Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[John Gardner]

Hi Brian.

I'm also struggling with diminished eyesight - Not to mention the

onset of senescence...  Clip-on loupes for eyeglasses help.  Also

have had some luck reflowing single-sided SMD boards on kitchen

stove "glass" burners.  YMMV,  naturally...

 ...


On 10/9/17, Brian Brindle <bbrin...@gmail.com> wrote:
> I took advantage of the 3 day weekend and worked on my boards. Stupidly I
> started them in a temporary location rather than the "bench" and scrapped
> the 1st board with a stupid cutting mistake after I had it already
> populated.
>
> I have built many things in my lifetime but this project is somehow special
> and has been a journey in self discovery. I have learned so much about
> myself. First, I am a very angry man. Second, I am apparently blind now
> requiring more magnification and light than I thought ever possible. Third,
> I suffer from some weird form of aphasia that only lets me figure out that
> what I'm vigilantly checking and double checking is completely backwards
> when it's impossible to fix. Finally, always go with what you know. I tried
> several of the new fandangled methods for SMT soldering that seemed less
> complicated but ultimately what worked is my old methods of doing things
> that I thought were inferior. Trust your gut.
>
> Anyway, I too have some cad/stellated boards on the way to test and have a
> pretty good process for cutting/shaping the existing ones. I've also
> determined that hot air is the way to go for assembling these things but
> still I can only crank out about one an hour. I'm using some solder paste
> and one of these guys:
> https://www.amazon.com/WEP-858D-Soldering-Station-Suitable/dp/B0055B6NGE
>
> I got some epoxy (to hold the flash on) and plan to try the hot skillet
> method later this week. If I can do several boards at once I may be willing
> to both share my setup and help with production of these things if
> necessary.
>
> More to come in the next few days.
>
> Brian
>
>
> On Mon, Oct 9, 2017 at 8:46 AM, Josh Malone <josh.mal...@gmail.com> wrote:
>
>> I'm shooting to produce them at the same $60 price that club100 sold
>> them previously.
>>
>> As a status update, I'm expecting delivery of the castellated board
>> test this week. Assuming I can validate this modification to the PCB
>> design, I think the pre-castellated board from OSH Park will be the
>> way to go. Still hoping to announce a small board run sometime this
>> month. We'll see.
>>
>> -Josh
>>
>> On Mon, Oct 9, 2017 at 4:42 AM, James Zeun <james.z...@gmail.com> wrote:
>> > I've little experience in this area, but a friend of mine makes
>> > hardware
>> for
>> > the ZX Spectrum, Timex computer to those in the states. I know he ended
>> up
>> > out sourcing work to China as it was cheaper then populating 30+ boards
>> by
>> > hand. I don't believe his IDE adapter was anymore complicated then the
>> > REX,not sure if he had to flash chips.
>> >
>> > If the decision is to solder them ourselves, I'll put my hand up and
>> offer
>> > to help out. My soldering isn't too ropey, probably not as good as some
>> of
>> > the chaps on here :-)
>> >
>> > How much is an assembled REX? I already own one, but wouldn't mind
>> having a
>> > spare.
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> > On 9 Oct 2017 6:31 a.m., "ray gordon" <ray...@hotmail.com> wrote:
>> >>
>> >> Hi,
>> >>
>> >> I hav'nt been monitoring the list for a couple weeks, but I'm
>> >> certainly
>> >> interested in several rexes
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> 
>> >> From: M100 <m100-boun...@lists.bitchin100.com> on behalf of Jim
>> Anderson
>> >> <jim.ander...@kpu.ca>
>> >> Sent: Thursday, October 5, 2017 7:01 PM
>> >> To: m...@bitchin100.com
>> >> Subject: Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest
>> >>
>> >> > -Original Message-
>> >> >
>> >> > You don't need any tpdd device, you just need any modern pc and a
>> >> > usb
>> >> > serial cable and some free software.
>> >>
>> >> Sorry, by 'TPDD device' I meant TPDD emulators as well, not just the
>> >> actual Tandy drives or NADSBox or whatnot.  I guess I should have said
>> 'some
>> >> kind of TPDD-compatible device'.
>> >>
>> >> > The only problem would be if the cpld programming is not the same
>> >> > for
>> >> > 100 vs 200. If not, then it would probably not be possible to take a
>> 100
>> >> > rex and re-flash it to a 200 rex using only a 200.
>> >>
>> >> It's the same CPLD code.  AFAIK re-flashing a 100 REX with 200
>> >> firmware
>> in
>> >> a 200 ought to work the same way as re-flashing a 4.8 REX to 4.9...
>> >>
>> >> > I have a 200, but I don't remember if Stephen has made the 200
>> >> > version
>> >> > firmware available yet.
>> >>
>> >> Yes, it's available.  (So is the NEC firmware.)
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> jim
>>
>

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Brian Brindle]

I took advantage of the 3 day weekend and worked on my boards. Stupidly I
started them in a temporary location rather than the "bench" and scrapped
the 1st board with a stupid cutting mistake after I had it already
populated.

