I have been given a 464 plus which i plan to restore, its not in the best of condition but is recoverable.
The tape deck lid is missing and would like to source a replacement
cheers
Dave
A bit hard... only if you find a non-working, for-spares 464...
I would not hold my breath waiting for someone to say they have a tape lid you can have, you might be better off making a simple lid to cover the tape compartment.
Would seriously like one of these myself and I realise that it's highly unlikely I'll find someone willing to part with one.
Soooo..... What I wondered was if anyone was able to lend one for a week or two. I have developed a partnership recently with an old friend who makes stuff out of plastics and has an injection moulding machine and we could potentially knock out a small run of these but need an original to work from. If I could lay hands on the loan of one to take a mould then we could get it done. Would this interest anyone?
I could lend you a tape lid to copy, send me a PM with your address, we are also looking for a way to make cartridge cases, do you think your friend could make these as well?
I would be very interested ;D The computer has come up really quite nice considering the state i received it in. Amazing what hydrogen peroxide and sun can do for yellowed plastics. Just need a tape lid to complete it
Cheers Steve PM sent.
No worries Winslow if I can get a good colour match up I will certainly look to make a batch of lids available here.
Quote from: BluesBrothers on 20:15, 22 June 13
Soooo..... What I wondered was if anyone was able to lend one for a week or two. I have developed a partnership recently with an old friend who makes stuff out of plastics and has an injection moulding machine and we could potentially knock out a small run of these but need an original to work from. If I could lay hands on the loan of one to take a mould then we could get it done. Would this interest anyone?
Could you do Cartridge shells for the 6128 Plus too? I would be very interrested in that.
Quote from: TFM/FS on 21:13, 24 June 13
Could you do Cartridge shells for the 6128 Plus too? I would be very interrested in that.
I would of thought that would be possible. Thing is I'm not going to get carried away promising that I'll have everything anybody wants in plastic made up for them,
but.... given a modest but resonable enough demand, i.e. enough to justify creating the aluminuim cast, then yes we'd certainly try to fulfil that demand.
I am intending to trek over to my friends place with some samples this weekend coming with a view to creating some repair parts for my own purposes. One thing I was also seriously considering was remanufacturing a decent joystick or even a small range of sticks for various machines but there are other developments in pipeline also so watch this space.
Anyway bottom line being let me know what your after and in what numbers and I'll find out what is possible in due course
Regrettably I am unable to lend the plus lid, I forgot he wanted a plus lid and so I was offering a CPC lid which is not what is wanted, so if anyone has a plus casstte lid they could lend Bluesbrothers it could result in new spare lids becoming available as spares.
It seems that broken cassette lids is a common failure with the plus machines.
I am commited to buying ten cartridge shells if they are made.
Quote from: steve on 23:50, 24 June 13
Regrettably I am unable to lend the plus lid, I forgot he wanted a plus lid and so I was offering a CPC lid which is not what is wanted, so if anyone has a plus casstte lid they could lend Bluesbrothers it could result in new spare lids becoming available as spares.
It seems that broken cassette lids is a common failure with the plus machines.
Cheers Steve and no worries my friend.
As I understand it the problem was that people actually took the tape lids off to aid better loading, put the lid away for safe keeping and lid and system were never reunited. That's what I'm told anyway ;D
I'd need a larger order than 10 cart cases to justify a run but I'm sure that a group of people might add to that commitment and so make it worthwhile? It's certainly something which I think would get we'll used with people creating their own multicarts and such like
Quite a few people here are waiting for someone who can supply cartridge cases, I am sure in the next few days you will get an idea of just how many would sell in just the first batch.
When cases are available, new cartridge games will be written.
Quote from: steve on 00:37, 25 June 13
Quite a few people here are waiting for someone who can supply cartridge cases, I am sure in the next few days you will get an idea of just how many would sell in just the first batch.
When cases are available, new cartridge games will be written.
Had a sneaky suspicion that would be the case and will be able to tell more on the situation after this coming weekend. I will certainly bear you in mind.
Till then anyone PLEASE, PLEASE, can you loan out a 464+ tape lid?
And don't forget the polish bootleggers who will run out of amstrad cartridges sometime and will need a new supplier. :laugh:
There's easily a market for cartridge cases in the hundreds. I'd take quite a few too, depending on the price.
Bryce.
I will buy some cartridge cases.
BTW, I know what you mean about the 464 plus tape lid. Thankfully mine does have one, but it too is sitting in a box seperate from the computer, because it is definitely easier to put the cassette in without it AND because there is no tape counter, you can look at the tape on the reels to know how far it's got!!
Ok fellas I'll get on it.
When you say 100's Bryce can you give me a bit more of a guide as to high or low hundreds and I mean just an educated guess, I won't hold you to it. I dont want to produce 1000 to find myself sitting on 900 two years down the line.
So I guess you guys would also like boards to go in 'em? This could be possible to via another friend of mine. Obviously you'd put the proms in yourselves
Hi!
Well, I would need 100 Cartridges for my games. I will sell these Cart-Games for the price I have to pay for the hardware. I already have the ACID chips and the PCB is in the CPC-Wiki, to Cartridges is all I will need. All games are specifically made for the 464 / 6128 Plus and use the 512 KB of the Cartridge.
Sadly I don't have a 464 for the tape lid.
Oh, I don't mind the Cartridge shells being plastic of aluminium, as long as I can get 100 of them :-D
Greetings,
TFM
Ok, well looks like I'm going over to my mates Friday night through Saturday and will see what can be done and send him on a pricing up mission then.
Few questions;
1) are you all wanting to stick with the original cream colouring of the pluses or will other colours be prefered? Would prefer to keep to one colour but open to reasonable suggestions
2) are all cart cases standard or are any deviations required from the originals?
3) any other plastics required whilst I'm looking into this? - I may as well explore/suggest other ideas with him whilst I'm over there. If there's enough merit in making the cast then it could be a goer.
On a personal note I'm looking to see if he can produce me a case for a rather special 464+ (upgraded to 6128) add on/docking station with 3" & 3.5" floppies, surround speakers and lots of goodies. If he's able to produce me the case then I'll no doubt be posting more 'bout this on a seperate post. At the mo however it is still in the dream stage so I'll keep you all posted if it takes off
The cartridge cases we want will be identical to the Basic/Burning rubber cartridge that is used by the PLUS models.
As for colour, I think we will be happy with whatever colour is chosen, but if alternative colours are possible then we could use one colour for cartridges that include an ACID chip, while the other colour would indicate cartridges that do NOT have the ACID chip and therefore could only be used with machines that have been modified with the "ACID inside" mod.
Quote from: BluesBrothers on 20:19, 25 June 13
1) are you all wanting to stick with the original cream colouring of the pluses or will other colours be prefered? Would prefer to keep to one colour but open to reasonable suggestions
Oh, other colors are possible? WoW! Well, if I could have my 100 pieces in dark blue it would be great. But finally if it would make any problems I wouldn't mind to take any kind of color.
