Splitter & fixer & Kempston joystick interface
I'm thinking of developing a small interface that combines these three elements:
1. A splitter like the Currah microslot
2. An edge-fixer for +2 models that can be enabled or disabled
3. A Kempston joystick interface
The problem with deciding is that the Kempston joystick with a through port may be one of the only interfaces that is really needed these days: DivIDE owners may be in need of one, as the DivIDE does not have a through-port.
Many or most Kempston joystick interfaces do not have a through port.
Also the DivIDE has it's own compatibility-jumpers for all ZX Spectrum models, so a fixer is not needed for that.
Another problem is that it's hard to place a 9-pin d-sub connector anywhere on a splitter-interface.
I'm not sure it's possible, but I'm thinking very hard for a solution.
So the question is: is there any need for a splitter of fixer these days?
I have 3 that I use from time to time, but only for hardware development, I never used them for something else.
The alternative may be a very small (about 3x3 cm or 1x1 inch) pcb that can be mounted on top of a DivIDE with the parts for a Kempston joystick interface. This must be possible.
I think many DivIDE users may want one.
1. A splitter like the Currah microslot
2. An edge-fixer for +2 models that can be enabled or disabled
3. A Kempston joystick interface
The problem with deciding is that the Kempston joystick with a through port may be one of the only interfaces that is really needed these days: DivIDE owners may be in need of one, as the DivIDE does not have a through-port.
Many or most Kempston joystick interfaces do not have a through port.
Also the DivIDE has it's own compatibility-jumpers for all ZX Spectrum models, so a fixer is not needed for that.
Another problem is that it's hard to place a 9-pin d-sub connector anywhere on a splitter-interface.
I'm not sure it's possible, but I'm thinking very hard for a solution.
So the question is: is there any need for a splitter of fixer these days?
I have 3 that I use from time to time, but only for hardware development, I never used them for something else.
The alternative may be a very small (about 3x3 cm or 1x1 inch) pcb that can be mounted on top of a DivIDE with the parts for a Kempston joystick interface. This must be possible.
I think many DivIDE users may want one.
Post edited by bverstee on
Comments
In my esperience it is hard to get a Kempston interface to work properly with a DivIDE+ plugged in. If it works in FATware, it usually either prevents ResiDOS from starting, or behaves erratically when the game is loaded. In addition to this, due to some sort of clash it can kill the Z80 and the DivIDE unit.
Velesoft has been working on a bus protector to resolve this issue.
Strange though why there would be hardware conflicts.
I wonder if this could also be the case with a normal DivIDE interface.
Anyway, I modded an old (dk'tronics) joystick interface so it has a through port, but I do not have many of those suitable interfaces at home.
http://velesoft.speccy.cz/kmturbo2006-cz.htm
[img][/img]
Some kempston interfaces use uncomplette port adressation and ignore signal /RD on ZX bus. This device is unusable on DIVIDE PLUS with RESIDOS. Any other systems on DIVIDE PLUS can be used with any kempston joystick interface only is system will use first 32kB of DIVIDE PLUS ram and ROM page 1. Yes, exist free flash utility for rewtite original firmware selector with my BIOS with bootable menu + firmware selector. This BIOS not use access to DIVIDE PLUS extra memory and all systems install to mapram mode.
With my BIOS is possible install on DIVIDE PLUS systems for original divide only, but joystick work always correct !!! (warning: before rewriting original FIRMWARE SELECTOR is better use ROM backup to tap file on CF/HDD for possibility return rom to original state)
info about free flasher:
http://www.worldofspectrum.org/forums/showpost.php?p=491673&postcount=12
Original kempston interfaces disable using extra memory on DIVIDE PLUS then can't work RESIDOS and all other DIVIDE systems placed in virtual divide 1-15. Only virtual divide 0 is usable after power-on/reset. But exist way for remove this problem (data collision between JOY and DIVIDE PLUS:
http://www.worldofspectrum.org/forums/showthread.php?t=31925
If someone wants a complete set, he also has to buy a K-Mouse Turbo: it's the best solution (allthough not the cheapest).
What I would like to see though is a converter for the +3's edge connector to allow you to plug in perpherals such as a ZX printer (as the signals on +2A/+3 models are different when compared to the older Sinclair machines).
First PCB(first 6 prototypes) for my ZX-BUS-PROTECTOR are ready for soldering. My last version of ZX BUS PROTECTOR contain also ROMSC/ROMOE patch for possibility connect original interfaces with external memory to ZX128+2A/+2B/+3. Only 9V and -5V absent on +2A system bus (this need hardware patch in ZX128+2A/+2B/+3 computer.... )
Can be used only PBC + CPLD + KEMPSTON connector + resistors/condensators. PIC, USB or PS/2 connector, video connector, reset button and some resistors can be unused. Then K-MOUSE interface will work as easy version for connection JOYSTICK or real AMIGA MOUSE (work as K-MOUSE). CPLD firmware can be modified for 100% compatibility with original kempston (accept only IORQ=0 and A5=0). K-MOUSE are connect to data bus via resistors, then don't collide with DIVIDE PLUS and RESIDOS.
VELESOFT
Let us know when you are accepting orders... I can do PayPal :)
I will sell all in one package ideally. Price will very low. Actually I need solder first PCB and test it on real hardware.