I have built many things in my lifetime but this project is somehow special
and has been a journey in self discovery. I have learned so much about
myself. First, I am a very angry man. Second, I am apparently blind now
requiring more magnification and light than I thought ever possible. Third,
I suffer from some weird form of aphasia that only lets me figure out that
what I'm vigilantly checking and double checking is completely backwards
when it's impossible to fix. Finally, always go with what you know. I tried
several of the new fandangled methods for SMT soldering that seemed less
complicated but ultimately what worked is my old methods of doing things
that I thought were inferior. Trust your gut.

Anyway, I too have some cad/stellated boards on the way to test and have a
pretty good process for cutting/shaping the existing ones. I've also
determined that hot air is the way to go for assembling these things but
still I can only crank out about one an hour. I'm using some solder paste
and one of these guys:
https://www.amazon.com/WEP-858D-Soldering-Station-Suitable/dp/B0055B6NGE

I got some epoxy (to hold the flash on) and plan to try the hot skillet
method later this week. If I can do several boards at once I may be willing
to both share my setup and help with production of these things if
necessary.

More to come in the next few days.

Brian


On Mon, Oct 9, 2017 at 8:46 AM, Josh Malone <josh.mal...@gmail.com> wrote:

> I'm shooting to produce them at the same $60 price that club100 sold
> them previously.
>
> As a status update, I'm expecting delivery of the castellated board
> test this week. Assuming I can validate this modification to the PCB
> design, I think the pre-castellated board from OSH Park will be the
> way to go. Still hoping to announce a small board run sometime this
> month. We'll see.
>
> -Josh
>
> On Mon, Oct 9, 2017 at 4:42 AM, James Zeun <james.z...@gmail.com> wrote:
> > I've little experience in this area, but a friend of mine makes hardware
> for
> > the ZX Spectrum, Timex computer to those in the states. I know he ended
> up
> > out sourcing work to China as it was cheaper then populating 30+ boards
> by
> > hand. I don't believe his IDE adapter was anymore complicated then the
> > REX,not sure if he had to flash chips.
> >
> > If the decision is to solder them ourselves, I'll put my hand up and
> offer
> > to help out. My soldering isn't too ropey, probably not as good as some
> of
> > the chaps on here :-)
> >
> > How much is an assembled REX? I already own one, but wouldn't mind
> having a
> > spare.
> >
> >
> >
> > On 9 Oct 2017 6:31 a.m., "ray gordon" <ray...@hotmail.com> wrote:
> >>
> >> Hi,
> >>
> >> I hav'nt been monitoring the list for a couple weeks, but I'm certainly
> >> interested in several rexes
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> 
> >> From: M100 <m100-boun...@lists.bitchin100.com> on behalf of Jim
> Anderson
> >> <jim.ander...@kpu.ca>
> >> Sent: Thursday, October 5, 2017 7:01 PM
> >> To: m...@bitchin100.com
> >> Subject: Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest
> >>
> >> > -Original Message-
> >> >
> >> > You don't need any tpdd device, you just need any modern pc and a usb
> >> > serial cable and some free software.
> >>
> >> Sorry, by 'TPDD device' I meant TPDD emulators as well, not just the
> >> actual Tandy drives or NADSBox or whatnot.  I guess I should have said
> 'some
> >> kind of TPDD-compatible device'.
> >>
> >> > The only problem would be if the cpld programming is not the same for
> >> > 100 vs 200. If not, then it would probably not be possible to take a
> 100
> >> > rex and re-flash it to a 200 rex using only a 200.
> >>
> >> It's the same CPLD code.  AFAIK re-flashing a 100 REX with 200 firmware
> in
> >> a 200 ought to work the same way as re-flashing a 4.8 REX to 4.9...
> >>
> >> > I have a 200, but I don't remember if Stephen has made the 200 version
> >> > firmware available yet.
> >>
> >> Yes, it's available.  (So is the NEC firmware.)
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> jim
>

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[James Zeun]

I've little experience in this area, but a friend of mine makes hardware
for the ZX Spectrum, Timex computer to those in the states. I know he ended
up out sourcing work to China as it was cheaper then populating 30+ boards
by hand. I don't believe his IDE adapter was anymore complicated then the
REX,not sure if he had to flash chips.

If the decision is to solder them ourselves, I'll put my hand up and offer
to help out. My soldering isn't too ropey, probably not as good as some of
the chaps on here :-)

How much is an assembled REX? I already own one, but wouldn't mind having a
spare.



