[cctalk] Re: Tadpole/RDI UltraBooks - UNIX notebooks - species needs rescue...

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

In addition to my last message, I forgot to add the second page of NVRAM
settings.

Attached.

Santo

On Thu, Sep 28, 2023 at 2:56 PM Santo Nucifora 
wrote:

> Erik, do you have any of the documentation for the Ultrabook?
>
> Attached are the NVRAM settings for the Ultrabook found in the
> "Ultrabook Hardware Reference Guide".   Also attached is an NVRAM recovery
> procedure that Sun put out on the Ultrabook.
>
> Santo
>
> On Thu, Sep 28, 2023 at 2:46 PM erik--- via cctalk 
> wrote:
>
>> Yeah - reading the source code of QEMU I found the structure of the NVRAM
>> -
>>
>> EVEN BETTER there was a WEB page with a good description of the various
>> NVRAMs on Sun machines up to Ultra1. Yes, there "was".
>>
>> FORTUNATELY via archive.org, that page can be accessed - Tad-
>> here it is:
>>
>> https://web.archive.org/web/20151107014449/http://www.squirrel.com/squirrel/sun-nvram-hostid.faq.html
>>
>> HOT: As I suspected: The first byte of the hostID in some systems defines
>> the machine type.
>>
>> PERFECT: There are also commands given to read/write the NVRAM from the
>> firmware.
>>
>> Thanks Ethan, the hint to check the emulation was great!
>>
>

[cctalk] Re: Tadpole/RDI UltraBooks - UNIX notebooks - species needs rescue...

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Erik, do you have any of the documentation for the Ultrabook?

Attached are the NVRAM settings for the Ultrabook found in the
"Ultrabook Hardware Reference Guide".   Also attached is an NVRAM recovery
procedure that Sun put out on the Ultrabook.

Santo

On Thu, Sep 28, 2023 at 2:46 PM erik--- via cctalk 
wrote:

> Yeah - reading the source code of QEMU I found the structure of the NVRAM
> -
>
> EVEN BETTER there was a WEB page with a good description of the various
> NVRAMs on Sun machines up to Ultra1. Yes, there "was".
>
> FORTUNATELY via archive.org, that page can be accessed - Tad-
> here it is:
>
> https://web.archive.org/web/20151107014449/http://www.squirrel.com/squirrel/sun-nvram-hostid.faq.html
>
> HOT: As I suspected: The first byte of the hostID in some systems defines
> the machine type.
>
> PERFECT: There are also commands given to read/write the NVRAM from the
> firmware.
>
> Thanks Ethan, the hint to check the emulation was great!
>

[cctalk] Re: Tadpole/RDI UltraBooks - UNIX notebooks - species needs rescue...

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

My Ultrabook is a U20-14-1X-128C3.

Hope that helps,
Santo

On Thu, Sep 28, 2023 at 1:54 AM erik--- via cctalk 
wrote:

> @Jonathan: Wow, amazing project  in creating the replacement NVRAM. You
> really spent lot of time and efforts into that one. To attach the external
> battery I took a X-Ray to know where to have access to the battery pins
> most easily - was just 1 hour of work but far less cool of course! Thanks
> for sharing!
>
> @Santo: MANY thanks for dumping your NVRAM - looks interesting. I must
> admit that the plenty of 55 and AA look like lot of bits flipped from zero
> to 1 already (that is what happens with many memory chips) but yes, the
> lower section is all zeros. I will give that one a try in the next
> opportunity! By the way: What type of UltraBook was that from precisely
> (U14.?)?
>

[cctalk] Re: Tadpole/RDI UltraBooks - UNIX notebooks - species needs rescue...

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Thanks Jonathan.

I'm not sure this is correct as I needed to select a DS1643 after I tied
pin 26 and pin 27 to pin 28 (and cut 26 and 27 in a chip socket/adapter)
but I did manage to dump it.  It is very small though.  All zeros until
data starts at 0x1800.

Would you have an idea if this is accurate?  Reading as a DS1225 got all
zeros.
https://vintagecomputer.ca/files/Tadpole/Ultrabook2-8528496.bin

Maybe if Eric can write this to his Dallas chip, he might be in business if
it's good?
Santo

On Wed, Sep 27, 2023 at 4:35 PM Jonathan Chapman via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> > Speaking of dumping...
> >
> > Is it possible to read a Dallas DS1643 in programmer? That's what's in my
> > Ultrabook. I just tried with a Topmax II that supports it and I get all
> > zeros. :(
>
> You probably need to make a shim socket and pull pin 26 to VCC (pin 28),
> then read it as a DS1225. I'd also pull pin 27 (*WE) to VCC to avoid errant
> writes.
>
> Thanks,
> Jonathan
>

[cctalk] Re: Tadpole/RDI UltraBooks - UNIX notebooks - species needs rescue...

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Speaking of dumping...

Is it possible to read a Dallas DS1643 in programmer?  That's what's in my
Ultrabook.   I just tried with a Topmax II that supports it and I get all
zeros.  :(

Santo

On Wed, Sep 27, 2023 at 4:14 PM Ethan O'Toole via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> > Interesting - did you youse some modern technology for
> > doing that? I already thought to attach a logic analyzer to the
> > NVRAM to see which bytes are read first (e.g. for dtermining
> > the hardware configuration).
>
> Late to the convo, but it's interesting.
>
> You might be able to dump the ROMs and find someone who knows Sparc
> assembly to run it through a debugger/emulator and trace it? Hard part
> would probably be knowing where the NVRAM lives in memory space (memory
> map.)
>
> Maybe the MAME people would have an idea? Some of the old arcade games
> suffer from the exact same issue - they store variables in the ST
> Microelectronics Timekeepers and once it dies game won't boot due to a
> byte or two.
>
> MAME has SPARC emulation.
>
> Other thing is people with a working Tadpoles needs to dump their NVRAMS
> ASAP because it sounds like all of them are about to quit working?
>
>
> --
> : Ethan O'Toole
>
>
>

[cctalk] Re: Tadpole/RDI UltraBooks - UNIX notebooks - species needs rescue...

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Hi Erik,

I just happen to have mine out and took a quick video of boot up.  Mine
does not have a floppy drive or hard drive (I don't have a caddy) so it
boots pretty quickly to the "ok" prompt but you can see the LCD display and
when the LCD comes up.

Here's a quick video.
https://vintagecomputer.ca/files/Tadpole/Ultrabook-boot.mp4

On another note: Still hoping to find an Ultrabook hard drive caddy if
anyone has a spare or even internal pictures to see if it has any smarts or
if it's just an EIDE drive that goes pin-for-pin to the internal 40 pin
SCSI-5 connector.  I've been checking eBay for years now :(

Hope this helps,
Santo

On Wed, Sep 27, 2023 at 2:19 PM erik--- via cctalk 
wrote:

> Did some experiments in removing/swapping NVRAMs and none of my UltraBooks
> is reaching the OpenFirmware or even turning on the backlight/LCD, so I
> have no way of trying to read the NVRAM contents from there :-(
>
> Symptoms (i.e. behaviour of the LCD display) of the UltraBooks differ with
> contents of NVRAM or if there is no NVRAM at all. So without some
> known-valid NVRAM contents I fear I am lost :-(
>
> Symtpoms I see: Power symbols coming up always then (a) only tock-tock
> from speaker (b) blank, only the inverse A flashing several times, later a
> single time again and then blank forever (c) heart beat and speaker
> flashing, later the inverse A coming on as well.
>
> Can anyone out there at least tell me what their LCDis showing during
> startup?
>
> I will archive the contents of the NVRAMs as they are now although they
> are probably not of much use...
>

[cctalk] Re: IBM RT Graphics

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Looking back, I did buy one from Digikey but it was not the right one.

I bought mine from this ebay auction:  https://www.ebay.com/itm/171649843131
Specifically, the "D-SUB 3W3 Male" item.  I did not install the three metal
coax covers that come with it.  The end looks like this:
https://vintagecomputer.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IBM_RT_3W3_end.jpg

Hope this helps.
Santo




On Thu, Jun 8, 2023 at 7:34 AM emanuel stiebler  wrote:

> On 2023-06-08 06:12, Santo Nucifora via cctalk wrote:
>
> > I got the 3W3 connector and parts from Digikey.   Here's what that looks
> > like:
> >
> https://vintagecomputer.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IBM_RT_3W3_RGB-rotated.jpg
> > Please forgive the crude construction.  I didn't think it would work but
> it
> > did.
>
> You still have the part numbers?
>
>

[cctalk] Re: IBM RT Graphics

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

On Wed, Jun 7, 2023 at 2:26 PM Jonathan Katz via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> I have an IBM 6152 aka IBM RT system I rescued. (It may be a 6151?)
> I'm 90% sure it has colour graphics. The system does seem to POST
> correctly (according to the LED on the front) but the CRT is dead. I'm
> wondering if anyone has built an adapter to hook this to a VGA
> monitor.
>
>
Do you have the Megapel adapter in your 6151 with the 3W3 connector?  I
have one in my 6150 and I was able to connect it to a VGA monitor (NEC
Multisync) and I think I only created an adapter to go from 3W3 to Red,
Green and Blue RCA plugs (component) that then went into a simple RGB
component to VGA wired adapter (about 6 inches long) I already had.   Part
of the magic might be in that multisync monitor though.

Here it is running AIX:
https://vintagecomputer.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IBM_PC_RT_running_AIX.jpg

I got the 3W3 connector and parts from Digikey.   Here's what that looks
like:
https://vintagecomputer.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IBM_RT_3W3_RGB-rotated.jpg
Please forgive the crude construction.  I didn't think it would work but it
did.

Here is the RGB component to VGA adapter I also used:
https://vintagecomputer.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/RGB2VGAadapter.jpg

Hope this helps.
Santo

[cctalk] Re: Commodore Hyperion was Re: First non-IBM PC-DOS Compatible PC

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Sellam,

Bo Zimmerman at Zimmers.net has a picture of one here:
http://www.zimmers.net/commie/canonical.php?UPTOP=PC+Series=1=PC-3052

Here is one booting up on Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XFnPXH1Fy5w

The quality is not great for either of them and there are no internal
pictures, unfortunately.  I don't know if it's the same one but it looks
like the front mold was changed so there must have been more than one.

The deal with Commodore/Hyperion was reported to be in 1984.  The
Commodore Colt came out in 1984.  From what I've read, Commodore was trying
to buy a PC before they started making their own.  It would not be a leap
for them to use what they learned from the 100% DOS compatible Hyperion to
make the Colt because if they were working on the Colt, they wouldn't have
needed the Hyperion.

All speculation on my part as there is not a lot of information on this out
there.
Santo

On Tue, Jun 6, 2023 at 3:56 PM Sellam Abraham via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> On Tue, Jun 6, 2023 at 12:39 PM Santo Nucifora via cctalk <
> cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:
>
> > On Tue, Jun 6, 2023 at 3:04 PM db via cctalk 
> > wrote:
> >
> > That is very interesting.  I've seen Commodore Hyperion's in the same
> case
> > but with the molded "Commodore" brand instead of "Hyperion" but figured
> > they were just rebranded Hyperions.  Would you happen to know if those
> were
> > the 100% compatible versions?
> >
> > I know Commodore bought the rights but ended up making their own PCs that
> > turned into Commodore's PC line and the Hyperion design disappeared.  I'm
> > wondering if they may have used the 100% compatible Hyperion internals
> for
> > their models?
>
>
> Are the Commodore Colts the line acquired from Hyperion or their own
> design?
>
> I don't believe I've ever seen a Commodore-badged Hyperion.
>
> Sellam
>

[cctalk] Commodore Hyperion was Re: First non-IBM PC-DOS Compatible PC

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

On Tue, Jun 6, 2023 at 3:04 PM db via cctalk  wrote:

>
> Just before the end (for me anyway) we did a newer h/w
> revision starting from scratch keeping it 100% compatible but
> of course by then it was too late. I had very little to do with this
> project
> but I believe it was sold to Commodore.
>
> This was a long time ago...
>
>
Tom,

That is very interesting.  I've seen Commodore Hyperion's in the same case
but with the molded "Commodore" brand instead of "Hyperion" but figured
they were just rebranded Hyperions.  Would you happen to know if those were
the 100% compatible versions?

I know Commodore bought the rights but ended up making their own PCs that
turned into Commodore's PC line and the Hyperion design disappeared.  I'm
wondering if they may have used the 100% compatible Hyperion internals for
their models?

  Santo

[cctalk] Re: First non-IBM PC-DOS Compatible PC

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Chuck mentioned he world at Durango and there was a Poppy computer.  I
quick Google search turned up a mention here:
https://www.nytimes.com/1983/11/30/business/sperry-introduces-personal-computer.html

"Still later, they designed a 80186/80286 based 16-bit system, the Durango
"Poppy"; MS-DOS was selected as the entry operating system."

It didn't take much to find that.

The Sperry PC or the Zenith H-150 might have been early Phoenix customers
if the first Phoenix BIOS was released in May 1984.   That said, it is not
exactly the answer to the topic title as there were a few manufacturer's
like Dynalogic that had a decent amount of DOS compatibility already.

Santo

On Tue, Jun 6, 2023 at 11:08 AM js--- via cctalk 
wrote:

> On 6/6/2023 10:22 AM, Chuck Guzis via cctalk wrote:
> > On 6/6/23 04:25, Bill Degnan via cctalk wrote:
> >> There were a articles in the more technical journal-type mags 1981/82
> that
> >> discussed porting IBM DOS to non IBM 8088 systems that go into the
> >> mechanics of it.  DOS v 1.25 was the OEM version for the early ports.
> >> *indirectly* from these you might find references to IBM BIOS porting
> and
> >> who did it, there.  I have only print copies no scans.
> > I was there, doing just that.  Initially, we at Durango didn't think
> > that strict 5150 compatibility at the BIOS level was necessary for the
> > Poppy.  In fact, as OEMs, DOS 1.25 was delivered with only a sample
> > IO.SYS meant as a "skeleton".  MS-DOS text mode, like CP/M, was
> > considered to be good enough.
> >
> > In fact, MSDOS was never intended to be the ultimate target, but rather
> > an interim goal as we waited for Intel to complete the kernel for Xenix
> > on the 80286.  Right from the first unit, we had sockets for both the
> > 80186 and the 80286.  Console I/O was done via serial connection.
> >
> > It's a shame that few know about the early 80286 systems.
> >
> > --Chuck
>
>
> As much as these writings are appreciated, I often find myself
> frustration by the assumption that the audience knows everything you're
> talking about.   Just what are you talking about?   I searched this
> entire thread for mentions of "Poppy" and "Durango" and these words
> don't occur before.   What is Poppy and Durango?Not everyone was
> "there" and knows what you're talking about
>
>
>
>

Re: Retro Chip Tester Pro, US shopping basket?

