1993 by GEnie =================================== File name: Category 4 - hardware This file is brought to you by is brought to you by The Commodore 64/128 RoundTable on GEnie For more information call by modem: 1-800-638-8369 (8-N-1 300/1200/2400) Enter: HHH Then reply: xtx99018,commrt Then enter: Commodore - and Enjoy! Place a formatted disk with at least 350 free blocks into any drive ==================================== 3 C=128 VIDEO RAM UPGRADE 7 Demise of Xetec's Lt. Kernal HD... 9 Animation Station 10 C=128 problems! 11 C64 Hardware Problems 15 Upgrading an REU 16 Xetec Supergraphix Jr. Printer Interfc 17 32 bit 64 and 128 project 18 128D Keyboard replacement 20 Commodore PET computer 21 Proportional Mice such as C=1351 22 RGB monitors 23 1084 problems 24 Sears SR 3000 Monitor 27 SFD-1001 29 Commodore D9060/D9090 Hard Drives 31 Commodore Monitors ************ Topic 3 Wed Mar 10, 1993 T.MCDONALD2 (Forwarded) Sub: C=128 VIDEO RAM UPGRADE Don't know if I'm in the right place, so here goes anyway. :-/ I'm looking for some info on adding extra video ram to my 128. *s 50 message(s) total. ************ ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 1 Wed Mar 10, 1993 T.MCDONALD2 (Forwarded) Has anyone done this upgrade? I'm not looking to make Software Support rich by sending them $50.00. I'm not rich, guys! I only have so much money to spend! I know how to use a soldering iron, and am fearless (insane?) :-) Anyone know where I can get the info I'm looking for? Thanks in advance TOM ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 2 Wed Mar 10, 1993 R.KNOP1 [Rob Knop] (Forwarded) If you know which end of a soldering iron not to put down on your wooden desk, then you probably can do the upgrade yourself for less than ca. $6, probably. Have you ever opened your 128? If so, you will know the metal "video box" which is in the middle-back of the circuit board. Pry the top off of that box (having removed the one screw from the top first), and on the left (I think it's the left) you will see the long VDC chip and two small RAM chips. These RAM chips are 4164 64 Kbit x 1 chips. (Or maybe 4416 16 Kbit x 4 chips? Don't remember, but the upshos is the same.) Two of them gives you 128 Kbites, or 128/8=16 Kbytes. All you gotta do is, desolder and remove those chips, and solder in two 4464 (I _think_ that's right, get CMD-DOUG or somebody to corroborate my claim on the RAM type) chips in their place. When removing the 4164 (or 4416) chips, since it is unlikely you will ever need to use them again for anything, you can make your life a lot easier by snipping the legs of the chips before hand and then just getting the solder and chip legs out of the holes. Also, before the whole procedure, if your VDC is socketed, it might be wise to pull it out of its socket and put it on some anti-static foam, to keep it away from the heat of the soldering iron. Once all the holes are open, just put the 4464's in their place (making sure to maintain the orientation of the chips!), put your VDC back in, and you should be golden. -Rob ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 3 Wed Mar 10, 1993 L.SCHONDER [Lou] (Forwarded) Rob, you are right about the chip number. Another caution: the PC traces are THIN in that area! Be careful! ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 4 Thu Mar 11, 1993 CBM-MARK (Forwarded) This topic will be moved to the 'Hardware' category shortly ;) Find it in Category #4, topic 32 ``Mark`` ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 5 Thu Mar 11, 1993 HOWIE-CBM (Forwarded) Tom, Rob has covered all the info required. Some time ago I wrote up a description also, and I'll upload it as a file into the Library. You might want to take a look at it too. I'll use the name: videoram.txt. Might give a few more hints. Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 6 Thu Mar 11, 1993 T.MCDONALD2 (Forwarded) Thanks, guys!! you made me berry hoppy (ack) Really, I appreciate your quick response and all your help. I'll see what I can do,(I know enough not to hold the hot end of a soldering iron) ;-D TOM ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 7 Thu Mar 11, 1993 HOWIE-CBM (Forwarded) Tom, I uploaded the file videoram.txt as videoram.sfx, file number 11605. It should be available very soon, once our Sysop in charge of Libraries has had a chance to see that it is okey, which is usually very quickly. :) Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 8 Thu Mar 11, 1993 T.MCDONALD2 (Forwarded) Thanks, I'll be looking for it! BTW, I tried to get chips today, and no one knew what I was talking about! I called Grapevine and the guy said "No we don't!" ((click)) dialtone.... Nice guy!!! :-)( Then I called Briwall. I could swear the guy said "DUH!" when I asked him about the chips... no luck... he said to call Software Hut. I did. They were much more helpfull, but still, no luck. Any ideas where I can get chips? Thanks Tom ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 9 Thu Mar 11, 1993 R.KNOP1 [Rob Knop] (Forwarded) Hmm, once upon a time these were common, I thought, but perhaps nowadays it is nearly impossible to find mere 32 Kbyte DRAMs.... One thing to check is if you have something like an electronics/radio store local to you. Often places like that will stock all sorts of computer chips, and if you are lucky you might find a 4464 RAM. (Not sure if they got those in the one near me, but if so, I could pick a couple up for you. They do have all sorts of neat things like 6502's, Z80A's... :) Finally, Jameco is probably about as likely to have those chips as anyone else. I will check my Jameco catalog tomorrow (it's at work) and get the number for you (as well as find out if they stock the chips). -Rob ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 10 Thu Mar 11, 1993 C128.JBEE (Forwarded) You can get a desoldering iron from Radio Shack for around $12. I would add sockets. Though if you botch the job, adding sockets makes it that much harder to trouble shoot and fix. Using a magnifing glass to inspect your job BEFORE adding chips or sockets is the best bet. ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 11 Thu Mar 11, 1993 F.OGLE [Color 64 BBS] (Forwarded) Yes, the sockets are a GREAT idea! ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 12 Thu Mar 11, 1993 T.MCDONALD2 (Forwarded) Thanks, Rob I looked in a couple of catalogs, no go. I DON'T have the JAMECO. Is that number valid? 4464? Or is there a different number, like a cross- reference or something? If I can't find any, I'll let you know. Oh, and JBEE, I already have all the tools I need, thanks. :-) I've replaced chips before. Oh, what fun!!! :-/ Tom ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 13 Thu Mar 11, 1993 CMD-DOUG (Forwarded) You could also try JDR Micro... I don't have the number handy, but you should be able to get it by calling 1-800-555-1212. Think they're full name is JDR Microdevices... and it seems like they were in MN. Anyway, 4464 should be sufficient as a part number, and these are still quite common parts - we use them in at least one of our products that I know of. ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 14 Thu Mar 11, 1993 CMD-DOUG (Forwarded) I just found a JDR add, and they list two 4464's. Here's the scoop: P/N SIZE SPEED PRICE ---------- ----- ----- ----- TMS4464-12 64Kx4 120ns 3.49 TMS4464-10 64Kx4 100ns 3.95 The phone number is: 1-800-538-5000 (24 hours). They take MC/VISA, shipping is $5.00 ground, $7.50 air. CA residents must add tax. :) I recommend this place to anyone who hacks hardware, as they carry a very large inventory of useful parts, and deliver quickly. Their prices are typically a little high, but they deliver when you can't find what you need elsewhere or for less. And to the best of my knowledge, they have no minimum order. ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 15 Fri Mar 12, 1993 HOWIE-CBM (Forwarded) While it is not supposed to matter, I would err on the safe side and get the 120ns chips. BTW, you will want two of them, and as noted, two matching IC sockets. Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 16 Fri Mar 12, 1993 YLR.ROSE [RTC/Lib] (Forwarded) file 11605, How To Upgrade to 64KRam is now live in the library. :D ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 17 Fri Mar 12, 1993 T.MCDONALD2 (Forwarded) Thanks, Doug. I'll give JDR a call as soon as I can. I still haven't located the chips after calling around. The most helpful was Software Hut. They were supposed to call Commodore and see if they had them, But the technician never called back, and when I called them again, the tech was "out on an errand" and "would call you when he gets back". Never heard from him. Howie, I d/led that file, Videoram.sfx. I was ammused watching it dissolve! :-) I never saw a file dissolve like that! An informative file too. Thank you for all your help. (Now to get some chips!!!! :-/ ) ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 18 Fri Mar 12, 1993 CMD-DOUG (Forwarded) The 'safe' side would be 100ns, since that is faster. However, I think the 120ns are fast enough for this application. But don't just take my word for it - check the chips you currently have installed. They will also have a -xx at the end of the part number indicating their speed. :) ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 19 Fri Mar 12, 1993 A.BURGER [Alex Burger] (Forwarded) I can't remember if Rob mentioned using sockets, but I think it's a good idea to use them. I have two sets of 4464s that never worked properly in my flat C128, so I'm glad I didn't solder them in. :) The chips I have now work perfectly. Alex ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 20 Sat Mar 13, 1993 HOWIE-CBM (Forwarded) Doug, I seem to recall that those who used faster chips (<120ns) ran into some software compatibility probs, whereas those who used the 120ns didn't. It might well have been some other factor, however. Tom, Happy you found the sfx file helpful, and liked the way it dissolved! :) The short program which writes the title screen is here in our Library too. Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 21 Sat Mar 13, 1993 C128.JBEE (Forwarded) Actually it was a mini-debate in TC-128 if faster speed chips increased the speed of the block read and writes with the VDC. I believe the final result was it didn't make much if any of a difference. The speed of the chip is how fast it can be accessed, not how fast it will be accessed. ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 22 Sat Mar 13, 1993 CMD-DOUG (Forwarded) The point JBEE brings up is correct, and a common misconception about the speed rating of chips. It is indeed only rating of how fast it CAN be accessed, and not how fast it will actually operate when plunked into a circuit - the latter is determined by the clock speed of the circuit you put the chip into. It is very unlikely that a faster chip would cause compatibility problems, as often the slower chips are from the same 'mold' as the faster ones, but simply failed to operate reliably at the fast speed during testing. :) ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 23 Sat Mar 13, 1993 A.BURGER [Alex Burger] (Forwarded) The first set of 4464 chips I tried in my C128 were made by NEC, and were 120s. The second set were made by Intel, and they were also 120s. They would work most of the time, but every now and then the screen would get either filled with garbage, or I would loose pixels from characters, both in Dialogue, and in Geos. :( I tried another VDC chip, but nothing changed. I then went to Commodore and purchased two 4464 chips, and they worked perfect! I don't know the make, but if you would like me to check, I'll rip open my C128 and check. :) BTW, Commodore Canada told me AFTER THEY CHARGED ME FOR REPAIR that they don't repair C128's with 64K VDC, unless it's a C128-D. I don't want to go into too much detail, as I usually get worked up about the idiocy of Commodore Canada's technicians, but I have to tell you that I had a 15 minute argument with the techinician that the flat C128 works fine with 64K rams, and he still didn't believe me! Oh well... Maybe this is why Commodore Canada no longer does repair. :) I talked to a very nice person at Commodore in West Chester, and he offered to fix my computer for FREE, if I pay for shipping. :) It must be nice to deal with Commodore in the States... Alex ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 24 Sat Mar 13, 1993 A.PEROTTI (Forwarded) The Jameco information is as follows: JAMECO 1355 Shoreway Road Belmont CA 94002 1800-831-4242 24-hour order hotline 1800-237-6948 FAX 415-592-8097 7am-5pm PST for Tech Assist and Customer Service The catalog I have is about a year old and does not list the 4464. ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 25 Sun Mar 14, 1993 HOWIE-CBM (Forwarded) Alex, The only direct Commodore dealings I've had was with a broken program, and this got fixed very quickly by Fred Bowen. Yup! They are a pretty nice bunch! Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 26 Mon Mar 15, 1993 CBM-MARK (Forwarded) I've had a set of 120ns video chips in my C128 for the past 2+ years with no problems whatsoever. No compatibility problems or messed up display. Maybe I'm lucky? ;) No, don't know what brand they are. ``Mark`` ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 27 Mon Mar 15, 1993 T.MCDONALD2 [TOM] (Forwarded) I called JDR MICRO today. They have the chips and I will get them thursday. What a pleasurable company to deal with!!! :-) The chips are cheap enough that I ordered two of each speed: -12,-10, and -80. I also ordered the sockets. PLUS I'm getting their catalogs. I LOVE CATALOGS!!!! ;-D Thanks, MARK, HOWIE, JBEE, and everyone else for your help! TOM ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 28 Mon Mar 15, 1993 CMD-DOUG (Forwarded) Your Welcome! :) - Everyone Else ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 29 Mon Mar 15, 1993 CBM-MARK (Forwarded) You are Welcome ;) Incidently, Jameco does have the 4464 chips. They list them as a 41464-12 which is suppose to be a replacement for the 120ns 4464's. Their part # is #41582 abd the sell for $2.75 each. ``Mark`` ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 30 Tue Mar 16, 1993 F.OGLE [Color 64 BBS] (Forwarded) Mark, those are the *exact* chips I upgraded my 128 with, and they work fine! ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 31 Tue Mar 16, 1993 CBM-MARK (Forwarded) For all I know I could have used the same chips when I did my upgrade, don't remember what the part # was but got them from JBEE when he was still doing repair work ;) ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 32 Tue Mar 16, 1993 C128.JBEE (Forwarded) I used the cheapest 4464s I could get :D All sorts of different brands. Never really had any problem. Believe I always got 100ns just for the fact that I might decide to use them later for another project. ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 33 Wed Mar 17, 1993 T.MCDONALD2 [TOM] (Forwarded) I ordered two of each of three speeds. -120, 100, and 80. I figured they were cheap enough! I'm gonna try all three, just to satisfy my own curiosity. Yup, I'm gonna use sockets! :-) TOM ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 34 Wed Mar 17, 1993 T.MCDONALD2 [TOM] (Forwarded) Hi all! I got the chips today from JDR MICRO, one day earlier than they said! I just finished installing the chips and tested them out using the test program on the UPGRADES and GOODIES disk that came with MAVERICK 5.0. The result......