Quote from: BluesBrothers on 20:19, 25 June 13
2) are all cart cases standard or are any deviations required from the originals?
IMHO there is only one single kind of shells for cartridges.
Quote from: BluesBrothers on 20:19, 25 June 13
3) any other plastics required whilst I'm looking into this? - I may as well explore/suggest other ideas with him whilst I'm over there. If there's enough merit in making the cast then it could be a goer.
Of course there shall some merit for your friend :-D However, the quality is of importance too (cases should be stable).
Ok interesting to hear your thoughts on the colours, and music to my ears really as it'll be much easier to produce a geniunely different colour rather than trying to match up with original colouring.
Regarding devations from originals - I wasn't sure if anyone had any crazy ideas in mind with potential for switches/inputs and the like
I'd totally agree the cart cases seem well worthwhile so leave it with me but I may as well shop also for other projects whilst were on the subject. And yes quality is an absolute must and I've no intention of marketing a load of melted down old plastic milk bottles. Nice ridged cart cases are the order of the day
Yeah!
Please keep us updated!
A dream becomes true :D
Get a 3D printer and print your own that way
We do actually have acces to a 3D printer. The trouble with that is colour matching, finish, etc are much harder to obtain. Personally I want something which matches the original and is not distinguishable as a replacement. I am totally prepared to stand the cost of making up an aluminium mould and run off a batch as it seems to be something which there is a demand for. The extras which I sell off will at least help go someway towards repaying my investment. It's also part of a learning curve for me and something I'm keen to have a part in.
Quote from: EgoTrip on 14:22, 27 June 13
Get a 3D printer and print your own that way
We discussed this 3D printers numerous times in the Wiki, and everybody ever using one told, JUST DON'T DO IT FOR CARTRIDGES!!!
Quote from: TFM/FS on 16:04, 27 June 13
And please let's end the 3D printer topic here, anything else would be trolling.
wtf :laugh:
This will help you open the cartridge case,
Opening a Plus/GX4000 cartridge (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/amstrad-cpc-hardware/opening-a-plusgx4000-cartridge/)
Cheers Steve
LOL. Yeah I'd been warned these were a sod to open. Should we keep them this way or make getting them open easier?
The two halves could be held together by four screws or nuts and bolts.
I'd buy a few, at a normal price. As for the colour, I'd suggest going for a distinct one, or maybe putting on a mark in order to differentiate from the originals. I think it would be useful to identify bootlegs down the road...
I've got a 464 Plus stowed away. Do you still need the lid? I could try and locate it...
Quote from: Gryzor on 18:35, 28 June 13
I'd buy a few, at a normal price. As for the colour, I'd suggest going for a distinct one, or maybe putting on a mark in order to differentiate from the originals. I think it would be useful to identify bootlegs down the road...
I've got a 464 Plus stowed away. Do you still need the lid? I could try and locate it...
Personally I too like the idea of a different colour but some communities don't like to deviate. Thankfully you guys are an open minded bunch :D
Yes, yes, yes please, the loan of a tape lid would be massive. Just long enough to get cast from it really. I'm away now till Sunday but will PM then if that's ok.
Yeah, we're open-minded like that. We even love c64[nb]no we don't[/nb].
But, even if the consensus is for the same boring colour, still a distinctive mark would be a plus. Even if it's only the date, your avatar, the wiki logo[nb]heh[/nb], whatever!
Ok, I'll try to unearth it; I trust it will survive the duplication process intact? I remember it being mint... :)
I'll see to it that there is some distinction
Don't worry, we will take great care of the original. There are various methods of taking an impression without causing damage to the original. Will be in touch and thank you really very much.
Quote from: BluesBrothers on 16:35, 28 June 13
...Yeah I'd been warned these were a sod to open. Should we keep them this way or make getting them open easier?
Well, personally I wouldn't mind to change the system as long as it works. But any kind of screws, bolt or whatever would make the Cartridge just more complex and expensive.
On the other hand... How often do you open it?
Ok, so... I got back last night from Leicester where my friend is and whilst I'm quite tired (some drinking was involved later on ::) ) I'm also very happy with what project ideas we have managed to look at, the cases being one of them and one which will be priorotised because of it's simplicity. I will have to allow a few days for a price to come back but I'm confident we can get this done and we can suply all the cases you'll ever need.
More info will be posted as soon as it rolls in
Just a small heads-up: we had a minor disaster at home and need to do quite some work with plumbers, electricians, painters and a couple of other specialties. This mean it'll take me a couple of days to unearth my 464 Plus... Sorry about that.
That's cool and thanks for letting me know. There's not a massive hurry but it'd obviously be nice to get it done and hopefully it'll help many people.
Whenever you're sorted just let me know and I'll make sure to see you right for shipping costs. Many thanks.
and, sorry, very rude of me not to say before but hope you manage to sort out your household disasters without too much fuss.
Haha no worries mate, just an unexpected expense, other than that I have done much bigger home projects, so it's only an annoyance that puts other things off. As for postage, nah, happy to be of service, this is a nice project (and if you ever want to make lids for the 464 model, all the better). Just make sure it gets back safely and we're square :)
Ah you're a diamond mate.
As far as the lids go for the original 464,s then I do get a fair few of these through my doors and never really imagined the demand to be all that high. If you know something I don't though please let me know ;) .
On a serious note though it might be handy to get hold of the clear perspex panel as these are often cracked. I wonder if these are also generic to the Speccy +2's as it would add merit to setting about a run of them. When I get a few mins with a screwdriver in my hand I'll investigate. I'm also quite keen to look into the badged areas on these and other systems. I also have some links in with screen printers and wonder if some repros could be done. I believe you have a certain weakness for fridge magnets ;D or is that just with the keys?
As you hinted, the problem with 464 lids is not that we're lacking them, but rather that we lack mint ones. I would guess that the perspex part would actually be the easier to do - just produce a nice large sheet and laser-cut it? What I would think would be more difficult (well, not technically, but cost/printing wise) would be the diagram on them.[nb]btw, the Plus lid does have a transparent area too, doesn't it??[/nb]
And, as for the badges - hell yeah, how I'd love some. Fridge magnets ahoy! A few years back I had looked into it but the cost then was prohibitive. What was nice, however, was the fact that each one you would print could be different at no great price difference, which meant you could very easily do customised ones - I'd go for a "CPCWiki Amstrad CPC464 Extended" badge :D
Quote from: Gryzor on 17:28, 30 June 13
As you hinted, the problem with 464 lids is not that we're lacking them, but rather that we lack mint ones. I would guess that the perspex part would actually be the easier to do - just produce a nice large sheet and laser-cut it? What I would think would be more difficult (well, not technically, but cost/printing wise) would be the diagram on them.[nb]btw, the Plus lid does have a transparent area too, doesn't it??[/nb]
And, as for the badges - hell yeah, how I'd love some. Fridge magnets ahoy! A few years back I had looked into it but the cost then was prohibitive. What was nice, however, was the fact that each one you would print could be different at no great price difference, which meant you could very easily do customised ones - I'd go for a "CPCWiki Amstrad CPC464 Extended" badge :D
LOL. No promises but I'll make some enquiries :laugh: . You must have a bloody massive fridge.
