People has asked me in private by the patches that we made for using bonniedos in the PulkoMandy CF prototype (http://pulkomandy.tk/projects/avrstuff/wiki/CPC-CompactFlash).
As i told before, we have not permission for releasing this patched version, because that, i have attached an xdelta3 diffs for being applied to the original released (roms and sprephd.sys).
Of course, feel free of using it, this has been tested in the original prototype, but remember that it can have bugs and we can not be responsibles of malfunction/explosions/... of the CF or the CPC connected to it, by the use of this software.
This release is only for people that loves hacking and electronics, for the rest better wait to one of the FAT32 mass storage devices that will be released in a few months ;)
One of the devices? How many mass storage devices are in project?
I know that i'm not the only one with curiosity, please Syx tell us more about this projects!!
Quote from: Joseman on 00:31, 26 September 14
One of the devices? How many mass storage devices are in project?
I know that i'm not the only one with curiosity, please Syx tell us more about this projects!!
The only public known hardware is the PulkoMandy one, and i know at least other 3 hardware projects, every one using a different mass storage device.
And there is other 3 software teams working in three different FAT implementations.
I'm not going to give names for not adding more pressure to those guys, they are making a FANTASTIC work and in this moment is only a question of time before our CPCs reach the same point than C64 or ZX people.
I'm going to be very conservative, but mark my words, the next summer every active CPC user will use a mass storage device ;)
Great news SyX :D
Amazing News !!!! :o
My dream is SD reader + USB mouse + Reset. Faster, cheaper and more useful than HxC. Any progress in this direction welcome. :)
We waiting long time, one year more it's no big deal. :)
Maybe booting Basic script to ease modify colors, keys map, font, RSX, ROMs (if you have any), some kind starter with list of games, programs, demos, pictures, music... All this just at Hello. Few click mouse (roll acts as arrow keys) and running whatever you want. I want see jealous on faces C64 and ZX fans. We have Amstrads, we deserve this. :D
Quote from: ZbyniuR on 23:22, 27 September 14
My dream is SD reader + USB mouse + Reset. Faster, cheaper and more useful than HxC. Any progress in this direction welcome. :)
We waiting long time, one year more it's no big deal. :)
Maybe booting Basic script to ease modify colors, keys map, font, RSX, ROMs (if you have any), some kind starter with list of games, programs, demos, pictures, music... All this just at Hello. Few click mouse (roll acts as arrow keys) and running whatever you want. I want see jealous on faces C64 and ZX fans. We have Amstrads, we deserve this. :D
well *that* sounds like a 2nd request for an mx4 format symbiface compatible sd card,rtc ,mouse combo card.
Craig :-)
OOOO cool :D So i stop working on my CF project, to many interfaces be only a problem. Anyway if you need help about prototype board making i have lots of contact in cheap fast and good quality China PCB factory.
(http://images52.fotosik.pl/496/7d9b52e777665676m.jpg) (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/%5BURL=http://www.fotosik.pl/pokaz_obrazek/7d9b52e777665676.html)](http://images52.fotosik.pl/496/7d9b52e777665676m.jpg) (http://www.fotosik.pl/pokaz_obrazek/7d9b52e777665676.html)
great work !
Hope that this will be compatible with Mother x4 ? :)
Quote from: Piotr on 10:41, 28 September 14
OOOO cool :D So i stop working on my CF project, to many interfaces be only a problem. Anyway if you need help about prototype board making i have lots of contact in cheap fast and good quality China PCB factory.
Why? More options always going to be better and at least one of the FAT implementations will be open source and you only will need to code the read/write sector routines for supporting your device.
I would prefer something in this shape. It would be more neat.
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QeEtSLFX2Vw/VB80zrGZczI/AAAAAAAAADY/_kYBDn1d0n8/s1600/speccy.jpg (http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QeEtSLFX2Vw/VB80zrGZczI/AAAAAAAAADY/_kYBDn1d0n8/s1600/speccy.jpg)
I use CPC for entertainment, not to pursue the office. So RTC doesn't seem necessary. But if majority want have it, let it be. :)
From fast mass storage device programs starting in a second, so keeping them in a large ROM seems to be unnecessary. Large capacity card makes, even long movies can be played directly from it, so a lot of memory to play short film is no longer needed. If we want make this interface cheap and popular, it shouldn't have too many goodies. Anyway ROM-RAM-BOX are already on sale.
But a USB mouse I consider necessary if we want CPC has become as comfortable as 16bit computers. To start programs without touching keyboard, like in Amiga, not as PC from 80's. And i think better plug in the expansion port than the joy port. Then there is no problem with the amount of buttons or rollers. And in the future there could be connected game pads, internet, or whatever you wish. :D
I know ROMs that support CF by IDE already exist, and driver for SD card must be written. But that would be a better solution, more modern and SD card are easier to buy. :)
How hard it can be? ;)
What you think about it?
