922/YjxM75.jpg)

(https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q70/923/huMupO.jpg)

Is there a way to have XMEM 3.15 ROM etc running on the Ulifac? I wasn't sure if it would conflict.

Quote from: kiFla on 15:57, 09 November 24ESP8266 with fantastic ZiModem firmware by Bo Zimmerman (https://github.com/bozimmerman/Zimodem), and flashed with this fork (https://github.com/8bit-bruno/WiFiModem/tree/master/firmware)

This approach looks like a good candidate for implementing network access in FUZIX using the following driver: https://github.com/EtchedPixels/FUZIX/blob/master/Kernel/dev/net/net_at.c

Important update about the "freezing upon booting" issue on some CPC 464:

Finally, after a lot of speculation about the cause of the problem (since i don't have a CPC 464 with a booting issue to investigate it myself),a couple of good retro community members from Croatia ( @kiFla  and another one  which is a professional electronics engineer), and with the "help" of a couple of "sticky" CPC 464, found out that the problem can be fixed very easily, by simply soldering an A09-103 9pin 10k network resistor, which acts as pull up resistor on Amstrad's CPC data bus:

ulifac_resolve.jpg

Of course i've already started to make ULIfAC boards with the added pullup resistors, but you can apply this very easy fix, on any existing ULIfAC board too!
 As for the cause of the issue, it seems that upon cold booting of Amstrad CPC, a specific combination of Z80 CPU and/or 6845 CRT chips that happen to have somewhat weaker sourcing current capabilities, couldn't supply the required 5v for any data bit at high/5v state, resulting in the freezing of Amstrad CPC! Although this issue is rather rare, concerning only a few Amstrad CPC 464, i wanted to share this information, for anyone having this issue, and how to easily fix it! ;-)

Yeah, I was one of for trying different games and stuff.
Zoki knows what his doing, great job.

Now need to find resistor and solder on mine and test.

Quote from: ikonsgr on 18:58, 02 December 24Important update about the "freezing upon booting" issue on some CPC 464:

Finally, after a lot of speculation about the cause of the problem (since i don't have a CPC 464 with a booting issue to investigate it myself),a couple of good retro community members from Croatia ( @kiFla  and another one  which is a professional electronics engineer), and with the "help" of a couple of "sticky" CPC 464, found out that the problem can be fixed very easily, by simply soldering an A09-103 9pin 10k network resistor, which acts as pull up resistor on Amstrad's CPC data bus:

ulifac_resolve.jpg

Of course i've already started to make ULIfAC boards with the added pullup resistors, but you can apply this very easy fix, on any existing ULIfAC board too!
 As for the cause of the issue, it seems that upon cold booting of Amstrad CPC, a specific combination of Z80 CPU and/or 6845 CRT chips that happen to have somewhat weaker sourcing current capabilities, couldn't supply the required 5v for any data bit at high/5v state, resulting in the freezing of Amstrad CPC! Although this issue is rather rare, concerning only a few Amstrad CPC 464, i wanted to share this information, for anyone having this issue, and how to easily fix it! ;-)

Thank you very much for this important comment  :)

However, I only do have CPC6128 and 6128plus. Now would it be an advantage to add the resistor network to these computers too?

Could this issue maybe also have an effect on a 6128? (...doesn't appear on mine CPC6128, btw).

Quote from: HAL6128 on 14:33, 03 December 24Could this issue maybe also have an effect on a 6128? (...doesn't appear on mine CPC6128, btw).

You asked exactly the same that I asked for - before.  :laugh:

@GUNHED @HAL6128 ,if you don't have any booting problems, you don't need to do it.
Practically, only a small percentage of CPC 464 would actually need this fix.

Quote from: ikonsgr on 17:19, 03 December 24@GUNHED @HAL6128 ,if you don't have any booting problems, you don't need to do it.
Practically, only a small percentage of CPC 464 would actually need this fix.

Well, I was just thinking about the following case: If the CPC has connected several expansions, can the resistor network be helpful in general in this case?

Quote from: GUNHED on 13:11, 04 December 24Well, I was just thinking about the following case: If the CPC has connected several expansions, can the resistor network be helpful in general in this case?