Regarding the badges as a whole though I think this seems quite resonable provided there isn't uproar on the distinction of original as oppose to reproduction. Some folk are happy for an item to look the part whilst for others it MUST be 100% original (in my experience anyway). These plates/badges do seem to be an area which shows the most wear and tear on a CPC and I think anyone wanting a nice looking CPC might forgive the odd small scrape to the main plastic body, but the plates/badges are vital. Defo an area worth exploring.
Ok, retrieved the Plus :) Sorry for the wait. PM me with an address and I'll package it for you...
Oh yeah, and please do take a look into badges :)
Bit of an update on the cartridge situation..... My friend has said that he should be able to send me a first effort out of the mould early next week for my approval. Once I have given him the nod that all is ok with the case then we should have them in production and available before you know it 8)
Oh WOW!!! That's amazing!!! Greatest News of the month :) :) :)
Finally a dream Comes true :) :) :)
Ohhh yeah. If it's done it'll be the end to one of the oldest questions here :D
Btw, will it have a distinguishing mark after all?
Quote from: Gryzor on 16:43, 11 July 13
Ohhh yeah. If it's done it'll be the end to one of the oldest questions here :D
Btw, will it have a distinguishing mark after all?
They should be distinguishable from the originals yes. At the moment I am a bit in the dark myself as I'm waiting to see what Adam comes back with. Am getting quite excited though,....if a little nervous, it's nice to be able to get things done you know. If this comes off as I expect it to then I have all manor of retro bits and pieces for him to recreate ;D
Getting nervous too :)
Quote from: Gryzor on 16:16, 06 July 13
Ok, retrieved the Plus :) Sorry for the wait. PM me with an address and I'll package it for you...
Oh yeah, and please do take a look into badges :)
Just wanted to let you know that the tape lid had arrived safely and thank you very much for lending it out, I can't tell you how much I appreciate it.
As for the cart cases I'm still waiting and chasing them. There was some complications with delivery of some materials which have caused a set back but hopefully we'll have something physical soon and I'm going to chase them up right this minute.
Ahhh good then, keep it as much as you need to, just let me know when you send it back so I can expect it :)
Hey Folks, I realise it's been a while since there was any news so just thought I'd give you all an update on the plastics situation. We are concentrating our efforts on the plus cartridge at the moment but are having some difficulties with the clips as these inevitably broke away from the original when opening. We really wanted to look at an alternative method of holding the two halves together but there is a severe lack of space in the cartridge to offer up any sort of alternative, therefore we have gone back to the original clips and are having to effectively rebuild them with mixed success, although we do seem to be getting there now.
One other reason for the extra time it is taking is that we are trying to learn a bit more about the making of the moulds rather than just commissioning a specialist company to do this as long term it would be beneficial to do this in-house when taking exact replicas of an existing item. Mould from drawings are a little different and are likely to need to be CNC'd moulds.
Anyway as soon as we have the Eureka moment we will move on to the 464+ tape lid and of course we will be making the cartridge cases available for you all either through our ebay store or directly through the Wiki here at a slightly more friendly price.
One more thing,.... Colours or distinguishing features were mentioned previously. I think that a different colour from the original is a better way to go. I know a few suggestions on colour have been put forward already but if anyone has any strong preferences now would be a good time to say so. I can't make any promises on exact colour of course but I can certainly look into it.
Blue. The kind of blue that the CPC BASIC has when you turn the machine on. Then it could be coupled with delicious yellow labels :)
If we're looking for something less garish, perhaps dark gray?
Oh hey, what about the lid then?
I think definitely as close to the original as possible for the tape lid, it should not be discernible as a copy in my opinion.
Adam actually tells me that this should be easier than the cart case in so much as it is one single cast rather than 2 although the Perspex section which is heat riveted in place presents a different challenge. The main issue here will be the colour, finding that exact shade (or a close enough approximation) will present a tough challenge if we can't but that exact shade of raw plastic "off-the-shelf", in which case there will have to be some trail and error sessions mixing our own colours and once we get in right making a sufficiently large batch of it as stock plastic to avoid colour variations later.
If you guys did really want a distinguishing mark on this then I could ensure there is a logo on the inside where it is not obviously visible.
The first step with this though will be to get a good silicon mould taken from which we can work our aluminium mould without causing any damage to the original
Quote from: Gryzor on 11:58, 03 August 13
Blue. The kind of blue that the CPC BASIC has when you turn the machine on. Then it could be coupled with delicious yellow labels :)
If we're looking for something less garish, perhaps dark gray?
Blue is good for me (I think this was mentioned before also). Also we might be able to do something with the labels if generic labels appeal? Or if for someone's homebrew game we could potentially produce proper art-worked labels which are professionally finished if the numbers required are enough.
Quote from: Gryzor on 11:58, 03 August 13
Blue. The kind of blue that the CPC BASIC has when you turn the machine on. Then it could be coupled with delicious yellow labels :)
If we're looking for something less garish, perhaps dark gray?
Just sent a screen shot off to Adam now and will see what he comes back with
Yes, second blue too.
If the clips prove too difficult to make work reliably, then the two halves could be held together with self tapping screws, TFM does not like this and it is likely that he will buy more than anyone else, so maybe its not such a good idea after all.
Quote from: steve on 23:56, 03 August 13
If the clips prove too difficult to make work reliably, then the two halves could be held together with self tapping screws, TFM does not like this and it is likely that he will buy more than anyone else, so maybe its not such a good idea after all.
Problem is that there really isn't enough room to put screws in as the board (assuming it is like the original) fills the cartridge. We are however working on making these clips a bit more user friendly if possible, and we intend to try to make them so that the cart can be re-opened a number of times. It is important to remember however that they are not intended to open and close like the pages of a book and will only be able to withstand a certain amount. It is a bind for the moment but not one which has us desperately scrambling for alternatives, more a good challenge and an excellent learning curve ;D .
I am interested though in the cartridge length. Adam will probably kill me after all the effort he has put in so far, but would a bit more length in the cartridge make it more versatile for projects?
Just a thought.
Quote from: steve on 23:56, 03 August 13
If the clips prove too difficult to make work reliably, then the two halves could be held together with self tapping screws, TFM does not like this and it is likely that he will buy more than anyone else, so maybe its not such a good idea after all.
I wouldn't mind them if they work well. :)
Quote from: BluesBrothers on 00:14, 04 August 13
I am interested though in the cartridge length. Adam will probably kill me after all the effort he has put in so far, but would a bit more length in the cartridge make it more versatile for projects?