Quote from: ZbyniuR on 16:06, 28 September 14
I would prefer something in this shape. It would be more neat.
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QeEtSLFX2Vw/VB80zrGZczI/AAAAAAAAADY/_kYBDn1d0n8/s1600/speccy.jpg (http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QeEtSLFX2Vw/VB80zrGZczI/AAAAAAAAADY/_kYBDn1d0n8/s1600/speccy.jpg)
<snip>
How hard it can be? ;)
What you think about it?
Well I'd certainly vote mother 4x and with mouse, sd-ide and rtc. Then, with an x-mem, you would have full symbiface2 features supported with the added bonus of custom firmware in the x-mem. Hopefully all new expansions will be mother4x format, this gets Rid of all issues with insufficient power to the expansions port as a single 5v can be provided, and the board mounts expansions vertically, so in minimal space, with a reset button. @TotO has made a fantastic board and excellent design. It will hopefully become the defacto standard for Cpc hardware resulting in neat and tidy expansions to all our machines.
What ever you hardware guys out there are doing, please try to stay compatible to alredy existing products.
Standards are golden! To have shit-tons of different solutions like on the PC side would help nobody. :)
+1 for X4 type.
+2 for Mother X4
And +9 for staying software compatible. [nb](SF2 or Jareks 8255 IDE. The latter one it the most quick way of reading data anyway. Or anything else already existing)[/nb] :)
Quote from: TFM on 20:19, 29 September 14
+2 for Mother X4
And +9 for staying software compatible. [nb](SF2 or Jareks 8255 IDE. The latter one it the most quick way of reading data anyway. Or anything else already existing)[/nb] :)
hey TFM, where (or when) can I get the futureos symbiface ide rom, I now have futureos on my symbiface and being unable to use the mass storage seems kinda wasteful.
Quote from: CraigsBar on 21:19, 29 September 14
hey TFM, where (or when) can I get the futureos symbiface ide rom, I now have futureos on my symbiface and being unable to use the mass storage seems kinda wasteful.
Oh well, I must admit this project got delayed through CyberChicken, ROManager and other stuff that I had to do. But let me finish up the MacDeath edition of FutureOS, then add a configuration utility to the autoinstaller disc. And very soon I will have the possibility go get back to the IDE ROM. :)
Quote from: TFM on 19:46, 30 September 14
Oh well, I must admit this project got delayed through CyberChicken, ROManager and other stuff that I had to do. But let me finish up the MacDeath edition of FutureOS, then add a configuration utility to the autoinstaller disc. And very soon I will have the possibility go get back to the IDE ROM. :)
Yay... Strangely I am starting to like FutureOS, It seems I was a little critical initially but once you start navigating around it's not a bad piece of work. Symbos is still prettier and more instantly pickupable, But FutureOS has something of the 8bit charm to it. If only it hid drive icons that are not actually available, thus shrinking the real estate at the top of the screen. I might even be tempted to register a copy to get my name in lights LOL
Craig
Quote from: CraigsBar on 22:33, 30 September 14
...If only it hid drive icons that are not actually available, thus shrinking the real estate at the top of the screen....
Of course this can be done. In the personal version I ask for Spartan Mode. If Spartan Mode is on, then only actually usable icons are displayed.
Let me attach ROM files with active Spartan mode (please put at ROM slots 10-13, it's configurated for 2 drives).
But to see how it looks with the PD version, you can use the ConfigOS utility and switch Sparten Mode to ON.
Examples how it looks like are here:
Wallpaper - CPCWiki (http://cpcwiki.eu/index.php/Wallpaper)
Sorry for hijacking the thread but I promise to take a look at CampactFlash too. :)
Quote from: CraigsBar on 22:33, 30 September 14But FutureOS has something of the 8bit charm to it.
That is a very good description, hehehe.
It's not better, neither worst that the amazing Symbos, it's different and has its own charm and everybody should try it and i promise, FutureOS will surprise you.
And the best thing is the support by TFM, if you have any suggestion for improving it or saying to him "Great Work!", do it! :) You will make him very happy and he always answer back.
If you only read his posts, sometimes he can look a very strict person, but in reality is the completely opposite (in my second email he invited me to the Oktoberfest and i will use that card one day :P ), a really fun guy and very passionated by the CPC and always trying to help in every CPC thing he can.
My friend, you are GREAT, never change! ;)
I'am sooo jealous.
Interface IDE FOR ZX Spectrum 2A 2B 3 Roms | eBay (http://www.ebay.pl/itm/131346410530?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649)
Don't be jealous... X-MASS is incomming. ;D
Quote from: ZbyniuR on 20:12, 20 November 14
I'am sooo jealous.
Interface IDE FOR ZX Spectrum 2A 2B 3 Roms | eBay (http://www.ebay.pl/itm/131346410530?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649)
Why? Zetro (member here) designed that and sells them too, just buy yourself one directly from him (for less).
Bryce.
Is it working whole old software from this?