In that case, and if you encounter weird issues, using pullups on data bus, might indeed fix it, it's rather easy to do it anyway, at least on ULIfAC board  ;) 

Quote from: ikonsgr on 13:31, 04 December 24at least on ULIfAC board  ;) 

Usifac is not too bad either ;-)

Quote from: eto on 20:49, 04 December 24

Quote from: ikonsgr on 13:31, 04 December 24at least on ULIfAC board  ;) 

Usifac is not too bad either ;-)

I recognized that the USIFAC will no longer fit into the 3d printed case provided by Vokgear (https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4974135/files). I made some quick adjustments to the 3d model, so it will fit with the resistor array installed. STL is attached. 

I received my ULIfAC last week. The included note for cleaning contacts was very helpful. Indeed, I had some issues so I trimmed the contacts with a metal file (very thin) an then cleaned with isopropyl alcohol. Booted like a dream after that. Had a 3D case printed by a friend but run into the issue that the 4 pin connector in now angled and the case didn't close. I hate bending contacts so it was desoldering/soldering time and voila!

Such a great add-on for the CPC. Totally transforms the overall experience.

 

Quote from: nikos_a on 11:09, 16 December 24I hate bending contacts so it was desoldering/soldering time and voila!

Vert clean job! I remember having to bend the pins to fit my ULIfAC in the 3d printed case  :laugh:

Question regarding the diagnostic test. ran the memory test and its showing stuff in upper ram as failed. I assume this is the memory of the board itself? assuming it is, i guess the ram test doesnt apply to it thus it fails?

Quote from: khisanth on 00:07, 20 December 24Question regarding the diagnostic test. ran the memory test and its showing stuff in upper ram as failed. I assume this is the memory of the board itself? assuming it is, i guess the ram test doesnt apply to it thus it fails?

ram test diagnostic, shows up to 16MB or extra ram, so obviously only the 1st 512k (or 256k in dual mode) will seem ok.

Is there a way for future update to implement a new rsx command for showing the full name of the file instead of the 8+3 character limitation? I saw something similar in M4. 

Quote from: vasilisk on 16:10, 21 December 24Is there a way for future update to implement a new rsx command for showing the full name of the file instead of the 8+3 character limitation? I saw something similar in M4.

IIRC the module managing the files does only provide short names.

Quote from: GUNHED on 17:15, 21 December 24

Quote from: vasilisk on 16:10, 21 December 24Is there a way for future update to implement a new rsx command for showing the full name of the file instead of the 8+3 character limitation? I saw something similar in M4.

IIRC the module managing the files does only provide short names.

Too bad. Would be nice though. Just for the info, different "module" in M4?

Hello, who is able to print some ulifac case please ?
Regards

Quote from: vasilisk on 17:19, 21 December 24Too bad. Would be nice though. Just for the info, different "module" in M4?

Well, M4 uses... Arm Cortex-M4 microcontroller it self for that  :) 
M4 is a 32bit "monster" RISC MCU, with overwhelming features like 100's of MIPS computing power, huge on board SRAM and Program RAM, on board fpu etc.
On the other hand, the 18F47Q10 PIC MCU used on USIfAC II/ULIfAC boards is 8bit MCU, with "only" 16MIPS computing power and ~3.5kB SRAM, so the use of an extra usb host module in order to access mass storage devices was mandatory.
Btw, you can have full names when you use a PC connection (either with uart cable, bluetooth module or wifi module) ,instead of usb stick  ;)

p.s.  I wonder,  all of you who have such a desire for long file names, how on earth did you manage to work with Amstrad CPC back at the 80's, where only  8.3 names supported?  :laugh:

I dont know if anyone else desired it. I ony asked because personally, would be nice. Now that I know that it is not physically possible, no problem at all. When you have similar file names for different versions, it is difficult to find them from ~1, ~2, ~3.  8)
We can always renane of course...  :P