I did a sketchup model of the cartridge. You can find it there : Existing games => Cartridges (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?topic=7644.msg63397#msg63397)
It is not 100% accurate regarding the outside border. I designed them as vertical, where there are slightly angled.
You can use it as a starting base for alternate clip/screw or length changes.
The screw (M3 or M2.5) can be an option. Placing them in place of the clip at the back of the cart or or a little bit off at the front to avoid interfering with the locking mechanism.
I currently have custom cart cooking, but it should fit in a standard cartridge enclosure.
Wait, why not put the clips on the outside? Who said they need to look 100% identical?
As for the tape lid, of course it needs to be as close to the original, and no distinguishing mark is needed really, since it's just a part. The issue with the cartridges arise from the fact that there have been home-burned cartridges sold on eBay as originals, and those pirates would have a field day if they got their hands on a source of cases (they dismantle older ones now).
@Gryzor, are you saying don't make cartridges because the polish bootleggers will use them?
It is really not our business if bootleggers are at work, if the copyright owners care then they know what to do.
I think these cartridge cases will result in new cartridge software being produced and that software will be of far higher quality than the existing cartridges, the new cartridges may even take business from the bootleggers.
Quote from: steve on 23:14, 04 August 13
@Gryzor, are you saying don't make cartridges because the polish bootleggers will use them?
It is really not our business if bootleggers are at work, if the copyright owners care then they know what to do.
I think these cartridge cases will result in new cartridge software being produced and that software will be of far higher quality than the existing cartridges, the new cartridges may even take business from the bootleggers.
To be fair I see where Gryzor is coming from. Sod the Copyright owners tbh, it is their's to police. I think that the unsuspecting buyer is the one who should be considered here. I have an Ebay store and I know my buyers pretty well and they want originals to collect and I reckon they'd be pretty pissed to find out months down the line that what they paid for was a dodgy bootleg.
My questions in relation to alterations to the cartridge were more about making them suitable (or should I say "more/better suitable") for projects such as Bryce's multi-cart. I had though that if all the openings for the multi-cart could be contained beneath the label section of the cart case then we could fashion in some pop-out areas for such a purpose. Or if for an original piece of new software simply label over the area and it is to all intense and purposes like the original but in a different colour. The idea being for a slick finish either way at minimal cost.
As for the clips... we'll keep working and I'm confident we can get them to work as we want them to
I would think that 99.99% of cases would be used as standard cartridges, if anyone wants to put custom hardware in the case then they can drill a couple of holes easily enough, they may even join two cartridges together if they need more room. :o
Um... if you read the flow of discussion I never suggested not making them because of pirates, where on earth did you get that? From early on I just said these should be possible to tell from the originals easily so as to not pass as original titles by the bootleggers.
The only thing I can say here: I would like to put 6128 Plus Games on Cartridge. One will be my Giana Sisters Clone Plus version, but there is two others waiting in pipeline.
Soooo. If I get Cartridge shells, then I can do that. If not then not. I'm very pragmatic in that regard. And as told before, I don't care about bootleggers of what ever. Any idea/force/Cart can be used for good and evil. But that should not automatically prohibit progress. And I think that we all agree more or less in the latter one. :)
We have much less scope for custom cartridges than compared to c64 or other systems because we have less signals available on the cartridge connector. We are limited to address lines, data lines, and some other logic for the acid (or replacement) to communicate with the asic.
A longer case is fine, true it could be easier to remove, and if it makes it easier for screws then perhaps it's better.
Quote from: steve on 23:42, 04 August 13
I would think that 99.99% of cases would be used as standard cartridges, if anyone wants to put custom hardware in the case then they can drill a couple of holes easily enough, they may even join two cartridges together if they need more room. :o
Ok, great. Just the sort of perspective I am looking for. You can't beat a good percentage stat :D
Quote from: arnoldemu on 09:22, 05 August 13
We have much less scope for custom cartridges than compared to c64 or other systems because we have less signals available on the cartridge connector. We are limited to address lines, data lines, and some other logic for the acid (or replacement) to communicate with the asic.
A longer case is fine, true it could be easier to remove, and if it makes it easier for screws then perhaps it's better.
Great feedback, thank you.
I'm with you on making it a bit longer, it could solve each issue easily by simply adding about 10-20mm in length. I will get straight on to Adam and see if he's happy to do this (I know he's worked quite hard on the reproduction already), he might just say no he's to far along in the process but it's worth asking the question.
Any news on this? Looking forward to seeing the new cases!
Sorry, I know it's been a while since I last updated on the situation. I must confess real life has got in the way to a large degree combined with the fact that Adam the plastics guy has been on a long summer holiday. :-[
Tbh not much has happened since my last post but don't worry it will, if I stick my neck out and say I'll do something then I make sure it gets done one way or another. If you could please just bear with me a little longer and I will report back as soon as I have more info.
Hey don't worry, in my experience life always get's in the way of geekery, and I don't want to be the CPCwiki equivalent of a child asking "are we nearly there yet?", it's just exciting to see this happening because it's awesome! (And I don't even have a 6128+) :)
LOL, tell me about it.
No I'm just a bit embarrassed cos it's not like me and I like to come through on stuff when I say I'm gonna do it, just as I said before, life stuff an' all that.
I'll give Adam a bit of a kick and see if between us we can't get things moving a bit
Great! :) :) :)
Is the tape lid still alive? :)
Oh yes :D . Adam hasn't yet taken the mould but I have given him a kick and he has promised to sort it out as soon as he's able. It should be fairly painless to take a silicon mould from which he can rework the eventual aluminium cast.
I'll keep proding him until he gets so sick of hearing me that he just gets on with it
Not a problem, just asking :)
Maybe Adam could also help with the CPC covers mentioned in the other thread? This should be much simpler - no moulds, just a sheet of plastic, some hot-bending and a few holes tops!
Can you send me a link to the thread and I'll investigate?
Oops, sorry, my bad.
CPC Dust cover (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/index.php?topic=8397.0)
Mmmm, ok.... are we talking a hard cover of the type that you got on the BBC Model B or I believe there was also one for the C128 (a mate of mine has one of these), or are we looking at something of a hybrid between that and the soft neoprene or leatherette type covers.
I should mention that if the demand was high enough I could almost certainly get the old soft ones made again. A contact of mine has contact with someone who used to make these way back when and the room they were made is has been left exactly as it was ever since they turned out the lights back in the early 90's. The upshot being that I know the same people are able and willing to make them again, it's just going to be a case of persuading the man in the middle to make that contact for us. It's always tricky when your relying on other isn't it... not only do you trip over your own real life stuff but theirs as well.
The rigid type would be possible but to do something that size that completely moulds around the CPC is beyond the injection moulding machine we have the use of, however I would imagine that given the simple nature of the thing it could be vacuum formed.
A hybridised hard/soft thing would be trickier and require a bit more investigation.