Is it starting automatic GUI after reset?
Quote from: ZbyniuR on 01:50, 21 November 14
Is it working whole old software from this?
Is it starting automatic GUI after reset?
As far as I can remember, the new Firmware supports it fully from boot. I have one here, but I haven't used it since I installed my DivIDE2K11.
Bryce.
DivIDE for CPC? - I think we misunderstand each other. When I said I'm jealous, I was meant, I want something like this, but for CPC. :)
Improve me if I wrong, cause maybe I miss something, but as I know IDE for CPC working with CP/M, SymbOS and FutureOS, but with Amsdos aplication not so good. Especially can't start program from DSK files on partition. :(
The appearance and operation of Sym and FOS are impressive, and with all due respect for skill and effort of their creators, without compatibility with Amsdosem, usefulness of these systems for average user who longs for old days is close to zero. Curiosity makes him to start it maybe once, for one hour, thats it. But will not use this whenever Amstrad turn on, how to do owners of DivIDE and Spectrum. Because for this is needed compatibility and some simple GUI with a list of files. A magnified and movable windows and multitasking is superfluous. Ideally would be if ROM supports partition, boot starter program which allows you to run any game, demo, utility, music, and view pictures, texts and anim files by mouse without touching keyboard.
For Speccy latest DivMMC uses SD cards, and we patiently wait. :)
I feel jealous to C64 users too, because this: ;)
C64 Nuvie-Videos (103 -2 .reu files) - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Htx6-FF-5Cw)
Something like that? ;D
X-MASS, an IDE Flash Drive for Xmas? - Cent Pour Cent (http://www.centpourcent.net/qwerty/x-mass-an-ide-flash-drive-for-xmas)
If I could put 50 likes on that I would! :)
Bryce.
Quote from: TotO on 09:00, 22 November 14
Something like that? ;D
X-MASS, an IDE Flash Drive for Xmas? - Cent Pour Cent (http://www.centpourcent.net/qwerty/x-mass-an-ide-flash-drive-for-xmas)
:) :) :)
When does MASS production start? :P
Quote from: ZbyniuR on 01:33, 22 November 14
but as I know IDE for CPC working with CP/M, SymbOS and FutureOS, but with Amsdos aplication not so good.
It's only working with SymbOS and Amsdos till this day.
What is missing is FAT support for Amsdos, which is hopefully available in the next monthes.
Wow, TotO that is some Christmas gift to the community. You will let us know when the pre/order is open right?
Sure, I will let you know... It's the idea, no? ;D
But, we have some works and tests to achieve before. Stay tuned.
;) ;) ;) Thanks TotO !
OK As is typical with these things a set of Questions have arisen (And that is just from me!!)
Looking at the picture, is that a 44pin IDE connector?
In which case will all devices and sizes be supported?
I mean rather than the supplied 128mb drive could a 44pin IDE to SDcard device be used, thus allowing upto 64 gig drive space to be available for much less than an official 64gig 44 pin flash drive?
Is this card Symbos Compatible as a simple and available IDE controller?
Many thanks
Craig
Amazing...
Very impressed...
hope it will work on amsdos :)
Quote from: jbaudrand on 14:00, 22 November 14
Amazing...
Very impressed...
hope it will work on amsdos :)
I am guessing (Only guessing mind) that AmsDOS support will be provided with the FW 3.XX expansion rom. At least Ideally it will be ;)
Quote from: CraigsBar on 13:49, 22 November 14
Looking at the picture, is that a 44pin IDE connector?
Flash drive specs attached
So it seems that the Flash drive can be removed and replaced with other (external) IDE devices?
Yes, the connector is 2" 44-pin IDE.
Yes, the flash drive can be removed from the connector.
Yes, you can plug a bigger capacity flash drive.
No, you can't use an external harddrive because the CPC can't power it. It's not a steam machine. :)
No, you can't use 64GB storage, because the CPC can't manage it itself. (formating... 74 days left)
The idea is to make the CPC autonomous and use good sized capacities... We have not added 2GB RAM? ;D
you can be sure that 128MB is huge for this 4MHz computer. It's the equivalent of 368 DATA floppies...
It's far more reliable than an USB pen or a SD Card for your critical data.
Quote from: TotO on 15:24, 22 November 14
No, you can't use 64GB storage, because the CPC can't manage it itself. (formating... 74 days left)
It take some days :)
Quote from: TotO on 15:24, 22 November 14
No, you can't use 64GB storage, because the CPC can't manage it itself. (formating... 74 days left)
Is time the only factor here? Would we not say have a 16gb image with the entire CPC catalogue on it. WHis could be written to an SD card on a PC or Mac and then used in the CPC via this adaptor in a similar way that we use the HxC today.. Only faster and better because it has Amsdos access to the FS and MORE games (The whole catalogue and not just 15 slots) LOL.
Imagine a CPC Games CD release that you can actually copy the games to a SD card and run on a real CPC.... Sweetness of the highest order.