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Hi Bill,

I have a Digikey shopping cart for most of the items and another for Mouser
for the rest of the items but mine was Rev "i".  I did this back in August
and I looked at the cart and noticed that  some of the items may have
substitutes now.  I know I had to do a few substitutes when I followed the
BOM even back then.  I'll post them here but please be careful and check
the BOM from the RTC (Retro Chip Tester) Google site you were emailed
against these carts.Again, you may have to make some substitutes and
some of the other components may not line up exactly but that's the nature
of these pre-created carts, unfortunately.  It will at least give you a
good start:  Note, I ordered from a Digikey.ca site but I created an
identical US cart for a friend in the US that was building one as well.
Again, triple check everything.

Digikey US cart:  https://www.digikey.com/short/d9vrt54z
Mouse CA cart for 4 items not at Digikey (but they may be there now?):
https://www.mouser.ca/ProjectManager/ProjectDetail.aspx?AccessID=9e707cf7c4

BTW, good choice on a Christmas present.  You will wonder how you did
without it.
Hope this helps,
Santo

On Thu, Jan 13, 2022 at 3:46 PM William Sudbrink via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> In response to my wife's "Buy yourself a Christmas present" direction, I've
> ordered a Retro Chip Tested Pro board.  When you purchase the board, you
> get
> a BOM and links to stored shopping baskets for some European vendors.  Has
> anyone built this in the US and stored their basket with a US vendor?  Rev
> 1.2k by the way, but any basket would be helpful as the BOM differences
> between the versions are listed.
>
>
>
> Thanks,
>
> Bill S.
>
>
>
> --
> This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
> https://www.avast.com/antivirus
>

Re: Anyone out there with a working Victor 9000 (US only)?

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Hi Chuck,

I have a working Victor 9000 dual floppy configuration and a dingle
floppy/hard disk configuration  but I'm in Canada.  I've tried to image
disks with a Kryoflux but have not figured out how to image disks to the
point of being able to re-create them.  The only way I have been able to
reproduce diskettes is to make copies on the Victor 9000 itself and that is
on the dual diskette version only, if I recall correctly.  If there is any
way I can help, I'd be happy to try.

Santo

On Fri, Oct 1, 2021 at 8:25 PM Chuck Guzis via cctalk 
wrote:

> On 10/1/21 5:04 PM, David Schmidt via cctalk wrote:
> > On 10/1/21 1:00 PM, Chuck Guzis wrote:
> >> Got a small batch (8) of Victor 9000 floppies, MSDOS ca. 1985.   I
> >> really don't want to write a decoder for such a small batch--I've got
> >> other things on the burner right now.   Anyone want to take a crack at
> >> transferring the data?   (Funds available).
> >>
> >> --Chuck
> > I don't have a Victor (looked for one for a while, and man, are they
> > heavy) because I have a couple of large-ish batch of disks here as well.
> >  I read them and have "triangular," Chuck Peddle-esque images, but not
> > sure how to get something like mtools to understand a triangular image.
> >  So I understand the motivation to just Kermit the files over to
> > something more sane. :-)
>
> That's basically it--I can read the transitions and probably figure out
> the GCR, but the zoned recording is going to take some work--taken all
> together, more work than I'm willing to put in for a one-time job.  I've
> got some pressing medical issues and don't really have the time to
> dedicate for this.
>
> A working Vicky would solve the problem, but I understand that not many
> have survived in working condition.  Funny--I used to pass the plant in
> Scotts Valley off of highway 17 on my way to the coast.
>
> --Chuck
>
>
>
>

Re: IBM Logic IC equivalency information needed

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Al, I re-read your question and think you are referring to the manual I am
looking for.  I don't have the part number but I think it might be this:
https://www.computerhistory.org/collections/catalog/102665239  What I had
was the " 5110 System Logic manual" that was a solid block.  Sadly, I threw
it away after I spent some time trying to unravel it and failed.

Hope this helps,
Santo


On Thu, Jun 17, 2021 at 4:17 PM Santo Nucifora 
wrote:

> The manual with the schematics was at the back part
> of SY31-0405-3_IBM_5100_Maintenance_Information_Manual_Oct1979.pdf.  PDF
> page 299 has the keyboard schematic/diagram.
>
> On Thu, Jun 17, 2021 at 4:15 PM Al Kossow via cctalk <
> cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:
>
>> On 6/17/21 1:10 PM, Santo Nucifora via cctalk wrote:
>> > One of the 5110's I acquired
>> > had a full set of manuals but they were water damaged and the schematics
>> > manual was one solid block of paper with all pages stuck
>> > together
>>
>> what was the part number of that manual?
>>
>>

Re: IBM Logic IC equivalency information needed

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

The manual with the schematics was at the back part
of SY31-0405-3_IBM_5100_Maintenance_Information_Manual_Oct1979.pdf.  PDF
page 299 has the keyboard schematic/diagram.

On Thu, Jun 17, 2021 at 4:15 PM Al Kossow via cctalk 
wrote:

> On 6/17/21 1:10 PM, Santo Nucifora via cctalk wrote:
> > One of the 5110's I acquired
> > had a full set of manuals but they were water damaged and the schematics
> > manual was one solid block of paper with all pages stuck
> > together
>
> what was the part number of that manual?
>
>

Re: IBM Logic IC equivalency information needed

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

To provide an update on the repairs so far, I've been able to save a few
boards while others are waiting for parts.

I was able to save a display card (I have two bad ones and one is waiting
for parts) and an APL ROS card which is really great.  All by replacing
some bad TTL logic chips.  I still have more work to do.

I also have two bad keyboards. It is the actual keyboard assembly as a
known working keyboard works fine.  I have taken them apart and cleaned
them as best I could but that didn't help.  One has exactly one key that
works (a slash key on the number pad) but no other keys register.  The
second keyboard doesn't register anything.  I am measuring this from the
keyboard connector on the keyboard mechanism.  One of the 5110's I acquired
had a full set of manuals but they were water damaged and the schematics
manual was one solid block of paper with all pages stuck
together, unfortunately.  I could really use some schematics.

Does anyone have any schematics for the 5100/5110 they can share?  There
are some schematics in the 5100 Maintenance Information Manual on Bitsavers
but they are more logical diagrams than actual schematics.  What I don't
know is if my "block of schematics" was like this as well.

Any assistance would be much appreciated.
Santo

On Sat, Jun 12, 2021 at 12:25 PM Chuck Guzis via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> On 6/12/21 1:58 AM, Christian Corti via cctalk wrote:
> > On Sat, 12 Jun 2021, Tony Duell wrote:
> >> I wonder if in the original list, a '1' was misread as a '7' or vice
> >> versa. I am told that in some countries the '7' is conventionally
> >> written with a crossbar across the downstroke to avoid this. My father
> >> always did this, for all it is not common in England.
> >
> > In Germany, we *always* write a bar across the 7. I don't like uncrossed
> > sevens because they are ugly ;-) and hard to distinguish from a 1.
>
> I do stroke my sevens just for clarity.   However, here in the US, few
> people write their ones with a serif--just a single vertical stroke.
> That, in my experience is not common practice in many European countries.
>
> Writing zero with a slash, by the same token, probably leaves the
> Scandanavian readers puzzled--as "oh" stroked is a letter of the
> alphabet.  Regardless, I stroked mine--a more universal practice might
> have been to write zero with a horizontal or vertical stroke.
>
> I recall turning in keypunch forms to be punched and receiving my job
> back with a note saying "I didn't know if you meant zero or oh, so a did
> some of both".   Wastebasket meet card deck.
>
> After that, I pretty much did all my own keypunching; management didn't
> like that, but I persisted.
>
> --Chuck
>
>

Re: IBM Logic IC equivalency information needed

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Thanks for that link Christian.

I've seen your list before but couldn't find it and the website I got this
transcribed list from is long gone.  I'll check your list against what I
have and make sure the one I have posted is accurate and post a link to
yours, if that's okay.

Santo

On Sat, Jun 12, 2021 at 4:54 AM Christian Corti via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> On Fri, 11 Jun 2021, Santo Nucifora wrote:
> > I am currently working on an IBM 5100 that has some issues. I know for
> > certain that the 5100 has a bad graphics controller card so I need to dig
> > into component level replacements for those ICs I can replace. I have a
> > list of logic chip equivalents to the IBM part numbers that are written
> on
> > the chips but I don't think it's 100% accurate because IBM part number
> > 1582601 comes back as 74151 "DATA SEL/MUX" but when I use one of those
> > cheap logic chip testers (that is surprisingly accurate), it comes back
> as
> > a 74157. For the record, if I test a 74151, it comes back as a 74151 so
> the
> > tester is correct. I just want to make sure the table I have is accurate
> > and that the tester is not 100% accurate or if that chip has failed and
> > tests like a 74157 in it's state.
> >
> > This is the current list I am using that I got from somewhere but I don't
> > recall where:
> > https://vintagecomputer.ca/ibm-vintage-logic-chip-equivalency-list/
> > Does anyone have an IBM logic chip equivalency table for 74 series logic
> > chips?
>
> This list looks like a faulty transcription of my list here:
> ftp://computermuseum.informatik.uni-stuttgart.de/ibm/ibmparts.txt
>
> In my list, it is "1582601 74157 DATA SEL/MUX".
> This list came from some IBM internal copies with unknown source.
>
> Christian
>

Re: IBM Logic IC equivalency information needed

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Thank you for the quick reply.  As soon as you wrote that, I checked my
list again and I have two entries for 74151.  The other is 2392121 which I
assume is the right one?

Would you mind sharing your list?  I can cross-reference and see how
accurate mine is.

Thanks again,
Santo

On Fri, Jun 11, 2021 at 4:29 PM Paul Berger via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> My reliable list says your cheap logic tester is right 1582601 = 74157
>
> Paul.
>
> On 2021-06-11 5:22 p.m., Santo Nucifora via cctalk wrote:
> > I am currently working on an IBM 5100 that has some issues. I know for
> > certain that the 5100 has a bad graphics controller card so I need to dig
> > into component level replacements for those ICs I can replace. I have a
> > list of logic chip equivalents to the IBM part numbers that are written
> on
> > the chips but I don't think it's 100% accurate because IBM part number
> > 1582601 comes back as 74151 "DATA SEL/MUX" but when I use one of those
> > cheap logic chip testers (that is surprisingly accurate), it comes back
> as
> > a 74157. For the record, if I test a 74151, it comes back as a 74151 so
> the
> > tester is correct. I just want to make sure the table I have is accurate
> > and that the tester is not 100% accurate or if that chip has failed and
> > tests like a 74157 in it's state.
> >
> > This is the current list I am using that I got from somewhere but I don't
> > recall where:
> > https://vintagecomputer.ca/ibm-vintage-logic-chip-equivalency-list/
> > Does anyone have an IBM logic chip equivalency table for 74 series logic
> > chips?
> >
> > Any help is much appreciated.
> > Santo
>

IBM Logic IC equivalency information needed

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

I am currently working on an IBM 5100 that has some issues. I know for
certain that the 5100 has a bad graphics controller card so I need to dig
into component level replacements for those ICs I can replace. I have a
list of logic chip equivalents to the IBM part numbers that are written on
the chips but I don't think it's 100% accurate because IBM part number
1582601 comes back as 74151 "DATA SEL/MUX" but when I use one of those
cheap logic chip testers (that is surprisingly accurate), it comes back as
a 74157. For the record, if I test a 74151, it comes back as a 74151 so the
tester is correct. I just want to make sure the table I have is accurate
and that the tester is not 100% accurate or if that chip has failed and
tests like a 74157 in it's state.

This is the current list I am using that I got from somewhere but I don't
recall where:
https://vintagecomputer.ca/ibm-vintage-logic-chip-equivalency-list/
Does anyone have an IBM logic chip equivalency table for 74 series logic
chips?

Any help is much appreciated.
Santo

Re: FW: List your old computer

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Looks a little different since the last time I looked around that feature
(it was a while back) but I think it may be this site?

https://www.1000bit.it/

Santo

On Wed, Feb 24, 2021 at 7:32 PM Kevin Parker via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> Thanks Stan - no it wasn’t anything to do with uptime. It was like a
> museum but people registered/listed their machines with some info about
> them and some pictures.
>
>
> Kevin Parker
>
> -Original Message-
> From: cctalk  On Behalf Of stan via cctalk
> Sent: Thursday, 25 February 2021 10:02 AM
> To: cctalk@classiccmp.org
> Subject: Re: FW: List your old computer
>
> By any chance, are you thinking of uptimes.net?
> Some years ago (early 2000's?) it was tracking systems uptimes. I had an
> Alpha  system talking to it at one time.
>
> IIRC, the record at one time was a VAX cluster, with an uptime of 1200+
> days. Windows NT systems fared a lot worse, average of about 40 some
> days
>
> Stan
>
>
> On 2021-02-24 2:02 a.m., Kevin Parker via cctalk wrote:
> > My apologies for the tracker embedded in my original post. I use it
> > for my business and forgot to remove it before posting to this list.
> >
> >
> > Kevin Parker
> >
> > -Original Message-
> > From: cctalk  On Behalf Of Kevin Parker
> > via cctalk
> > Sent: Wednesday, 24 February 2021 6:00 PM
> > To: 'General Discussion: On-Topic and Off-Topic Posts'
> > 
> > Subject: List your old computer
> >
> > Hi folks - there used to be a web site where you could register and
> > list your "classic/old computer(s)". I'm not looking to do that but am
> > trying to find something from years gone by that I think was on that
> site.
> >
> > I thought it was https://www.old-computers.com/ or
> > http://oldcomputers.net/ but it's neither of those.
> >
> > My googlefoo has been unable to track it down assuming it still
> > exists. I know at one stage the owner was thinking of closing it down
> > because of hacks or spamming of forms or something like that.
> >
> > Does this ring a bell with anyone?
> >
> > Thank you!!
> >
> > Kevin Parker
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >  > 1_k-L-
> > 1qZM43W3s0v_y2M0f8BF4c2NfHml5Hf6Bq4h603?si=84908274=cece28e
> > b-2dfe
> > -4230-a422-38cd80fce8ae>
> >
> >
>
>

Re: In search of 4B3A Microswitch Keyswitches (for a restoration, not a keyboard collector!)