Quote from: vasilisk on 19:14, 22 December 24I dont know if anyone else desired it. I ony asked because personally, would be nice. Now that I know that it is not physically possible, no problem at all. When you have similar file names for different versions, it is difficult to find them from ~1, ~2, ~3.  8)
We can always renane of course...  :P

 Well, as Amstrad (e.g. Amsdos) can only load/save files in 8.3 format anyway, the "real" problem lies with the folder/directory names only.
But if i may say, looking at long file names on Amsrtad Screen, seems to me a bit strange, it's like as if something doesn't "fit right", as if i'm working with an "abominable" MSDOS PC, instead of Amstrad CPC...  :laugh:
 And i have a feeling that all of us who spent 1000's of hours in front of an Amstrad CPC back at the 80's, feel the same too :)

I agree. Back in the day, things were simple. No disc images, just disks and files. But, since exapnsions make our life easier, we have to adapt for the above limitations.  ;D

Quote from: kawickboy on 16:01, 22 December 24Hello, who is able to print some ulifac case please ?
Regards

Soon (in a month or so),i believe i will be able to print 3d cases, i'll let you know for more details  ;)

Quote from: kawickboy on 16:01, 22 December 24Hello, who is able to print some ulifac case please ?
Regards

Hi i have a red one with grey buttons available if interested?

Thanks. As I haven't ordered my card yet, if ikonsgr is not able to build some xase within a few weeks I'll contact you.

A small User's Guide (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/x1cad8kzzsugn1razoy74/ULIFAC-User-Guide_v5.pdf?rlkey=x14349neqsmxum5xmhuwyo82f&dl=0) update:

- Add CH340 link for usb2serial adapters (along with CP2102) for updating firmware with windows 10/11 in "Updating the Firmware of ULIfAC" section.

- Add a new tip in "Hints & Tips - Troubleshooting" section: If you are having issues with a usb stick you are using, try to format usb stick using this free 3rd party partition software (https://www.dropbox.com/s/5pdo27hem9ggjag/PartManFree-Setup.zip?dl=0)

how can i get the amstrad USIfAC II board
can you help me where i can buy it
please

Quote from: tomii on 11:30, 28 January 25how can i get the amstrad USIfAC II board
can you help me where i can buy it
please

ikonsgr  (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/profile/?u=541)is the maker of the board. You can get more info (and contact email) here:

http://retroworkbench.blogspot.com/p/usifac-use-pc-hdd-or-usb-stick-as.html

and here for ULIfAC

http://retroworkbench.blogspot.com/p/ulifacusifac-ii-512kb-ramrom-board-best.html

Quote from: ikonsgr on 18:58, 02 December 24Important update about the "freezing upon booting" issue on some CPC 464:

Finally, after a lot of speculation about the cause of the problem (since i don't have a CPC 464 with a booting issue to investigate it myself),a couple of good retro community members from Croatia ( @kiFla  and another one  which is a professional electronics engineer), and with the "help" of a couple of "sticky" CPC 464, found out that the problem can be fixed very easily, by simply soldering an A09-103 9pin 10k network resistor, which acts as pull up resistor on Amstrad's CPC data bus:

ulifac_resolve.jpg

Of course i've already started to make ULIfAC boards with the added pullup resistors, but you can apply this very easy fix, on any existing ULIfAC board too!
 As for the cause of the issue, it seems that upon cold booting of Amstrad CPC, a specific combination of Z80 CPU and/or 6845 CRT chips that happen to have somewhat weaker sourcing current capabilities, couldn't supply the required 5v for any data bit at high/5v state, resulting in the freezing of Amstrad CPC! Although this issue is rather rare, concerning only a few Amstrad CPC 464, i wanted to share this information, for anyone having this issue, and how to easily fix it! ;-)

Thank you, didn't look up here for a long time and i've a Schneider CPC464 with a problem. I thought about my cf card, but after a long time i didn't used it anymore - last time i was using a cpc 6128 without any problem And it was really nice to see old peaple playing pinball fantasies on a green monitor at a exhibition (my two cpc were the only one there, one loading programs from cassette ... ;)
Now it is time to get a second card ... *G*

Update:
And YES, i'm happy about the disk creating function! - hopefully - another reason to take a second one ... :)

Today i wanted to test the new symbos 4.0 and got some problems. I don't know if i'm doing Something wrong or not ...