Quote from: TotO on 15:24, 22 November 14
The idea is to make the CPC autonomous and use good sized capacities... We have not added 2GB RAM? ;D
you can be sure that 128MB is huge for this 4MHz computer. It's the equivalent of 368 DATA floppies...
I *really* appreciate this way of designing extensions. From now on, 6128 means: 128 MB of storage! :)
Quote from: CraigsBar on 16:18, 22 November 14
Is time the only factor here? Would we not say have a 16gb image with the entire CPC catalogue on it. WHis could be written to an SD card on a PC or Mac and then used in the CPC via this adaptor in a similar way that we use the HxC today.. Only faster and better because it has Amsdos access to the FS and MORE games (The whole catalogue and not just 15 slots) LOL.
You can use the HxC for that... ;D
Here, is absolutly not the device usage... It's a SSD for working, not a 65536-IN-1 game card.
64GB, is more than I use on my MacBook everydays. :-\
Quote from: CraigsBar on 16:18, 22 November 14Imagine a CPC Games CD release that you can actually copy the games to a SD card and run on a real CPC.... Sweetness of the highest order.
But the CPC Games CD (http://cpcgamescd.amstrad.es/) is only 370 MBs of CPC games in files, including Bionic Command and other favourite speccy ports, jejeje.
Quote from: SyX on 16:57, 22 November 14
But the CPC Games CD (http://cpcgamescd.amstrad.es/) is only 370 MBs of CPC games in files, including Bionic Command and other favourite speccy ports, jejeje.
Which would leave plenty of space for apps/games and system files for Symbos and Future OS.
Allowing the use of a larger flash device seems logical, especially with Prodatron and TFM working on 2 very good replacement OS options for the CPC/Plus range of computers (OK, and MSX PCW Enterprise for Symbos)
Quote from: TotO on 15:24, 22 November 14
No, you can't use an external harddrive because the CPC can't power it. It's not a steam machine. :)
Would powering external (non-mechanical) devices still a problem, if the optional power supply is connected to the MotherX4?
Quote from: TotO on 15:24, 22 November 14
No, you can't use 64GB storage, because the CPC can't manage it itself. (formating... 74 days left)
;D At least there is a 16GB version of the flash drive behind the link Poliander posted, and so my plan would be to connect it first to a PC, format and fill it with data and then use it in the X-MASS card.
It's always nice to have some additional storage for some non-classic CPC stuff like videos (the VID files for SymbOS are already larger than 128MB), large sound and picture collections and maybe at one day in the future MP3s like on the MSX, and so I am very glad, that the X-MASS can be expanded!
And sometimes it's fun to show off with such a display on your 8bit:
[attach=2]
:D
Peoples buids boards, and users does what they wants with...
If you can enjoy it using xxGB drive for SymbOS, it's not a problem at all.
Just, that you should reach the maximum FAT files entries before filling more than few GB of files. ;)
And please, don't plug drives that require more than 2A currents on the MotherX4!
Holy. Crap.
Preorders open yet?
You are late Gryzor, all was sold. :laugh:
Time to reconsider suicide then... :(
I'm jocking... It's WIP. :-*
Quote from: Gryzor on 20:18, 22 November 14
Holy. Crap.
Preorders open yet?
Yes, you're number 783 in the list :D
Byrce.
It's ok, I know a guy who knows a guy.
WoW! A lot of posts recently. Please allow me to give my 3 Pfennige...
- 128 MB seems a bit small IMHO, something like 1 GB would be neat. But since the modules can be exchanged it shouldn't be a problem.
- About formatting: It's not a problem, either you do it on a PC or you can do it (with the right software) also on a CPC. Because you DON'T have to write all sectors. It's enough to initialize the DIRectory structure.
- Great motivation to continue work on my IDE ROM. :)
- Thank's to our CPC heroes SyX and TotO for their wonderful ideas! Guys you're awesome!!! :) :) :)
Uups, now it was 4 Pfennige ;-)
Quote from: TFM on 23:18, 24 November 14- Great motivation to continue work on my IDE ROM. :)
Finally dreams (http://compgroups.net/comp.sys.amstrad.8bit/futureos-with-ide-and-fat-next-year/2743987) come true :)
OK, I have tested to made four FAT16 primary partitions on the X-MASS to see if handled.
Look OK as SymbOS run on it w/o problem! ;D
Very cool, that's so great, CONGRATULATION, TotO!!!!! :) :) :)
I am looking forward so much to it!! :)
Very cool indeed. Must have one soon.
Wow, amazing job guys!! 8)
How fast is it compared with floppies?
I have not made benchmark (no tools for that), but it is around 8 times faster if I count with my fingers. ;D
Quote from: TotO on 12:18, 26 November 14
I have not made benchmark (no tools for that), but it is around 8 times faster if I count with my fingers. ;D
You have calibrated fingers!! :o I want them too :)
Bryce.