*PASSED* !!!!! I then tried out a program I had and was pleased to see my efforts were not in vain!! I'm gonna enjoy this! Thank you to all who offered help, suggestions, and tips! It is a pleasure to know there are people on GEnie who will try to help out in any way they can. :-) Thanks again!! Tom ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 35 Wed Mar 17, 1993 CMD-DOUG (Forwarded) Great Tom! :) Seems like it took hardly any time at all from the time you asked until the time you had the parts installed and working! I have to echo your comments... GEnie is the place to find expert advice and help for the Commodore. :) ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 36 Wed Mar 17, 1993 CBM-MARK (Forwarded) And I'll echo Doug's echo ;) GEnie is *the* place ... !! Whatever brand the 4464's you sent me JBEE, they are working great :D ``Mark`` ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 37 Wed Mar 17, 1993 C128.JBEE (Forwarded) :-) ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 38 Thu Mar 18, 1993 HOWIE-CBM (Forwarded) DO: Echo Mark's echo of Doug's echo. LOOP UNTIL this becomes a hopelessly endless LOOP. Then PRINT "Howie" ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 39 Thu Mar 18, 1993 T.MCDONALD2 [TOM] (Forwarded) Uh, guys??? Hmmmmmm...... oh, never mind! Continue your loopiness! ;-) TOM ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 40 Thu Mar 18, 1993 YLR.ROSE [RTC/Lib] (Forwarded) Ditto the LOOP! (Giggle) Hugs ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 41 Thu Mar 18, 1993 T.MCDONALD2 [TOM] (Forwarded) LOL!!! ;-) ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 42 Thu Mar 18, 1993 CMD-DOUG (Forwarded) I'd like to re-echo those echoes of my original echo, thus making this loop totally redundant... er... close anyway. :) ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 43 Thu Mar 18, 1993 CBM-MARK (Forwarded) And I'll re-echo the reecho of those echos of dougs original eeeeeeeeeeeeee eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee...................... Dam! I think I broke the loop! ;D ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 44 Tue Apr 27, 1993 R.NEAZER [Reub] (Forwarded) Does anyone know the telephone no. or address for 'Software Support Int'l'. I am interested in getting the 64k VDC plug-in board for video upgrade... Thanks....... Reub ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 45 Tue Apr 27, 1993 HOWIE-CBM (Forwarded) Reub, Their address is: Software Support International 2700 N.E. Andresen Road, Suite A-10 Vancouver, WA 98661 Tel: (206) 695-1393 or Tel: 1-800-356-1179. Be sure to ask them to send to you their Commodore Catalog while you have them on the line! :) Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 46 Mon May 31, 1993 R.ALBRECHT3 [CommieUser] at 00:30 EDT This may sound dumb but heregoes, What is the benefit of having more Vid ram on the 128? I have a 128D and I think it has the bigger chip but what can you gain with the larger one? Just wondering...I remember about 3 years ago this was a really big topic with Commodore users (wanting to upgrade a 128 with the bigger vid chip) But I never really understood. ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 47 Mon May 31, 1993 R.KNOP1 [Rob Knop] at 01:24 EDT "There are no dumb questions, only dumb answers." --V. Telegdi "There are no dumb answers, only dumb questions." --V. Teledgi These quotes can be found (in two different places) in the notes from a class I took from Dr. Teledgi :). Seriously, though, in this case, the first one applies... never be afriad to ask a question about something if you are unsure, or don't know the answer! Very little is obvious, actually, and one should never feel dumb for not knowing something. Anyway, on to the question: what good is extra video RAM in a 128? A stock flt C128 comes with 16K of VDC (video) RAM. Originally, the VDC (the chip that controls the 128's 80 column screen) was considered a chip to be used primarly for text, and for this, 16K is quite sufficient. Of course, programmers who recognized that a hi-resolution bitmapped graphic capability existed in the chip weren't going to let this capability fester! And, even with 16K, you can do 640x200 bitmapped graphics on the 128's 80 column scren (that's twice what the 40 column screen can do, 320x200). However... a single color full bitmapped screen takes nearly all of the 16K of video RAM available. (Which is why GEOS128 is monochrome only [except for programs like The Landmark Series] in 80 columns.) If you want to do color, you either need to use less than the entire screen, or expand your VDC RAM. Also, with 64K of VDC RAM, whole new worlds open up. You now have the ability to display 640x400 interlaced screens, in full color-- not possible with only 16K RAM. I-Paint uses this, for example, as does Lace II from the Landmark Series. 128D's come stock with 64K of VDC RAM. If you are handy with a soldering iron, it is not too difficult to upgrade a flat 128 yourself; alternatively, Software Support Internation sells a plug-in board which will upgrade your video RAM. -Rob ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 48 Mon May 31, 1993 CBM-ED [e.g.bell] at 06:21 EDT And from a programmers point of view, for many applications this adds 48K of RAM that is not all that difficult to access. Some copy programs use it already. ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 49 Fri Jun 04, 1993 R.ALBRECHT3 [CommieUser] at 02:28 EDT Thanks for both the replies. I never quite understood what the benefit was of having the larger Vid RAM. Now I knoow....Thanks again I'ts a big help. ------------ Category 4, Topic 3 Message 50 Thu Jul 22, 1993 D.VIOLINO at 01:15 EDT Anyone interested in doing the upgrade might try B.G.Micro for the chips. Latest price $1.45 for 80,100, or 120 ns. B.G. Micro P.O. Box 280298 Dallas, Texas 75228 (214) 271-5546 Fax(214) 271-2462 ------------ 4 ? ************ Topic 7 Fri Apr 02, 1993 F.OGLE [Color 64 BBS] (Forwarded) Sub: Demise of Xetec's Lt. Kernal HD... This is to discuss the decision by Xetec to discontinue production and support of the Lt. Kernal Series hard drive units. 20 message(s) total. ************ ------------ Category 4, Topic 7 Message 1 Fri Apr 02, 1993 F.OGLE [Color 64 BBS] (Forwarded) More bad news on the C= front... I spoke to a representative of Xetec yesterday, and sadly, was told that Xetec will no longer be selling or servicing their Lt. Kernal series of hard drive units. I was also told that they had a "tentative" deal made from someone to buy their remaining LtK items remaining in stock. I was told by the individual that Xetec "Hadn't sold a hard drive in months", and that the bulk of the support being supplied was for second, third, (etc) hand owners. I think it's sad -- Despite CMD's current dominance of the C= 8-bit market, led by the fabulous CMD-HD's & Jiffy-Dos, The Lt. Kernal was (and still is) a powerful peripheral for the 64 -- For the programmer, it's a dream machine, given it's powerful additions to Basic 2.0. ------------ Category 4, Topic 7 Message 2 Tue Apr 06, 1993 M.RANDALL2 [Maurice] (Forwarded) I agree that for programming in BASIC, the Lt. Kernal is an excellent piece of equipment. But for the average user, the CMD has many more capabilities. There aren't as many programmers out there as there once was for the 64 or 128. So the need for a hard drive that has some incompatibilities with certain types of software is less now. Xetec has a better market elsewhere. Fortunately, we have CMD. You just can't beat a 128 equipped with both a RamLink and an HD coupled with a parallel cable. Because of CMD's efforts, we also have the highest capacity floppy drive available on any computer platform. The only way another type of computer could top that would be if CMD made an FD series drive for the Amiga. It would have about 3.5 megs per disk instead of 3.2. ------------ Category 4, Topic 7 Message 3 Wed Apr 07, 1993 C128.JBEE (Forwarded) BTW: 4.0 meg external drives are available for PCs though no OEM includes them as a standard drive as far as I know. Just the drive assembly itself is $150, going by the latest ads I have seen. I had a Xetec and I gave it away because I got too frustrated with setting the DOS up, clips, and everything else. It also was much harder to use than the CMD drives. In the mid 80s it was good compared to other offerings, it just didn't keep up with the times, CMD has. If I had one and liked it I certainly would use it :) ------------ Category 4, Topic 7 Message 4 Wed Apr 07, 1993 CMD-DOUG (Forwarded) Technical note: 4.0 Meg drives on PC's only format out to 2.88 Meg. This is the same mechanism as employed on the FD-4000, but sticking with Commodore style formatting we get 3.2 Meg using the same disks and drives. ------------ Category 4, Topic 7 Message 5 Thu Apr 08, 1993 C128.JBEE (Forwarded) So we get more value for the money again ;) ------------ Category 4, Topic 7 Message 6 Fri May 28, 1993 R.ALBRECHT3 [CommieUser] at 01:53 EDT I called a local BBS in my area, and a guy was selling a 20 meg. LT. Kernal hard drive unit for $350.00. Is this too much? and what do you think about the aggrivation of setting the thing up? I want to use it for a BBS I run, and my old Commodore D9060 5MEG drive just died. I tink $350.00 is kinda high but yet I don't know what they go for, and how they are to set up. How much are the CMD drives? Thanks for any information. ------------ Category 4, Topic 7 Message 7 Fri May 28, 1993 C128.JBEE at 03:26 EDT For about $40 more you can have a much bigger and much better CMD HD! See Category #12! That is BRAND NEW, not used. I wouldn't buy the Xetec unless it cost $125 or so, just not worth it when the CMD units offer superior compatibility and support. ------------ Category 4, Topic 7 Message 8 Sat May 29, 1993 F.OGLE [Color 64 BBS] at 04:42 EDT I (ack!) must disagree with John. My Lt. Kernal was a dependable drive, and a good workhorse for a bbs. I just picked up a used LtK for a friend who set a bbs up -- $200.00 ... That's *ALL* I would pay (If I needed it bad). Of course, I'd haggle <> some -- Rob doesn't call me Fred Ferengai for nothing :) If you are really interested, leave me e-mail with your number -- I may be able to help you find a reasonably priced HD. Of course, If you have $450 to plop, I'd recommend the CMD-40. I use one now, and it's an excellent drive. ------------ Category 4, Topic 7 Message 9 Sun May 30, 1993 R.ALBRECHT3 [CommieUser] at 21:59 EDT Is that LT Kernal easy to set up? I have head some bad things about configuring an Lt kernal but If I could buy one at a reasonable price I'd probaly buy it. The CMD would be real nice to have. I have heard that the CMD works just like any other drive for a Commodore. Can you partition the drive? I'm sure you can, or I hope you'd be able to. With 40 megs and the relativily small space a commodore file uses, you can get lost pretty easily in a 40 meg drive if you couldnt break it down into logical units or partitions. ------------ Category 4, Topic 7 Message 10 Sun May 30, 1993 M.NEUS [Neusoft] at 22:52 EDT Personally, I'd stick with the CMD. My understanding about the Xetec drives is the controller is very specific about the brand of drive it needs (Miniscribe, if I remember correctly). I origonally bought a HD20 which filled up almost overnight with all the junk I have. I was loaned an 80 meg Quantum drive which added in beutifully, and the "add drive" program made it all automatic. One thing that I admire, but not sure I like, was that the few extra blocks that didn't get used in the original drive got used in the new drive, well actually, one partition spanned both disks. I might also add this was completely transparant to the commodore, both drive lights would go off in turn when I accessed that partition...amazing! Nice job CMD! Anyway, the 80Meg drive died (sticksion), and I set out to find a replacement and got a hellofadeal on a Conner 105 meg--brand new for $175 with warrenty(!!). Anyway, I pulled the Seagate 30meg out and droped the 105 meg in its place and viola! Works as advertised! Mike ------------ Category 4, Topic 7 Message 11 Mon May 31, 1993 CMD-DOUG at 00:16 EDT If you didn't get it out of that nice message, yes, the CMD drives are partitionable, up to 254 separate partitions - plus true subdirectories are possible in CMD Native partitions. :) ------------ Category 4, Topic 7 Message 12 Mon May 31, 1993 R.KNOP1 [Rob Knop] at 01:25 EDT And, you can make partitions that will look to the computer just like a 1541, 1571, and 1581 drive, so you can probably even get rather picky software to work with a CMD-HD. Fortuantely, CMD was quite rational in their implementing of their own large native format partitions, logically extending the commodore file system. Because they did it so well, most software, even that written before there were CMD drives, will work fine even in CMD native mode partitions. (By this, I mean software that itself reads and writes to the disk... _everything_, except perhaps some copy protected stuff, can be loaded from a CMD native mode partition.) -Rob ------------ Category 4, Topic 7 Message 13 Mon May 31, 1993 B.ENNIS1 [Torby] at 17:17 EDT The LTK isn't that horrible as far as add on drives. You simply have to download the parameters of the drive you wish to add on. Most commonly used ones are available on some LTK BBS's. Also, you can always sector edit your own configuration, but you need a little technical knowledge and the full stats on the HD which you're dealing with. As for the CMD spanning two disks, I heard from the president of our local user group Civic 64/128 here in Ventura County that it is not a wise proceedure to span across two hard disks. Apparently when he did it he got unusual conditions where errors could crop up because of different access times between the devices, and also he said if the second drive failed, you could still use the first drive (which holds the DOS) while the other is out for repair. But, with a partition that crosses between drives, that makes handling that sort of situation more difficult. -The only LTK BBS I know of with add on drive parameters is Batcave in Denver If anyone wants the number, I'll E-mail it to them, I'm a little reluctant to post it openly on GEnie, I don't know what their policy is about such things. ------------ Category 4, Topic 7 Message 14 Mon May 31, 1993 A.PEROTTI at 22:26 EDT Can you add any SCSI drive to a CMD? In other words, if I buy a CMD HD-20 and later want to add more megs can I just buy any SCSI drive and hook it up? ------------ Category 4, Topic 7 Message 15 Mon May 31, 1993 R.ALBRECHT3 [CommieUser] at 22:34 EDT Thanks for the info guys..I've never seen a CMD hard drive in person and I was wondering about how they work. What do you mean that you added another drive? Can you use any brand of drive Mechinism? So if the stock one blows up you can go to a local computer store and buy a drive with the capicity of your choice? I think I'll get one of the big CMD floppy drives and then get a hard drive. I have absolutly no room on any of the 1571's and the 1541 is totally tapped out