I start the cpc and want to change the directory with |cd,sym
After it i get a ready.

But cat and |cat show the main directory. 
But a next |cd,sym make an error ....

How i can change the directory and run Something there?

Hope you can understand my english - would attach a picture but i don't see how with my mobile Phone.

Quote from: harzretro on 19:40, 06 February 25want to change the directory with |cd,sym

It's probably

|cd,"sym"

Quote from: eto on 19:57, 06 February 25

Quote from: harzretro on 19:40, 06 February 25want to change the directory with |cd,sym

It's probably

|cd,"sym"

I tested it. With " i got another error.
I put two Pictures on my Website. ( Wring order, but i dont see how to change with my mobile phone)
(https://harzretro.de/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/IMG_20250207_153117.jpg)

(https://harzretro.de/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/IMG_20250207_153110.jpg)

Quote from: harzretro on 15:38, 07 February 25tested it. With " i got another error.

Ah, on a 464 you have to do it like this:

a$="sym"
|cat,@a$

Quote from: eto on 15:50, 07 February 25

Quote from: harzretro on 15:38, 07 February 25tested it. With " i got another error.

Ah, on a 464 you have to type it like this:

Code Select Expand

a$="sym"
|cat,@a$

Ill test it :)

Quote from: harzretro on 15:53, 07 February 25

Quote from: eto on 15:50, 07 February 25

Quote from: harzretro on 15:38, 07 February 25tested it. With " i got another error.

Ah, on a 464 you have to type it like this:

Code Select Expand

a$="sym"
|cat,@a$

Ill test it :)

And it works ... Thanx, now i've to get symbos to run .... i try it with a 464 and 6128 .... :)

Hi Axel, I wonder if you have a Usifac or a Ulifac?

As this is the Ulifac thread, I wonder if you have this one, as it has a 512K expansion, so it should work with a 464 as well (SymbOS needs 128K minimum).
If not, I will dig out a 464 and try it here again as well.

Quote from: harzretro on 15:38, 07 February 25I tested it. With " i got another error.
I put two Pictures on my Website. ( Wring order, but i dont see how to change with my mobile phone)

ON CPC 464 you can give:|R before issuing the |CD command, then you will not have to give the tiresome: a$="sym":|cd,@a$ ,but instead use directly the easiest: |CD,"SYM" ;)

I've also a problem with the ULIfAC V4 board. SymbOS 4.0 is starting and you can see the "starting screen" but when it should load the desktop the loading stops and you have a black screen.
In the V3 manual of the ULIfAC I found this section about the 464/6128 switch:
Although the above method seems to work fine in most cases (e.g. mostly games),some applications like SYMBOS and Future OS don't seem to "like" this trick, and will not load on a CPC 464. Also C3 mode is currently not supported, so CPM PLUS can‟t be loaded on CPC464 either.
I've also tried a CPC6128 which is working without a problem with ULIfAC and SymbOS 4.0

Hello. I received a Ulifac II v5 last December. It has the resistor fix applied but I cannot get it to boot unfortunately.

I am trying to use it with a late revision 464. At first, the CPC was booting normally and not showing the board's boot message. After doing OUT &FBD2,5 the CPC gets stuck after the (C)1985 copyright message.

I've cleaned the edge connector thoroughly but that didn't help.

I don't have another CPC to test it on, or another expansion card I can test.

Any help would be gratefully received.  :)
Thanks

Quote from: crabfists on 18:24, 10 February 25Hello. I received a Ulifac II v5 last December. It has the resistor fix applied but I cannot get it to boot unfortunately.

I am trying to use it with a late revision 464. At first, the CPC was booting normally and not showing the board's boot message. After doing OUT &FBD2,5 the CPC gets stuck after the (C)1985 copyright message.

I've cleaned the edge connector thoroughly but that didn't help.

I don't have another CPC to test it on, or another expansion card I can test.

Any help would be gratefully received.  :)
Thanks

I'm so sorry. :doh: I have realised this is the wrong thread. Will put a post in the technical support thread instead.