The towels might just be possible too if I ask around :D
You actually have access to the very Room that they were made? Wow :D
Nah, wasn't talking about soft ones, rather hard ones. But why go vacuum/injection since you can do it out of simple sheets?
I guess there are quite a few places doing customised towels, aren't there?
Well vacuum forming is relatively simple and can be done in a garden shed if we're honest so with better facilities and a bit more finesse it should be possible to make something quite decent.
If we make out of simple sheets then I imagine it will be a bit "blockie" and if we're going to bend the sheets with heat and plastic weld pieces together then you are really going to just as much trouble I think.
I will ask his opinion none the less
Oh, ok, I've never made such stuff in bulk so I've always used plexi and I'm not an expert Of course with a mould you could also do a stamp on it :)
I think the towels much like t-shirts and other textiles would be easy enough for anyone to source really. Stuff like that is farmed out to India and produced for pennies.
I do like the idea of a 464 towel though. It has that kitch 80's theme a bit like keyboard ties :laugh:
Depends. Usually customised towels are bathroom towels, where you have some monogram embroidered or beach towels with full-surface prints, but this I think is only done in bulk - like BULK bulk.
Quote from: BluesBrothers on 17:48, 07 September 13
I think the towels much like t-shirts and other textiles would be easy enough for anyone to source really. Stuff like that is farmed out to India and produced for pennies.
I do like the idea of a 464 towel though. It has that kitch 80's theme a bit like keyboard ties :laugh:
Give me a couple of days and I'll have a much clearer idea of what is possible and then come back with the options available. As it's a community thing lets let the community decide eh
Quote from: BluesBrothers on 17:51, 07 September 13
Give me a couple of days and I'll have a much clearer idea of what is possible and then come back with the options available. As it's a community thing lets let the community decide eh
I hear that it is quite surprising just how few items certain companies in India will consider (relatively speaking of course). I think some up and coming companies will hope that fulfilment of one order will lead to another. Maybe it would be possible to have 200 or so done rather than several thousand.
Well, if potential buyers get 5 each... :D
:laugh:
Just to be clear, the towel idea was a joke, you should do a poll to see how many would buy one before you commit to anything.
Don't worry I'm completely with the humour. The 464 does however lend itself to such an enterprise :P
Quote from: Gryzor on 16:58, 07 September 13
Maybe Adam could also help with the CPC covers mentioned in the other thread? This should be much simpler - no moulds, just a sheet of plastic, some hot-bending and a few holes tops!
Had a good chat with Adam both yesterday and today as have a number of little projects on the go with him and....
The hard dust covers are quite simple to vacuum form and we believe this will give the most satisfactory finish. Adam has for some time being making RC cars bodies using this method and has got pretty damned good at it. We have also spoken about potentially embedding images into the plastic to really make these a custom item. Because of the way these would be produced anyway this would be achievable without driving the costs up. This way you could have CPC Wiki logoed covers or game screen shots, whatever.
Also a bit of news on the cart cases. I have some images of some initial attempts, which I have to say look good to me but Adam wants to just smooth out a couple of minor issues by creating some extra outlets in the casts so that air can be fully removed. This is mostly around the tip of the clips where triangulation could be slightly better.
I will upload images shortly.
Images?! WoW! I cobalt blue cart with the FutureSoft logo!!! That would be a great motivation to finish up all my half the way done Plus games :)
At the mo we just got white and grey whilst Adam get the casting 100% but yes hopefully we will have the blue before to long. I just need to sort the images out that he sent me as I need to download them properly rather than just viewing. Just about to have my dinner so will do it in an hour or so. :D
Oh, never mind. As long as they work I will be more than glad. Everything else is just wishful thinking, but finally not needed for function :)
[attach=3][attach=4][attach=5][attach=2] (http://postimg.org/image/cbafi9s8z/)
The blue will come I promise. The above images are just of early prototypes made from poured plastic in silicon moulds
Oh wow. They look *great*. This is great news!!!
Any idea on the cost for all this stuff?
Give Adam our regards, will you? :)
I have got an inkling on the price of the carts but don't want to give too much away at the moment as the R&D is not totally completed and therefore we cannot for sure give an absolute final figure per unit. They will be cheaper for anyone wanting bulk though. I will soften him up on supply price as much as I can I promise.
Once we've totally finish the R&D I would like to round up some pre-orders if possible (no monies taken until the stock is ready for despatch) as this will enable us to get a realistic handle on how many to produce. The more we produce per batch, the cheaper production should be, hopefully :D
Wiki users will of course get a preferential price to that offered in my store
Very professional looking. I'll definitely take a few.
Bryce.
Thanks guy's. I will pass your compliments on to Adam, a craftsman always enjoys hearing good things about his workmanship.
How are the two halves held together? Have you copied the original clips, or have you added a column for a screw?
Bryce.
We have stuck with the original clips because of a lack of space. Adam is still working on the clips though and there is talk about using a slightly more pliable plastic so that open them doesn't have to be such hard work, or worse,... destructive.
On an original cartridge there's a plastic pin in the centre that goes through the PCB. If you use this space for a screw / plastic cylinder then you can make them "re-openable". I do this on original cartridges after I've opened them.
Bryce.
Quote from: Bryce on 21:07, 08 September 13
On an original cartridge there's a plastic pin in the centre that goes through the PCB. If you use this space for a screw / plastic cylinder then you can make them "re-openable". I do this on original cartridges after I've opened them.
Bryce.
I must confess I've not actually seen the insides of a cart yet as Adam is about 130 miles away from me but I will put the suggestion to him. I think the thought was that if the clips could be improved upon to the extent that the cart can be opened "more easily" then the lack of a screw is aesthetically better but I totally see your point. What I suppose we don't want is a cart which opens so easily it does it all by itself, though I'm sure that would not be the case
The cases look amazing, really professional. Great work!
Quote from: Munchausen on 11:23, 09 September 13
The cases look amazing, really professional. Great work!
I agree. They are great.
I'll definitely buy some.
They are wonderful!
I need a hundred (and if Blue is no problem, then YEAH!!!)
We now need pcbs with acid replacements, or something that means we can move forwards and get the final carts with game on them done.
Quote from: arnoldemu on 19:37, 09 September 13
We now need pcbs with acid replacements, or something that means we can move forwards and get the final carts with game on them done.
If you're serious on that score I can certainly look into it. I am, in co-operation with someone else, creating some new mod boards for Atari's so we can source boards if you guys are not able to do so yourselves, but I imagined (I don't know why) that you'd have that side of things all sewn up.
Let me know and I'll ask the right people
Ok, PCBs... there is a PCB on the CPC Wiki, Bryce made it IIRC.
And for ACID replacements, I suggest Octoate's and Nilquader's solution. There is another hack too, but I don't know much about the second one.
Neither PCBs, nor ACIDs seem to be a problem. Of course they need to be produced too. In this case I would like to buy 100 PCBs for the cartridge with the full 512 KB of ROM. (I already got 100 original ACIDs).
