Using a tape-image on a real CPC

This article originally came from Kevin Thackers' archive at http://www.cpctech.org.uk.

Introduction

A tape image is a file to be used with Amstrad CPC emulators. Most files have the file extension ".cdt", but some may also have the file extension ".tzx". The file format is defined using the "TZX" file specification. The file format describes the audio signal from a real Amstrad CPC cassette in a more compact form.

A tape image can be used on a real CPC if it is converted back into a audio signal.

(The "playtzx" command-line utility can be used to convert a tape-image back into a audio file. -Converting a tape-image into a audio file).

The method to load this audio signal into the CPC then varies depending on the model of CPC you have.

CPC6128+:

• This computer does not have a cassette connector
• This computer does not have a internal cassette recorder/player.

You must modify this machine if you want to use cassette software, then see the options available for the CPC664 and CPC6128 systems.

CPC464 and CPC464+:

• This computer does not have a cassette connector,
• This computer has a internal cassette player/recorder.

To use cassette software you must transfer the program to a real audio cassette.

CPC664, CPC6128 and KC Compact:

• This computer has a cassette connector.
• This computer does not have a internal cassette recorder/player

To use cassette software you must have a lead (5-pin DIN plug to 3 x 3.5mm plug) to connect the computer to a cassette player or the sound card of your PC or Mac.

Loading using a cassette lead connected to a sound card

If you have a CPC664, CPC6128 or KC compact you can follow these steps:

1. Connect the CPC computer direct to the sound card of your PC/Mac computer:
   • The 5-pin DIN plug connects to the CPC cassette connector,
   • the 3.5mm data-in plug is connected to the line-out connector of your sound card,
2. Start the CPC computer and type the commands to load from cassette, (Loading cassette software on a emulator)
3. Start the sample playing
4. Wait for the CPC to load the program

Loading using a cassette player (internal or connected to the CPC using a cassette lead)

If you have a CPC464 and CPC464+ or a CPC664, CPC6128 or KC Compact with a cassette lead you can follow these steps:

1. Record the sound onto a audio cassette
2. Start the CPC computer and type the commands to load from the cassette, (Loading cassette software on a emulator)

Recording the sound onto a audio cassette:

1. Connect a cassette recorder to the sound card of your PC/Mac computer:
   • Using a 3.5mm plug to 3.5mm plug lead, connect the line-out of the sound card to the line-in of the cassette recorder.
2. Press record and play on the cassette recorder,
3. Start the sample playing program,
4. Wait for the whole sound to be played.
5. Stop the cassette. The sound should be recorded onto the cassette.