Sure... The tips is to not use the thumbs. :-\
Quote from: TotO on 12:26, 26 November 14
Sure... The tips is to not use the thumbs. :-\
Use the thumbs! Then it can be 10 times faster :D
Bryce.
Can't wait for preordering being open ;) .
Are these devices compatible ?
http://www.pollin.de/shop/dt/OTAyODkyOTk-/Computer_und_Zubehoer/Hardware/Festplatten_SSD/DiskOnModule_PQI_IDE_128_MB.html
Regarding the price of 95 cent these are nearly cheaper than the 3" disks in the 80s.
That is cheap, the postage will cost more than the drive. :D
When the time comes, I (or someone else in Germany) could do a bulk buy and send them on to TotO to deliver them with the device.
Bryce.
Quote from: steve on 13:59, 26 November 14
That is cheap, the postage will cost more than the drive. :D
In my area of London the cheapest I could get 3 inch discs was from blockbuster video in Sidcup. They were £3.99 each or a box of 5 for £15.99 but were always maxell or amsoft, never cheepy or fake discs.
Yikes!
Quote from: Shining on 13:44, 26 November 14
Can't wait for preordering being open ;) .
Are these devices compatible ?
http://www.pollin.de/shop/dt/OTAyODkyOTk-/Computer_und_Zubehoer/Hardware/Festplatten_SSD/DiskOnModule_PQI_IDE_128_MB.html
Regarding the price of 95 cent these are nearly cheaper than the 3" disks in the 80s.
Quote from: Tai on 12:16, 26 November 14
How fast is it compared with floppies?
It should have the same speed like the SYMBiFACE II, so the maximum speed is about 160KB/s, with filesystem overhead it's about 130KB/s. Maximum speed for floppies is about 20KB/s, but in practice it's slower, so yes, at the end I would say it's about 8-10 times faster than floppy.
Quote from: Shining on 13:44, 26 November 14Are these devices compatible ?
http://www.pollin.de/shop/dt/OTAyODkyOTk-/Computer_und_Zubehoer/Hardware/Festplatten_SSD/DiskOnModule_PQI_IDE_128_MB.html
Sadly, it look to be a 40pin connector and not 44pin... Nothing is printed on the page.
Quote from: Prodatron on 14:52, 26 November 14so yes, at the end I would say it's about 8-10 times faster than floppy.
I may keep my thumbs so... :D
Nice!! It is quite fast ;)
Quote from: TotO on 19:06, 26 November 14
Sadly, it look to be a 40pin connector and not 44pin... Nothing is printed on the page.
Yes, it's a 40pin device with separate socket for power = not suitable.
Bryce-
Some design fix and signals changes for new features on the prototype board. For the first time, the dark side of it shown! ;D
Sure, you don't buy this version when you preorder a board... The full batch goes trashed. :-\
[attachimg=1]
And a second SymbOS screen showing now a 128MB FAT32 partition.
[attachimg=2]
Oh wow, must pre order asap!
I take two! :P :P
+1 for me :laugh:
I predict a busy time for TotO next year.
I predict also an 8xMother :o
Quote from: radu14m on 19:29, 02 December 14
I predict also an 8xMother :o
Na, a bit of 50way ribbon cable and 2 female connectors and you can just stick 2 mother 4 x boards together, not worth designing a new pcb for 8 surely?
As you can see, only 4 boards exist. You don't need more slots. ;D
And... in case... there is a 5th slot at the end of the board. ;)
The 4 boards are now ...i think that more will come :o
the x4mother is already a standard for the cpc.
thanks TotO !!!
Quote from: TFM on 21:22, 02 December 14
And... in case... there is a 5th slot at the end of the board. ;)
Don't forget the MiniBooster expansion slot.
It will allow to plug a mini-PCB over it to handle SPI things...
Would they work with the X-MASS? And would they work with the SF?
Suche nach flash bei reichelt elektronik (http://www.reichelt.de/index.html?&ACTION=446&LA=446&SEARCH=flash&OFFSET=16&SORT=-rank&SHOW=1&KIND=Solr)
EDIT: Actually... gosh! This interface deletes the other link...
" (http://www.reichelt.de/DELOCK-54149/3/index.html?&ACTION=3&LA=446&ARTICLE=126093&artnr=DELOCK+54149&SEARCH=flash");
No... Canon, Nikon and Pentax flash don't work with it. :laugh:
Well, if you can give some hints which work, that would be great. Because I think I should add one of these nice devices to my SF2 too. :)
A CF adapter should work, at least with some CF cards (I checked with TotO).
So a WiFi card for the minibooster...
Perhaps an RTC + mouse card? Maybe the minibooster could also handle RTC, I bet there are SPI RTC chips (or maybe get network time)?
A multiface replica in MX4 format? I guess the multiface is almost already in MX4 format...