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Hi Ian,

What type of computer is your friend restoring?   I can't help as I have a
full keyboard that I'd like to keep intact but this is a home made
terminal/keyboard made from Diablo 1620 parts including the keyboard and I
believe the HyTerm main board.  It has SD switches but they are mostly
4B3Bs.   These are said to be the same hall effect switches as at least one
of the famous Symbolic keyboards so that's likely a dead end.  I do have
the schematic for this board if it's helpful.

Homemade keyboard pics: http://vintagecomputer.ca/vintage-homemade-keyboard/

Schematic:
http://vintagecomputer.ca/files/Diablo/Diablo%20HyTERM%20HPR01%20Schematic.pdf

On Fri, Jul 10, 2020 at 1:26 AM Ian Finder via cctalk 
wrote:

> I know what you guys are thinking- no, this isn't for a keyboard collection
> or some modern build or some other nonsense like that.
>
> I have a friend who is restoring a fairly interesting and historically
> significant vintage computer- a and subject to what appears to be a
> batch-related encapsulation failure on the proprietry hall effect sensors,
> but could have been some other trauma, around a little over half of them
> are bad.
>
> The correct SD-series replacement switch would be the 4B3A-
>
> *** These can allegedly be found on some of the Diablo printing
> terminals.**
>
> It is possible other switches ending in ***A could be made to work with a
> bit of labor and disassembly (swapping the fairly brittle sensors).
>
> I am not a keyboard expert but I have learned that you can remove a key on
> some of these microswitch keyboards and read the model fairly easily.
>
> Please let me know if you have a lead on a donor for these switches. They
> will be put to good use, and you can reply to me off list for more details.
>
> Thanks,
>
> - I
>

Re: anyone heard from Cindy Croxton?

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Cindy was last on the keyboard forum on January 10, 2020.  She posted
something in December stating "Lots of things happening here, and I will
not be reopening the store until after the first of the new year. Many
thanks to everyone for your help and support over the past several years.

Cindy (elecplus) (elecshopper.com) "

I think she's okay just busy but I haven't spoken to her personally for the
last couple of months.
Santo

On Tue, Jan 14, 2020 at 9:53 PM Al Kossow via cctalk 
wrote:

> I tried sending an email about a week ago after noticing
> https://elecshopper.com/
> was "down for maintenance"
>
>

Re: Classic equipment available & my bad year.

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Dave,

That is a remarkable story.  I am glad you are on the mend but sad to hear
of your disposing of your remaining collection.  Your website has been a
regular resource for me personally and I have enjoyed seeing your virtual
collection immensely as a Canadian collector.

I wish you the best in your further recovery.
Santo Nucifora

On Fri, Nov 8, 2019 at 5:27 PM Bill Degnan via cctalk 
wrote:

> Dave wow what a story.  I am glad you are recovering my well wishes to you
> from me and my family.
>
> Bill Degnan
>
> On Fri, Nov 8, 2019, 5:20 PM Dave Dunfield via cctalk <
> cctalk@classiccmp.org>
> wrote:
>
> > Hello Everyone.
> >
> > I have had a major health incident which means that I have been
> > unresponsive
> > for several months. As I need to move in closer to town, I will be
> > disposing
> > of what remains of my collection (Things like: Altairs, Imsa, PET 2001,
> > Apple II, TRS-80s, lots of S100 carts etc.)
> >
> > I have posted some preliminary information at:
> >
> >http://www.classiccmp.org/dunfield/sale.txt
> >
> > This will be updated on a regular basis.
> >
> > If you are interested in what happened to me, I have posted
> > some details at:
> >
> >http://www.classiccmp.org/dunfield/2019.txt
> >
> > Dave Dunfield
> >
>

Re: Update: Received my 50lb Datapoint 2200 computer from Austria via regular post.

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

That is awesome.  Looks great!

Do a search on "crt cataract".  There is likely a plastic cover on the CRT
that is glued in place.  This can be removed and cleaned.

I have a Hazeltine 1500 terminal that the cataract was so bad, the plastic
cover fell off.

Good luck with the restoration!
Santo

On Mon, Sep 23, 2019 at 5:36 PM steven stengel via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> Found a Datapoint 2200 in Austria that I wanted - I asked seller Viktor to
> pack it well, by wrapping it several times in big-bubble bubbewrap, until
> it was just a giant cube of bubble wrap.
>
> See pics here:
> http://oldcomputers.net/box/
>
> The cover was actually sent separately in another box so it didn't crushed
> by the 50 pound system.
>
> First, I have to rewire it from 220vac to 110vac.
> Second - what to do about that screen?
>
>
>
>

Re: TSC Assembler?

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Hi Monty,

Glad your found it useful.  All of these documents were scanned from the
documentation I have.  That article was definitely a bad photocopy to start
with but I'll leave it up and if anyone asks, I can point them to that July
77 issue of Kilobaud.  Thanks for sending the link!

Santo

On Thu, Dec 20, 2018 at 9:16 AM Monty McGraw  wrote:

> Santo,
>
> I finally got down to the TSC 6800 Assembler source file on your site :)
> Lots of great information on 6800 to digest!
>
> Thanks,
> Monty
>
> On Thu, Dec 20, 2018 at 7:49 AM Monty McGraw  wrote:
>
>> Santo,
>>
>> What a treasure trove of 6800 information!
>>
>> I just started looking at your site - although I haven't found the TSC
>> assembler source code file yet.
>>
>> I could not read the code in your file "Article Introducing the 6800
>> Disassembler".
>> I found a much better scan of that article on archive.org:
>> https://archive.org/details/Kilobaud197707, very readable and very
>> useful!
>>
>> I've been looking for 6800 programs to run on my Tektronix 4054A computer
>> - that although it has a bit-slice microprocessor, the microcode supports
>> the complete 6800 8-bit opcodes and adds 16-bit for floating point, 16-bit
>> registers and supports 16-bit address space with 128KB of memory, 64KB for
>> the BASIC ROMs and 64KB for RAM.  It uses the 6800 SWI instruction in user
>> space assembly code programs in RAM to access ROM global entry points - so
>> I can't use 6800 programs that include SWI without changing that code.
>>
>> Monty
>>
>> On Thu, Dec 20, 2018 at 5:06 AM Santo Nucifora via cctalk <
>> cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:
>>
>>> Hi AJ,
>>>
>>> I also have some TSC documentation here that you might find useful
>>> including the TSC Assembler System 1.4 source code and the TSC
>>> Disassembler
>>> too.
>>>
>>> http://vintagecomputer.ca/files/SWTPC/
>>>
>>> Hope this helps.
>>> Santo
>>>
>>> On Thu, Dec 20, 2018 at 3:21 AM AJ Palmgren via cctalk <
>>> cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:
>>>
>>> > Bill, thank you for this thoughtful response.  hand-punching is no
>>> small
>>> > thing.  That is amazing dedication, and from what I know of you, I am
>>> not
>>> > at all surprised...
>>> >
>>> > Yes, it was absolutely an assembler for the 6800 processor.
>>> >
>>> > Thanks for mentioning the cassette for the Altair, that would be super
>>> > retro-geeky cool to play with...but yes, this is an extremely busy
>>> season
>>> > for most, if not all of us.
>>> >
>>> > It looks like Monty McGraw might have come through with something, so
>>> let's
>>> > check out his page suggestion.
>>> >
>>> > Thank you!
>>> >
>>> >
>>> > On Wed, Dec 19, 2018 at 3:44 AM Bill Degnan 
>>> wrote:
>>> >
>>> > >
>>> > >
>>> > > On Wed, Dec 19, 2018, 4:46 AM AJ Palmgren via cctalk <
>>> > > cctalk@classiccmp.org wrote:
>>> > >
>>> > >> Hi, all.
>>> > >>
>>> > >> Would anyone here happen to have access to the original early 80s
>>> binary
>>> > >> files to to run TSC Assembler?
>>> > >>
>>> > >> http://bit.ly/2rLsORe
>>> > >>
>>> > >> I'm looking for the vintage software that this document refers to:
>>> TSC
>>> > >> Floating Point Package by Technical Systems Consultants.
>>> > >>
>>> > >> I know there's a fair number of more modern assemblers that will
>>> > >> accomplish
>>> > >> essentially the same thing (LWASM, A09, etc), but I was curious to
>>> see,
>>> > >> and
>>> > >> play with, the old-school version of this on one of my vintage
>>> > machines...
>>> > >>
>>> > >> Thanks, everyone!
>>> > >> AJ
>>> > >>
>>> > >> --
>>> > >>
>>> > >> Thanks,
>>> > >> AJ Palmgren
>>> > >>
>>> > >
>>> > > AJ .. I did not read the code to determine for myself but what is the
>>> > > processor / instruction set that goes with the TSC assembler, 6800? I
>>> > once
>>> > > hand punched the entire TSC BASIC to a papertape so it could be read
>>> into
>>> > > an Altair 680 via Teletype.  Given the date on the assembler, and
>>> their
>>> > > BASIC, it is very possible that at that time TSC sold an assembler
>>> for
>>> > the
>>> > > 6800 then.  It should not take long to determine what instruction set
>>> > your
>>> > > TSC doc pertains to.  I might have it in cassette for the Altair but
>>> I am
>>> > > kind of busy to archive it unless no one has it otherwise.  Busy
>>> time of
>>> > > the year.
>>> > >
>>> > > Bill
>>> > >
>>> > >>
>>> >
>>> > --
>>> >
>>> > Thanks,
>>> > AJ Palmgren
>>> > http://fb.me/SelmaTrainWreck
>>> > http://SelmaTrainWreck.blogspot.com
>>> > https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100010931314283
>>> > https://www.linkedin.com/in/aj-palmgren-4a085516/
>>> >
>>>
>>

Re: TSC Assembler?

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Hi AJ,

I also have some TSC documentation here that you might find useful
including the TSC Assembler System 1.4 source code and the TSC Disassembler
too.

http://vintagecomputer.ca/files/SWTPC/

Hope this helps.
Santo

On Thu, Dec 20, 2018 at 3:21 AM AJ Palmgren via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> Bill, thank you for this thoughtful response.  hand-punching is no small
> thing.  That is amazing dedication, and from what I know of you, I am not
> at all surprised...
>
> Yes, it was absolutely an assembler for the 6800 processor.
>
> Thanks for mentioning the cassette for the Altair, that would be super
> retro-geeky cool to play with...but yes, this is an extremely busy season
> for most, if not all of us.
>
> It looks like Monty McGraw might have come through with something, so let's
> check out his page suggestion.
>
> Thank you!
>
>
> On Wed, Dec 19, 2018 at 3:44 AM Bill Degnan  wrote:
>
> >
> >
> > On Wed, Dec 19, 2018, 4:46 AM AJ Palmgren via cctalk <
> > cctalk@classiccmp.org wrote:
> >
> >> Hi, all.
> >>
> >> Would anyone here happen to have access to the original early 80s binary
> >> files to to run TSC Assembler?
> >>
> >> http://bit.ly/2rLsORe
> >>
> >> I'm looking for the vintage software that this document refers to:  TSC
> >> Floating Point Package by Technical Systems Consultants.
> >>
> >> I know there's a fair number of more modern assemblers that will
> >> accomplish
> >> essentially the same thing (LWASM, A09, etc), but I was curious to see,
> >> and
> >> play with, the old-school version of this on one of my vintage
> machines...
> >>
> >> Thanks, everyone!
> >> AJ
> >>
> >> --
> >>
> >> Thanks,
> >> AJ Palmgren
> >>
> >
> > AJ .. I did not read the code to determine for myself but what is the
> > processor / instruction set that goes with the TSC assembler, 6800? I
> once
> > hand punched the entire TSC BASIC to a papertape so it could be read into
> > an Altair 680 via Teletype.  Given the date on the assembler, and their
> > BASIC, it is very possible that at that time TSC sold an assembler for
> the
> > 6800 then.  It should not take long to determine what instruction set
> your
> > TSC doc pertains to.  I might have it in cassette for the Altair but I am
> > kind of busy to archive it unless no one has it otherwise.  Busy time of
> > the year.
> >
> > Bill
> >
> >>
>
> --
>
> Thanks,
> AJ Palmgren
> http://fb.me/SelmaTrainWreck
> http://SelmaTrainWreck.blogspot.com
> https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100010931314283
> https://www.linkedin.com/in/aj-palmgren-4a085516/
>

Re: Christmas came early...

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Hi Bill,

They are both great looking period keyboards but I do particularly love the
George Risk keyboard.  It might not be a model 756 but I do have some
documentation and hopefully it can help.  Check
http://vintagecomputer.ca/files/George%20Risk%20Industries/



On Sat, Dec 15, 2018 at 5:34 PM William Sudbrink via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> In the form of an estate sale.  The first in a long while where I found
> anything interesting.  In addition to buying a large box of 7400 and 4000
> series chips, all with 1970's date codes, I got two vintage keyboards:
>
> http://wsudbrink.dyndns.org:8080/images/kb_pics/20181215_162104.jpg
>
> http://wsudbrink.dyndns.org:8080/images/kb_pics/20181215_162139.jpg
>
> The estate sale employees have no idea where the associated systems (if
> any) are.  They did not see them during the sale preparation and have not
> sold them.  I also got a manual and set of 8 inch floppies for "Unicorn
> Systems Software Tools For CP/M".  Twenty floppies, all with factory
> labels, various libraries, utilities and documentation files.  I have not
> made a careful study of them yet (I just got home with them an hour ago).
>
> Bill S.
>
>
> ---
> This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
> https://www.avast.com/antivirus
>
>

Re: Did anyone see Vintage Tech Hunters on Discovery Canada yet?

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Hi Corey,

You can watch the second episode on the Discovery Canada website as well.
I just watched both.  Very nice on the credits by the way.

I think it's a great show with a good variety of items.  My only feedback
is that I'm not a fan of how the summarization of the purchase is measured
by potential profit.  One has to mentally calculate what the selling value
is.   Most other shows summarize purchases with a final potential selling
value so that people can easily see how much something is worth.  Maybe
it's just me but throwing the word "profit" around a lot makes it seem the
buyers are in it for the money more than the other shows which I know is
the case for the others but it seems less "greedy" when final selling
prices are stated; leaving the viewer to mentally calculate the profit.


Hope that makes sense.

On Thu, Nov 8, 2018 at 9:56 PM corey cohen via cctalk 
wrote:

> You can only watch them in Canada and the first episode is the only one
> you can watch even if your in Canada without a cable subscription.
>
> corey cohen
> uǝɥoɔ ʎǝɹoɔ
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> > On Nov 8, 2018, at 10:16 AM, Nemo Nusquam  wrote:
> >
> >> On 11/06/18 07:25, corey cohen via cctalk wrote:
> >> Can’t see it yet in the states, but I was wondering if anyone here saw
> it and
> > > what you though.  I was involved with the show.
> >
> > They seem to be available here:
> https://www.discovery.ca/Shows/Vintage-Tech-Hunters
> >
> > N.
> >
> >> Thanks,
> >> Cheers,
> >> Corey
> >>
> >> corey cohen
> >> uǝɥoɔ ʎǝɹoɔ
> >> Sent from my iPhone
> >>
>

Re: Did anyone see Vintage Tech Hunters on Discovery Canada yet?