Quote from: Jungsi on 16:06, 10 February 25I've also a problem with the ULIfAC V4 board. SymbOS 4.0 is starting and you can see the "starting screen" but when it should load the desktop the loading stops and you have a black screen.
In the V3 manual of the ULIfAC I found this section about the 464/6128 switch:
Although the above method seems to work fine in most cases (e.g. mostly games),some applications like SYMBOS and Future OS don't seem to "like" this trick, and will not load on a CPC 464. Also C3 mode is currently not supported, so CPM PLUS can‟t be loaded on CPC464 either.
I've also tried a CPC6128 which is working without a problem with ULIfAC and SymbOS 4.0

Did you use the CPC6128 mode of operation? Symbos runs only in dual ram/rom mode with all 3 cpc6128 roms. So, after cold boot you should give |6128 to reset in cpc6128 mode, and then try to load symbos.

Quote from: ikonsgr on 23:28, 13 February 25Did you use the CPC6128 mode of operation? Symbos runs only in dual ram/rom mode with all 3 cpc6128 roms. So, after cold boot you should give |6128 to reset in cpc6128 mode, and then try to load symbos.

Yes, I've tried this - it's not working - after the "loading screen" of SymbOS the screen is swichting to black and no more happens.

Well, I'm sure @Prodatron can help. He told me in another thread that this expansion is "extremely simple" to program ... see:

https://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/amstrad-cpc-hardware/m4-and-ulifac-together/msg247693/#msg247693

He can help you with one keystroke I'm sure.  :)

Quote from: Jungsi on 14:49, 16 February 25Yes, I've tried this - it's not working - after the "loading screen" of SymbOS the screen is swichting to black and no more happens.

Ok,i suppose you use the latest symbos 4.0 found here: https://www.symbos.org/download.htm
(download cpc package and then you can add "Mass Storage Completion package", to have all available software for symbos)
Mind also that you have to extract files in root dir of usb stick in order to work right.

Btw, you can try to format usb stick with this utlity: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/wh6fzc4m4rzmtwf05w5kv/PartManFree-Setup.zip?rlkey=azfist635nq6j2w2k655yomqh&e=1&dl=0
I've fount out that windows formatting can cause access problems with some usb sticks, but when i used the utility above, all usb sticks worked like a charm ;)

Quote from: ikonsgr on 17:34, 16 February 25Ok,i suppose you use the latest symbos 4.0 found here: https://www.symbos.org/download.htm (https://www.symbos.org/download.htm)
(download cpc package and then you can add "Mass Storage Completion package", to have all available software for symbos)
Mind also that you have to extract files in root dir of usb stick in order to work right.

Btw, you can try to format usb stick with this utlity: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/wh6fzc4m4rzmtwf05w5kv/PartManFree-Setup.zip?rlkey=azfist635nq6j2w2k655yomqh&e=1&dl=0 (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/wh6fzc4m4rzmtwf05w5kv/PartManFree-Setup.zip?rlkey=azfist635nq6j2w2k655yomqh&e=1&dl=0)
I've fount out that windows formatting can cause access problems with some usb sticks, but when i used the utility above, all usb sticks worked like a charm ;)

Yes, I've used SymbOS 4.0 with the correct files on my Schneider CPC464.
I've also used the utility you've mentioned with different USB-Sticks. I've also used the same stick I use on my CPC6128 with which SymbOS is working without problems. The same stick is not working loading SymbOS in my 464.
I switch the 464 on - type: |6128 and type |run"sym  - before loading the desktop it shows only a black screen 

Quote from: Jungsi on 12:24, 21 February 25Yes, I've used SymbOS 4.0 with the correct files on my Schneider CPC464.
I've also used the utility you've mentioned with different USB-Sticks. I've also used the same stick I use on my CPC6128 with which SymbOS is working without problems. The same stick is not working loading SymbOS in my 464.
I switch the 464 on - type: |6128 and type |run"sym  - before loading the desktop it shows only a black screen

Ok, apart from symbos, does everything else works ok? Load roms, run games directly, access dsk images, or CP/M plus (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/index.php/HDCPM)? Also try |DIA and check if everything is ok too (especially in CPC6128 dual ram/rom mode).