too. (That isnt to hard though) The Message bases get full real fast. Does anyone know about what these things go for? (Prices) I have no idea except that they are kindof expensive. The last time I checked into the price on these was about 4 years ago and they wernt cheap! Thanks for the info. ------------ Category 4, Topic 7 Message 16 Mon May 31, 1993 CMD-DOUG at 23:06 EDT RE: Adding any SCSI drive, we recommend you contact CMD before buying one, to verify if it has tested positively with the system. There are some we have found which handle SCSI reset in a rather funky way, and there are others which do not support multiple block reads which our DOS uses for some things. Further, we've found some drives which have bugs in their own DOS, like the Seagate ST177N which corrupts its own internal buffer on large multiple block reads. But generally speaking, yes, the system is designed not to care too much about the specifics of a particular SCSI mechanism in order to allow for flexibility. As for prices, you might browse the messages in our support category (12), but if you just call our order desk, you can request a catalog that will have the latest prices, plus a lot of good info about all of our products. That number is 1-800-6383-CMD. ------------ Category 4, Topic 7 Message 17 Tue Jun 01, 1993 C128.JBEE at 06:42 EDT B.ENNIS1 >If anyone wants the number, I'll E-mail it to them, I'm a little reluctant to >post it openly on GEnie, I don't know what their policy is about such things. Posting a useful BBS number is okay, I just do not encourage wholesale posting because it is impossible to check them all out and we already have BBS specific RTs. ------------ Category 4, Topic 7 Message 18 Tue Jun 01, 1993 F.OGLE [Color 64 BBS] at 21:41 EDT Batcave is a large and respected BBS :) Running (ack!) CNet 128 ... The LtK is quirky in that you may use many different drives ass the add-on unit, but only certain SCSI HD's work with is as the ROOT device; Drive Root Add-On ----------------+-----+------ Miniscribe 20/40! Yes ! Yes Seagate 20/32/40! Yes ! Yes Seagate ST296n85! No ! Yes Quantum Lp52 ! Yes ! Yes (I have never installed the Quantum tho) Quantum Pro 85 ! No ! Yes " " " " " " " " " " " " " As you can see, the LtK is quite picky. Also, there are certain limitations -- Up to 10 Logical Units (LUs), each with 16 subdirectories, all sharing the same "free blocks". LUs are limited to 16mb, and cannot cross the boundries of one SCSI device to another. But, doing the editing of the dos (7.1 or 7.2) is fairly easy, and there is a menu-driven program that will alter the drive tables easily. No sector editing needed. The CMD is far and away the better drive, but don't sell the LtK short -- If a BBS is what you are using the HD for, the LtK is generally speaking a fine drive. If you are into programming, the LtK has many features that you'll soon take for granted (hehe, I still find myself habitually trying to renumber prgs on the CMD -- Guess I got spoiled with those extra commands)... BUT, if you plan on using the HD to play games, use Telecomm prgs, etc, then the LtK is probably not the ticket, since the dos commands, etc, need to be very "generic" to work with the LtK. Bottom line is this -- You can't buy a USED CMD-HD for $200. You can get a used 20mb LtK for that. Of course tho -- When I had the $$$, I had the choice, and I chose the CMD. Why? Simple -- A GREAT product, even BETTER customer service, and unlike Xetec (who basically relied on LtK owners to write any and all utilities for the LtK), CMD has released a butt-load (hehe, excuse my euphamism) of utilities, etc, that have the whole spectrum covered! Take it from a dummy who has wiped out a 16mb partition by forgetting SWAP 8 was on (I did a "@n0:). Called Doug, and in 5 minutes, I had a utility that RECOVERED it all. Lose the files on a Ltk, and theyre gone. ::poof:: Welp, enough babbling for now. I *will* upload that LtK editor utility tho :) Fred ------------ Category 4, Topic 7 Message 19 Fri Jul 02, 1993 S.CALKINS [Stretch] at 02:44 EDT Well I am sad to hear about the demise of the lt. kernal. I own a lt.kernal with a total of 125meg installed (You CAN put more than 16meg in a LU!) The main limitations on scssi drives is a lot of the newer ones the parody is set internaly by software. The lt.kernal requires it to be set by a jumper. I also have a multiplexer on mine. ie I have 2 C128's hooked into the hd. CMD's are a nice system, but tend to be a tad bit slower. My recomdation is if you are running a bbs on it, go with a lt. kernal, if you are using it just to store and run programs, the CMD is much better. I also can help anyone that wishes to set up a lt kernal. Also dont count it compleatly dead, I have it from a GOOD source that a NEW lt. kernal clone will be out soon! Put out by the author of the dos for the origional lt. Stretch ------------ Category 4, Topic 7 Message 20 Sat Jul 03, 1993 F.OGLE [Color 64 BBS] at 02:37 EDT I'm sorry, but I have to disagree -- From all that I've heard, Lloyd Sponenburgh (of Fiscal Information, (C) holders of the LtK's DOS) has gone Amiga. He *DID* shut his bbs down, and Fiscal announced that they would no longer support Commodore 8-Bit machines. Same for Xetec now. Also, I have used both HD's and in comparing the LtK's speed with the CMD- HD's speed in serial mode, then the LtK would load programs faster, but the CMD defeats the LtK hands-down with all read/write times ... The routines for Jiffydos are much faster & more efficient than standard Commodore dos routines ... Using the CMD-HD in parallel (Hooked into a RAMLink, which, like the LtK, takes over the 64 or 128's CPU activity) mode tho, the CMD-HD also loads programs just as fast as the LtK (the differences are negligeble) ... I am looking for a few files for the LtK that I used to have, but lost along the way ; PSTATION -- Series of text files on the Ltk, & it's HOST ADAPTOR logic ... DEADMAN TIMER -- Plans for a clock, er, or something like that ... Also, I did upload that LtK-HD utility ... ------------ 4 ? ************ Topic 9 Sun Apr 04, 1993 R.PATERNOST2 [Ray] (Forwarded) Sub: Animation Station Discussion on the Animation Station, a touch tablet by Suncom. 4 message(s) total. ************ ------------ Category 4, Topic 9 Message 1 Sun Apr 04, 1993 R.PATERNOST2 [Ray] (Forwarded) I have an Animation Station by Suncom, which was aquired in a multiple hardware purchase a couple of years ago. It is a touch-tablet, graphics tablet, whatever, where you draw on the pad with a pointer that resembles a pencil, and it moves the cursor/pointer to the corresponding part on the screen. My question: Is there any good software out there that really uses this device (besides Geos)? I have a few Koala drivers (64 mode, of course) that can use it marginally, but never have I seen another commercial program that could support it. (BTW, the mouse in Geos blows it away.) The last Tenex catalog I looked at still listed it as $60 new. Obviously, it's not worth it at that price, but is it worth it at any price? ------------ Category 4, Topic 9 Message 2 Tue Apr 06, 1993 C128.JBEE (Forwarded) >Animation Station >not worth it at that price, but is it worth it at any price? $5-$10 maybe, but like you mentioned, a mouse blows it away. Very few artists prefer these type of tablets unless you are talking the $3000 range with 1200 dpi etc. ------------ Category 4, Topic 9 Message 3 Thu Jul 22, 1993 D.VIOLINO at 01:20 EDT Do you have "Blazing Paddles".I think that is what came with those tablets. If not Software Support has it for $12.97 ------------ Category 4, Topic 9 Message 4 Sat Jul 24, 1993 R.PATERNOST2 [Ray] at 18:43 EDT The only software that came with the tablet was some lame drawing program which to its credit worked, but I don't believe it was Koala compatible, or anything like that. Besides, I'm not an artist, so I never use the thing anyway.... ------------ 4 ? ************ Topic 10 Mon Apr 05, 1993 T.MCDONALD2 [TOM] (Forwarded) Sub: C=128 problems! Hi, it's me again with another problem! I just acquired another C=128. I can't get it to come up in 128 mode, either 40 or 80 columns. 40 columns is scrambled characters, while 80 10 message(s) total. ************ ------------ Category 4, Topic 10 Message 1 Mon Apr 05, 1993 T.MCDONALD2 [TOM] (Forwarded) Hi, it's me again with another problem! I just acquired another C=128. I can't get it to come up in 128 mode, either 40 or 80 columns. 40 columns is scrambled characters, while 80 columns is just a black screen. It seems to work fine in C=64 mode, tho the colors are a bit messed up, especially in Geos. Would anyone have an idea what the problem might be? What would be the most likely cause, the VDC or maybe the VIC-II? Any other chips? I know, I know, bring it in to the nearest service center. But money is in short supply at the moment, and anyway, I'd rather do the repairs myself. HELP!!!!! Thanks!!! TOM ------------ Category 4, Topic 10 Message 2 Tue Apr 06, 1993 C128.JBEE (Forwarded) This might be easier than you think, as someone else mentioned before, check the fuses, especially the 9v :) ------------ Category 4, Topic 10 Message 3 Tue Apr 06, 1993 T.MCDONALD2 [TOM] (Forwarded) Da fuses??? Uhhhhhh....duhhhhh! Thanks, JBEE!! :-) Will give it a try. Oh, uhmm...are they on two separate circuits, I mean the C=64 and the C=128 modes? I really don't know. Any other suggestions? Thanks again JBEE...... TOM ------------ Category 4, Topic 10 Message 4 Tue Apr 06, 1993 C128.JBEE (Forwarded) I believe the fuse for the 9VAC provides the timing for the VDC/6526? Without which the C-128 will not boot. All I really know is this has been the source of the non-booting problem for a lot of people when C-64 mode works. For scrambled screen characters it could be just about anything, though the 8502 is a likely candidate for replacement. ------------ Category 4, Topic 10 Message 5 Wed Apr 07, 1993 T.MCDONALD2 [TOM] (Forwarded) JBEE, your referring to the fuse in the power supply, am I right? I tried a known good power supply (from my other C=128) and I still experience the same problems. My first 128, the good one, works perfectly. There are no fuses in the 128 that I can see. Unless they are not like the fuse in the power supply!? (glass) Any other suggestions, besides a repair shop? :-) Thanks again Tom ------------ Category 4, Topic 10 Message 6 Thu Apr 08, 1993 C128.JBEE (Forwarded) If you open your power supply you will find another fuse besides the one you can replace externally. If you have two flat 128s, plug the power supply from the good one into the bad C-128 and preceed to swap chips until the bad one works, marking the good chips so you do not get confused. I would say this is probably the PLA or 8502 if you got garbage on the screen. I would say go with the 8502 first. ------------ Category 4, Topic 10 Message 7 Sat Apr 10, 1993 T.MCDONALD2 [TOM] (Forwarded) JBEE, I tried the good power supply. Still the same problem. I started swapping chips with the good 128, no difference. When I saw the 6502 was soldered in, I said to myself, "NOPE!" Closed the case and put it away til I figure what I want to do with it. Thanks for your help and inspiration! ;-D Tom ------------ Category 4, Topic 10 Message 8 Tue Jun 22, 1993 R.KNOP1 [Rob Knop] at 02:22 EDT Hey, thanks for the instructions! I will certainly give it a try... after all, what have I got to lose, other than a couple of fuses and an already dead monitor, right? I'll let you know it worked once I get a chance to try it. -Rob ------------ Category 4, Topic 10 Message 9 Fri Jul 02, 1993 L.SCHECTER [SHEK] at 21:29 EDT When I had to replace the two 6526 CIA chips in my 128D, the task of unsoldering these things wasn't very exciting to look forward to. I had tried a lot of different desoldering techniques including braid but none of the techniques worked well. Eureka! The best desolderer I found is the Radio Shack 40 watter with the bulb welded to the head. I highly recommend it as it worked rather well to desolder all those leads. In addition to following the directions on the package, you should gently use something to move each of the leads from the ic on both sides of the board to break any small amount of residual solder between the leads and the holes in the board. That will allow you to easily remove the bad chip. For these chips I then soldered in two 40 pin sockets before plugging in the new CIA chips. I turned on the computer and gawrsh, it worked! ------------ Category 4, Topic 10 Message 10 Fri Jul 02, 1993 CBM-MARK at 21:39 EDT That Radio Shack desolderer works wonders! Bought one when I upgraded the video ram on my C128. I should have bought one years ago instead of fighting with braid ;> ``Mark`` ------------ ************ Topic 11 Thu Dec 12, 1991 D.VIOLINO (Forwarded) Sub: C64 Hardware Problems Any and all hardware problems on the C64 and 64C. 27 message(s) total. ************ ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 1 Sun Apr 04, 1993 M.MCCORMIC10 at 05:19 EDT All- The time has come again. I am banging on my 64c keyword to get it to work. I have tried different cleaners in the past, what is the most recommended few here? Mike Mc ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 2 Sun Apr 04, 1993 HOWIE-CBM at 10:01 EDT Mike Mc, If all else fails, in trying to clean a keyboard's contacts, then a replacement is the way to go. I see that Grapevine advertises new replacement C64 keyboards for $19.95. Be sure to double check that these are new if ordering. You could also try using a PC clone keyboard. There is a file in the Library that will describe exactly what needs to be done for this to work. Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 3 Sun Apr 04, 1993 CBM-ED [e.g.bell] at 10:30 EDT Mike: Read message 23 in this topic. I went through the steps I take when giving my keyboard a THOROUGH cleaning. It seems to last a LONG time! I use a kerosene heater in my office and now I am getting ready to have to go back in and clean again, but the last time was well over a year ago. ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 4 Sun Apr 04, 1993 C.LEAZOTT1 [Chuck] at 14:12 EDT 'Tis True...The C-64 keyboards are new. We ran out of them for a while, but there is another shipment due in most any time. ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 5 Wed Apr 07, 1993 MIKE.DUNCAN at 21:47 EDT The easiest way that I've found to clean keyboards is to use an IC extractor to pull off the caps, (the cheap U-shaped kind) and scrub with 91% Isopropyl & an acid brush. Works for me. ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 6 Wed Apr 28, 1993 DAVIDTURNER [Dr. Doom] at 01:19 EDT Greetings! I have just acquired a non-working C64c. When you turn it on, the snow on the TV goes away, but no color to it and nothing else. I suspect the 6567 video chip because it gets REALLY hot REALLY fast (almost too hot to touch). Where can I find one of these chips and how much are they? Does a Vic 20 have the same chip in it? I may be able to get a junked one for $5. Thanks in advance... ** Dr. Doom ** ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 7 Fri Apr 30, 1993 C128.JBEE at 00:44 EDT re:video chip The video chip in the C-64 is different from the Vic 20. You could try contacting 307-745-7077 Earl Harvey Earl Harvey and Assc 1409 Mill St Laramie WY 82070 ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 8 Fri Apr 30, 1993 DAVIDTURNER [Dr. Doom] at 22:08 EDT ======= To: C128.JBEE ======= > The video chip in the C-64 is different from the Vic 20. How about the Commodore +4? Does it have the same chip? > You could try contacting > 307-745-7077 > Earl Harvey > Earl Harvey and Assc > 1409 Mill St > Laramie WY 82070 To anyone else who is interested, the chip is $15.00 w/ $3.50 s/h In regard to the power supply, I don't have alot of electronics experience. I couldn't measure any of the pins from the PS at anywhere NEAR their voltages (WAY to low). I am sure I am doing it wrong, because I can get 5v from the power pin on a chip. Can you describe the way to measure the voltages from the PS? Thanks, ** David Turner Norfolk, VA ** ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 9 Fri Apr 30, 1993 DAVIDTURNER [Dr. Doom] at 22:17 EDT I am looking for the following items: 1.) Does anyone have a C64 video chip (6567) for less than $15.00? 2.) Looking for a C64 printer cable (serial) for less than $9.50. 3.) A C64 Datacasette in excellent shape... 4.) A 1541 disk unit in excellent shape... If anyone has stuff they want to part with cheap, please drop me a line. It is going to a good cause and I have a VERY limited money supply! Thanks, ** David Turner Norfolk, VA Mail Addr: DAVIDTURNER ** ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 10 Sat May 01, 1993 CBM-ED [e.g.bell] at 04:23 EDT David: Dunno about the other stuff, but you can make you own cables for less than $9.50 if you can solder. Get the 6 pin dins from Radio Shack, and also the 6 lead cable, phone line cable. They go together pretty quickly. As far as the datasette, how much are you willing to spend? ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 11 Sun May 02, 1993 C128.JBEE at 05:47 EDT >How about the Commodore +4? Does it have the same chip? No, the Plus 4 has its own unique chip too, can display 128 colors with the LUM command :) >In regard to the power supply, I don't have alot of electronics experience. I >couldn't measure any of the pins from the PS at anywhere NEAR their voltages >(WAY to low). I am sure I am doing it wrong, because I can get 5v from the >power pin on a chip. Can you describe the way to measure the voltages from the >PS? You might grab the voltage from the power on/off switch inside the C-64? I do this on flat 128s, I imagine it is just as easy on a C-64. I use a custom connector to test the power supply without connecting it to the computer though I wouldn't recommend it for everyone. I don't have a C-64 present that I can test but I do want to point out that 5V DC isn't the same as 9/12 VAC :) I suspect you may have forgotten to move the meter to AC before testing the other leads? > Looking for a C64 printer cable (serial) for less than $9.50. I believe CMD sells serial cables! > A C64 Datacasette in excellent shape... Someone is selling one for $10 OBO in Cat #10! D.JARRETT1 ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 12 Sun May 09, 1993 C.LEAZOTT1 [Chuck] at 22:54 EDT The 6567 VIC chip (and most other C64 chips) are $9.95 at Grapevine. They may also have the cable you are looking for for about $15.00 or so. 800-292-7445 ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 13 Thu May 13, 1993 DAVIDTURNER [Dr. Doom] at 04:42 EDT ======= To: C128.JBEE ======= DT> In regard to the power supply, I don't have alot of electronics DT> experience. DT> I couldn't measure any of the pins from the PS at anywhere NEAR DT> their voltages (WAY to low). I am sure I am doing it wrong, DT> because I can get 5v from the power pin on a chip. Can you DT> describe the way to measure the voltages from the PS? DJ> You might grab the voltage from the power on/off switch inside DJ> the C-64? I do this on flat 128s, I imagine it is just as DJ> easy on a C-64. I use a custom connector to test the power DJ> supply without connecting it to the computer though I wouldn't DJ> recommend it for everyone. I don't have a C-64 present that I DJ> can test but I do want to point out that 5V DC isn't the same DJ> as 9/12 VAC :) I suspect you may have forgotten to move the DJ> meter to AC before testing the other leads? JBEE, I recently got ahold of another C64 and plugged it in with my power supply, and the same thing happened... no picture, but snow went away. NOW I suspect the power supply. As I wrote above, I am having trouble getting the expected readings from the power supply pins... It isn't because I can't hold the leads on the pins, the voltages are just not what I expect. Question: If I have the power supply disconnected from the system, and measure the output at the pins, should it have the voltage levels listed on the back of the power supply? Or does it have to be connected (test under a load maybe)? Thanks, ** David Turner ** PS. Is the power supply for the C64c and the Commodore +4 the same? ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 14 Thu May 13, 1993 C128.JBEE at 07:29 EDT >I recently got ahold of another C64 and plugged it in with my power supply, >and the same thing happened... no picture, but snow went away. NOW I suspect ARG! Never plug a good computer into a suspected power supply because you can damage the good computer. >Question: If I have the power supply disconnected from the system, and measure >the output at the pins, should it have the voltage levels listed on the back >of the power supply? Yes, tolerance should be within 10% (going by the Commodore repair books), usually a bit higher. >PS. Is the power supply for the C64c and the Commodore +4 the same? I don't know, sorry :) ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 15 Sat May 15, 1993 HOWIE-CBM at 09:16 EDT When I took readings of the flat's 128's power output direct from its plug, that is without any load, I got readings about 10% above spec. These were within allowed tolerances. Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 16 Sat Jun 12, 1993 D.ASHER1 at 03:20 EDT My prob may be the same as mentioned up-topic. I bought a used C-64, and was told by the seller that it got VERY hot if it was used for any length of time. I plugged it in, and they display was correct. Also, it did not get hot! BUT it would not operate the disk drive. It said it was loading, but the drive wasn't going. I peeked inside, and it looks like the innards near the RCA type video-out terminal are fried. I used the pin cable, so maybe that is why it didn't overheat for me. So here's my question: what should I do? And do I have 2 different problems: video overheat, AND disk-drive command? I'm trying to get a system together to mail to my brother, and I just need to get this resolved and I'm all set! Should I bag it and send it in for exchange from one of the companies I've seen in Computer Shopper. (Flat-rate repair: $37) Any help would be appreciated!! ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 17 Sat Jun 12, 1993 T.ALLEN [Dynamite] at 20:23 EDT Commodore has a Toll-Free Number that you can call for the price of what it will run to have it either repaired or they will send you one of the 64C's to replace it with if it is beyond repairing. You will have to send the Computer and the Power Supply - along with a check for the amount that they state to you when you call the Toll-Free Number. Just call the Watts Line information and you should be able to get the number from them. I lost my copy of the number. The Toll-Free number is 1-800-448-9987 and they usually charge $64.00 each for the repair + tax and shipping. The address to send it to is: Commodore Repair Center 3790 Knight Road Memphis, Tenn. 38118 They also will give you a return authorization number - which you will need. Enjoy! Dynamite ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 18 Sun Jun 13, 1993 D.ASHER1 at 01:53 EDT Hmmm..$64....to repair a Commodore 64? A little coincidental, wouldn't you say? How much is it to repair the 128? Actually, Dynamite, thanks for the info, but that is a little steep for me. Between me and 2 brothers in 2 different states, we should be able to track down a replacement. It's a shame that there are probably thousands of C-64s in closets around the country. And the owners think 'no-one wants this.' Or, they don't even know they have one! Asher :) ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 19 Sun Jun 13, 1993 C128.JBEE at 06:30 EDT Unless you have the skill and tools to find and fix problems you are better off exchanging it for another computer for a flat rate fee. From the computers I have repaired, when the computer functioned normally but hung the disk drive the 65xx chip was bad and needed to be replaced. But with C64 computers, especially older models with the older power supplies, you have to start by testing the power supply to make sure it is +/- 10% of the voltage rating listed on the bottom of the power supply. A bad power supply will destroy the computer and give all sorts of false data when testing the computer. ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 20 Sun Jun 13, 1993 D.ASHER1 at 20:35 EDT Thanks, for the info...I may take your advice. One thing, though: I tested the non-working computer with the power supply that I =know= is good, not the one that was with it when purchased. So the fault is definitely in the unit itself. If no one else has a suggestion, or I can't find one to purchase reasonably, I will go ahead and get the flat-fee repair done. I guess forty bucks ain't bad, considering I only paid $25 for a printer, 1541 drive and LOADS of software :) (To self): Come on Asher!! Don't be so cheap!! Asher :) PS- Anyone got a C-64 keyboard for sale.........Cheap? ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 21 Sat Jun 19, 1993 RICE [John] at 10:59 EDT I am interested in trying to repair my C64 myself. My video seems to be partially down. I have a b&w monitor connected to the Audio/Video Connector which is working fine. My Probem is the TV. I am getting snow. TV is fine, changed the switch box and even went as for as replacing the 6567 VIC Chip. Now I have two good Chips. I still use the unit but my son complains that he needs the colors on the TV to enjoy any of the games. I am hoping it is a simple fix. Hoping to here its a simple, INEXPENSIVE fix. Thanks, John ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 22 Sat Jun 19, 1993 AMFORD at 13:03 EDT RICE, I lost colour once when I replaced the VIC chip. Turned out I needed to adjust the pot there next to it a bit, and viola' color. Be careful there is some adjust to them, but I did ruin one when I just turning the screw and it crushed the cermic (?) supporting it. ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 23 Sat Jun 19, 1993 CBM-ED [e.g.bell] at 13:05 EDT John: JR> partially down. I have a b&w monitor connected to the JR> Audio/Video Connector which is working fine. My Probem is JR> the TV. I am getting snow. TV is fine, changed the switch JR> box and even went as for as replacing the 6567 VIC Chip. The switch you changed... would that have been the RF modulator? The box you connect to the TV antennae leads? That seems to me to be a very good candidate. Also, wonder if the 3 / 4 switch could be set on the wrong channel, or not set fully on 3. And finally, could it be some kind of bad connection to the TV antenna screws? ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 24 Sat Jun 19, 1993 C128.JBEE at 17:04 EDT Are you using the RF BOX and RF cable to connect the C-64 to the TV/modulator box? Snow on the screen sounds like you connected the video cable to the RF box. Does the C-64 have a 3/4 switch for the RF output? If your TV is fairly modern, you can usually connect the C-64 video and sound directly to the TV where the VCR plugs in. Or you can feed the video and sound through the VCR to the TV. ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 25 Sun Jun 20, 1993 M.NEUS [Neusoft] at 19:19 EDT If you have snow on your TV, you may need to adjust the fine tunning a bit. This is expecially true if you hear some static on the audio. You may also want to try a differant TV. A C64 itself generates lots of interferance. Some TV's are more suseptable than others. For example, I have a older B&W TV that will not get anything below channel 6 when the computer is on, and that goes for hooking the C64 to it using channel 3 as well! One way to check the interferance theory is to move the computer as far away from the TV and antenna as possible and see if it gets better. Personally, I'd go after the fine tunning first though...you may also try connecting the video directly to the TV's A/V inputs (if you have them) like some one else already said... Mike ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 26 Thu Jul 15, 1993 W.MYLES1 [WC] at 23:03 EDT I have an older 64 that I have had for years. Recently the screen went blank on start up. There was a very brief flash of gibberish on the screen the it goes blank. There is the border color and the usual screen inside the border but nothing on the screen. Would appreciate any ideas. Thanks, WC Georgia ------------ Category 4, Topic 11 Message 27 Thu Jul 15, 1993 C128.JBEE at 23:16 EDT Assuming you checked the power supply, it most likely is the PLA 82S100. They are around $9. ------------ 4 ? ************ Topic 15 Mon Aug 09, 1993 CBM-ED [e.g.bell] (Forwarded) Sub: Upgrading an REU I need information on upgrading my 1750.... 17 message(s) total. ************ ------------ Category 4, Topic 15 Message 1 Mon Aug 09, 1993 CBM-ED [e.g.bell] (Forwarded) I need some information on upgrading the memory in my 1750. How many chips do I need to go to 1.5 meg, or to 2 meg. And where can I get them? I just got my first taste of soldering-chip-sockets blood and it is intoxicating. :^) ------------ Category 4, Topic 15 Message 2 Mon Aug 09, 1993 HOWIE-CBM (Forwarded) Ed, LOL!! :) Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 15 Message 3 Mon Aug 09, 1993 YLR.ROSE (Forwarded) Ed..there is info in the library as a text file that tells you how to upgrade your REU.. :> Howie knows the exact file name.. I fergit it. Cam says going to 2 megs may not fully function with the rl.. :< ------------ Category 4, Topic 15 Message 4 Tue Aug 10, 1993 C128.JBEE (Forwarded) I would not bother bringing your REU over 512K, cost wise, a SIMM for your Ramlink is much cheaper per megabyte. The file is a GEOS file in Lib#35 "beyond512k.arc" file #8067. ------------ Category 4, Topic 15 Message 5 Tue Aug 10, 1993 CBM-ED [e.g.bell] (Forwarded) I did know about that file, to tell you the truth. I have it. I was more interested in a synopsis of what hardware in terms of chips and sockets would be needed. As for cost/megabyte, I'm sure you are right, but thinking in those terms would cost me more $$$ out of pocket. I intend to do that in the future. This is not pursuit of megabytes primarily, but pursuit of experience in soldering chips. The extra memory would simply be icing on the cake. As it is, I only use the REU to make SFX's. Don't even plug it in otherwise, for now, because it won't fit in the RamLink on the shelf my computer slides on or I'd have that thing in all the time. ------------ Category 4, Topic 15 Message 6 Tue Aug 10, 1993 HOWIE-CBM (Forwarded) Ed, I do not think you can plug a REU in and out of a RL. Well, you can, but I do not think you are supposed to do this... A Tenex brand ribbon cable going from RL to REU will let a REU sit flat behind or alongside RL. I had this setup when I was using my flat 128. Once I started using the D, the REU plugged directly into RL, since the D takes up more desk space depth-wise. I wish they made these New York apartments larger... Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 15 Message 7 Tue Aug 10, 1993 CMD-DOUG (Forwarded) Howie, I think Ed slides it in and out of the Pass-Through port... not the RAM port, so it doesn't affect his memory mapping in RAMLink itself. I talked to Ken Crosby (Cartsoft) last week, and he's planning on making another batch of right angle cartridge adapters that let you install the REU horizontally in a RAMLink. I'll post more info about that when I hear from him next. ------------ Category 4, Topic 15 Message 8 Tue Aug 10, 1993 CBM-ED [e.g.bell] (Forwarded) DC> Howie, I think Ed slides it in and out of the Pass-Through DC> port... not the RAM port, so it doesn't affect his memory DC> mapping in RAMLink itself. I talked to Ken Crosby (Cartsoft) DC> last week, and he's planning on making another batch of right DC> angle cartridge adapters that let you install the REU DC> horizontally That is correct Doug. That is what I do when I need to make SFX's. However if the price is right, I may be very interested in that right angle adapter! I would just leave the REU in all the time if I had one of those. Which port is that made for. If the back port, would I still be able to make SFX's if I used it like that? ------------ Category 4, Topic 15 Message 9 Wed Aug 11, 1993 CMD-DOUG (Forwarded) Ed, it's generic, so it works in any cartridge port (yes it will work in the RAM port). The only trick to using the REU in that port with something like CS- DOS is that you have to switch RAMLink into DIRECT mode while using it. This naturally can corrupt anything stored in the REU, but if you configure the RAMLink so that the first partition created (after all others are deleted) is the size of the REU (or as much of it as is used by CS-DOS or whatever), then that partition could be used for temporary storage when not using CS-DOS (or whatever). Some folks just make it a DACC partition, since this would be used by GEOS, but if you're not into GEOS, making it a Native makes it useful as a temporary area as outlined. ------------ Category 4, Topic 15 Message 10 Wed Aug 11, 1993 CBM-ED [e.g.bell] (Forwarded) That makes it seem to me like the best bet for me would be to just keep it in the front port if I get the angle adapter. Having it as temporary RAM only would be of limited use to me... at least as limited as having it as I do now. The advantage to me of continuing to do it as I do would be that I can continue to disregard the switches while still using it for what I use it. ------------ Category 4, Topic 15 Message 11 Wed Aug 11, 1993 HOWIE-CBM (Forwarded) Ed, No! The best bet for you, based on the usage you described, would be for the REU to be in the RAM-PORT, and partitioned as the first DACC partition, with the normal/direct switch left in its direct position. Phew... That was hard to get out... The reason I suggest this is that: (1) You would never have to switch RL switches, (2) whatever you put into the REU (cs/dos) would always remain, unless overwritten since it would now be permanently powered and backed by battery, (3) the PASS-THRU port is still available for SwiftLinks and other good things, and (4) this is the way I do it! :) Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 15 Message 12 Wed Aug 11, 1993 CBM-ED [e.g.bell] (Forwarded) Howie: I am not looking to put stuff into the REU, but rather to have it 'blank' as it were, to be used *with* CS-DOS. I don't really care to use it as storage. Ultimately I'll get SIMMs and use the RamLink for that. I kind of prefer the ability to remove it whenever I want to let my kids use it w/GEOS, for example. That is why I kind of think the front port will be the better one for me. ------------ Category 4, Topic 15 Message 13 Thu Aug 12, 1993 HOWIE-CBM (Forwarded) Ed, ah! Okey! I thought you were storing the cs/dos Ramdisk in the REU too. Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 15 Message 14 Thu Aug 12, 1993 CBM-ED [e.g.bell] (Forwarded) No, tho I am seriously considering burning it onto a chip if I can and installing the chip in my REU so that CS-DOS is there when I need it! ------------ Category 4, Topic 15 Message 15 Thu Aug 12, 1993 L.SCHONDER [Lou] (Forwarded) The controller chip on in the REU was designed to handle 1/2 Meg. Since CBM makes decent chips (sometimes!), it was found that the chip can SOMETIMES if you're LUCKY drive 2 Meg (four times as much)! It's a gamble, plain and simple. JBEE has a strong point, buy a RamLINK instead. Also, if you download and read "Beyond 512K", you'll see that modifying the 1750 is not for the inexperienced. Another factor is chip cost. 48 additional chips are needed (that's just the memory IC's) at a typical $3 a chip. $150? nahhhhhhhh....... ------------ Category 4, Topic 15 Message 16 Fri Aug 13, 1993 CBM-ED [e.g.bell] (Forwarded) Lou: LS> it was found that the chip can SOMETIMES if you're LUCKY drive LS> 2 Meg (four times as much)! There are any number of people who have the upgrade anywhere from 1 to 2 meg. Even RUN magazine gave a lukewarm endorsement to a 1meg upgrade... tho they discouraged the 2 meg job. That is kind of the basis for my 1-1.5 meg query. LS> 1750 is not for the inexperienced. Another factor is chip cost. LS> 48 additional chips are needed (that's just the memory IC's) LS> at a typical $3 a chip. $150? You have to know it does not require 48 chips. I sort of recall that it was something like 8, tho I could be wrong. That was why I asked what I did, but you couldn't even get 48 chips in the case could you. I do have a RamLink (tho no paperwork for tax purposes). The point of all of this was a job to gain more experience. I appreciate all of the warnings, but an answer to the original question might have been nice too. O, and I have long had the name and address of a guy in Texas that does the whole job and guarantees it for $50, not a bad price. ------------ Category 4, Topic 15 Message 17 Fri Aug 13, 1993 R.KNOP1 [Rob Knop] (Forwarded) I believe it is 16 chips per 512K, but I could be wrong. This would give Mark's number of 48 chips, though, for going all the way to 2 Meg. This will involve piggybacking chips, which is a little harder than installing sockets into PC boards. I sorta feel like RUN... I would lukewarmly (is that a word?) endorse going to 1 Meg, but would recommend stopping there. There is a lot of software out there that will support larger REU's, but often the second 512K is far more useful than the 3rd or 4th 512K. (This is generally the case with GEOS, espeically if you don't have GateWay.) Also, there are the scary little reports of eventual problems with 2 Meg REU's. (There is something of a debate over the problems with 2 Meg REU's. Some people (who would know, specifically one guy who has upgraded a number of REU's to 2 Meg) argue that the 2 Meg REU problem is a myth based on a few isolated instances of problems with REU's. (And, there certainly have been isolated instances of problems with just 512K REU's... I had such a problem myself.) On the other hand, the designers of the REU predict that the REC chip does not have enough fan-out to handle the chips necessary for a full 2 Meg.) (When all is said and done, though, it is still probably best to just stick with upgrading to 1 Meg, since that is were you get the most gain and that is generally agreed to be safe.) -Rob ------------ ************ Topic 16 Sun Aug 08, 1993 A.PEROTTI (Forwarded) Sub: Xetec Supergraphix Jr. Printer Interfc I'm having a little trouble with my new printer interface. Help wanted. .s 4 message(s) total. ************ ------------ Category 4, Topic 16 Message 1 Sun Aug 08, 1993 A.PEROTTI (Forwarded) I recently bought a Xetec Supergrafix Jr. printer interface. So far there is a marked improvement over my old interface, but I do have some questions that perhaps some of you more experienced users can help me with. First, a little about my system: 128D w/ JiffyDOS, 1581 w/JD, Super 1750 Clone, Panasonic KX-P1090 printer. In using this interface with Paperclip III, in 128 mode, what is the best dip switch setup? I have tried transparent and the 1525 emulation mode but I'm not sure which is best. I have tried using some of the demo software with limited success. It seems to be 64 mode stuff and I have run it in 64 mode. The demo printouts of fonts just don't seem to work, the graphics print just fine. Is there something I am doing wrong? How do you load fonts? I have tried the software provided and besides making my printer go squirrely printing all kinds of garbage and feeding paper like mad, the fonts don't seem to load at all. Any help would be appreciated, I'm really anxious to get the most out of this new acquistion! Tony ------------ Category 4, Topic 16 Message 2 Mon Aug 09, 1993 J.STAFF [James] (Forwarded) Perott, Try leaving your interface in TRANSPARENT mode. I have an interface('puter is in the shop though) I leave like that. It keeps it software controlled, thereby using Paperclip in it's fonts and stuff would work best. About the demo software, I've never used it, Good luck! :-) James ------------ Category 4, Topic 16 Message 3 Wed Aug 11, 1993 AMFORD (Forwarded) You have dips 5,6,7 all down right? I lack the experiance with Paperclip, The Write Stuff and Paperback Writer liked the Super Graphix Jr mode (dip 3 up & 4 down) just fine. Play with it! :) Where are you trying to load fonts into? The Jr doesn't have buffer space to load a font into it. The Sr. and Gold do allow loading of fonts. ------------ Category 4, Topic 16 Message 4 Fri Aug 13, 1993 A.PEROTTI (Forwarded) Thanks AMFORD, that must be my problem. I have the Jr. but the disk appears to be a generic disk. The label reads "Super Graphix Utility Disk v 1.2" so it must be for all of the Xetec interfaces. I will continue to experiment with the DIPs, I just though I might be able to benefit from someone else's experience - the lazy way out! Tony ------------ ************ Topic 17 Sat Aug 07, 1993 R.FIGUEROA2 [KP] (Forwarded) Sub: 32 bit 64 and 128 project Talks aboout project that is 3 years old.Origannaly for 8086.This project has now been changed for 80486 eme ulation.O It is called black box.For m oore info ask about it here in the bbs or email me. Thanks. 4 message(s) total. ************ ------------ Category 4, Topic 17 Message 1 Sat Aug 07, 1993 R.FIGUEROA2 [KP] (Forwarded) Operation Black Box needs iput input from commodore8 bit users plaes please respond.*s ------------ Category 4, Topic 17 Message 2 Sun Aug 08, 1993 HOWIE-CBM (Forwarded) KP, Okie dokie! I'll ask... What is Operation Black Box? Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 17 Message 3 Fri Aug 20, 1993 G.CORREA [RAMRunner] (Forwarded) Are you talkin' hanging a '486 out the back of a cartridge port...? ------------ Category 4, Topic 17 Message 4 Sat Aug 21, 1993 F.OGLE [Color BBS] (Forwarded) LOL, Ram Runner! :) ------------ ************ Topic 18 Mon Jan 25, 1993 P.BORDERS [Pete Borders] at 04:05 EST Sub: 128D Keyboard replacement I just got a great deal on a seemingly functional 128D but it is without the keyboard. I need one! Any ideas? 17 message(s) total. ************ ------------ Category 4, Topic 18 Message 1 Mon Jan 25, 1993 P.BORDERS [Pete Borders] at 04:05 EST I am looking for a keyboard fr a 128D I picked up a a surplus store. I know that the grapevine group sells parts but don't remember if they had keyboards. Maybe someone has a dead 128D that would like to sell the keyboard? Any other sources for parts, new or used? Thanks for any pointers. Pete Borders ------------ Category 4, Topic 18 Message 2 Mon Jan 25, 1993 YLR.ROSE [* Mistress *] at 11:34 EST Pete.. I have a perfectly good used keyboard I can sell you or you can try Software Hut and see if they have any left. I cant find the number right this second, but someone will have it. Hugs. ------------ Category 4, Topic 18 Message 3 Mon Jan 25, 1993 HOWIE-CBM at 13:50 EST Pete, Software Hut in Philly is selling new 128D keyboards for $22.00. It would be hard to beat that price. In fact the price is so good that I bought several for spares for my use, and for my club's use. Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 18 Message 4 Mon Jan 25, 1993 CBM-MARK at 22:08 EST Software Hut's phone number is 1-800-848-0079 ;) ------------ Category 4, Topic 18 Message 5 Mon Jan 25, 1993 HOWIE-CBM at 23:59 EST I called Software Hut this afternoon, and they told me they are sold out on their $22 128D keyboards. Other sources will have the same keyboards, but I doubt it will be at that good a price. Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 18 Message 6 Tue Jan 26, 1993 CBM-MARK at 21:47 EST At $22 it doesn't surprise me they're sold out! ------------ Category 4, Topic 18 Message 7 Wed Jan 27, 1993 P.BORDERS [Pete Borders] at 05:21 EST Sounds real good to me. From what I hear the Software hut ones were $22. What do you want for yours? (sounds kinda like I'll show you mine if you show me yours ;-) ) (( <- recursive parenthesis 8-) sorry, forgot I was talking to a lady ((( I am assuming you're of the feminine gender (((( yellow rose ((((( of texas?? (((((( argh.... I am lost in my parenthesis ((((((( parenthesises ??? ))))))) )))))) ))))) )))) ))) )) ) (Hurah, out again (( oh no ....)) ) Things get weird around here at 5:17 in the morning, gotta go to bed. Definately want your keyboard. Let me know the price and where to send the money. Thanks for the hug :-) Pete Borders ------------ Category 4, Topic 18 Message 8 Wed Jan 27, 1993 YLR.ROSE [* Mistress *] at 11:02 EST Pete.. the keyboard I have for sale was 120 bucks new.. but it is hardly used and still very functional, and since I could use some extra cash right now, how about 50 bucks which includes shipping? If this is agreeable, will send you my address in email. Hugs ------------ Category 4, Topic 18 Message 9 Thu Jan 28, 1993 P.BORDERS [Pete Borders] at 03:49 EST Since I only paid $25 for the 128D and I already have a regular 128 let me look around a little first, ok? Sorry I can't jump at it right now. :-( Pete ------------ Category 4, Topic 18 Message 10 Thu Jan 28, 1993 YLR.ROSE [* Mistress *] at 10:25 EST no problem, Pete.. 25 bucks for a D model?? what a deal!!! Hugs ------------ Category 4, Topic 18 Message 11 Fri Jun 18, 1993 L.SCHECTER [SHEK] (Forwarded) Lightening may have gotten my C=128-D as well as one of my modems. The keyboard on the 128-D only types on alternate letters and the return key and F1 and F3 keys don't work either. I get the same problem in 80 or 40 column mode. I guess it is some chip that has been zapped but which one could it be? Gawd, does it have to be soldered in? All comments will be appreciated. ------------ Category 4, Topic 18 Message 12 Fri Jun 18, 1993 CBM-ED [e.g.bell] at 23:29 EDT Shek: LS> Lightening may have gotten my C=128-D as well as one of my LS> modems. The keyboard on the 128-D only types on alternate LS> letters and the return key and F1 and F3 keys don't work LS> either. I get the same problem in 80 or 40 column mode. I LS> guess it is some chip that has been zapped but which one LS> could it be? Gawd, does it have to be soldered in? All LS> comments will be appreciated. You