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

I am sure this is not authorized in any way but here's a link to the first
episode on Youtube.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iroAInAMfYo

On Thu, Nov 8, 2018 at 5:19 AM Adrian Stoness via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> 
>
>
>
> On Thu, Nov 8, 2018 at 12:09 AM corey cohen via cctalk <
> cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:
>
> > Can’t see it yet in the states, but I was wondering if anyone here saw it
> > and what you though.  I was involved with the show.
> >
> > Thanks,
> > Cheers,
> > Corey
> >
> > corey cohen
> > uǝɥoɔ ʎǝɹoɔ
> > Sent from my iPhone
>

Re: Selling keyboards without the terminal

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Hi Ed,

This particular keyboard uses beam spring key switches.  These are
considered ultra luxury old-school key switches with really good key caps.
IBM spared no expense.  The IBM 3101 is the thinnest beam spring keyboard
and looks closest to the IBM Model M (sort of) in terms of keys.  While the
key caps don't match up, someone created a converter that makes these
keyboards work via USB (replacing the controller board) which also maps out
easily to a usable PC keyboard.  It is likely to go higher.

I have one of these keyboards that is in serious need of restoration but
when  I restore it I will acquire a 3101 terminal for it to mate with (as I
have done with other keyboards and terminals).

Hope this helps.
Santo

On Fri, Oct 19, 2018 at 12:15 PM ED SHARPE via cctalk 
wrote:

> OK I  am sorry  I  do not  understand  why the keyboard  went  this high?
>
> Please... Please... someone  explain?
>

Re: ISO: Scan of IASIS ia-7301 ("Computer In A Book") manual / text

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

I've been looking to recreate a binder also as I have an IASIS ia-7301 as
well.  If you find it, please let me know as well.

Thanks and good luck.

On Sat, Aug 11, 2018 at 7:56 PM Josh Dersch via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> Hi all --
>
> I picked up a nice IASIS ia-7301 (see:
> http://www.old-computers.com/museum/computer.asp?c=544;) recently.  It
> came
> with the binder and the computer but none of the paper bits.  Does anyone
> have the manual scanned (or is there anyone who might have a copy to
> scan)?  I'd like to print a copy to put in there.  My searches on the 'net
> have come up empty.
>
> Thanks as always,
> Josh
>

Re: Australian Computer Museum - HELP

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

EEVBlog visits the warehouse:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mK4M8dv4NNU

On Wed, Aug 1, 2018 at 3:49 AM Pontus Pihlgren via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> Hi John
>
> I seem to recall that the ACMS had a Display 340 from
> a PDP-6. Is this hardware safe?
>
> I hope you can get the help you need.
>
> Regards,
> Pontus
>
> On Tue, Jul 31, 2018 at 11:59:15AM +1000, John GEREMIN via cctalk wrote:
> > The building housing the Australian Computer Museum is
> > scheduled to be demolished in 2 weeks. Anyone in Sydney (or
> > nearby) is invited to HELP preserve the collection by
> > providing storage (for doco or big or small items) until we
> > get a proper home. Please email i...@acms.org.au for more
> > details, or call John 0427 10 20 60 in Australia.
> >
> > --
> > John GEREMIN, Honorary Treasurer, 0427 10 20 60.
> > Australian Computer Museum Society Inc.
> > PO Box 4005, Homebush, NSW, 2140.
> >
> >
> > ---
> > This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
> > https://www.avast.com/antivirus
> >
>

Re: IBM 5100 to 5110 Transitional Model

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

HI Wayne,

I believe the KVA is increased because of the extra memory card.  I have a
5100 with 0.4 and another with 0.336.  The 0.4 has an extra memory card and
is BASIC and APL as opposed to just BASIC.

The printed 5100 badging on the front is not consistent but sometimes if it
doesn't have it printed on the front, it's on a silver metallic emblem
embedded in the top cover.  If the 5100 badging is printed on the front, it
may or may not have the silver metallic badge on the top cover.  I have a
top emblem model and a top emblem-less model yet both have the 5100 badging
printed on the front.  If you look at other photos on the net, you will see
others with no front printed badging.  This particular one had no front
badging but has the emblem in the top cover and I think this is normal.
I'm not sure which one is earlier/later but I would imagine that is why
there is a difference.

I can't explain the 5110/5100 difference on the bottom.

Hope this helps.



On Sat, Feb 3, 2018 at 6:15 PM, Wayne Smith via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> Has anyone noted this listing of what the seller is calling an "IBM
> 5100" on Ebay?
>
> https://www.ebay.com/itm/IBM-5100-B1-Basic-Language-16k-Memory-Powers-
> on-monitor-works-but-no-text/112776476816
>
> While it is listed as a 5100, it lacks the 5100 badging on the front
> center panel (to the right of the power switch).  In addition, the
> indicia on the bottom
> (https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/9VYAAOSwaC9aapB-/s-l1600.jpg)
> indicates both models 5100 and 5110, and the KVA is listed at 0.4
> whereas 5100s are 0.336.  Compare the typical indicia on the bottom:
> https://tinyurl.com/ybmvms7u.
>
> The serial number is in the 5100 format of 10-1, but this unit has
> the highest serial number I have seen on a 5100 (10-15687).
>
>
> I am guessing that this is some sort of transitional version or
> perhaps a 5110 "prototype".
>
> Any thoughts?
>
> -W
>
>
>

Re: IBM 3101 keyboard - was Re: Keyboard "enthusiasts"

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Hi Ian,

I have a keyboard that looks similar but it's in several pieces because I
am currently in the process of restoring it.  The barrel plate (the plate
that holds the beam spring switches in place) and exterior needs paint.
This was very rusty and in rough shape when I got it but I'd love to see it
in use (if I can't find a 3101 terminal).  I also took the beam spring
switches apart and cleaned them up.  It is in need of final restoration but
I can't paint until summer now (or get it sent out).

Send me a message off-list and I'll take some pics.  Are there variations
to the 3101 terminal?  I'm not sure this particular keyboard is the right
one you need but if you have the IBM part number, I can check.

I am not the Canadian guy that Cindy sold those keyboards to but I can only
imagine what they went for. I now tend to buy these IBM keyboards first
(when they happen to come up) and match up the terminal later.  Doing it
the other way around just doesn't work any more.  I think this particular
model is sought after because it has the beam spring key switches and is
"slim line" compared to most other beam spring keyboards.  It also has
enough keys to have a decent PC layout, unfortunately.

Santo


On Wed, Jan 24, 2018 at 2:06 PM, Ian Primus via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> Well, let me know if you find another one. Or, if anyone else has one
> they'd be willing to part with for reasonable money. The regular 3278
> type keyboards won't work on an IBM 3101 - and those are a lot more
> common. The one I need looks like this:
> https://i.imgur.com/1Cz8hMi.jpg
>
> It has the configuration switches to set the baud rate and such under
> that panel at the top.
>
> Without this particular keyboard, the terminal I have is useless - you
> can't even have it just receive/display data, since the configuration
> switches are in the keyboard.
>
>

Re: Types of corrosion on computers

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

I've seen this a few times.  I never knew exactly what it was but it
usually comes off but there is staining left over.  Here are a couple of
explanations from Google.

*White rust* is a *white* powdery deposit formed from a natural *corrosion*
process that can occur on any new zinc coated steel product. It is damaging
to the appearance of the steel, not to mention to the anti-*corrosion*
layer of zinc that protects the body of the steel.

Galvanized *metals* also *rust*, but they do so at a slow rate unless the
galvanized coating has been damaged. Brass, silver, and bronze tarnish as
they interact with the atmosphere. Aluminum oxidizes into a *white powder*,
although the *powder* binds chemically to the *metal* beneath, blocking
further *corrosion*.

On Fri, Dec 8, 2017 at 6:09 PM, Adrian Stoness via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> water get sprayed on it?
>
>
> On Fri, Dec 8, 2017 at 5:06 PM, dwight via cctalk 
> wrote:
>
> > Could be the zinc plating?
> >
> > Dwight
> >
> >
> > 
> > From: cctalk  on behalf of Sam O'nella
> via
> > cctalk 
> > Sent: Friday, December 8, 2017 2:46:40 PM
> > To: General Discussion: On-Topic and Off-Topic Posts
> > Subject: Types of corrosion on computers
> >
> > I've seen rust and dust, but there's an old vaxstation II at Goodwill
> > Computers in Austin right now (very cheap, anyone welcome to buy it and
> get
> > it off my mind) but as most things, I checked out the back and see some
> > circles of white corrosion on the back where the cards? are contacting
> the
> > case.
> >
> > I don't really have room or time but I don't own anything that uses QBUS
> or
> > is almost related to some of the neat iron some of you all collect (I've
> > mostly collected way too many home computer history items).
> >
> > Anyway, what is that type of white corrosion on metal?  Would one
> probably
> > assume this means any bus would be corroded and this wouldn't be a
> computer
> > for the faint of heart hobbyist? I've only seen that maybe from batteries
> > but it's in an unusual place and pattern (I think).
> >
>

Re: Livermore Data Systems / was Re: what is this NCR modem? what did it go to?

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

On Tue, Nov 28, 2017 at 3:58 PM, Brent Hilpert via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

>
> Thanks for the additional datapoint.
> It does suggest Model A production may likely have started in 1968.
> Actual date codes in mine were 6908 to 7008.
> The larger caps are also a good place to look for date codes.
>
> I did the schematic, if you have an interest.
> Eventually I'll get a little web article up for the model.
>
>
For the record, I'm not sure what model I have as the deteriorated foam
from the top cover fell and stuck to the Livermore label between the two
cups and clean up wiped off most of the info.  Mine has a Motorola MC836P
IC on the middle board that has a date code of 7206.

Re: Tandy Assembly

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Live streaming is working very well.  I caught a couple of talks  and it
looks great.  Looks like the event turned out great!


On Sat, Oct 7, 2017 at 3:41 PM, Peter Cetinski <p...@pski.net> wrote:

> I don't know but I'll ask him if he's still around.  How's the live stream
> working out?  I haven't had a chance to look at it.
>
> Pete
>
> On Oct 7, 2017, at 10:48 AM, Santo Nucifora <santo.nucif...@gmail.com>
> wrote:
>
> Hi Pete,
>
> I've been watching the live stream of Tandy Assembly here:
> https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPyGtUzQU0Vf7CiSiJLySUg/live
>
> In Don French's keynote, he mentioned he designed an S-100 interface for
> the TRS-80 Model 1. Do you or anyone know if that was the HUH Electronics
> 8100 S-100 interface?
>
> On Sat, Sep 30, 2017 at 9:45 AM, Peter Cetinski via cctalk <
> cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:
>
>> Only one week to go until the inaugural Tandy Assembly event in
>> Chillicothe, OH.  We’ve been planning this for over a year and it’s
>> exciting to finally see it coming together.  We’ll have exhibits and
>> presentations covering all of the Tandy computers, from the TRS-80 Model I
>> to the Tandy 6000.  The pockets, portables and PCs too.  If you can’t join
>> us in Ohio, we plan on live streaming many of the presentations and events
>> on YouTube.
>>
>> http://www.tandyassembly.com <http://www.tandyassembly.com/>
>>
>> Thanks,
>>
>> Pete
>>
>>
>

Re: Tandy Assembly

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Hi Pete,

I've been watching the live stream of Tandy Assembly here:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPyGtUzQU0Vf7CiSiJLySUg/live

In Don French's keynote, he mentioned he designed an S-100 interface for
the TRS-80 Model 1. Do you or anyone know if that was the HUH Electronics
8100 S-100 interface?

On Sat, Sep 30, 2017 at 9:45 AM, Peter Cetinski via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> Only one week to go until the inaugural Tandy Assembly event in
> Chillicothe, OH.  We’ve been planning this for over a year and it’s
> exciting to finally see it coming together.  We’ll have exhibits and
> presentations covering all of the Tandy computers, from the TRS-80 Model I
> to the Tandy 6000.  The pockets, portables and PCs too.  If you can’t join
> us in Ohio, we plan on live streaming many of the presentations and events
> on YouTube.
>
> http://www.tandyassembly.com 
>
> Thanks,
>
> Pete
>
>

Re: Need VT-100 switch

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

I've replied to this and helped someone else out before as it seems to be a
frequent question.

I've replaced two VT-100 switches with chrome "bat" handle switches from
Home Depot in Canada shown here:
https://www.homedepot.ca/en/home/p.t...000104171.html

 The one at the USA Home Depot is here:
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Gardner-Bender-20-Amp-Double-Pole-Toggle-Switch-1-Pack-GSW-14/100149490

I had to remove the screws and filed the terminals down a little because
the terminals were a little wider than the original connectors but it works
like a charm and will not break. It is almost a direct replacement (except
for the terminals needing some filing).

You can probably pick one up on the way home if you are in North America.

Hope this helps.
Santo

On Tue, Aug 29, 2017 at 3:38 PM, John Wilson via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> On Tue, Aug 29, 2017 at 09:04:11PM +0200, E. Groenenberg via cctalk wrote:
> >Does somebody maybe have a spare switch of a VT-100 (the one at the back)?
>
> If you get stuck, there's a switch that's made as a replacement part for
> Fender guitar amps which, apart from having a metal handle instead of
> plastic, is a very close match to the VT100 power switch.  Really it's
> what DEC *should* have used ...
>
> John Wilson
> D Bit
>

Ithaca Intersystems DPS-1 plastic paddles/switches?

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

I recently acquired an Ithaca Intersystems DPS-1 that had several plastic
paddles missing.  All but one switch appears to be there but 14 of the
orange plastic paddles are missing.  I am assuming they are unobtanium so I
guess the question is, has anyone drawn out and 3D printed any paddle
replacements for existing switches?  I have a 3D printer so that won't be a
problem.

The missing switch is the On/Off switch.  Was this different than any of
the on/off switches?  There is currently a flat bat handled switch that
looks very "Altair 8800b" like, which is great because I could use a
spare.  Are the switches (without paddle) hard to find?

Any paddle/switch info is much appreciated.
Santo

Re: IBM 5110 - Where does the character set live? And other questions.

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Hi Christian,

I might have some better documentation that I just haven't had a chance to
scan yet.