Quote from: ikonsgr on 12:41, 21 February 25

Quote from: Jungsi on 12:24, 21 February 25Yes, I've used SymbOS 4.0 with the correct files on my Schneider CPC464.
I've also used the utility you've mentioned with different USB-Sticks. I've also used the same stick I use on my CPC6128 with which SymbOS is working without problems. The same stick is not working loading SymbOS in my 464.
I switch the 464 on - type: |6128 and type |run"sym  - before loading the desktop it shows only a black screen

Ok, apart from symbos, does everything else works ok? Load roms, run games directly, access dsk images, or CP/M plus (https://www.cpcwiki.eu/index.php/HDCPM)? Also try |DIA and check if everything is ok too (especially in CPC6128 dual ram/rom mode).

Yes! It's fantastic!!!  :) :) :)

Quote from: GUNHED on 12:45, 21 February 25Yes! It's fantastic!!!  :) :) :)

Do you refer to @Jungsi problem? If yes, then since all work ok on CPC 6128, i'm afraid something is wrong with the specific CPC464 (that is, if you are 100% sure that expansion edge connector is REALLY cleaned, as such weird behaviors almost always caused by oxidation/corrosion on Amstrad's edge connector ... )
Btw, did you try using symbos dsk images instead of the mass storage version? Maybe this way will load... ::)

In the 5v external supply how many Amps are needed

Quote from: vasilisk on 19:05, 21 February 25In the 5v external supply how many Amps are needed

Get a 3A one and you can hook up anything you like. 


d_kef

Quote from: d_kef on 19:09, 21 February 25

Quote from: vasilisk on 19:05, 21 February 25In the 5v external supply how many Amps are needed

Get a 3A one and you can hook up anything you like.


d_kef

I didnt clarify it, but I was referring in the Ulifac's extermal power supply. Since we are in the ulifac topic  ;D

Quote from: vasilisk on 19:12, 21 February 25

Quote from: d_kef on 19:09, 21 February 25

Quote from: vasilisk on 19:05, 21 February 25In the 5v external supply how many Amps are needed

Get a 3A one and you can hook up anything you like.


d_kef

I didnt clarify it, but I was referring in the Ulifac's extermal power supply. Since we are in the ulifac topic  ;D

I get it, but owning a 3A PSU means that you can use it with Ulifac as well as what ever other interface you want. 
If you want to power only the Ulifac then a 1A PSU should be more than adequate.

d_kef

Quote from: ikonsgr on 12:50, 21 February 25

Quote from: GUNHED on 12:45, 21 February 25Yes! It's fantastic!!!  :) :) :)

Do you refer to @Jungsi problem? If yes, then since all work ok on CPC 6128, i'm afraid something is wrong with the specific CPC464 (that is, if you are 100% sure that expansion edge connector is REALLY cleaned, as such weird behaviors almost always caused by oxidation/corrosion on Amstrad's edge connector ... )
Btw, did you try using symbos dsk images instead of the mass storage version? Maybe this way will load... ::)

No. Obviously I quoted your post. And I write what I think.
And I'm not using symbos btw. So I can't tell you about that.
I have no problems with the native OS and CPC6128. 

One request: In order NOT to fill (again...) this thread with irrelevant posts,if you have any problems, PLEASE COMMENT AT THIS THREAD:
https://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/hardware-related/usifac-ii-technical-problems-support/

Quote from: Jungsi on 12:24, 21 February 25

Quote from: ikonsgr on 17:34, 16 February 25Ok,i suppose you use the latest symbos 4.0 found here: https://www.symbos.org/download.htm (https://www.symbos.org/download.htm)
(download cpc package and then you can add "Mass Storage Completion package", to have all available software for symbos)
Mind also that you have to extract files in root dir of usb stick in order to work right.