If these are already being made then I don't want to tread on toes, I'm more for getting stuff done that no one else is doing rather than going into competition. However if there is a solution that simple needs taking to production and however created that solution is happy for me to do so then I'm very happy to look at this
sorry that's whoever not however :-[
I can't do the hardware side, but I can do a game.
Maybe the first to be on the new carts?
Bryce re-created the layout and we have some acid replacements, although a cpld or original would be better than Octoate and Nilquaders solution - because it's not always 100% reliable???
The PCB Layouts I've done so far aren't suitable for commercial production, the file is for hobbiest who etch their own PCBs. I intend doing commercial layouts in a couple of versions: Original, Multi-Cart, possibly a writeable one? using the CPLD solution for the acid replacement, but the CPLD and EPROM will have to be soldered in, otherwise you'll have to modify the lids or make special lids for them.
Bryce.
Quote from: Bryce on 21:33, 09 September 13
The PCB Layouts I've done so far aren't suitable for commercial production, the file is for hobbiest who etch their own PCBs. I intend doing commercial layouts in a couple of versions: Original, Multi-Cart, possibly a writeable one? using the CPLD solution for the acid replacement, but the CPLD and EPROM will have to be soldered in, otherwise you'll have to modify the lids or make special lids for them.
Bryce.
I think I asked about this earlier in the thread and I queried if the cart should be made exactly as the original or adapted to give greater scope for projects but the consensus was that the original was fine as there was so little demand for adaptation that it was deemed a no goer.
If we do require a redesign can you let us know asap and I can get it looked into. I did actually mention something along these lines to Adam so it is likely he will be prepared for it although it might be really useful for us to have an example board so that we can see how best to work around the bulky/awkward areas.
If a commercial board was to be produced then it could be a good thing to produce both the board layout and the altered casing together to allow for all eventualities.
Sorry for bringing confusion here... thought it was the PCB layout that we could use. :-X
Maybe somebody can split the thread? Would that make sense? :)
Quote from: TFM on 00:55, 10 September 13
Sorry for bringing confusion here... thought it was the PCB layout that we could use. :-X
Maybe somebody can split the thread? Would that make sense? :)
Oh, please don't apologise, I am not having a go at all and I am sorry if it seemed that way, definitely not my intention.
My real purpose for the whole query was that if we're going to do this why not have a solution which suits as many folk as possible. I realise some of you will want to make a game stick a label on it and that's that, others however will want to evolve things and be able to switch ROMs and who knows what else in the future.
So am I making a cart case (and "possibly" a pcb) in a commercial sense for software developers to put their wares on or,..... am I trying to help the hobbist. If the later has a large stake in this cart then I imagine that paying good money for it only to have to hack it up with a craft blade or Stanley knife is far from ideal. So do we try to find a half way house and create a solution for both eventualities or do we proceed as we are and, if there is demand for it, make another cart specifically for the hobbists.
I'm not sure about splitting the thread whether that will avoid confusion or not. If anything I could probably do with being fed more info to evolve my understanding.
If you mean has this cartridge thing overtaken an original thread then probably yes, my bad, sorry :-[ . I have sort of wondered for a while now if maybe this discussion might be better located somewhere else. I'm still very green when it comes to good forum practices I'm afraid
For me a commercial style cart is exactly what I would like because I only really develop games. For me these would be perfect because I can write games and get them published in limited batches.
No need to apologise about alterering the course of the thread, it happens often here. I think the cases are great. I think the work on the acid replacements and the cons is great too.
Explanation: The layouts I've uploaded so far are just 2 sided sketched drawings for home use. A commercial manufacturer needs a special format from Eagle or OrCAD etc with all the information regarding track thickness, vias, solder screen etc.
If anyone wants to go ahead and create these, then feel free to do so. Although I intend doing these at some stage, I definitely don't have time at the moment, so it will be a while before I could start on them. Also, the pinout of the CPLD will be critical, because it will have to match the pinout assignment of the programmed CPLD, so the compiled CPLD file needs to match the layout exactly. A layout for a standard cart using a real ACID is much easier. I have already published an Eagle library which includes both the original ACID and the cartridge edge connector for use in schematics and layouts.
Bryce.
There is a need for someone to sell a case complete with a populated PCB using either a real ACID chip or a CPLD acid replacement, so the buyer can put in their own programmed eprom and stick a label on it.
Alternatively,
If the case is not deep enough to allow a socket and eprom, then a flash chip could be soldered to the board, the board will need a way for the flash to be programmed and then write protected if necessary.
For extended cases, these would need to be custom made for each use, otherwise the user will still need to drill holes to suit the various hardware to be fitted.
This thread is in the classified section, it would be better if all the posts relevant to Bluesbrothers work in producing cases and tape lids were given their own thread in the hardware section of the forum.
Quote from: steve on 12:20, 10 September 13
There is a need for someone to sell a case complete with a populated PCB using either a real ACID chip or a CPLD acid replacement, so the buyer can put in their own programmed eprom and stick a label on it.
This would be perfect. Good for people like me who are not good at electronics but want to make games.
I agree - just go with the standard case for now. There may be a demand for reprogrammable/multi carts (with DIP switches?) but for now the circuits and layouts don't exist, so I'd say stick with the standard cart and perhaps later if someone comes up with layouts for alternatives then that can be dealt with then.
Quote from: BluesBrothers on 01:58, 10 September 13
If you mean has this cartridge thing overtaken an original thread then probably yes, my bad, sorry :-[ . I have sort of wondered for a while now if maybe this discussion might be better located somewhere else. I'm still very green when it comes to good forum practices I'm afraid
Oh no. :) The cartridge part is the best thread ever. :) Dreams come true. :)
Hey, only had time for a quick read this evening. Had to get some paid work done. Bills, bills, bills :( .
Will take on board what has been mentioned so far and be back with more soon
Moved this under /Hardware and changed the title :)
Now I just long for an update about this wonderful topic. :)
QuoteThere is a need for someone to sell a case complete with a populated PCB using either a real ACID chip or a CPLD acid replacement, so the buyer can put in their own programmed eprom and stick a label on it.
I need I need arf arf arf.... jeje.
The only problem is, both the CPLD and the EPROM have to be permanently soldered to the board, otherwise it doesn't fit in the case. So if someone does produce them, they will have to be ordered with pre-programmed EPROMs. I have designed a writeable 256K Cartridge, but at the time I made it with a real ACID and some 74xx Logic. If I use a CPLD for the ACID, then there should be enough spare space in the CPLD to cover the 74xx function too. I just need to get around to converting it. As it's writeable from the CPC, there'd be no problem with the ICs being soldered in.
Bryce.
Wait.... you can not use a socket for the (EP)ROM?