I have several binders that make up the IBM 5110 System Library.  In terms
of manuals enclosed for the 5110, I have the following that I can scan in
the next week or so so that you can put a copy of these on his site.  Can
you let me know what you need from this list?  Make note of the revisions
because this set looks up to date (to a point) with IBM Tech Newsletters
that include revisions and page changes.

5110 System Library Binder 1
SY31-0550-2 IBM 5110 Computer Maintenance Information Manual
SY31-0551-0 IBM 5114 Diskette Unit Maintenance Information Manual
SY31-0414-3 IBM 5103 Printer Maintenance Information Manual
SY31-0581-0 IBM 5110 Language Support Maintenance Information Manual
S131-0627-1 IBM 5110 Computer Parts Catalog
S131-0626-0 IBM 5114 Diskette Unit Parts Catalog
S131-0598-3 IBM 5103 Printer Parts Catalog
SY31-0553-1 IBM 5110 Maintenance Analysis Procedures

5110 System Library Binder 2
GA21-9300-0 IBM 5110 General Information and Physical Planning Manual
SA21-9311-0 IBM 5110 Customer Support Functions Reference Manual
SA21-9308-1 IBM 5110 BASIC Reference Manual

5110 System Library Binder 3
SA21-9306-0 IBM 5110 BASIC Introduction
SA21-9307-1 IBM 5110 BASIC User's Guide
SA21-9318-0 IBM 5110 Computing System Setup Procedure

Hope this helps,
Santo

On Tue, Jul 11, 2017 at 11:28 AM, Christian Corti via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> On Tue, 11 Jul 2017, Robert wrote:
>
>> maintenance manual and that for the 5103. No luck on the 5114, yet,
>> but I'll keep looking.
>>
>
> Ok, I will scan that manual the next days. But in general the contents of
> the 5114 MIM is contained withing the 5120 MIM.
>
> Christian
>
>

Re: Serial keyboards

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

I think I'm gonna get in trouble for this answer but while I am not a
keyboard collector, I do buy keyboards when the opportunity arises.

In my particular case, I started out with occasionally buying computers
with missing keyboards because they were inexpensive; far more then when
they had the keyboard.  I would wait for the keyboard to come up for sale
(hopefully) and try to buy it.  Sometimes, the keyboard cost more than the
computer system.

I tried to find out what the fascination was because there couldn't be that
many people looking for the keyboard to complete a system and found the
keyboard enthusiast forums.  I posted some info about my IMSAI IKB-1 (the
War Games keyboard that was matches with the early IMSAI 8080 in that
movie) because it was being discussed as almost being mythical.  I then
started posting pictures of my other keyboards.  These guys collected
keyboards while I collected computers and most came with the keyboard for
free.  I had a built-in keyboard collection.

Yes, there are many who collect mechanical keyboards because they are
interested in the construction of the key switches and the key tops.  As
with anything, the old adage goes, "They don't make them like they used
to".  Keyboards made today are garbage.  They are rubber domed keyboards
with cheap key caps that yellow over time and the type face literally wears
off.  The early construction is top notch in many cases and far superior to
what is available today.  Many of the early keyboard manufacturers have
gone to thin rubber keyboards.  Consider IBM.  The PC and terminal
keyboards could be used as weapons. Today, they crumble.

I am not making excuses for keyboard collectors because they are orphaning
terminals and computer systems that they go with.  I even posted an analogy
that they could understand.  There are people who collect key switches and
key caps only.  They don't even keep and cherish the keyboard these parts
come from!  I stated that a keyboard collector to a computer collector is
like a switch collector to a keyboard collector.  It goes down to that
level.  These switches and key tops are reused on new mechanical keyboard
construction projects.

This is where the Dolch PAC fits in.  The Dolch PAC fits into the key
switch/key cap collector's realm.  These Dolch key caps are used for other
projects because they fit new key switches.  In fact, Massdrop has a
replica set for sale here:https://www.massdrop.com/buy/dsa-dolch-key-set

I bought a Dolch PAC to collect because I wanted to see the keyboard to see
what the fuss was about but mainly because it had Network General's Network
Sniffer software and a full set of manuals.

Sadly, we have to compete with keyboard collectors.  There are lots of
systems without keyboards.  Just last night I reached out to someone with
an IBM 5251 terminal with, you guessed it, no keyboard.  Ad here:
https://westernmass.craigslist.org/sys/6162646378.html  I do have a small
collection of terminals and am trying to save that one from destruction but
it will cost a fair bit to ship and the seller wants it picked up.  If
anyone can save it, please do.

I have also helped out some people who needed a keyboard.  I swapped a
non-working Zenith Z-100 keyboard for my working keyboard with someone from
the Yale library who was an archivist.  It allowed them to get their Z-100
running and archive some diskettes.  I've also bought some keyboards that I
have been able to pair with their systems and have functional examples
again.  In the case of the IBM 5251, I bought the matching keyboard from
someone in Greece, if I recall, a couple of years ago.  This, however, is
only a small part of my collecting.  I also now occasionally buy keyboards
that are interesting.  They are mostly worthless to keyboard collector and
they don't go with systems because they are newer but they are pretty cool.


So that's basically the story.  They collect keyboards like we collect
computers.  I don't agree with what they do and I make that clear whenever
I get the chance but they collect something and I can't fault them for
that.

I hope this helps explain the keyboard phenomenon.

Santo

On Tue, Jun 6, 2017 at 4:40 PM, dwight via cctalk 
wrote:

> If you look on the ebay for a dolch ethernet sniffer, you'll see
>
> many with no keyboard.
>
> Why would someone separate the keyboard from a box when it
>
> is clipped onto it?
>
> These are not just any keyboard. They have custom shaped cases
>
> and connector specifically for that model dolch.
>
> What would anyone want with those keyboards?
>
> Dwight
>
>
> 
> From: cctalk  on behalf of Dave Wade via
> cctalk 
> Sent: Tuesday, June 6, 2017 2:02:34 AM
> To: 'Henry Bond'; 'General Discussion: On-Topic and Off-Topic Posts'; 'Al
> Kossow'
> Subject: RE: Serial keyboards
>
>
>
> > -Original Message-
> > From: cctalk 

Re: For Sale: STM Pied Piper "Portable Computer"

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Disk images have been uploaded in IMD format.

For those who might be considering Sellam's Pied Piper (tying this back to
the original post), you have software for it now if Sellam cannot find his.

Hope this helps Pete and Adrian, if you find any other disks, please share.

NOTE: The Pied Piper Peripheral disk is mostly bad but some files may be
salvageable.

Thanks,
Santo

On Fri, Mar 24, 2017 at 8:43 PM, Santo Nucifora <santo.nucif...@gmail.com>
wrote:

> Thanks Chuck.
>
> I was able to create a good bootable Pied Piper CP/M 2.2 copy but I used a
> Kryoflux in RAW preservation format so that probably won't be much good for
> most unless you have a Kryoflux..  I'll have to put together an ImageDisk
> set up to capture it in a more shareable format.
>
> I have
> - CP/M
> - Perfect Software Product Disk 1
> - Perfect Software Product Disk 2
> - Perfect Software Scratch Disk
> - Pied Piper Peripherals DIskette (in bad shape)  This has terminal and
> modem software but some of the utilities hang.
>
> I'll try to set it up and get images this weekend.  Glad to see my Pied
> Piper working for the first time :)
>
> Santo
>
> On Fri, Mar 24, 2017 at 7:17 PM, Chuck Guzis via cctalk <
> cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:
>
>> On 03/24/2017 02:03 PM, Santo Nucifora via cctalk wrote:
>> > What format are those disks in?  I did find the software and manuals
>> > but I have to image my disks too.  I have not used them yet and have
>> > never powered on my Pied Piper at this point.  I hope to image them
>> > this weekend (if they are still good).
>>
>> The samples that I have are 96 tpi 10x512 byte sectors or 800KB.
>>
>> --Chuck
>>
>
>

Re: For Sale: STM Pied Piper "Portable Computer"

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Thanks Chuck.

I was able to create a good bootable Pied Piper CP/M 2.2 copy but I used a
Kryoflux in RAW preservation format so that probably won't be much good for
most unless you have a Kryoflux..  I'll have to put together an ImageDisk
set up to capture it in a more shareable format.

I have
- CP/M
- Perfect Software Product Disk 1
- Perfect Software Product Disk 2
- Perfect Software Scratch Disk
- Pied Piper Peripherals DIskette (in bad shape)  This has terminal and
modem software but some of the utilities hang.

I'll try to set it up and get images this weekend.  Glad to see my Pied
Piper working for the first time :)

Santo

On Fri, Mar 24, 2017 at 7:17 PM, Chuck Guzis via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> On 03/24/2017 02:03 PM, Santo Nucifora via cctalk wrote:
> > What format are those disks in?  I did find the software and manuals
> > but I have to image my disks too.  I have not used them yet and have
> > never powered on my Pied Piper at this point.  I hope to image them
> > this weekend (if they are still good).
>
> The samples that I have are 96 tpi 10x512 byte sectors or 800KB.
>
> --Chuck
>

Re: For Sale: STM Pied Piper "Portable Computer"

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

What format are those disks in?  I did find the software and manuals but I
have to image my disks too.  I have not used them yet and have never
powered on my Pied Piper at this point.  I hope to image them this weekend
(if they are still good).

Wish my Pied Piper was in better shape but I'm happy to have what I got.
Here's a link:  http://vintagecomputer.ca/stm-pied-piper-computer  You can
see a pic of the manuals too.  I was considering scanning them but I'd have
to tear them apart so I haven't.

Santo

On Fri, Mar 24, 2017 at 3:20 PM, Pete Plank via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

>
> >
> > I have several of these including the full disk set of 'Perfect'
> > applications and diagnostics, demo disk etc. One of my jobs for last year
> > was to image those disks but it took me so long to find them I never got
> one
> > of those tuits we all need.
> >
> > If anyone buys this let me know and I'll see what's still readable.
>
> I have one as well in the original box with the external drive, manuals,
> etc. but no disks - so I’ve never had it fully running. If you could see
> what’s available that would be fantastic.
>
> Thanks much!

Re: VT52 keyboard question

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Mark,

Do you have a picture of what's underneath the key cap?  I think those are
Hi-Tek switches underneath. I believe they are similar to the VT-100
keyboard shown here:  https://deskthority.net/wiki/DEC_VT100  You can pull
the key cap off as long as you do it straight up.

Find out what kind of key switch it has and we'll go from there.

Santo

On Mon, Mar 13, 2017 at 5:12 PM, william degnan via cctech <
cct...@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> On Mon, Mar 13, 2017 at 4:45 PM, Marc Howard via cctech <
> cct...@classiccmp.org> wrote:
>
> > Hi,
> >
> > The "2" key on my VT52 is very hard to use.  You've gotta pound it and
> you
> > might get 2 "2"s for your trouble.
> >
> > I assume that the keyboard switch is made of unobtanium (If you know of a
> > substitute chime in) so I'm thinking of swapping it for the "COPY" key
> > which I guess is useless unless you have the built-in thermal printer.
> >
> > 1. Do you simply pull the keyboard button off the switch or is there a
> > trick involved?
> >
> > 2. Any other gotcha's?
> >
> > Thanks,
> >
> > Marc
> >
>
> Have you tried cleaning, etc?  I assume so but I'd be curious if there is a
> specific restoration process for the VT50/52.  I have not investigated this
> myself, but eventually I will need to probably.
>
> Bill
>

Re: Looking to re-home some NeXT hardware

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

On Sun, Mar 12, 2017 at 10:13 PM,  wrote:

> ok can you spare the cube?
> Ed# www.smecc.org
>
>
No.  As I noted, I haven't even booted it up yet to try it.  I will be
keeping that, one of the mono NeXTstations (the one for parts ) and passing
on a NeXTstation to a fellow collector.   I appreciate the interest but it
hasn't even warmed up yet from the cold :)

Santo

Re: Looking to re-home some NeXT hardware

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Thanks to Chris, I have given the equipment a new home. Pics have been
taken of the two NeXT Cube boards in question and pics of the motherboard,
for good measure.  I've made a post on the NeXT computer forum here for
those who may be interested:
http://www.nextcomputers.org/forums/viewtopic.php?t=4027

Thanks,
Santo

On Fri, Mar 10, 2017 at 12:19 PM, Ed via cctalk 
wrote:

> let  me  put  my name  back in the hat  for  the  cube  next  computer...
> all the other stuff  we have looks  ok  but  appears  like our  cube may
> have met a baseball bat on part of  it
>
> poor thing  would  not  look  good in a   display.
> Ed Sharpe archivist  for SMECC
>
>
> In a message dated 3/10/2017 10:13:29 A.M. US Mountain Standard Time,
> cctalk@classiccmp.org writes:
>
> On 9  March 2017 at 01:21, Ian Finder via cctalk 
> wrote:
> > Is someone testing a Markov chainer on the list? If so, you  have some
> more
> > work to do...
>
>
> It would explain the resolute  & total failure of our efforts to
> explain top-quoting to him. Er, to  it.
>
> --
> Liam Proven • Profile: https://about.me/liamproven
> Email:  lpro...@cix.co.uk • Google Mail/Talk/Plus:  lpro...@gmail.com
> Twitter/Facebook/Flickr: lproven •  Skype/LinkedIn/AIM/Yahoo: liamproven
> UK: +44 7939-087884 •  ČR/WhatsApp/Telegram/Signal: +420 702 829 053
>

Re: Looking to re-home some NeXT hardware

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Hi Mark,

Works for me or I can post.  I am "snuci" on http://www.nextcomputers.org
and have been a member for a little while.  I have a couple of NeXTs
already including only one that I've put on my site at
http://vintagecomputer.ca/next-dimension-cube-turbo  One of these will go
to a friend who has a small collection and is new to NeXT so we'll have
another potential member soon :)  For the record, that blog post is old.  I
have the Cube working with dual monitors and have no issues with that one
at all.

Santo



On Wed, Mar 8, 2017 at 3:50 PM, Tapley, Mark <mtap...@swri.edu> wrote:

> On Mar 8, 2017, at 1:28 PM, Santo Nucifora <santo.nucif...@gmail.com>
> wrote:
>
> > Hi Mark,
> >
> > I have reached out to Chris (I am local) and will providing a new home
> for the lot.  I will be happy to take hi-res pics of the board when I get
> them over the weekend.
> >
> > Santo
>
> Santo,
> that’s great! Wonderful to hear they are going to a good home.
> I will try to pass on the photos to
>
> http://www.nextcomputers.org
>
> if that’s OK with you, or you can do so directly. That seems to be
> one of the biggest active repositories of NeXT information.
> If you want to get them running, there is also a lot of useful
> information in the forum area on the same site, including pretty detailed
> steps on how to implement a SCSI2SD or other hard drives. Some of that may
> be helpful with the cube as well.
> - Mark
>
>

Re: Looking to re-home some NeXT hardware

[Santo Nucifora via cctalk]

Hi Mark,

I have reached out to Chris (I am local) and will providing a new home for
the lot.  I will be happy to take hi-res pics of the board when I get them
over the weekend.