Well, the SF2 will not fit on an MX4 card, it needs too much different ICs. Also the RTC has a defined size. But X-MASS and X-MEM give you most of the SF2 functionality.
Quote from: TFM on 00:37, 08 December 14
Well, the SF2 will not fit on an MX4 card, it needs too much different ICs. Also the RTC has a defined size. But X-MASS and X-MEM give you most of the SF2 functionality.
Well indeed. Except the rtc and decent hi res mouse. I too would love an m4x card with these 2 features.
Quote from: Munchausen on 04:00, 06 December 14Perhaps an RTC + mouse card? Maybe the minibooster could also handle RTC, I bet there are SPI RTC chips (or maybe get network time)?
Exactly. A little board to plug over the MiniBooster will offer at less RTC + mouse features.
It's why all the ICs are soldered and not socketed ; To stay thin and allow to plug over its EXT/CLK connectors a flipped board that will use 4MHz SPI.
Quote from: TotO on 09:24, 08 December 14
Exactly. A little board to plug over the MiniBooster will offer at less RTC + mouse features.
It's why all the ICs are soldered and not socketed ; To stay thin and allow to plug over its EXT/CLK connectors a flipped board that will use 4MHz SPI.
After the x-mass, this will be my next board purchase. The symbiface will then have some serious competition.
When are you starting the prototyping? [emoji6]
Quote from: TotO on 09:24, 08 December 14
Exactly. A little board to plug over the MiniBooster will offer at less RTC + mouse features.
It's why all the ICs are soldered and not socketed ; To stay thin and allow to plug over its EXT/CLK connectors a flipped board that will use 4MHz SPI.
Quote from: radu14m on 21:24, 02 December 14
The 4 boards are now ...i think that more will come :o
Yeah, I'm working on a new board myself, and TotO comes along and fills up the fourth slot! Bah!
Quote from: CraigsBar on 10:13, 08 December 14When are you starting the prototyping? (https://s3.amazonaws.com/tapatalk-emoji/emoji6.png)
Prototyping started 1 year ago with the MiniBooster. But the priority had changed with the X-MEM.
Quote from: pelrun on 10:27, 08 December 14Yeah, I'm working on a new board myself, and TotO comes along and fills up the fourth slot! Bah!
Sorry guy! ;D
I have done the best to include ROM and RAM into the same X-MEM board to already save one slot! :D
(the same with the MiniBooster EXT port)
Quote from: pelrun on 10:27, 08 December 14
Yeah, I'm working on a new board myself, and TotO comes along and fills up the fourth slot! Bah!
8 slots board ? Pictures ? :o
It's great if third-party boards are comming and seeing MotherX4 a standard, with more than 100pcs dispatched!
Please, just respect the MX4 form factor for your expansions... And the low prices. It's for the community. 8)
I have planned 4 boards along with the MotherX4 project:
- MiniBooster and EXT board
- PlayCity 6ch AY + Counter/Timer interruptions handling
- X-MEM RAM/ROM memory
- X-MASS flash mass-storage
The passthrough connector for extra, like 464 DDI-1 or previous expansions.
If peoples really need to use more than 4 boards at the same time, they should use two MotherX4 and must use a power supply.
But understand that is not recommanded to plug a so long bus on the CPC expansion slot.
Like on PC, better to chose with care witch expansions will fill the motherboard. ;)
Quote from: TFM on 00:37, 08 December 14
Well, the SF2 will not fit on an MX4 card, it needs too much different ICs. Also the RTC has a defined size. But X-MASS and X-MEM give you most of the SF2 functionality.
Yes I mean that:
X-MASS can have CF cards probably.
X-MEM has the RAM/ROM.
A 3rd card with RTC and mouse MX4 card would cover all the features of the symbiface.
This could be added as a mini add on board on the minibooster (though also looks like there will be wifi going on to that connector).
And once you the. Add a play city you need a 2nd m4x
Well, an card with SF2 compatible RTC and mouse would be really nice indeed. The SF2 provides a plug for the outdated PS/2 mice. Maybe it's possible to use USB instead.
An even more unlikely idea is this: Using the Minibooster Bluetooth port connecting an wireless Mouse. :)
Just throwing out my ideas. I know it would take huge amounts of work to realize it. ;)
The Operating System goal is to support hardwares, not the hardwares to support the OS.
X-MASS is compatible because it was easy to do, but about the plug-in card that will add Mouse and RTC to the MiniBooster, it will be not the case.
Great if SymbOS will support MiniBooster features! ;)
Quote from: CraigsBar on 15:43, 08 December 14
And once you the. Add a play city you need a 2nd m4x
Except if the Mouse/RTC card is plugged over the MiniBooster.
Quote from: TotO on 19:27, 08 December 14
The Operating System goal is to support hardwares, not the hardwares to support the OS.