Not if you want the case to close. Look at my MultiCart. The hole is in the Cart lid because the EPROM is in a socket, and even then it's a tight fit into the Cartridge slot: http://www.cpcwiki.eu/imgs/6/6f/Multi_Cart_Case.png (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/imgs/6/6f/Multi_Cart_Case.png)
Bryce.
Thanks' Bryce, that's a bit a drawback regarding updates. On the other hand it can encourage us to really finish games for Carts before manufacturing them.
It may be an good idea to create Cart shells in a way that they have the holes, so sockets could be used. On the other hand ... dunno. :-\
Would it be possible to make an adaptor to connect the fully assembled cartridge to the programming socket of an eprom programmer so that the eprom can be programmed later.
Yes, for a standard cartridge that is one solution, for multi Carts (especially the software controlled version) it's not that simple. But deleting the EPROM would still mean opening the cartridge.
Bryce.
Hey folks,
Thought I should give a bit of an update and noticed there'd been replies to the topic which I'd not seen since it had been moved. For what ever reason my instant notification thingy wasn't working so I assumed there were no new posts. Anyway I have refreshed my notification preferences so hopefully I'll be able to respond more quickly to your posts from now on as I should now as they happen.
Ok so I have been looking at the multi cart topic and wondering how we might best do something which would make these cases work best for commercial and hobby projects and I was thinking that we could create pop-outs. These essentially would be located under the cartridge label area so that if the case was used on a commercial game then the label goes on and it is to all intents and purposes a it looks like a regular cart. What I am trying to establish at the moment is the best locations for the pop-outs and exactly what size is required (this should then allow the use of a socketed chip for those who want it).
The pop-outs themselves would basically look solid from the front of the case but be slightly weakened in the plastic so that a little gentle work with a craft knife would open the required section easily.
Also if we (or anyone else on here) are looking to make new boards then we can more easily add a screw fastening to the case as we can more readily allow for it's positioning.
Quote from: TFM on 19:58, 09 September 13
Ok, PCBs... there is a PCB on the CPC Wiki, Bryce made it IIRC.
And for ACID replacements, I suggest Octoate's and Nilquader's solution. There is another hack too, but I don't know much about the second one.
Neither PCBs, nor ACIDs seem to be a problem. Of course they need to be produced too. In this case I would like to buy 100 PCBs for the cartridge with the full 512 KB of ROM. (I already got 100 original ACIDs).
If you already have the acids then we could possibly do enough (standard/original type) boards to go with the number of acids you have. As I understand it though it would require a bit more R&D and time to do boards with a suitable replacement once all available acids have run out.
Good idea. Make the "weak points" in a 5 x 5mm matrix, then the user can remove the right squares for the particular project they need it for.
There's a plastic pin in the original cartridge that goes through the PCB. Put the screw there, then original PCB will fit in your cases too. The position is also very good for fitting ICs around.
Quote from: BluesBrothers on 22:06, 30 September 13
If you already have the acids then we could possibly do enough (standard/original type) boards to go with the number of acids you have.
Good idea, I got 100 of them. So I would need 100 cart shells. :)
There is now an issue that there is not enough height in the case to have an eprom in a socket, if the case was extended and the end of the case was deeper than the part of the cartridge that goes inside the CPC, there could be enough height to have the eprom in a socket.
@Bryce, how deep does the case need to be to have an eprom in a socket?
Quote from: steve on 22:54, 30 September 13
There is now an issue that there is not enough height in the case to have an eprom in a socket, if the case was extended and the end of the case was deeper than the part of the cartridge that goes inside the CPC, there could be enough height to have the eprom in a socket.
@Bryce, how deep does the case need to be to have an eprom in a socket?
If the push out sections are implemented then you could have a socket for the EPROM but
that cartridge would then have the open sections permanently. This would be perfectly adequate to enable hobby projects, development of games and testing of burnt proms before hard-soldering to boards which are intended for commercial type distribution in fully enclosed cases.
That is, in my opinion at least, the way it could/should work, or you end up with just a multi cart and you'd have to persuade game developers to let you have just the programmed EPROMs to slot into your own cart
If you're not keen on this then I don't think it would be terribly hard to extend the length of the case and have a slightly raised section at the back but what you run the risk of ending up with is something quite bulky and which is potentially an eyesore to look at. On the other hand it could be very practical as you could use a "battery cover" type opening to enable easy exchange of EPROMs. I'm sure this idea was dismissed earlier in this thread though.
I guess money should also be a factor here. Anyone releasing a commercial piece of software will understandably need to keep costs down, whereas a hobbyist might not mind paying more for something with the extra versatility. So,...... is 2 different variants of a case a preferred option? One a standard case and one extended, sort of L shaped case. The problem with 2 types is developing 2 cases and 2 boards is extra cost.
If you could let me have a general consensus as I need to let Adam know which way this is going once and for all and then chew his ears continuously until he's made them :laugh:
Have you seen the TI 99/4a cartridges?, something like that would not look too bad.
The problem is really that the people who will write the new games may not know which end of a soldering iron to hold, and would rather just plug an eprom into a ready made cartridge than buying all the components, making the PCBs, making the acid replacements and soldering it all together.
The raised part would need to be about 3 to 5mm higher than the normal top cover. The cartridge would also need to be quite a bit longer than normal, because the "free" part that pokes out of the CPC at the moment isn't wide enough to house an EPROM, I'd estimate that the cartridge would need to be about 20mm longer than a standard cartridge.
Bryce.
Quote from: steve on 04:20, 01 October 13
The problem is really that the people who will write the new games may not know which end of a soldering iron to hold, and would rather just plug an eprom into a ready made cartridge than buying all the components, making the PCBs, making the acid replacements and soldering it all together.
LOL.
My skills are limited to soldering "normal" (e.g. ancient) ICs with nice big pins ;)
I can't do anything smaller and I can't burn eproms or program acid replacements.
That's ok, I can't tell one end of a shift-register from the other :D I'll stick to what I can do and the software guys can do their stuff.
Bryce.
Quote from: steve on 04:20, 01 October 13
Have you seen the TI 99/4a cartridges?, something like that would not look too bad.
The problem is really that the people who will write the new games may not know which end of a soldering iron to hold, and would rather just plug an eprom into a ready made cartridge than buying all the components, making the PCBs, making the acid replacements and soldering it all together.
LOL, Yes I'm working with some TI-99's at the moment and I thought much the same as a design style. We can easily create some cardboard mock ups of the PCB requirements and use these as a template by which to create an extended case.
I know they're more expensive but has anyone considered low profile sockets?
My calculation is based on low-profile sockets = +3mm needed, standard sockets = +5mm needed.
Bryce.
Before we create the "all in one super cartridge shell" we probably should get Cartridge shells at all.
I know that some guys always have fancy ideas, but the same guys would build the second level of a house without having the first level and the basement.
Seriously, before we go into the Giga-Cart-Shell, it would be great to stay realistic and have cartridge shells AT ALL.