Santo

On Wed, Mar 8, 2017 at 2:22 PM, Tapley, Mark via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> On Mar 8, 2017, at 1:09 PM,   wrote:
>
> > It's been a long time since I had the Cube open so this is from memory.
> However, I'm reasonably sure that this was based off a NeXT card (whose
> name escapes me) that was half bus interface and half prototype board so
> that you could build one-off interfaces.  I originally bought the Cube as
> surplus from the University of Waterloo, so I'm guessing that it's an
> interface to some piece of lab equipment.
> >
> > Here's a slightly blurry picture of the Cube's back:
> >
> >https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0Sme9n3mG2UYUxuVWZ2eXhfS2M/view
> >
> > The Mystery Board occupies the leftmost slot (IIRC).
>
> Now that is interesting! I concur completely, this does not look
> anything like my NeXTDimension. But it looks from the outside as though you
> have not one but two boards on the left side. My cube originally had only
> the board on the right of your picture (and in that same location). Unless
> there are internal connections between the two slots on the left side, you
> may have two Mystery Boards.
>
> Very neat! I hope we get to hear more about this system eventually.
> - Mark
>
>

Re: 16MB memory module for a PC110

[Santo Nucifora]

Hi Jim,

Follow this link for pics of my IBM PC110 memory module.  The memory chips
are marked Hitachi 51W17800BTT7 but I can't seem to find a data sheet.
Unfortunately, it doesn't boot at the moment.  I'll charge it up and see if
she'll boot.

http://vintagecomputer.ca/ibm-pc-110-memory-module/

It is a very cool unit.  Hope this helps,
Santo

On Fri, Feb 10, 2017 at 12:37 PM, Liam Proven  wrote:

> On 10 February 2017 at 09:11, Jim Brain  wrote:
> > I know it's a "newer" PC compatible machine, but I was wondering if
> anyone
> > had a 20MB PC110 Palmtop
>
>
> That's very cute. :¬) I am surprised but AFAIK I've never heard of them
> before.
>
> --
> Liam Proven • Profile: https://about.me/liamproven
> Email: lpro...@cix.co.uk • Google Mail/Talk/Plus: lpro...@gmail.com
> Twitter/Facebook/Flickr: lproven • Skype/LinkedIn/AIM/Yahoo: liamproven
> UK: +44 7939-087884 • ČR/WhatsApp/Telegram/Signal: +420 702 829 053
>

Re: Anyone have the service guide for a Sanyo VM4209 monitor?

[Santo Nucifora]

Never mind.  I took a picture of the internals of both and they are NOT at
all the same, unfortunately.

http://vintagecomputer.ca/sanyo-vm-4209-vs-hitachi-vm-909/

Good luck in finding the Sanyo schematics.  I'd love to have a copy myself.

Santo

On Tue, Jan 24, 2017 at 8:32 PM, Santo Nucifora <santo.nucif...@gmail.com>
wrote:

> Hi Corey,
>
> Is it possible that the Sanyo monitor is a rebadged Hitachi VM-909 monitor
> (or the other way around)?   The Hitachi monitor user manual is only two
> pages, front and back but I also have schematic diagram for it too. The
> Hitachi monitor originally came as an option with the Polymorphic 8813.
>
> Santo
>
> On Tue, Jan 24, 2017 at 4:47 PM, Corey Cohen <appleco...@optonline.net>
> wrote:
>
>> I need the schematics.  I'm not sure I trust all those "manual" sites on
>> the web that want to sell you a PDF for $15.
>>
>> My monitor seems to be acting up.
>>
>> Thanks in advance,
>> Cheers,
>> Corey
>>
>> corey cohen
>> uǝɥoɔ ʎǝɹoɔ
>
>
>

Re: Anyone have the service guide for a Sanyo VM4209 monitor?

[Santo Nucifora]

Hi Corey,

Is it possible that the Sanyo monitor is a rebadged Hitachi VM-909 monitor
(or the other way around)?   The Hitachi monitor user manual is only two
pages, front and back but I also have schematic diagram for it too. The
Hitachi monitor originally came as an option with the Polymorphic 8813.

Santo

On Tue, Jan 24, 2017 at 4:47 PM, Corey Cohen 
wrote:

> I need the schematics.  I'm not sure I trust all those "manual" sites on
> the web that want to sell you a PDF for $15.
>
> My monitor seems to be acting up.
>
> Thanks in advance,
> Cheers,
> Corey
>
> corey cohen
> uǝɥoɔ ʎǝɹoɔ

Re: Vector Graphics PROM/RAM Board?

[Santo Nucifora]

For those who may be interested,  I've placed a copy of the Vector Graphic
manual entitled "PROM/RAM Board Users Manual and Assembly Instructions"
here:
http://vintagecomputer.ca/download/vector_graphic/Vector-Graphic-PROM-RAM-Rev-3-card-Manual.pdf

Hope this helps,
Santo

On Thu, Jan 19, 2017 at 8:36 PM, Santo Nucifora <santo.nucif...@gmail.com>
wrote:

> Hi Win,
>
> I think I have you covered.  I have an unopened Vector Graphics RAM/ROM
> Revision 3 board with full assembly guide/user manual/schematics. Includes
> source for a memory test program, the Vector 1 Monitor 1.2 source listing
> and an errata sheet with an extra jumper.
>
> Here's a pic of my board/parts:  http://vintagecomputer.ca/wp-
> content/uploads/2017/01/Vector-Graphics-RAM-ROM-board-Rev-3.jpg
>
> Oddly enough, my Vector Graphics 1++ has the 12k RAM/ROM board so I don't
> have a Rev 3 running.  I'll scan the manual tomorrow and email you a PDF.
>
> Hope this helps.
> Santo
>
> On Thu, Jan 19, 2017 at 7:27 PM, Win Heagy <whe...@gmail.com> wrote:
>
>> This was helpful, thanks.  Unfortunately, I did not find anything
>> specifically related to the specific PROM/RAM board that I have.
>> There was a pretty good manual related to the VG PROM III.  I'm sure
>> there is some overlap with my board.  The documentation I have for my
>> board is very sparse.  I'm not sure if this is all that is available,
>> but it discusses jumpers on the board but doesn't give details on how
>> they are configured, or a description of setup and operation of the
>> board.
>>
>> I tried what I could decipher from my docs, but I haven't seen any
>> signs of life.  It's also possible that the board is not working, but
>> I'd like to be sure I'm actually using it correctly.
>>
>> Any other pointers appreciated.
>>
>> Thanks...Win
>>
>> > Does anyone have experience with the Vector Graphics PROM/RAM
>>  > card...like this one.
>>  > http://www.classiccmp.org/dunfield/s100c/vector/promram.jpg
>>  > (This is not my card...mine is not jumpered in upper right.)
>>  > I have some documentation with mine and two PROMs loaded in A0 and A1
>>  > (VIMON loaded on them), but am having some trouble getting any
>>  > response from it.  Most likely a config issue or a conflict with other
>>  > RAM.
>>
>> Win,
>>
>> There are two resources that might be useful to you:
>>
>> 1. The VECTOR-GRAPHIC mailing list, inhabited by a couple of former
>> Vector employees, among others -
>> http://h-net.msu.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=vector-graphic
>>
>> 2. The Vector Graphic file archive -
>> http://vector-archive.org/index.php
>>
>> De
>>
>
>

Re: Vector Graphics PROM/RAM Board?

[Santo Nucifora]

Hi Win,

I think I have you covered.  I have an unopened Vector Graphics RAM/ROM
Revision 3 board with full assembly guide/user manual/schematics. Includes
source for a memory test program, the Vector 1 Monitor 1.2 source listing
and an errata sheet with an extra jumper.

Here's a pic of my board/parts:
http://vintagecomputer.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Vector-Graphics-RAM-ROM-board-Rev-3.jpg

Oddly enough, my Vector Graphics 1++ has the 12k RAM/ROM board so I don't
have a Rev 3 running.  I'll scan the manual tomorrow and email you a PDF.

Hope this helps.
Santo

On Thu, Jan 19, 2017 at 7:27 PM, Win Heagy  wrote:

> This was helpful, thanks.  Unfortunately, I did not find anything
> specifically related to the specific PROM/RAM board that I have.
> There was a pretty good manual related to the VG PROM III.  I'm sure
> there is some overlap with my board.  The documentation I have for my
> board is very sparse.  I'm not sure if this is all that is available,
> but it discusses jumpers on the board but doesn't give details on how
> they are configured, or a description of setup and operation of the
> board.
>
> I tried what I could decipher from my docs, but I haven't seen any
> signs of life.  It's also possible that the board is not working, but
> I'd like to be sure I'm actually using it correctly.
>
> Any other pointers appreciated.
>
> Thanks...Win
>
> > Does anyone have experience with the Vector Graphics PROM/RAM
>  > card...like this one.
>  > http://www.classiccmp.org/dunfield/s100c/vector/promram.jpg
>  > (This is not my card...mine is not jumpered in upper right.)
>  > I have some documentation with mine and two PROMs loaded in A0 and A1
>  > (VIMON loaded on them), but am having some trouble getting any
>  > response from it.  Most likely a config issue or a conflict with other
>  > RAM.
>
> Win,
>
> There are two resources that might be useful to you:
>
> 1. The VECTOR-GRAPHIC mailing list, inhabited by a couple of former
> Vector employees, among others -
> http://h-net.msu.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=vector-graphic
>
> 2. The Vector Graphic file archive -
> http://vector-archive.org/index.php
>
> De
>

Re: What's the rarest or most unusual computer-related item do you own?

[Santo Nucifora]

"Unusual" would be a recent acquisition of an Apple II Rev 3 motherboard
that has no solder mask or graphics.  Not sure if it's a prototype or an
impeccable 1 to 1 clone and I'm not sure I will ever have confirmation.
This board was produced on the same material by the same manufacturer of
Apple II boards of the time but has a couple of replaced interface card
slots and is actually roughly cut on both ends.  The card slot replacements
could have been because of a lot of testing with various cards (a theory).
Still remains a mystery but I am leaning towards prototype.

http://vintagecomputer.ca/apple-ii-rev-3-clone-or-prototype/

Santo



On Sat, Jan 14, 2017 at 10:01 AM, Jay Jaeger  wrote:

> I think my most uncommon item would be:
>
> A DEC RC11 and RS64 - Installed and working on a PDP-11/20.
>
> I have a few other interesting artifacts that are probably not common,
> including:
>
> A DEC VT05 - not working.
> A DEC RF08 - not installed
> A DEC RS08 - Disassembled and broken  ;(
> A DEC PDP-12 - Mostly working last it was on
> A set of populated PDP-12 backplanes (I wasn't able to rescue the whole
> machine)
> A DEC PDP-8/L - Working last it was on
> A DG Eclipse S/140 with disk - not tested recently
> A DG Nova 4 with tape and disk - not tested recently
> A working Wire-wrapped Mark 8 I built
> A Mark-8 replica I built
> A TV Typewriter that I built way back when, restored
> A Netronics original IBM PC clone I built way back when
> An HP 2114
>
> On 1/10/2017 4:09 PM, Andy Cloud wrote:
> > Hi Everyone!
> >
> > I thought this would be an interesting question to ask around - What's
> the
> > rarest or most unusual computer-related item do you own?
> >
> > For me, personally, I have a Altair 8800!
> >
> > Looking forward to hearing your answers
> >
> >> _Andy
> >
>

Re: looking for keytronics keyboard pad replacement kit

[Santo Nucifora]

I've had good luck with  Apple Lisa's, Processor Technology Sol-20s,
Dynalogic Hyperions and a TRS-80 model II keyboard.  I make my own with
weather stripping (sticky on one side), two sided tape and silver gift
wrapping (mylar).  I would re-use the original plastic disk (after cleaning
them up) or I cut out overhead projector transparancies if I had to.  It is
a chore but I made hundreds once and am almost out now.

Here's a pic:
http://vintagecomputer.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/keyboard-foam-pads.jpg

On Tue, Dec 13, 2016 at 7:19 AM, Peter Cetinski  wrote:

> I haven't had the greatest success with the Mylar blankets on my Tandy
> 6000 keyboards.  Some of the keys would act flaky and result in garbage
> characters on the screen.  I had to replace those problematic keys with
> original discs.  But, I rebuilt a Model II keyboard where the blanket discs
> work fine.  I think the properties of those keytronic discs are slightly
> different.
>
> Pete
>
> > On Dec 12, 2016, at 9:55 AM, Kyle Owen  wrote:
> >
> > If it's not too much trouble, emergency blankets (aluminized mylar, I
> > believe) work well for these keyboards, so long as you get them in the
> > right direction, mylar side towards the keyboard. Seems like you could
> buy
> > those, then stick them on the mylar and quickly cut them out.
> >
> > Kyle
>

Re: ISO Xebec S1410A fw #104792 or 104793

[Santo Nucifora]

Hi Al,

I don't have those particular board with the firmware but I posted a bunch
of pics of what I have here, if it helps as you go through more.

http://vintagecomputer.ca/bridgeboards-gallery/

Hope this helps,
Santo

On Tue, Nov 15, 2016 at 5:09 PM, Chuck Guzis  wrote:

> On 11/15/2016 12:59 PM, Eric Smith wrote:
>
> > The same basic WD1000 or WD1001 controller design, with
> > customization, was used in the Fortune 32:16 and ACD HDC-1001.
> > Probably others as well.
>
> It was used in a *lot* of machines back then.  Heck, I even used one on
> my IBM 5150 with a Shugart SA-1001 drive.
>
> --Chuck
>

Re: KIM-1 Debugging tool

[Santo Nucifora]

Count me in for one set of boards.