may be ready for my fix, if you are desperate. Disassemble your keyboard, desolder the locking keys (there are 3), and remove the little screws holding the 2 parts of the keyboard together. Then get some lacquer thinner.... dab a little on a rag and wipe the pc board very well. Do the same for the bottoms of the little rubber legs that make contact with the pc board. Your problem sounds suspiciously like a dirty keyboard. BTW, do this at your own risk. I just did it last week out of desperation. I'm having no problems (I have a flat 128, but I doubt there is much difference in this area) and it has made a world of difference. But since lacquer thinner is such a radical solution, literally, no one here can take responsibility for problems it causes. Do it at your own risk, but if you are convinced you have burned something out..... alternately you could try soapy water on these parts, leaving them dry out thoroughly before reassembling. I have tried alcohol too, tho with little success the last time. I tried on a small section of my pc board before doing the whole thing to make sure the thinner would not eat the pc board material. Lacquer thinner is the most powerful 'parts cleaner' I know of. Someone elsewhere also said if you wear down the contacts on the pc board too much, you can build them back up with liquid solder, tho I can't personally vouch for that one. Keep us informed.... egb ------------ Category 4, Topic 18 Message 13 Sat Jun 19, 1993 C128.JBEE at 02:56 EDT If lightening took out a modem and your C-128D there is a very good chance the computer will not be worth repairing or keeping. I tried to fix one like that once and it just keep developing different problems until practically every chip and the power supply was replaced. Then it died. If the keyboard is not working properly but everything else is okay, replace the 6526 chips (soldered in) starting with the one at the user port under the power supply. Since disassembling the C-128D takes so long and you have to desolder and socket the 6526, I would do both at once since the chips are only $10 or so. But that is me :-) The best thing to do would be run a joystick test program. One for the C-64 was just uploaded to Library #3 and it works well. It will also test system memory and the SID chip. There is also a program like that in the C-128 library. ------------ Category 4, Topic 18 Message 14 Sun Jun 20, 1993 M.NEUS [Neusoft] at 19:29 EDT I don't think your keyboard is to blame at all. It's definately the 6525's (CIA's), especially if it worked before the "lightning strike". If everything else besides your keyboard is OK, its definately worth repairing! For about $10-$15 dollars you can get a new CIA. The one you want to replace is the one closest to the keyboard connector (there are two). To be sure, you can follow the traces in the PCB to the pins on the chip. If it is not socketed, I strongly recommend putting one in after you take the old one out. The CIA for the keyboard is especially suseptable to being static zaped as it also does the joystick ports (becuase of draging fingers across the joystick connectors to reset or power on). Anyway, you will likely need a soldering iron (unless its already socketed) and some patients. Take the computer to a repair shop if you don't feel you have the experience to do the repair work yourself. Mike ------------ Category 4, Topic 18 Message 15 Sat Jun 26, 1993 D.HARKER1 [Dan] at 00:52 EDT To all: Liquid solder should NEVER be used on electronic circuitry. It will not make a good electrical connection. Also, and I say this from experence, once it is applied it is nearly impossible to remove it and make a proper solder joint. Dan ------------ Category 4, Topic 18 Message 16 Sat Jun 26, 1993 CBM-ED [e.g.bell] at 02:39 EDT Dan: Glad I heard from you before I tried that! I was just passing along a suggestion from someone else. Phew! ------------ Category 4, Topic 18 Message 17 Tue Jul 06, 1993 AMFORD at 01:24 EDT I remember that conversation too, Ed. There was a quick follow up like Dan said, "Don't use Liquid solder!" and then there was a clarification that the person was referring to a pen that was used for traces on electronic equipment. Dag nab it, I cannot remember the correct name. ------------ 4 ? ************ Topic 20 Sat Jul 31, 1993 J.BROWN122 (Forwarded) Sub: Commodore PET computer What do yo all know about the Beasty ..... !!!!!!! 6 message(s) total. ************ ------------ Category 4, Topic 20 Message 1 Sat Jul 31, 1993 J.BROWN122 (Forwarded) Hey I am about to get one of these old beasties, for free.And I need to know a little more about it. I do know it is IBM compatiable etc etc... But is it upgradiable Thanks in advance for any info.... ------------ Category 4, Topic 20 Message 2 Sun Aug 01, 1993 L.MCCLURE (Forwarded) Err...you're in for a surprise if you "do know it is IBM compatible". Not only are none of the PET series IBM compatible, but most (if not all) of the PET series were designed before IBM even *thought* of making a PC. Or did you leave out the "not" in your message #1? As far as upgrades...that depends on which model PET you have. Also, you can add IEEE-488 drives, etc.. ------------ Category 4, Topic 20 Message 3 Sun Aug 01, 1993 J.BROWN122 (Forwarded) I did leave out the not...... ------------ Category 4, Topic 20 Message 4 Mon Aug 02, 1993 C128.JBEE (Forwarded) I did not get to read the whole article, but a 8080 processor (which I believe WILL run MS-DOS) exists for either the PET or B-128. There was something about it in one of the latest issues of TPUG. ------------ Category 4, Topic 20 Message 5 Mon Aug 02, 1993 J.BROWN122 (Forwarded) I was told the PET was running word perfect 1.2 and dos 3.3 so I assume that it running in IBM mode though I have not seen the beast yet. ------------ Category 4, Topic 20 Message 6 Mon Aug 09, 1993 D.TUOMI [Doctor] (Forwarded) I would be interested in this use for a PET. I currently have an 8032 which I have no idea what to do with. Doc. ------------ ************ Topic 21 Fri Jul 23, 1993 R.KNOP1 [Rob Knop] (Forwarded) Sub: Proportional Mice such as C=1351 Got something to say about your friendly Input Rodent? 8 message(s) total. ************ ------------ Category 4, Topic 21 Message 1 Fri Jul 23, 1993 R.KNOP1 [Rob Knop] (Forwarded) For a little brief entertainment, try the following program with your 1351 mouse: 10 bank15:print"" 20 print" potx=";:printusing">###";peek(54297) 30 print" poty=";:printusing">###";peek(54298) 40 goto20 64 owners can use instead the program: 10 print"" 20 print" potx= ";peek(54297) 30 print" poty= ";peek(54298) 40 goto20 Run it, and move your mouse around slowly. See how easy a mouse driver is? One thing that surprised me was that the mouse does not have the full 0-255 dynamic range available to it in the byte variable. Rather, the lowest value I would see was about 80, and the highest about 210. Above/below that, it would wrap to the lowest/highest value. Which, upon reflection, shouldn't surprise me. Not having ever seen a circuit diagram for one of these puppies, nor tried to figure one out, I would guess that the position is actually stored in the mouse digitally, given that it uses a spoked wheel to interrupt a light beam falling on a photodiode (or some such) to indicate it's movement. Probably there is a counter IC in there counting light beam interrupts. Thereafter, the internal digitized number is probably converted to the resistance needed by the game port using a DAC chip. I don't _know_ this is how it works, I am just guessing. At any rate, now that I've seen the limited dynamic range, now I know why Commodore's 1351 driver code (that comes with the mouse) modulos the input value with 64! -Rob ------------ Category 4, Topic 21 Message 2 Sat Jul 24, 1993 HOWIE-CBM (Forwarded) Rob, um... uh..... Are you *really* sure this routine is supposed to let me move my mouse? All it did for me was to print loads of stuff down the left side of the screen with different numbers. Didn't seem to have anything to do with mouse movement at all. Howie oh! My mouse is in port 1, a dongle in port 2. ------------ Category 4, Topic 21 Message 3 Sat Jul 24, 1993 CBM-ED [e.g.bell] (Forwarded) I thought all the routines Rob put up were to do were to read the registers, not actually act on them. ------------ Category 4, Topic 21 Message 4 Sat Jul 24, 1993 C128.JBEE (Forwarded) Howie, What program uses the dongle? ------------ Category 4, Topic 21 Message 5 Sat Jul 24, 1993 R.KNOP1 [Rob Knop] (Forwarded) Howie- All the program did was read the registers, and print out the values it read on the top of the screen. For the output to be intelligible, you have to include the cursor control characters I had in the quotes. Where you see print"" I didn't actually mean include "", but rather hit the shifted-CLR/HOME key while in quotes, so what you would really see is a reversed heart (or a reversed captial-S, if you are in lowercase/uppercase mode). Similarly, "" is the unshifted CLR/HOME key, so you would see a reversed S (or a reversed s in lowercase/uppercase mode). You understand the problem of including these cursor control characters in posts to the BB :D I was trying to use a notation similar to what Compute! uses in their program listings. This way, there are only two lines of text on the screen at all times, and the numbers should change based on how you move your mouse. It is written for the mouse in game port 1, which is how the 128 (at least) is configured to read the mouse upon boot-up. -Rob P.S. Perhaps it would have been better to use {CLR}, since the 128 doesn't normally do curly braces, making it clearer that the text shouldn't be echoed to the program directly. ------------ Category 4, Topic 21 Message 6 Sat Jul 24, 1993 CBM-ED [e.g.bell] (Forwarded) Rob: Maybe it would be better to use the chr$() code... i.e. chr$(147) or chr$(19). It is not apparent what you are doing, but it could be translated into BASIC code with the intent intact. (eeek) ------------ Category 4, Topic 21 Message 7 Sat Jul 24, 1993 R.KNOP1 [Rob Knop] (Forwarded) Ed - good suggestion, I'll do that in the future. -Rob ------------ Category 4, Topic 21 Message 8 Wed Jul 28, 1993 HOWIE-CBM (Forwarded) JBEE, BTP. :) Which also explains.... Rob, I merely used BTP's ~SEQ Listing to Basic PRG' option, leaving everything intact. The way Ed suggests would let this work without further input from the user, so his suggestion gets my vote too. :) Howie ------------ ************ Topic 22 Tue Jul 06, 1993 WAYFARER (Forwarded) Sub: RGB monitors This is for those who own any RGB monitors that were used with the C-128. 6 message(s) total. ************ ------------ Category 4, Topic 22 Message 1 Tue Jul 06, 1993 WAYFARER (Forwarded) Ok, my question is this.... can my RGB monitor be used with the vga output of a PC compatable? I had a C-128 and now have a notebook pc with vga output. Sure would be nice if my RGB monitor could be used with it for programs that are color. ------------ Category 4, Topic 22 Message 2 Tue Jul 06, 1993 R.KNOP1 [Rob Knop] (Forwarded) Wayfarer- I fear that a RGB monitor won't accept vga output... you need a VGA, SVGA, or Multisync monitor for that. The basic problem (aside from fixable things like different connectors) is that the signals have different sync rates. Normal RGB montiors like the 1902 or 1084 or a CGA monitor take a 15 kHz signal, whereas VGA and SVGA monitors take a 31 kHz signal. -Rob ------------ Category 4, Topic 22 Message 3 Wed Jul 07, 1993 HOWIE-CBM (Forwarded) Nope! At least not without a very costly interface. I've seen one selling for around $200. Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 22 Message 4 Wed Jul 07, 1993 WAYFARER (Forwarded) Thanks for the info guys. ------------ Category 4, Topic 22 Message 5 Mon Jul 19, 1993 M.NEUS [Neusoft] (Forwarded) Cough! Was that $200 for an interface??? or $200 for a monitor?? I have a SVGA monitor I bought for $195, plane VGA goes for about $140 around here. Both my VGA and Commodore monitors sit next to each other in perfect harmony.... Mike ------------ Category 4, Topic 22 Message 6 Tue Jul 20, 1993 HOWIE-CBM (Forwarded) Mike, The $200 was for just the interface. There is a need for this product, but it is limited. Mostly I see a notebook toteing traveling salesman wanting one of these to demo stuff on his customer's big screen TV. Howie ------------ ************ Topic 23 Tue Jun 29, 1993 E.TOLBERT (Forwarded) Sub: 1084 problems I have a 1084S which will only display a black background in the RGB mode without losing the vertical hold. I got a 9 pin D type cable from Harvey and Assoc and am not sure whether it is the 5 message(s) total. ************ ------------ Category 4, Topic 23 Message 1 Tue Jun 29, 1993 E.TOLBERT (Forwarded) cable or the monitor at fault. Should there be any problems with connecting a C128D to a 1084S monitor with a 9pin D type input? Thanks in advance, Edward ------------ Category 4, Topic 23 Message 2 Tue Jun 29, 1993 HOWIE-CBM (Forwarded) Edward, With my 1084S I need to be careful with the toggle in the back, that it is set for digital video and not analog. Both will display RGB input, but if the switch is set to analog, and the output is digital from a C128 the video "bleeds", that is to say its color is overly distorted. Could this be what you are seeing? Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 23 Message 3 Tue Jun 29, 1993 E.TOLBERT (Forwarded) That's funny, because when I tried to use digital with my C128D for RGB output, it wouldn't work at all. I had to switch to analog to get it to work. Now it will work with the switch set to digital, but the same problem shows up. I'm beginning to suspect that something is wrong with the monitor. Edward ------------ Category 4, Topic 23 Message 4 Wed Jun 30, 1993 HOWIE-CBM (Forwarded) Edward, I would tend to agree. As for feeding digital into a 1084 which expects analog, the few times I did this, it was for *very brief* (read: seconds) periods, and color intensity was turned all the way down. Because the 1084S is so Commodore specific, an authorized Commodore repair location might be the best source for testing it. Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 23 Message 5 Wed Jun 30, 1993 E.TOLBERT (Forwarded) Howie, I think I'm going to end up letting them check it out. Thanks for your help. Edward ------------ ************ Topic 24 Sat Jul 03, 1993 J.SWARTZ9 (Forwarded) Sub: Sears SR 3000 Monitor Need the pin assignment for RGB.