Btw, you can try to format usb stick with this utlity: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/wh6fzc4m4rzmtwf05w5kv/PartManFree-Setup.zip?rlkey=azfist635nq6j2w2k655yomqh&e=1&dl=0 (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/wh6fzc4m4rzmtwf05w5kv/PartManFree-Setup.zip?rlkey=azfist635nq6j2w2k655yomqh&e=1&dl=0)
I've fount out that windows formatting can cause access problems with some usb sticks, but when i used the utility above, all usb sticks worked like a charm ;)

Yes, I've used SymbOS 4.0 with the correct files on my Schneider CPC464.
I've also used the utility you've mentioned with different USB-Sticks. I've also used the same stick I use on my CPC6128 with which SymbOS is working without problems. The same stick is not working loading SymbOS in my 464.
I switch the 464 on - type: |6128 and type |run"sym  - before loading the desktop it shows only a black screen

Hello,

ii had this problem, too.
You have tio set |sm,2
And after |6128
Symbos is running with the 464.
But it don't habe enough free RAM here for most things ...
It uses 256kib, but most is filed ...


More at the symbos thread - i'll write there, soon. :)

Axel

Recently, our local retro computers club  (https://retrobit.gr/)acquired a 3D printer, so for anyone interested, a ULIfAC 3D Case (https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6035835) will be available. Price: 10euros+ shipping
Anyone interested, please contact at: ikonsgr745@hotmail.com

Quote from: ikonsgr on 13:06, 11 March 25Recently, our local retro computers club  (https://retrobit.gr/)acquired a 3D printer, so for anyone interested, a ULIfAC 3D Case (https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6035835) will be available. Price: 10euros+ shipping
Anyone interested, please contact at: ikonsgr745@hotmail.com

only in red?  :P

Quote from: vasilisk on 18:22, 11 March 25only in red?  :P

currently , only in black  ;D

Is possible convert 6128  to 464?
If yes, how?

Quote from: Vitop69 on 13:10, 18 April 25Is possible convert 6128  to 464? 
If yes, how?

Remove/replace ROM and downgrade.
Remove IC 118 and cross LK5,6,8 add cross pin20 to pin16.

Remove keyboard and add other keyboard layout.

Remove floppy drive and add cassette drive.

Quote from: Vitop69 on 13:10, 18 April 25Is possible convert 6128  to 464?
If yes, how?

I think that if you just replace the fw+basic roms, CPC6128 will behave like a CPC464 perhaps with a DDI interface and 64k extra ram :)
If you have a ULIfAC, you can try that by mounting CPC 464 firmware rom (as low rom) and basic 1.0 (as upper rom 0): https://www.cpcwiki.eu/index.php/ROM_List

Quote from: ikonsgr on 09:40, 19 April 25

Quote from: Vitop69 on 13:10, 18 April 25Is possible convert 6128  to 464?
If yes, how?

I think that if you just replace the fw+basic roms, CPC6128 will behave like a CPC464 perhaps with a DDI interface and 64k extra ram :)
If you have a ULIfAC, you can try that by mounting CPC 464 firmware rom (as low rom) and basic 1.0 (as upper rom 0): https://www.cpcwiki.eu/index.php/ROM_List

Yes Is what i want try.
Can you list me how mounting os464.rom as lower rom.
I am confuse about rom mapping.

@Vitop69, you can find everything in User's Guide: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/x1cad8kzzsugn1razoy74/ULIFAC-User-Guide_v5.pdf?rlkey=x14349neqsmxum5xmhuwyo82f&dl=0
Anyway, you place both 464 roms in root dir of usb stick and after booting amstrad you give:
 |MROM,"fw464.rom",0
 |MROM,"basic464.rom",1
 OUT &EF00,51  (this activates low rom emulation)
 |SW or press ram/rom button (resets to dual RAM/ROM mode)
Alternatively after mounting the 2 roms, you can load the rom configuration utility by giving |ROM: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/zkuaukloezt2blhoooo8x/Romconf.txt.txt?rlkey=d7ge8ud0swm8i6d09l3axsuew&dl=0
You can also mount roms automatically upon booting and reset to "464" mode directly, check "Automatic mounting of Roms upon cold booting" section on ULIfAC's user's guide.