I accept your opinion of course. My opinion is that too much new "standards" will give us the same problems to be seen in the PC world (every expansion needs own drivers!!!). IMHO new hardware should be compatible to old hardware if possible. If it can't be, then not. :)
You have to talk to Prodatron for Minibooster support, I'm sure he is eager to help. But IIRC then Symbos already supports couple things.
Quote from: TFM on 18:12, 08 December 14
An even more unlikely idea is this: Using the Minibooster Bluetooth port connecting an wireless Mouse. :)
This would be cool but is impossible I think. The minibooster bluetooth will only send serial, it can't talk the bluetooth human interface device standard used by mice. You could have something attached to a mouse that converts it to serial and then add a bluetooth serial module to that... but it's a bit complicated!
Quote from: TFM on 19:35, 08 December 14I accept your opinion of course. My opinion is that too much new "standards" will give us the same problems to be seen in the PC world (every expansion needs own drivers!!!). IMHO new hardware should be compatible to old hardware if possible. If it can't be, then not. :)
You have to talk to Prodatron for Minibooster support, I'm sure he is eager to help. But IIRC then Symbos already supports couple things.
Exactly. It's why X-MASS was designed to be IDE interfaced and use the same ports as SymbOS. But, I was not able to put RTC on it...
Not enough space to add the compatible IC and the lithium battery. (I made it compatible on the developement board only)
Mouse and RTC have their place on a serial add-on and will be cheapest than building a dedicated expansion and will allow more stuffs.
I'm sure that SymbOS will be able to support them without problem ; As easy the PlayCity player was added! ;D
Me too now prodatron is back into active development. We need to get futureos support (and a cyber chicken patch) too
What do you want for CyberChicken?
Quote from: TotO on 20:22, 08 December 14
Exactly. It's why X-MASS was designed to be IDE interfaced and use the same ports as SymbOS. But, I was not able to put RTC on it...
Not enough space to add the compatible IC and the lithium battery. (I made it compatible on the developement board only)
Mouse and RTC have their place on a serial add-on and will be cheapest than building a dedicated expansion and will allow more stuffs.
I'm sure that SymbOS will be able to support them without problem ; As easy the PlayCity player was added! ;D
I am very glad that the X-MASS interface is fully SymbOS/BonnyDOS compatible, thanks a lot for keeping this SF2 standard, TotO!! Mouse and RTC will be great to have, too, but the X-MEM and the X-MASS were the most important expansions for me. And yes, I would look forward to support another type of proportional mouse for the CPC. After 5 different proportional mouse drivers for Z80 systems it shouldn't be a problem to add another one! :)
PS: Cool, this is my 256 post here ;D
Is SymbOS allow to read/write the BDOS partitions?
No, BonnyDOS istn't FAT or Amsdos like, it introduced an own filesystem back in these days.
OK. Thank you.
Quote from: Prodatron on 22:51, 08 December 14
PS: Cool, this is my 256 post here ;D
And I make your 200 Likes full. :P
Quote from: TFM on 22:37, 08 December 14
What do you want for CyberChicken?
Support for the new minibooster based mouse when TotO starts selling it [emoji6]
Again I have to admit, that I am really glad, that TotO designed the X-MASS in a way, that it's SF2 compatible. Have a look:
[attachimg=1]
These are all MSX mass storage interfaces I am owning now:
- one SCSI interface (Club Gouda; there are other different ones available)
- two different IDE interfaces (Sunrise + Beer)
- three different SD/MMC card interfaces (MegaSD + PadialSD + clone of a korean interface)
They all require own drivers, as they are all different. On the MSX this doesn't matter: Every expansion card usually includes a ROM which automatically adds the driver, which is required for the device, to MSX-BIOS/MSX-DOS. 99% of the software is fine with this. But it's a hard job to support all these devices, if you don't use MSX-BIOS ???
So as TFM said some posts ago, it's really good to try to keep hardware compatible :)
Kudos for supporting them in SymbOS. After a while it must get really boring with supporting the x-th different mass storage solution (even if they all use FAT). I guess you can keep drivers relatively short. But I'm really glad, that on CPC side the situation is better.
Quote from: TFM on 17:17, 09 December 14
Kudos for supporting them in SymbOS. After a while it must get really boring with supporting the x-th different mass storage solution (even if they all use FAT). I guess you can keep drivers relatively short. But I'm really glad, that on CPC side the situation is better.
Yes, the drivers contain not much more than sector read/write and media detect/init routines. For each device this is always around 500 lines of Z80 code. I totally agree, it's boring and annoying a lot!... But after finishing another one, again 30 additional people are happy as well :D
And the good thing is with computers... You have to do it only once! [nb]As long as you don't have a power outrage just before you save your source. :o [/nb]
The MSX look to have more expansion boards than users. :laugh:
The problem... They want all to build their own devices that are never compatible to be sure to be not a copy... or copied.
At end, you have to do X time the job for them... ;D
Exactly! But I guess they have a lot of users.