*s 5 message(s) total. ************ ------------ Category 4, Topic 24 Message 1 Sat Jul 03, 1993 J.SWARTZ9 (Forwarded) A friend of mine needs the pin asignment for [D [D [D [D [D [D [D [D [D [D [Dsignment for the RGB on the back of the monitor. The pins are as follows: ... . ... . Any help on this would be appreciated. Thanks, Jerry. ------------ Category 4, Topic 24 Message 2 Sat Jul 03, 1993 YLR.ROSE (Forwarded) Jerry.. something went helter-skelter on your message.. are you using the INST/DEL key or the backarrow for error correction? the INST/DEL key is what you should be using.. :> Did you really mean to put dots for pin numbers? Please expound on this.. thanks. Hugs. ------------ Category 4, Topic 24 Message 3 Sun Jul 04, 1993 J.SWARTZ9 (Forwarded) Yes I did mean to put the dots since I don't know the way the pins are listed. Sorry I could be of no more help. ------------ Category 4, Topic 24 Message 4 Wed Jul 07, 1993 BUFF.PHOON [the Clown] (Forwarded) Jerry, I sent you some e-mail but if you check back in here you'll see this message also. Besides, I want to remind some of the others here. I am a SEARS service tech working the Audio/Video end of the business. If you can get the FULL model number from the back of the monitor, I can get the pin- outs that you need. Good luck! just CLOWNing around ------------ Category 4, Topic 24 Message 5 Thu Jul 08, 1993 C128.JBEE (Forwarded) C00L! ------------ 4 ? ************ Topic 27 Sat Feb 20, 1993 G.CORREA [RAMRunner] at 20:04 EST Sub: SFD-1001 Just aquired an SFD-1001 (IEEE variant of the 1541)- just the drive, no documentation or anything. I have hooked it up via a friends IEEE interface and established that it works. Beyond that... 16 message(s) total. ************ ------------ Category 4, Topic 27 Message 1 Sat Feb 20, 1993 G.CORREA [RAMRunner] at 20:08 EST ...I know next to nothing about the drive. (Other than it's quick and stores more than a 1581!) I have read the archived topics on the SFD but from them I have determined that in the late eighties a few people used them and that small cirlce of people all knew most of what the others were saying- not for the neophyte. So, I am here to pump you for knowledge. What do we know about the drive? I read that there were three pads for device number change (for 8 - 15), but noone said -where- they were. Anyone got a part number for a manual for it? (Or know if Commodore still prints one?) More questions sure to follow, but they'll do for now. ;) ------------ Category 4, Topic 27 Message 2 Sun Feb 21, 1993 C128.JBEE at 02:32 EST Changing the device number is done by lifting one of three legs on an IC - I forget which one (since I did it years ago). ------------ Category 4, Topic 27 Message 3 Tue Feb 23, 1993 HOWIE-CBM at 00:15 EST JBEE, You're beginning to sound like me... I know so much that I now have forgotten more than I knew I know. Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 27 Message 4 Tue Feb 23, 1993 C128.JBEE at 02:38 EST uhhh ... right :D ------------ Category 4, Topic 27 Message 5 Sun Feb 28, 1993 G.CORREA [RAMRunner] at 18:15 EST Van a schematic still be had for such a beast? ;) Or do I get to try to reverse engineer the thing and try not to let the pretty blue smoke out of the parts? Ramrunner ------------ Category 4, Topic 27 Message 9 Sun Mar 07, 1993 HOWIE-CBM at 00:12 EST Dan, To keep text and diagrams formatted, end a message with *SN, instead of just *S. GEnie will retain your formatting. Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 27 Message 10 Fri Mar 12, 1993 D.HARKER1 [Dan] at 23:25 EST Ok, here's the third try; I'm bound to get get it right sooner or later. Mark and Rob: thanks for the help. RAMRunner, I think I have the info you need about changing the device number of the SFD-1001 disk unit. Looking at my set of schematics I see the following: system ! jumper ! S1 ! S4 ---------------------- connect --- O single ! X ! X open --- X sided ! ! ---------------------- double ! O ! O sided ! ! S1 and S2 are in the lines at pins 21 and 18 of IC 3E (a 6530). rom ! jumper type ! S2 ! S3 ---------------------- 2316 ! O ! X ---------------------- 2516 ! X ! O 2716 ! ! S2 and S3 pull pin 3 of IC 5C to ground or +5V. IC 4J (a 6532) shows three jumpers to ground at pins 22-24, but there is no table to show their function. I think these are the pins you are looking for. The schematic shows the following pin labeling: pin 24 - PB0 pin 23 - PB1 pin 22 - PB2 If these are the pins, you should be able to change the unit number by figuring the binary sequence (or a little cut and try). The SFD-1001 can be set to device numbers 8-15. I'm giving you the information about the other jumpers because I remember that there are a number of half-moon jumpers in this disk unit. If I'm wrong about the jumpers you need to cut, you may be able to find the proper ones by process of elimination. I'm not sure how far you want to 'get into' the disk unit, but you might find Commodore's "Disk System User Reference Guide" (part no. 320972-01) to be useful for such things as commands, BAM, disk layout, ect. I don't know if it is still in print. Also, I have copies of the original Test-Demo disks that came packed with the SFD-1001 and 8250 disk units. SYSOP's: If there is a need can these disks be uploaded (copywrite problems?)? If so which library? I hope this helps. =Dan= ------------ Category 4, Topic 27 Message 11 Fri Mar 12, 1993 C128.JBEE at 23:53 EST Sorry, we can not accept the disks because they are still copyrighted by Commodore and I doubt getting the okay from them would be easy. ------------ Category 4, Topic 27 Message 12 Tue Jun 29, 1993 R.ALBRECHT3 [CommieUser] at 01:22 EDT I would sure like to find a SFD-1001 but I havnt seen any of them around anymore. Those were GOOD drives with 1 meg of storage. Pretty advanced way back then. ------------ Category 4, Topic 27 Message 13 Tue Jun 29, 1993 C128.JBEE at 15:06 EDT Try Earl Harvey 1-307-745-7077 ------------ Category 4, Topic 27 Message 16 Thu Jul 01, 1993 C128.JBEE at 01:20 EDT The topic cop has moved the For Sale messages to Cat #10 Topic 4. ------------ 4 ? ************ Topic 29 Fri May 28, 1993 R.ALBRECHT3 [CommieUser] at 01:30 EDT Sub: Commodore D9060/D9090 Hard Drives Commodore I-EEE D9060 (5MB) D9090 (10MB) hard disk units. Popular in the early eighties, Manufactured by "Tandon" using the "Winchester" technology popular way back then. 17 message(s) total. ************ ------------ Category 4, Topic 29 Message 1 Fri May 28, 1993 R.ALBRECHT3 [CommieUser] at 01:48 EDT Anyone still using a Commodore D9060/D9090 hard drives? I have one hooked up to mu C128D running a BBS, and it has been working fine for the 4 years that I have had it and just last week, just as I finially got my BBS configured just right, the hard drive decides to die taking the message bases and all file X- fers with it. The problem started out with the drive getting a RED error light every couple of hours, and it was also getting READ ERRORS, so I decided to reformat the stupid thing and while formatting it will start just fine for about 4 minutes (it takes 1 hour to format the Commie hard drives!) then it will suddenly get a RED error light and the Green BUSY light will flash alternatly 11 times. Now I have lost the manual to this thing a long time ago, and I seem to remember something about the manual saying that the number of flashes on the lights gives an indication to the error. This has happend before but it always corrected itself when I reformat it but now I thing it might be dead for good. Anyone know about these things? I know that it's important for the power supply to have the correct voltage and I checked it and they are correct (12volts & 5 volts) I think I just might trash this thing because I'm so tired of trying to figure out what the heck is wrong with it! ANY suggestions would be a real help to me.. ------------ Category 4, Topic 29 Message 2 Fri May 28, 1993 C128.JBEE at 03:30 EDT You could try calling Earl Harvey at 307-745-7077. He is a Commodore authorized dealer and repair shop and fixes these 90x0 series C= HDs. Might even have some spare parts. ------------ Category 4, Topic 29 Message 3 Fri May 28, 1993 M.RANDALL2 [Maurice] at 21:39 EDT If you are going to 'trash' it, let me know. I could use one for spare parts. I just aquired one about a month or so ago and am using it every day at work connected to an 8032 computer. It works nice. I have a limited amount of documentation on it and I will check to see if it lists anything like what you are experiencing. The stuff I have on it is at my shop so I will check when I get there and post another message here. The program that I wrote for the 8032 had a bug in it that surfaced at one point in time and I trashed the main header block on the HD. I've got a sector editor for the 8032 that works on the HD and even though I could not get the drive to initialize or show a directory (it always showed 'drive not ready'), I was able to read any sector with the sector editor. That allowed me to see what actually happened to the drive and I was therefore able to debug my program and fix the problem. One thing interesting about this drive is that it is the only one that I am aware of that actually uses a logical track 0. There is actually a track 0 sector 0 on this drive and this is the critical one. It also has sector numbers and track numbers that some sector editors won't let you access not to mention the track zero access. The sector editor that I use on the 8032 allows for this. ------------ Category 4, Topic 29 Message 4 Sun May 30, 1993 R.ALBRECHT3 [CommieUser] at 03:55 EDT I was able to read the drive with a "sector editor" but it makes absolutly no sense to me. That is about the only thing that this drive will do. (read track & sectors) I can't reformat it or do a verify command without running into an error. Beats me! I've had this thing operating for 4 years and NEVER had these kind of problems until I used it on a BBS where it was on for 24 hrs a day, Thats where the problems began! ------------ Category 4, Topic 29 Message 5 Sun May 30, 1993 M.NEUS [Neusoft] at 23:01 EDT Could be the drive mechanism is shot...they do have limited lives you know. See if you can figure out what interface standard the drive is (Probably MFM back in those days). If you can find an equivalant drive from a local store, they should be drop in replacements (ha, this is Commdore!). MFM drives are pretty cheap nowdays, basically $1.00/meg if you find a used one. Mike ------------ Category 4, Topic 29 Message 6 Mon May 31, 1993 M.RANDALL2 [Maurice] at 18:31 EDT Here are some excerpts from a 'preliminary' manual that I have for the D9060. Apparently, this particular manual was included with the very early units and the manual states that the info may not be entirely accurate. In my study of the D9060, I have found some differences from the manual, but that is not to say that all units are like mine. One of the peculiarities about this drive is that the DOS does not provide for a waiting period for the disk to get up to full speed and stabilize. Just by listening to it, you can tell that it takes a while for it to accelerate up to speed. The manual says to wait a full minute before issuing any disk commands or you will get a 'drive not ready' error. I have found this to be true. You might try letting the unit warm up real good before attempting another format. The directory header is on Track 0, Sector 0. This appears to be a header for the DOS and not really a directory header. Within this sector, the bytes are as follows: 0-1 track,sector pointer to bad t-s list. 2-3 identifies DOS 3.0 format (0,255) 4-5 track-sector of first directory block (the manual says 76,0 but mine is at 76,10) 6-7 not used (on mine this contains 76,20 which is the track and sector of a directory header that looks much like the one in the 1541) 8-9 t-s of first BAM block (contains a 1,0) 10-11 disk i.d. The bad t-s list contains sectors that cannot be formatted properly due to errors. The DOS allocates these sectors as though they are already in use. Here is the format for each BAM block: 0-1 t-s pointer to next BAM block (if 255,255 then last block) 2-3 pointer to previous BAM block (if 255,255 then first block) 4 lowest track number mapped in this block 5 highest track (+1) number mapped in this block 6 number of blocks unused on this track 7-10 bitmap of available blocks on this track (mine is bytes 7-15) 11-255 bit map of next 49 tracks (on mine this is 16-255 which is the bit map of 'this' 12-track group) (these are 12 groups of 4 groups of 5 bytes each representing 32 blocks) There are 153 logical tracks (0-152) with 128 (0-127) sectors on each track for the 9060 and 192 (0-191) for the 9090. The DOS is apparently able to expand the directory to an unlimited size once track 76 is used up. It will also replace/remap bad sectors. The manual also says that the BAM is self- locating. I would be willing to bet that your drive is not spinning properly. Maybe someone knows how to fix this by lubricating it. I've also heard that you can remove the drive mechanism from the unit and place it in an oven at 150 degrees for an hour or so. Supposedly this softens up the lube that is on the bearings of the disk and it will then spin like it is supposed to. Hopefully you can make use of this info. ------------ Category 4, Topic 29 Message 7 Mon May 31, 1993 M.RANDALL2 [Maurice] at 18:33 EDT Sorry about the way the previous message turned out. I was dumping the text from my buffer and apparently it didn't get formatted like I wanted. Hopefully you can make sense of it anyway where the tracks and sectors are listed. ------------ Category 4, Topic 29 Message 8 Mon May 31, 1993 HOWIE-CBM at 21:32 EDT Whenever you may want text to remain as you have formatted it, tell GEnie to save the message with an *SN, instead of just a *S. Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 29 Message 9 Mon May 31, 1993 R.ALBRECHT3 [CommieUser] at 22:19 EDT Hey, thanks for the help. I did try to read the BAM and it will do it but when it gets to track 35 sectorm 17 the thing throws an error. I really can't tell what's happining because when I tried to reformat it, it will start the process (about 4 minutes worth) then It it will die. I thought that possibly is was running into a bad block on the disk but, as you said in the text from the manual It sup supposidly maps out the bad blocks and tells the drive to skip over the bad one (I think anyway). The issue of drive speed may indeed be a problem because a couply of times I got different errors. the first was a ERROR 74 DRIVE NOT READY which could make sense when I go to read from the drive since it's only partially formatted And at times I got some other errors like ERROR 22 READ ERROR. My book says "The disk controller has been requested to read or verify a data block that was not properlt written. This error message occurs in conjunction with the BLOCK commands and indicates an illedal track and or sector request." And another time I got a ERROR 23 READ ERROR the book says "this error message indicates that there is an error in one or more of the data bytes. The data has been read into the DOS memory, but the checksum over the data is in error. This message may also indicate grounding problems". All of these errors started happining within the last week. Now sinse it was running into all of these errors, I just wanted to start over and re-format it and then it should re-calculate the BAM and then It should be fine but, like someone said in the previous messages, the drive mechanism itself may be shot. I have waited a good 3 or 4 minutes before issuing it any commands too. I think I'll take your advice and put it into an oven except I'll leave it in for about 4 hours or so! I tell ya, I'm so frustrated with this because I just got my BBS up and running with a lot of callers and file x-fers and messages and aff of that stuff, and then this D9060 decided that it don't want any part of it anyomre. I had to replace that drive with SOMETHING until I get it fixed or buy a new CMD hard drive so I hauled out the old 1541 out of the closet. It's really easy to get spoiled with the 19,500 blocks free on the hard disk only to have 600 or so on this