On Sun, Nov 13, 2016 at 10:52 AM, dwight  wrote:

>
> I've started a new thread.
>
> See:
>
>
> http://www.vcfed.org/forum/showthread.php?54850-Debugging-a-KIM-1-computer
>
>
> I've created a simple debugging board that one can plug onto the KIM's
> expansion buss that has debug code on it. It allows one to find out what is
> failing on the KIM so they know what to replace.
>
> While developing it, I found that my 6530-002 is bad. As we all know,
> these are custom made and no longer available. There is a similar part, the
> 6532 that is similar, without ROM.
>
> It can be used with an adapter. I've reviewed both specifications and
> believe I've figured out how to do it. Others have made them that are
> configured for the Gottlieb pinball machines but they will not work for the
> KIM because the KIM selects are configured differently.
>
> I've begun making a hand wired adapter with a EEPROM. This will be in a
> stacked socket under the 6532. I expect to use the debug board to program
> it in place.
>
> After verifying that every thing works, I may create PC boards for the
> debug and 6532 adapter.
>
> I know there are a number of dead KIM-1s out there.
>
> I'm looking to see how many people would be interested in buying a set of
> boards? I'm thinking in the range of $10 to $20 someplace, depending on
> volume. I expect to have two small boards for each adapter and one for the
> debug board. I'll most likely have them made as a set to save cost.
>
> I can populate the adapter boards with the SOIC parts and leave the rest
> to the person buying the boards.
>
> Please let me know how many people would be interested??
>
> Dwight
>
>
>
> Dwight
>
>
> Debugging a KIM-1 computer forum/showthread.php?54850-Debugging-a-KIM-1-computer>
> www.vcfed.org
> This is a discussion forum about vintage computer collecting, use,
> restoration and display powered by vBulletin. To find out about vBulletin,
> go to http://www.vbulletin.com/ .
>
>
>
>
> 
> From: cctalk  on behalf of dwight <
> dkel...@hotmail.com>
> Sent: Monday, November 7, 2016 6:19:25 AM
> To: General Discussion: On-Topic and Off-Topic Posts
> Subject: Re: KIM-1 Debugging tool
>
> I still need to post the final schematic. A new thread might be a good
>
> idea.
>
> I wanted to keep the board as simple as possible so one could just
>
> wire wrap or point to point it.
>
> It only has a 7474, 7402 and a 7404 as well as the EPROM.
>
> It could easily be done with a GAL or PAL and the EPROM.
>
> I think two schematics showing each would be best.
>
> Dwight
>
>
> 
> From: cctalk  on behalf of Ali <
> cct...@ibm51xx.net>
> Sent: Sunday, November 6, 2016 10:25:16 PM
> To: 'General Discussion: On-Topic and Off-Topic Posts'
> Subject: RE: KIM-1 Debugging tool
>
> > I've been making a debugging ROM board to test out the various
> >
> > parts of the KIM-1. It is based on taking over the KIM at reset
> >
> > and running test.
> >
> > So far I've got two test working. One is a basic, is it running test
> >
> > that just blinks a light on the debug board.
> >
> > The next is a test of the first 1K of RAM.
> >
> > A little tricky to do without RAM.
> >
> > I expect to write some more for the RRIOT ics.
> >
> > If anyone has interest, they can follow me on the Vintage
> >
> > Computer Forum or contact me here.
> >
> > The board has 3 ttl ICs, a 2764/27128 EPROM, a couple
> >
> > LEDs and a dip switch. Also a few pullup resistors and capacitors.
> >
> > Dwight
>
>
> Dwight,
>
> That is a pretty cool project. May I suggest you break it out on VCF into
> its own thread so people can more easily follow what is going on? For those
> interested in the original thread:
> http://www.vcfed.org/forum/showthread.php?52155-KIM-1-No-Action/
> KIM-1 No Action KIM-1-No-Action/>
> www.vcfed.org
> This is a discussion forum about vintage computer collecting, use,
> restoration and display powered by vBulletin. To find out about vBulletin,
> go to http://www.vbulletin.com/ .
>
>
>
>
> -Ali
>
>

Re: Alps key switches.

[Santo Nucifora]

I asked Daniel.

He pointed me to this:  https://deskthority.net/wiki/Alps_SKFF_series

These are Alps SKFF series switches.  At first glance, I through they were
a strange version of the SKCC series here:
https://deskthority.net/wiki/Alps_SKCC_series

I knew he would know for sure.
Santo

On Sat, Nov 12, 2016 at 11:48 AM, Al Kossow  wrote:

> https://deskthority.net/wiki/Category:Alps_switches
>
> you should let Daniel Beardsmore know about these. They don't look like
> anything I've seen before
>
> On 11/12/16 8:31 AM, Mattis Lind wrote:
> > I found Alps key switches at a small Swedish electronic surplus seller.
> The
> > resembled some switches I have seen before so I took a chance and bought
> > some. The price was the equivalent of 2 USD for ten switches.
> >
> > I took a few photos in case someone could identify them:
> >
> > http://i.imgur.com/L5agnfc.jpg
> >
> > Could be interesting to know if they are used in some known machine.
> >
> > The part number might be 58990003 and 58990002 which was the number
> > mentioned in the catalogue.
> >
> > The company selling them is Belganet Data Elektronik and their catalogue
> is
> > at:
> >
> > http://www.bde.se/skat11_1.pdf
> >
> > /Mattis
> >
>
>

Re: What the heck is the deal with this eBay item

[Santo Nucifora]

I do watch the auctions for this Helios drive but won't bid.  Too much BS
going on with this seller, it seems.  I suspect the private seller is an
alter ego of his.

I did manage to find a Cromemco PFD Persci dual drive this morning on eBay
for $250.  I have every confidence this will come.  I would have no
confidence with the Helios seller.

On Thu, Nov 10, 2016 at 1:42 PM, jim stephens  wrote:

>
>
> On 11/10/2016 10:22 AM, Glen Slick wrote:
>
>> On Nov 4, 2016 8:03 AM, "Glen Slick"  wrote:
>>
>>> The listing seems to have vanished now. (Probably just as well).

 Maybe the listing was reported and removed. It was listed again exactly
>>>
>> the same.
>>
>>> https://www.ebay.com/itm/272436936862
>>>
>> Sold for $202.50 this time around. Anyone here take the chance on it?
>>
> Someone with 434 feedback and history of vintage stuff bid the auction up
> against a bidder with  private auction info.  I suspect the Private guy was
> a shill, as the only information that is shared now is the general history
> of bids for your opponent, and the count (if not private).
>
> So concealing that history and count is the way the shill can obscure
> their identity.  So still stinks.  I suspect that Mr. 434 didn't know what
> he / she was dealing with and was lucky not to lose > 202.50 worth of their
> money and a lot of time.
>
> thanks
> Jim
>
>

Re: WTB several IMSAI-8080 ON-OFF-ON momentary switches

[Santo Nucifora]

As far as I know, the original Altair 8800 uses the normal full bat handle
switches.  The Altair 8800a and 8800b use flat bat handled switches as
shown on mine here:
http://vintagecomputer.ca/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/MITS-Tower.jpg

I had to find some of the flat bat handled switches and the authentic ones
are almost impossible to find.  I happened to find a person who worked at
MITS that had some spares.

On Sat, Nov 5, 2016 at 10:25 PM, drlegendre .  wrote:

> Oh duh for me! Confusion reigns supreme.
>
> Yes.. the IMSAI uses those really wide plastic paddle switches.. that I had
> always assumed were a +Carling+ part, as Carling has a line of switches
> with similar handles.
>
> Altair 8800A and B both use the metal mini-toggles - the former, bat-handle
> the latter, the narrow metal paddle-handle.
>
> On Sat, Nov 5, 2016 at 9:01 PM, Richard Cini 
> wrote:
>
> > The "B" model used a flatted bat handle toggle switch which IIRC weren't
> > made by C I think I may have the number somewhere but I think there
> was
> > a thread with this info a few years ago. A Google search might produce
> it.
> > The Altair group archive on Yahoo might have it too.
> >
> >  The IMSAI uses a plastic paddle switch.
> >
> > Rich
> >
> > Sent from my iPhone
> >
> > > On Nov 5, 2016, at 9:56 PM, drlegendre .  wrote:
> > >
> > > "Not exactly--momentary, yes, but clearly not the paddle switches used
> on
> > > the IMSAI.   Fortunately, PCB-mount toggle switches are quite a bit
> > > easier to locate."
> > >
> > > Right, I thought about that once I'd posted.
> > >
> > > My 8800A (with B supplies) still has the basic mini bat-handle style
> > > switches. Correct me on this, but the later Altair 8800B use the
> > > paddle-style handle, same as the IMSAI?
> > >
> > >> On Sat, Nov 5, 2016 at 8:45 PM, Chuck Guzis  wrote:
> > >>
> > >>> On 11/05/2016 05:10 PM, Mike Ross wrote:
> > >>>
> > >>> I need those too - some of my Altair switches have the handles
> > >>> physically broken... in fact pretty much ALL the large switches (the
> > >>> bottom row for run/deposit/exam/reset etc.) are ropey in one way or
> > >>> another and need replacing (the smaller data/address switches are
> > >>> fine). If anyone tracks down the correct type of switch please post
> > >>> a link here! Or if you have any for sale shoot me an email.
> > >>
> > >>
> > >> The site I linked to from C is a good example of how a
> manufacturer's
> > >> web site should be--parameterized search with vendor stock check.  So,
> > >> for example, the momentary on-off-on 20V PC mount unthreaded with
> 10.67
> > >> mm handle would be 7105SY9V3BE--and Arrow has about 150 in stock.
> > >>
> > >> Beats spending time on the phone talking to "inside sales".
> > >>
> > >> --Chuck
> > >>
> >
> >
>

Re: What the heck is the deal with this eBay item

[Santo Nucifora]

On Tue, Nov 1, 2016 at 8:56 PM, Corey Cohen 
wrote:

>  Sure if the unit worked or was confirmed to have an intact glass scale it
> might be worth a a ton.
>

It certainly weights a ton ;)

I've been watching these auctions too and now I understand the funny
business with this thread.  Wouldn't the potential buyers (if someone real
actually won) wonder why it's back up for sale?

Same seller sold the Altair 680.  I wonder if that buyer ever got it as
there is no feedback for the seller.

Re: Need to archive: GRiD Compass Computer Operating System Software

[Santo Nucifora]

Hi Ian,

This is a little pricey but this came up on Craigslist recently.

http://boston.craigslist.org/sob/sys/5839406174.html

Looks to be lots of documentation but I don't know the seller nor am I even
close by.  Maybe a group buy might net the manuals/software.  I'd be in for
the Compass 1109 but who knows the condition of the equipment.

Santo

On Wed, Oct 26, 2016 at 3:32 PM, william degnan 
wrote:

> On Wed, Oct 26, 2016 at 1:32 PM, Ian Finder  wrote:
>
> > I have not had good luck with the RuGRiD list. I am aware of it.
> >
> > There are only a small handful of people there with Compass gear; It is
> > mostly centered around the later PC-compatible GRiD stuff.
> >
> >
> Jut for the record, I took a look, I have a copy of GRID OS 3.1.0 A and
> Management tools 3.1.0 on 5 1/4".  These are found in the back of my
> Managment Tools Reference April 1984
>
> Bill
>

Re: Any Kryoflux, Discferret, Catweasel, or other floppy flux images wanted

[Santo Nucifora]

HI Phil,

Sorry, I guess "dead" was a little harsh.  Sorry for that.  I'm glad to
know that it's still alive.  I appreciate your reply and I'd love to have a
DiscFerret board (actually, if I could request two, that would be great in
case I mess one up).  I do have a hot air solder station and have done
surface mount before so that shouldn't be a problem.  I'd be happy to
report back as well.

I will email you off-list.
Santo



On Thu, Oct 13, 2016 at 8:45 AM, Philip Pemberton <classic...@philpem.me.uk>
wrote:

> On 13/10/16 11:39, Santo Nucifora wrote:
> > Hi Eric,
> >
> > First off, thanks for attempting this.  I spent last night trying to
> > recreate a disk using the CP/M-86 streams I had posted with the Kryoflux
> > and failed.  I'm going to play with it a little until I can get a working
> > reproduction so I would not rely on those Kryoflux streams just yet.  I
> am
> > guessing the only way I can reproduce a disk is through the Kryoflux
> > streams written back to a disk but I can't seem to do that.
> >
> > I noticed that Discferret had a wiki page on the Victor 9000 format.  It
> > looks like it handled the format but it looks like it is a dead project
> and
> > I'm guessing you can't get Discferret boards anymore.
>
> I have about a dozen bare DiscFerret boards in my cupboard if anyone
> wants one.
> The board house ran them as hot-air levelled instead of silver-plated,
> so they need the SMD pads for the RAM and FPGA (and ideally the PIC too)
> cleaning with desolder wick before having those parts installed.
> Electrically they're fine.
>
> If you'd prefer to run your own boards (maybe you really like the gold
> on purple that OSH Park do?), I have no problem with someone downloading
> Eagle, running CAM and uploading the resulting Gerber files to a board
> house. Student Me would have appreciated it if you'd have kicked him a
> few quid for doing that, but these days... screw it, go have fun. It's
> GPLv2 / open hardware. If we ever meet in person, say thank-you. That'll
> do. :)
>
> Heck, go make a box full of DiscFerrets for you and your friends. I'd
> actually like to see people getting something out of it more than I'd
> like to see money from it :)
>
> There's even an ATE program (FerretTest) which can give you a rough idea
> where to look for bad solder joints and things. Lots of things to help
> you DIY boards (though I actually wrote it because I had a run of boards
> with solder bridges on the RAM and FPGA which were causing read/write
> issues).
>
>
> As far as "dead project" goes, it's only dead in the sense that I have
> no inclination to buy parts and assemble boards again. Anyone who's been
> following DiscFerret for long enough knows the tale. The record's been
> stuck so long it's worn through, so I won't repeat it :P
>
>
> Regarding the API and microcode, they're not "dead", they're "stable"! I
> can't think of anything else to add. What more does it need than read
> and write? Tell me!
>
>
> TL/DR: it was a university final year project that kinda escaped the
> lab. I'm glad you all still like it and talk about it. I never saw that
> coming.
>
>
> Cheers,
> --
> Phil.
> classic...@philpem.me.uk
> http://www.philpem.me.uk/
>

Re: Any Kryoflux, Discferret, Catweasel, or other floppy flux images wanted

[Santo Nucifora]

Hi Eric,

First off, thanks for attempting this.  I spent last night trying to
recreate a disk using the CP/M-86 streams I had posted with the Kryoflux
and failed.  I'm going to play with it a little until I can get a working
reproduction so I would not rely on those Kryoflux streams just yet.  I am
guessing the only way I can reproduce a disk is through the Kryoflux
streams written back to a disk but I can't seem to do that.

I noticed that Discferret had a wiki page on the Victor 9000 format.  It
looks like it handled the format but it looks like it is a dead project and
I'm guessing you can't get Discferret boards anymore.  I was thinking of
trying some of the Commodore GCR formats to see if that might do it (being
that it is theoretically close except for the vartiable speed track part)
but it looks like you can't write back IMG files that it creates.