Thanks to BluesBrothers for his constant support and patience with us here :)
Quote from: steve on 04:20, 01 October 13The problem is really that the people who will write the new games may not know which end of a soldering iron to hold...
He don't judge us by taking you as an example ;)
Quote from: TFM on 16:07, 01 October 13
He don't judge us by taking you as an example ;)
With 3 soldering irons, I have learnt which end to hold. :laugh:
Ha! As a matter of fact you mastered them :)
Quote from: steve on 18:59, 01 October 13
With 3 soldering irons, I have learnt which end to hold. :laugh:
Heh. When I was a teenager I accidentally left one switched on lying on the floor in my room when I went to bed. Apart from being very dangerous, this turned out to be a big mistake because I woke up in the night and trod on it! I ended up with a huge blister across the arch of my foot, walking was pretty painful for a while.
oh I do not miss solder burns at all
After a bit of chat with a few people I think we're going to go down the road of the regular style cart with the pop-outs option as I think this best serves the majority. Sure commercial games will need to be hard soldered but I think on the whole this is the most satisfactory solution.
If there is high demand for an extended case at a later date then we may look into it but I think we are all keen to press on and get something out there.
I don't think Adam is far off having the cases sorted now and I suspect the biggest stalling point is going to be production of the boards as I understand boards with the ACID replacements still need a lot of work. If anyone has a stack of ACIDs hidden away anywhere then we can possible do something for you guys a bit quicker but you'll need to let us know.
Quote from: dcdrac on 21:43, 01 October 13
oh I do not miss solder burns at all
LOL, actually after so many burns you kinda stop noticing, though I have to say my hands have got a bit soft of late. I used to be a chef many, many years ago and was always burning my arms on the oven doors or selves whilst hurry to reach for whatever was inside. At one point I had so many burn lines up my forearms someone actually thought I was a self-harmer and tried to get me to see a doctor. It was quite funny trying to convince them I was just a clumsy sod :laugh:
wow, in the old days when PC memory banks were not click in and go and you had to solder them in ohh that was a pain.....
What is a PC? Is that a CPC without color output? Never heart about it! ???
Why not?
Upload and 3D print your products on Shapeways (http://www.shapeways.com/create?li=nav)
Oh, they have a nice materials guide over there...
Quote from: TFM on 18:13, 02 October 13
What is a PC? Is that a CPC without color output? Never heart about it! ???
Check your inbox Mr TFM. We have some progress which I think will make your day :D
well, at last recourse we can made soap cartridge :).
Nintendo cartridge soap will keep you geeky clean | Lazygamer .:: The Worlds (http://www.lazygamer.net/general-news/nintendo-cartridge-soap-will-keep-you-geeky-clean/)
:D
Quote from: dragon on 14:01, 07 December 13
well, at last recourse we can made soap cartridge :) .
Nintendo cartridge soap will keep you geeky clean | Lazygamer .:: The Worlds (http://www.lazygamer.net/general-news/nintendo-cartridge-soap-will-keep-you-geeky-clean/)
:laugh: 8)
Haaahahahahahaha! This is pure genius!
Maybe we could go for the soap cartridges and we will have the cartridge connector always clean ;D
TFM Check you're inbox :D
It actually looks like we may finally be getting this done 8)
Done! :) There will be games... ;D
Quote from: TFM on 19:42, 13 January 14
Done! :) There will be games... ;D
Can you give us a hint of what will be first? Cyberchicken?
If you want to use my label and manual as a template to make your own please do.
Thanks for the offer! I will gladly come back to it. :)
Well, I thought about using the full 512 KB capacity of the cartridge. This would allow to put more the only one game in it. :) Which games it will be is not sure yet. But it will be all software specific for the Plus using it's features. Else the cartridge would be pointless. ;)
Quote from: TFM on 18:04, 14 January 14
Thanks for the offer! I will gladly come back to it. :)
Well, I thought about using the full 512 KB capacity of the cartridge. This would allow to put more the only one game in it. :) Which games it will be is not sure yet. But it will be all software specific for the Plus using it's features. Else the cartridge would be pointless. ;)
you have a pm sir ;)
And you got one from PayPal. :)
Cheers Stefan
I shall set the team of Elves to work directly :D.
BB
So all desired wonders will finally come true. :) This is a great day. :) :) :)
lost track of this one a bit does this mean a new cartridge game and if so where do I get it and who do I pay?
No need for a rush...
It all will take a while, so we talk about 2015 to be realistic.
Pricing will be a minimum of 16 Euros for every cartridge (8,30 for the ACID and 8.00 for the Cartridge Shell and PCB). However, if I can sell a couple for super-expensive at ebay then I can sell the remaining 90% cheaper for us here on the cpcwiki. it all will turn out.
Oh! And btw.: If somebody out there has a small Plus game and want to add it to the 512 KB Cartridge then please let me know. Because I will try to use up all possible 512 KB (using compression too). So you will really get something real. Could be even 8-12 games on one cart.
Count me in as a customer I love Cyberchicken
Thank you so much! :) :) :) Ok, since already two persons ask me for CC on Cartridge I will make a 6128 Plus version... that will be the 128 KB Version with more chicken (hardware sprites), more colors, more levels and even better CTC-AY support.
I wander if a redo of BAT could be done or something that looks like Elite like oolite
If I can get it commissioned I have an idea for a game that I've wanted done for sometime that I'd love to see on there.
Oh and also a Chorlton & The Wheelies game. If any of you haven't seen Chorlton & The Wheelies before here you go;
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U6Ng7VMqet0 (ftp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U6Ng7VMqet0)
Hey TFM Sir,... I hope you've got my name down for the first copy ;)
@TFM, If you only use 64k ram the cartridge could also be bought and used by GX4000 users.
Quote from: BluesBrothers on 23:52, 14 January 14
Hey TFM Sir,... I hope you've got my name down for the first copy ;)
Your efforts will not be forgotten Sir! You will be the the first tester of the first finished cart - Serial 001 :)
Quote from: steve on 03:26, 15 January 14@TFM, If you only use 64k ram the cartridge could also be bought and used by GX4000 users.
Good point.
Or add an option in the game for 64K or 512K version depending on what machine you have?
Bryce.
My like button is wearing out on this thread.
Quote from: arnoldemu on 10:33, 15 January 14
My like button is wearing out on this thread.
Maybe we can have a batch of them made too! :o
Bryce.
Quote from: Bryce on 09:55, 15 January 14
Or add an option in the game for 64K or 512K version depending on what machine you have?
Bryce.
The point here was that the GX4000 has 64 KB RAM and the 6128 Plus has 128 KB RAM. It's not about 512 KB RAM expansions, rather about the minimum RAM requirement of a game. :)
A rewrite of a game can move RAM demand in the ROM, so 64 KB RAM would be far more than enough. However, decompression of data would get more complex. We will see...
More stuff to look forward too? Oh goody! Let's just hope TFM is not flooded with requests that will push this to 2020!