floppy. I don't even have room for any files for people to transfer after installing the REL files for the X-fer section! Anyway, thanks for all of you guys for trying to figure this out with me. ------------ Category 4, Topic 29 Message 10 Sun Jun 27, 1993 R.ALBRECHT3 [CommieUser] at 15:31 EDT Well after working with this D9060 for a while I finially got it to format. I took all of the boards out of the case and left them hooked up and did a format command and it worked! I don't know why the boards have to be out of the case when formatting but the only thing I can think of is that theres a bad connection on one of the boards and by letting them lay on the floor it gets a good connection (don't know for sure) but at least it re-formatted. I slapped the boards back in the case and now it's been working good for quite some time. ------------ Category 4, Topic 29 Message 11 Sun Jun 27, 1993 HOWIE-CBM at 17:47 EDT Yes! This does sound like a possible hairline crack of a trace on a PC board, or a loosly soldered IC leg. Both difficult to find. So, if it is now up and running, I'd make every effort to keep hands off. :) Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 29 Message 12 Tue Jun 29, 1993 R.ALBRECHT3 [CommieUser] at 01:17 EDT Yes HOWIE, I make sure that I don't even BREATHE on the thing. While I was trying to figure out what was wrong, I took all of the boards out until I was just down to the board that'S on top of the Drive Mech. itself. I noticed a little POT adjustment which was sealed with sme kind of glue which I chipped off with a pocked knife. I turned the screw a little bit and then that's when I reformatted it and it's worked fine ever Since. I think that the screw may have controlled the drive speed just a little bit to compensate for wear on a slowing drive mech. I don't know. I've had the thing apart so many times I think I could do it blindfolded! Well, maby not. I wonder if you can buy a higher capacity drive Mech. for these. That would be nice to trade the 5 MB for a larger Mechanism. Oh well, wish me luck that it keeps on going..It'S almost up to full capacity now but I back it up regularly. Thanks.. ------------ Category 4, Topic 29 Message 13 Tue Jun 29, 1993 R.ALBRECHT3 [CommieUser] at 01:26 EDT I forgot to tell you all in the first message but NEVER validate the Ccommie hard drives if you don't already know..Seems it can't re-calculate the BAM on something like that. That's what crashed the drive the second time, I wanted to get rid of a SPLAT file so I validated it. No prob if it's a floppy but the hard disk didnt like it one bit and it ate half of the files. ------------ Category 4, Topic 29 Message 14 Tue Jun 29, 1993 HOWIE-CBM at 07:27 EDT I suspect that it may be possible to swap in a higher capacity drive mechanism, but if the firmware is not there to support it, the extra capacity will go unused. Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 29 Message 15 Thu Jul 01, 1993 R.ALBRECHT3 [CommieUser] at 02:53 EDT Oh yeah, That's the one thing I forgot about (firmware) Thats too bad. I have an address of a company that sells refurb CBM hard drives supposedly pretty cheap. I'll post the address as soon as I find it again. It would be nice to swap in a larger disk in this drive but of course, as you pointed out it's not quite that easy... ------------ Category 4, Topic 29 Message 16 Sat Jul 03, 1993 M.RANDALL2 [Maurice] at 00:32 EDT On the 9060 that I have, it came with a set of roms to allow it to be used on a serial bus. It also had a special cable that has the IEEE on one end and serial on the other end. It would plug directly into a 64 or 128's serial port. It also had the original roms which I reinstalled so that I could use it with the CBM-8032. But if the serial roms had JiffyDos, I would be tempted to hook this thing to a 64. I know you can do it with an interface. But I get used to using my other drives with JiffyDos if you know what I mean. ------------ Category 4, Topic 29 Message 17 Mon Jul 05, 1993 F.OGLE [Color BBS] at 00:40 EDT Ok -- Fortunately, I have spec sheets, etc, on the 9090 ... Number of Flashes ! Possible Faulty IC Located on DOS BOARD ------------------ !------------------------------------------------------ 1 ! 6532, 7F 7G 2 ! 2364, 7D 3 ! 2364, 7C 4 ! 6502, 2114, 74LS157, 74LS42, 4A,5A,5E,6C,6D,6B,6A,3D 5 ! 6810, 4D 6 ! 2114, 74LS157, 5E, 5A, 6C, 6D, 6B, 6A 7 ! 2114, 74LS157, 5B, 5F, 6C, 6D, 6B, 6A 8 ! 2144, 74LS157, 5C, 5G, 6C, 6D, 6B, 6A 9 ! 2114, 74LS157, 5D, 5H, 6C, 6D, 6B, 6A 10 ! 2332, 4C 11* ! Not Used 12* ! 74LS157, 6C, 6D, 6B, 6A 13 ! 74LS157, 6C, 6D, 6B, 6A 14 ! 74LS157, 6C, 6D, 6B, 6A * During Format 11, 12 flashes, excessive bad sectors ... I have a manual & schematics -- The postage, copying, etc would cost about $8 total about $8, if you'd like me to copy them and send to you. Fred Ogle PO Box 35427 Dundalk MD 21222-7427 ------------ 4 ? ************ Topic 31 Wed Jun 16, 1993 R.KNOP1 [Rob Knop] at 09:37 EDT Sub: Commodore Monitors Those wacky guys at Commodore have put out a slew of monitors, half of which seem to be beset with problems. Here's a place to discuss them. 21 message(s) total. ************ ------------ Category 4, Topic 31 Message 1 Wed Jun 16, 1993 R.KNOP1 [Rob Knop] at 09:37 EDT I asked this a long time ago, but have since forgotten the details of the answer. What is the part in the 1902A that is most likely to fail? I seem to remember that it was a transformer of some sort. Is this a transformer on the power supply board (the vertical one on the right side of the monitor as one is looking at the front), or on the main board? Also, does anybody know the specs on the part number? One other quickie while I am here... Can you directly use a CGA monitor for an 80 column 128 monitor, or does something fancy need to be done? Will a straight db9 cable (pin 1 to pin 1, pin 2 to pin 2, etc.) do it? Thanks, -Rob ------------ Category 4, Topic 31 Message 2 Wed Jun 16, 1993 CBM-ED [e.g.bell] at 09:43 EDT Rob: RK> remember that it was a transformer of some sort. Is this a RK> transformer on the power supply board (the vertical one on RK> the right side of the monitor as one is looking at the RK> front), or on the main board? Also, does anybody know the It was the flyback transformer.... that monitor also is subject to cold/ loose solder joints. I'm not sure if these were both part of the same problem or not. ------------ Category 4, Topic 31 Message 3 Wed Jun 16, 1993 C128.JBEE at 16:37 EDT You can use a 640x200 4/16 color CGA monitor on a C-128 straight up EXCEPT some Radio Shack models that need BNC(?) connectors. As long as it has a 9 pin connector you should be all set. I used a Samsung 4464 on my 128 before. ------------ Category 4, Topic 31 Message 4 Sun Jun 20, 1993 M.NEUS [Neusoft] at 19:45 EDT The Commodore 1900 series monitors (made by Magnavox, by the way) are very suspect to cold solder joints on the fly back transformer. While trouble won't show up immediately, a few years of use will likely bring intermitant operation to eventual complete failure. I had a Magnovox RGB monitor 80 that had the same problem. It started out as the screen would very briefly blank out. Slowly, it went out longer and more frequently. Eventually, I had to hit the monitor to get it to come back to life. It finally died and wouldn't come back no matter how hard I hit it. This is a known manufacturing defect. Any Magnavox service center should be able to fix it on the spot for a small fee. Don't let them tell you the fly back is bad, because its not!!! If your handy with a soldering iron, you can fix it yourself...First, unplug the darned thing cause you'll knock yourself into the next room if the flyback starts working again. Open up the monitor. Place the monitor so the front faces you. On the left side of the tube, you will see a plunger like device attached to the tube, and a wire leading to a relatively large device mounted onto the PCB. Flip the monitor over, remove the foil back if necessary. Use a soldering iron and heat the joint until the solder reflows. Hold it there for a while to be sure all solder is melted...if you don't you'll have another cold joint to deal with later. 10-15 seconds after the solder starts melting should be good enough. In the case of my monitor, I felt there wasn't even enough solder to begin with so I added some. Do this for all the joints that go to the flyback (the large component on the other side I mensioned earlier). Reassemble and viola! By the way, 1084 monitors are also suseptable (esentally the same as a 1902), but I know nothing about the interal configuration... Mike ------------ Category 4, Topic 31 Message 5 Mon Jun 21, 1993 A.PEROTTI at 23:49 EDT WOW!! That is the very problem I have with a Magnavox 40 col display that is sitting in its box. I will have to try out the fix you suggest, Neusoft! If it works I may have to get another computer to plug into it. Or I could have both 40 and 80 cols displayed at the same time on my 128D!!! Has anyone ever done that? Is it useful? Tony ------------ Category 4, Topic 31 Message 6 Wed Jun 23, 1993 A.PEROTTI at 21:56 EDT Neusoft-- I tried the fix you posted the other day on my Magnavox 40 column display and it works!!!!!!! The cold solder joints were just as you described them. Mine had 3. I just heated them up and added some solder to one and it is now good as new. Thanks loads for that tip!!!!! _____ / _ /__(_)_|\|_\/ / ------------ Category 4, Topic 31 Message 7 Fri Jun 25, 1993 M.NEUS [Neusoft] at 23:37 EDT Glad to be of service.....The monitor would probably work OK for 80 column on your 128D, but it would be monichrome and very likely very fuzzy. Look in your 128D manual on the RGBI port. Just connect an RCA cable to what ever pin says...never mind, my manual is in arms reach...Ok, connect the shield to pins 1 and 2, and the center conductor to pin 7. Plug the RCA plug into the monitor and viola! By the way, I did the same fix to my monitor about 6 mos. ago and it's still going strong :) Mike ------------ Category 4, Topic 31 Message 8 Fri Jun 25, 1993 A.PEROTTI at 23:55 EDT Mike, Yeah, before I got my 1084S I had the 40 column Magnavox hooked up as you described. It worked just fine, with the limitations we are all familiar with. Working in 80 columns made all the difference in the world! Actually, I'm glad the Magnavox died (albeit temporarily!) because that is the only way I was able to get a REAL 80 column monitor. If I can ever get my 64 fixed I'll have a monitor to go with it so my oldest son (8) can have his own computer. But you know what they say, "Money is the root of all evil...and computer upgrades". Tony ------------ Category 4, Topic 31 Message 9 Sun Jun 27, 1993 B.LUHMAN at 22:54 EDT I am having a prob w/ my 1802 the top is black for about 1"-1 1/2". the text is a little larger than normal and the bottom of the monitor is hiding the bottom line can anyone help me I don't want to spend a lot of $$$ to fix it! ------------ Category 4, Topic 31 Message 10 Sun Jun 27, 1993 CBM-ED [e.g.bell] at 23:28 EDT BL: BL> I am having a prob w/ my 1802 the top is black for about BL> 1"-1 1/2". the text is a little larger than normal and the BL> bottom of the monitor is hiding the bottom line can anyone BL> help me I don't want to spend a lot of $$$ to fix it! It seems to me there is a knob to adjust that on the back of the monitor. At least, there is on my 1984, and was on my 1902. The 1984 even has little 'television' shaped graphics to indicate which knob does what. Check it out. Can't get any easier than turning a knob. Might work! ------------ Category 4, Topic 31 Message 11 Mon Jun 28, 1993 CBM-MARK at 21:31 EDT Actually there could be 2 knobs in the back of the monitor that could affect the display. One would be labeled vertical height and the other vertical linear. The vertical linear will have the affect of causing the text at the bottom of the screen to appear squashed if not adjusted right. Adjust that one to give an 'even' appearing screen from top to bottom and then use the verical hieght adjustment to 'fill in' the black area. But then again there might only be one knob in the back that does centering and nothing more. This what you have, Ed? ``Mark`` ------------ Category 4, Topic 31 Message 12 Tue Jun 29, 1993 B.LUHMAN at 23:38 EDT Well the only vert. control is the Virtical control. There is not a Vert. Height. There is hor. center but that is in wrong direction! ------------ Category 4, Topic 31 Message 13 Wed Jun 30, 1993 CBM-ED [e.g.bell] at 06:28 EDT Did you try them? That sounds like what you need to make the adjustment. If not, your monitor may be shot. ------------ Category 4, Topic 31 Message 14 Sat Jul 03, 1993 F.OGLE [Color 64 BBS] at 15:44 EDT The C= monitors also run hot as hades. I put a fan in my 1902, and it stays real cool ... The heat sure doesn't help a shaky solder joint either ... ------------ Category 4, Topic 31 Message 15 Sat Jul 03, 1993 M.NEUS [Neusoft] at 19:42 EDT Commodore monitors do run warm, but no warmer than any equivalant television set. I wouldn't worry about the heat myself. If you want to see a hot monitor, get a VGA display. These tend to be VERY hot (multi-sync monitors especially) for reasons beyond me...way hotter than any commodore monitor. Mike ------------ Category 4, Topic 31 Message 16 Sat Jul 03, 1993 C128.JBEE at 23:59 EDT Multiscan monitors probably run hot because they are stuffed with high speed circuits, high speed ram, and processors. They also have hefty power supplies for those big bright screens and hi refresh (draw) rates that suck down juice. ------------ Category 4, Topic 31 Message 17 Sat Aug 14, 1993 FALCONER at 04:18 EDT Hi Everybody......... I have always enjoyed the RT's here on Genie, for I know there will be a place for me to ask a question, and get an answer. So, here goes: I have a Commodore 1084S monitor, the color one with stereo. I use ---- rather, I want to use it with my C-128, so that I have both C-64 40 column capability, as well as c-128 80 column capability. Am I able to do so, or is this monitor only capable of 40 column capability??? Someone please let me know..........I want to use this one, for its stereo capabilities, but if not, then I have a Magnavox RGB 80 that I can use in stead. Granted, no stereo capability, but both 40 and 80 columns. *****Anybody?????****** ......Thanks...............Tracy............ ------------ Category 4, Topic 31 Message 18 Sat Aug 14, 1993 HOWIE-CBM at 07:03 EDT Tracy, 1084S's work quite nicely with C128's. I am using one right now. If you do not have both cables (one for the 64 connection and one for the 128 connection) you might try calling Tenex. I believe they sell the 128 cabling for something like $12. There are several versions of the 1084S. Some have their 40/80 column switch up front, where it should be. Others, like mine, have it in the rear, so it is necesary to get up and stretch and push a button on the back of the monitor each time screens are switched. Howie ------------ Category 4, Topic 31 Message 19 Mon Aug 16, 1993 FALCONER at 05:28 EDT Howie: Mucho grats for the info. I have been wanting to set this thing up accordingly.......now I can do it with no fear!!! Again,..............THANKS!!!!! ...........Tracy....... ------------ Category 4, Topic 31 Message 20 Tue Aug 17, 1993 HOWIE-CBM at 02:12 EDT Tracy, You are welcome! :) Howie ------------ 4 ?