Sure, they have. I was just jocking about that. :P
Well, I'm sticking with the CPC, my spare-time is so scarce that I don't even have the time to care about other Z80 computers - shame on me. SyX once told me that in Brazil they have a lot of MSX. But I got no idea actually. :laugh:
However... let me get a bit more back to topic...
Can the X-MASS also be ordered with bigger DOM modules? One GB would sound nice to me ;)
But for sure it's a cool thing to have a few 128 MB types at hand, so one can travel to a meeting with such a DOM and having all important stuff in the pocket. :)
Quote from: TFM on 22:48, 09 December 14Well, I'm sticking with the CPC, my spare-time is so scarce that I don't even have the time to care about other Z80 computers - shame on me. SyX once told me that in Brazil they have a lot of MSX. But I got no idea actually. :laugh:
SyX told me that in Brazil they have one CPC. ;D
Quote from: TFM on 22:48, 09 December 14However... let me get a bit more back to topic... Can the X-MASS also be ordered with bigger DOM modules? One GB would sound nice to me ;)
But for sure it's a cool thing to have a few 128 MB types at hand, so one can travel to a meeting with such a DOM and having all important stuff in the pocket. :)
No, the X-MASS will come by default with a huge[nb]Around 360 DATA formated floppy discs in your pocket[/nb] 128MB SLC IDE Flash Drive.
But, the future is not closed as each peoples had its own usage.
Yes, I understood. :) Just asking of bigger drive modules are available?
Yes, but I have to made tests to be sure about the compatibility before speaking about them.
I have to test some 44-pin IDE to CF, SD, SATA adapters for fun too. :laugh:
To finish about that, understand that an industrial SLC flash drive is more secure for storing your data than a poor phone sd card.
I don't want to reach the biggest capacity, because it's not an exchange media. It's a mass storage for storing precious data.
Don't confuse it with the HxC for example... X-MASS was first made for CPC developers. 128MB is more that I bought and never fill with my A1200, 20 years ago.
Security is important. I could imagine that it could become a exchange media one day though. The HxC is limited to disc sizes, and so people will really appreciate the X-MEM features. :)
About exchange media, not late than yesterday I have copied 4GB data on a 8GB Microsoft USB pen.
Back at home, I put it on my computer and... I got a message like "Unformated disk. Do you want to initialize it?"...
Great! :-X
I hate when that happens. I've had USB sticks fail on me several times, but I've only ever had one SD card die on me and that was my own fault because I put it in my pocket and it got bent.
I still prefer your compact flash solution though, especially as you've managed to keep the size down to the MX4 format!
Bryce.
Quote from: Bryce on 11:00, 11 December 14I still prefer your compact flash solution though, especially as you've managed to keep the size down to the MX4 format!
Yes, it was a requirement. Working with some limitations help to improve its own design.
Quote from: TotO on 11:36, 11 December 14
Yes, it was a requirement. Working with some limitations help to improve its own design.
Ooh, I like to look of this.
http://pages.ebay.com/link/?nav=item.view&id=351238872285&alt=web
Quote from: TotO on 10:55, 11 December 14
About exchange media, not late than yesterday I have copied 4GB data on a 8GB Microsoft USB pen.
Back at home, I put it on my computer and... I got a message like "Unformated disk. Do you want to initialize it?"...
Great! :-X
Thank's god that sh*t wont happen on CPC[nb]usually[/nb]
Quote from: CraigsBar on 12:49, 11 December 14
Ooh, I like to look of this.
http://pages.ebay.com/link/?nav=item.view&id=351238872285&alt=web (http://pages.ebay.com/link/?nav=item.view&id=351238872285&alt=web)
Could this be used for X-MEM?
May be, may be not. I have not tested it. (look to use cheap MLC flash IC)
Here the final version picture! ;D
[attach=2]
Quote from: TotO on 20:44, 13 December 14
Here the final version picture! ;D
[attach=2]
Oh Now that looks pretty :)
as well as pretty damn powerful ;)
The X-MASS discution should continue here: X-MASS, a mass-storage expansion for all CPC. (http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/news-events/x-mass-a-mass-storage-expansion-for-all-cpc/msg91048/#msg91048)
SD-cards very rarely fail at hardware level I think. Whereas USB sticks - ugh, they get worse and worse with years. I still have 512MB no-name giveaways from ten years back working just fin, whereas I've had three branded one failing on me during the past few months (I use quite a few, mostly to get my mom her favourite TV shows : D). However, data on SD cards doesn't appear to be so safe and it working status is very sensitive according to the device they get used with...
(heh, as a matter of fact the only SD that has died on me completely was my expensive Eye-Fi one I use in my camera. Shit).
Should I lock the thread?
Maybe we can start a discussion here about the life time of mass storage types :D
Personally I never lost data on a CF card, SD card (doesn't matter if normal, mini or micro size), Memory Stick (Sony) or USB stick. The only data lost I ever had were 3,5" discs and DVD discs. Never had problems with any other storages and I used some quite hard...