I'll have to do some playing around first but once I figure it out, I'll
let you know.  Since this is the very first disk I am trying on the
Kryoflux, I'll pick something easy and try to reproduce the disk.

Santo



On Wed, Oct 12, 2016 at 6:06 AM, Eric Smith  wrote:

> On Mon, Oct 10, 2016 at 6:42 PM, Fred Cisin  wrote:
> > What Eric is working on is software that can decode disk formats that are
> > NOT necessarily WD/NEC FDC compatible!  And writing a file similar to the
> > one created by IMD.
> >
> > That will most certainly NOT then be convertible by IMD into a Victor
> 9000
> > disk!
>
> That's a good explanation.  I was thinking of it as non-standard use
> of IMD format; the resulting IMD file would contain the logical
> contents of the Victor 9000 disk, but because the IMD format doesn't
> (yet) have suitable definitions for Victor 9000 format, the file would
> purport to contain IBM-compatible MFM sectors.
>
> I don't really have any plan for a way to convert these Victor 9000
> pseudo-IMD files back into actual diskettes. I could write an
> imdtoflux program as a counterpart to the fluxtoimd program, which
> would help with a portion of the problem.
>
> > However, OTHER software, that understands the file systems could then
> > extract files.  For example, if it is successful, then it might be
> possible
> > to take the Victor9000 IMD file produced by fluxtoimd, run it through
> IMD to
> > write that content onto a disk in a WD/NEC compatible format with
> > similarities of parameters other than encoding (eg. Chromemco?), and then
> > read files from that disk using XenoCopy or equivalent.
>
> I'm not sure how flexible XenoCopy is, but Victor 9000 format used
> Zoned CAV, so tracks have varying numbers of sectors, from 11 to 19.
> The pseudo-IMD file will preserve that organization. If the IMDU
> program doesn't get upset by the variable number of sectors per track,
> it might be able to extract the sector data into a raw binary
> filesystem image. Assuming that MS-DOS on the Victor 9000 uses the
> obvious mapping of FAT cluster numbers to track/head/sector, the
> resulting raw binary filesystem image might be usable with existing
> utilities for FAT filesystems, such as mtools.
>
> There's always been such a bewildering variety of mappings of CP/M
> blocks to track/head/sector that I wouldn't put any money on the same
> conversion working for Victor 9000 CP/M-86 disks.
>
> In both cases (MS-DOS and CP/M-86), if it proves necessary I'll whip
> up another simple utility to convert the pseudo-IMD file into a usable
> raw binary filesystem image.
>

Re: Manuaal for the original Sun Workstation

[Santo Nucifora]

On Wed, Oct 12, 2016 at 10:24 PM, Pete Lancashire 
wrote:

> Pick someone who will  scan it and put it on a public site, bitsavers etc
>
> -pete
>

I believe what Richard has is a later published revision of this document
on Bitsavers already. This one is a draft copy :
http://bitsavers.informatik.uni-stuttgart.de/pdf/sun/sun1/800-0345_Sun-1_System_Reference_Manual_Jul82.pdf

I will absolutely be willing to scan it and I was one of the one's who
originally requested it as well,

Santo

Re: Any Kryoflux, Discferret, Catweasel, or other floppy flux images wanted

[Santo Nucifora]

On Mon, Oct 10, 2016 at 7:22 PM, Al Kossow  wrote:

> You haven't actually decoded it, you've just captured flux changes.
>

If I am not mistaken, I thought that's what Eric was requesting in his
original message.


> How do you know what is there is actually correct?
>

I don't because I am new to the Kryoflux but the log looks okay so I was
hoping Eric would know if this was useful.  I do know the disk that the
flux stream was taken from works because it's original and works in my
Victor 9000.


> I'm also puzzled when you refer to "IMD"
> Dave Dunfield's utility?
>

I am referring to what the "fluxtoimd" GitHub page README file states.  It
says "fluxtoimd.py is a Python 3 program to read floppy disk flux
transitions images, demodulate the data, and write the data to an ImageDisk
image file".


> That won't work on a Victor 9000 disk
>

I was curious about that but I'm willing to give anything a try if it helps
the preservation process.

Santo

Re: ka... ching!

[Santo Nucifora]

For those who are bidding on the twiggy drives, you can have a Lisa 1
faceplate here:  http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/62204758  and a matching
Lisa 1 mouse here: http://www.ebay.com/itm/172360487433

These are a little on the expensive side too :)



On Sat, Oct 1, 2016 at 6:46 PM, Noel Chiappa 
wrote:

>
> > Maybe not astronomical, but most of the systems I'm interested in,
> > anyways, are almost always outside my price range.
> > ...
> > it's not 'astronomical' just out of reach.
>
> Look at old cars. There's a whole range, from $15M Ferraris on down. The
> existence of cars are higher prices doesn't stop lots of people from
> enjoying
> lower-priced ones.
>
> I completely fail to see why old computers should be any different. Can
> everyone afford a Ferrari? No. Has this seriously damaged old car
> collecting?
> Doesn't see to have.
>
> Noel
>

Re: Unexpected Apple Lisa display - what is it?

[Santo Nucifora]

I have this one one of my Lisa's as well.  It's like a start up menu that
allows you to launch the Finder.  That's all I ever do with it.  I don't
know what the name is but it may be a part of specific version of MacWorks
Plus.

Sorry, I don't have any more info.
Santo

On Wed, Sep 28, 2016 at 3:02 PM, Paul McJones  wrote:

> > Date: Wed, 28 Sep 2016 09:15:42 + (UTC)
> > From: steven stengel 
> > Message-ID: <916931269.6067118.1475054142...@mail.yahoo.com>
> >
> >
> > What is this unusual Apple Lisa display - some sort of diagnostics?
> >
> > http://oldcomputers.net/temp/lisa.jpg
>
> I suspect it is a Macintosh utility (Disk Copy?) Lisas could run Macintosh
> software using something called MacWorks.
>
>

Re: 'Inside Macintosh' books

[Santo Nucifora]

Related to the early promotional Inside Macintosh phonebook edition, last
week I scanned the documentation for two versions of the MacSupplement
documentation.  I have not seen this posted anywhere else so please feel
free to store these in a central documentation archive.  I got this
documentation plus the Inside Macintosh phonebook edition along with some
of the original diskettes just recently from an early developer.

The February 1985 set appears to be before the Inside Macintosh printing.
The May 1985 set is after. Some of the original diskettes are also posted
here:   http://vintagecomputer.ca/files-area/apple/macintosh/developer/#

If anyone has any earlier editions (was there only one prior to February
1985?) or has/knows where the diskettes may be imaged, I'd love to fill in
the set.  Some of my diskettes may  have been overwritten but they are in
DC42 format so the diskettes can be reproduced.

Hope someone finds this of interest.
Santo

On Wed, May 18, 2016 at 4:45 PM, Toby Thain 
wrote:

> On 2016-05-18 2:02 PM, Ethan Dicks wrote:
>
>> On Wed, May 18, 2016 at 1:39 PM, Chris Hanson
>>  wrote:
>>
>>> For the original “Inside Macintosh,” there was:
>>>
>>> 1. The prerelease looseleaf edition, sent to developers.
>>>
>>
>> I remember leafing through that edition in the summer of 1984 and
>> being horrified at all the Pascal-isms.
>>
>
> I still have a copy. Most pages are dated 1983 iirc.
>
> It's entirely Pascal oriented, indeed. :-)
>
> --Toby
>
>
>
>> -ethan
>>
>>
>

Re: Ferroresonant transformers and 3278

[Santo Nucifora]

On Tue, Dec 22, 2015 at 5:52 AM, Brent Hilpert  wrote:

> On 2015-Dec-22, at 2:28 AM, drlegendre . wrote:
> > Ah, a terminal it is! Thank you.
> >
> > On Mon, Dec 21, 2015 at 9:30 PM, William Donzelli 
> > wrote:
> >
> >>> Sincere query.. as the goog turns up nothing meaningful..
> >>
> >> Try IBM 3278.
> >>
> >> Hint: one of those popular terminal families in the world.
>

Sadly, not as plentiful these days as vintage terminals.  I've been on the
lookout for one for the last couple of years just to add to my collection.
Seems that keyboard collectors like the keyboards too because those I have
found but not for sale lately.

Re: Ferroresonant transformers and 3278

[Santo Nucifora]

On Tue, Dec 22, 2015 at 6:55 AM, Alexandre Souza <
alexandre.tabaj...@gmail.com> wrote:

> That is easy, it is fairly common here. I know of a friend who has some.
>
> Enviado do meu Tele-Movel
> Em 22/12/2015 09:51, "Mike Ross" <tmfdm...@gmail.com> escreveu:
>
> > Do we have any South American correspondents listening in? I'm sure I
> > read that IBM had a factory in Brazil producing these - and they kept
> > on churning 3278s out for some considerable time after the rest of the
> > world had moved on. I believe it was also stated that there was
> > considerable redesign using more modern components inside that classic
> > 3278 case on these later Brazilian examples. I'd certainly like to get
> > hold of a couple.
> >
> > Mike
> >
>

I'd be interested in one, after Mike who started the thread.  I am in
Canada.  Email me off list.

Thanks,
Santo Nucifora

Re: Ferroresonant transformers and 3278

[Santo Nucifora]

I have also sent him an email.

Thanks Alexandre.

On Tue, Dec 22, 2015 at 7:26 AM, Mike Ross <tmfdm...@gmail.com> wrote:

> I've sent him an email. In case he doesn't get it you could ask him to
> check his spam folder! :-)
>
> Thanks!
>
> On Wed, Dec 23, 2015 at 1:10 AM, Alexandre Souza
> <alexandre.tabaj...@gmail.com> wrote:
> > His address is symphony.robot...@gmail.com. his name is Sergio. You can
> all
> > talk directly to him.
> >
> > Enviado do meu Tele-Movel
> > Em 22/12/2015 10:06, "Dave Wade" <dave.g4...@gmail.com> escreveu:
> >
> >>
> >>
> >> > -Original Message-
> >> > From: cctalk [mailto:cctalk-boun...@classiccmp.org] On Behalf Of
> Santo
> >> > Nucifora
> >> > Sent: 22 December 2015 12:00
> >> > To: General Discussion: On-Topic and Off-Topic Posts
> >> > <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
> >> > Subject: Re: Ferroresonant transformers and 3278
> >> >
> >> > On Tue, Dec 22, 2015 at 6:55 AM, Alexandre Souza <
> >> > alexandre.tabaj...@gmail.com> wrote:
> >> >
> >> > > That is easy, it is fairly common here. I know of a friend who has
> >> some.
> >> > >
> >> > > Enviado do meu Tele-Movel
> >> > > Em 22/12/2015 09:51, "Mike Ross" <tmfdm...@gmail.com> escreveu:
> >> > >
> >> > > > Do we have any South American correspondents listening in? I'm
> sure
> >> > > > I read that IBM had a factory in Brazil producing these - and they
> >> > > > kept on churning 3278s out for some considerable time after the
> rest
> >> > > > of the world had moved on. I believe it was also stated that there
> >> > > > was considerable redesign using more modern components inside that
> >> > > > classic
> >> > > > 3278 case on these later Brazilian examples. I'd certainly like to
> >> > > > get hold of a couple.
> >> > > >
> >> > > > Mike
> >> > > >
> >> > >
> >> >
> >> > I'd be interested in one, after Mike who started the thread.  I am in
> >> Canada.
> >> > Email me off list.
> >> >
> >> > Thanks,
> >> > Santo Nucifora
> >>
> >>
> >> Well I have been looking for one in the UK with no luck. I have some
> >> ICL/Nokia clones but not a real 3270
> >>
> >> Dave
> >>
> >>
>
>
>
> --
>
> http://www.corestore.org
> 'No greater love hath a man than he lay down his life for his brother.
> Not for millions, not for glory, not for fame.
> For one person, in the dark, where no one will ever know or see.'
>

Re: Persci 299 with unknown Persci dual S-100 cards?

[Santo Nucifora]

Last night I was able to read the EPROMs on the second of the two Persci
cards and embedded in the code was the string ERSCI 1170 V F.2-5.  I'm
strongly suspecting it's proof that both cards make up a PerSci 1170
controller :)   I have the four 2716 EPROMS dumped in the files area of my
site at http://vintagecomputer.ca/files-area/ .  If someone would like to
disassemble them, I'd love to find out more.  If there is a tool I can use,
please let me know.  I was not able to read the 2708 on the first card at
this point.

If anyone has any information on the Persci 1170 controller, I'd love to
know if any additional software is required to run it or if I can jump to a
specific address to run it.  I do NOT have any disks for this.

It appears to be an uncommon drive so any information at all would be much
appreciated.

Santo

On Wed, Jun 24, 2015 at 7:59 PM, Santo Nucifora santo.nucif...@gmail.com
wrote:

 Hello,

 I recently acquired a Persci 2142 dual disk drive with two S-100
 controller cards.  The 2142 is a Persci slim-line case that fits the
 internal Persci 299 drives but also included were to Persci S-100 cards.
 The only thing that makes sense is that one or both of these are the Persci
 1170 controller card (set) but I have not been able to find a picture of
 such a card anywhere.  There is an 1170 card picture at the Computer
 History Museum but it suspiciously looks like a Vector S-100 prototype
 board with components on it (and not the right amount compare to my
 cards).  That page is here:
 http://www.computerhistory.org/collections/catalog/102712583

 I have pictures in my latest post of the front and back of both cards
 along with the Persci 299 drive mechanism and the complete 2142 unit.  If
 anyone knows what a Persci 1170 controller looks like, I'd love to know if
 that's what I have.  Is it both cards?  I am assuming so because there's a
 marketing brochure out there with a description of the 1170 controller and
 the Z80 CPU, as described, is on the second card (not the main card) as is
 the memory.

 Pictures of what I have are here:
 http://vintagecomputer.ca/persci-drive-is-a-299-what-are-the-controller-boards/

 I can try to read the EPROMS on the second board (they are B2716s) but the
 first board has a 2708 and I've nothing that will read it.  Maybe that will
 give a clue?  I would assume that's where Persci DOS is?

 I will be taking the 299 drive mechanism apart and refurbishing this drive
 as I did the Persci 270 in my Processor Technology Helios II (big thanks to
 Martin Eberhard for his awesome guide and his help!).  Hopefully it's close
 enough to the 299 that the guide will still be useful.  I have yet to check
 if the glass gauge is intact in this drive or all of this will be for
 nothing.  I'll do that when I take it apart.  Should be a fun project.

 If you have any info, please let me know.  It would be much appreciated.
 Santo