On 9 Oct 2017 6:31 a.m., "ray gordon" <ray...@hotmail.com> wrote:

> Hi,
>
> I hav'nt been monitoring the list for a couple weeks, but I'm certainly
> interested in several rexes
>
>
>
>
> --
> *From:* M100 <m100-boun...@lists.bitchin100.com> on behalf of Jim
> Anderson <jim.ander...@kpu.ca>
> *Sent:* Thursday, October 5, 2017 7:01 PM
> *To:* m...@bitchin100.com
> *Subject:* Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest
>
> > -Original Message-
> >
> > You don't need any tpdd device, you just need any modern pc and a usb
> > serial cable and some free software.
>
> Sorry, by 'TPDD device' I meant TPDD emulators as well, not just the
> actual Tandy drives or NADSBox or whatnot.  I guess I should have said
> 'some kind of TPDD-compatible device'.
>
> > The only problem would be if the cpld programming is not the same for
> > 100 vs 200. If not, then it would probably not be possible to take a 100
> > rex and re-flash it to a 200 rex using only a 200.
>
> It's the same CPLD code.  AFAIK re-flashing a 100 REX with 200 firmware in
> a 200 ought to work the same way as re-flashing a 4.8 REX to 4.9...
>
> > I have a 200, but I don't remember if Stephen has made the 200 version
> > firmware available yet.
>
> Yes, it's available.  (So is the NEC firmware.)
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> jim
>

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[ray gordon]

Hi,

I hav'nt been monitoring the list for a couple weeks, but I'm certainly 
interested in several rexes




From: M100 <m100-boun...@lists.bitchin100.com> on behalf of Jim Anderson 
<jim.ander...@kpu.ca>
Sent: Thursday, October 5, 2017 7:01 PM
To: m...@bitchin100.com
Subject: Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

> -Original Message-
>
> You don't need any tpdd device, you just need any modern pc and a usb
> serial cable and some free software.

Sorry, by 'TPDD device' I meant TPDD emulators as well, not just the actual 
Tandy drives or NADSBox or whatnot.  I guess I should have said 'some kind of 
TPDD-compatible device'.

> The only problem would be if the cpld programming is not the same for
> 100 vs 200. If not, then it would probably not be possible to take a 100
> rex and re-flash it to a 200 rex using only a 200.

It's the same CPLD code.  AFAIK re-flashing a 100 REX with 200 firmware in a 
200 ought to work the same way as re-flashing a 4.8 REX to 4.9...

> I have a 200, but I don't remember if Stephen has made the 200 version
> firmware available yet.

Yes, it's available.  (So is the NEC firmware.)







jim

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Jim Anderson]

> -Original Message-
> 
> You don't need any tpdd device, you just need any modern pc and a usb
> serial cable and some free software.

Sorry, by 'TPDD device' I meant TPDD emulators as well, not just the actual 
Tandy drives or NADSBox or whatnot.  I guess I should have said 'some kind of 
TPDD-compatible device'.

> The only problem would be if the cpld programming is not the same for
> 100 vs 200. If not, then it would probably not be possible to take a 100
> rex and re-flash it to a 200 rex using only a 200.

It's the same CPLD code.  AFAIK re-flashing a 100 REX with 200 firmware in a 
200 ought to work the same way as re-flashing a 4.8 REX to 4.9...

> I have a 200, but I don't remember if Stephen has made the 200 version
> firmware available yet.

Yes, it's available.  (So is the NEC firmware.)







jim

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Brian White]

You don't need any tpdd device, you just need any modern pc and a usb
serial cable and some free software.

If you are even in the market a rex at all in the first place, then
automatically a usb serial adapter and a serial cable is hardly a special
unreasonable extra burden. It's like complaining about the price of a car
wash for your Ferrari

The only problem would be if the cpld programming is not the same for 100
vs 200. If not, then it would probably not be possible to take a 100 rex
and re-flash it to a 200 rex using only a 200.

Someone could just try it, or Stephen could probably just say.

I have a 200, but I don't remember if Stephen has made the 200 version
firmware available yet.

Then again, even if you do need a xilinx programmer to reflash the cpld,
that is only $30. The software is large to download, and a pain to activate
and get working, but completely free.

I have a hard time working up much sympathy over simply not wanting to
spend the time and effort to follow some recipe directions, after all the
stuff the builder had to do to get an M100 version built and working. It's
not totally unreasonable if M200 users have to re-flash.

-- 
bkw


On Oct 5, 2017 6:24 PM, "Jim Anderson"  wrote:

> > -Original Message-
> >
> > Apparently, the only difference btwn the 100/102 REX and the 200 REX
> > is the software load. The parts are apparently the same.
> > [...]
> > However, for reasons of communication and sanity, I'm only dealing
> > with the 100/102 REX right now. I don't want any confusion about what
> > board I'm talking about.
>
> Hey Josh, as an idea: you could still build and test your REX modules for
> the 100/102, but sell them to t200 owners with the caveat that the
> purchaser will need to install it in their own 200 and reload the software
> themselves.  I'm not sure how safe it is to assume that every t200 owner
> who is interested in a REX already has a working TPDD device, but I'd be
> willing to bet that a lot of them do.  (or they're going to want to have
> one soon, since they won't otherwise be able to load ROM images or make
> backups of their RAM images)
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> jim
>

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Jim Anderson]

> -Original Message-
> 
> One idea is, put a few units up on Ebay.

I may be listing one or two units on ebay after I'm done.  I ordered parts to 
build six, and I've got four functional machines, so depending on whether I 
mess up or have any DOA parts I may have a couple left over.  I have a t200 
now, so I could load and test it for either m100 or t200.







jim

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Jim Anderson]

> -Original Message-
> 
> Apparently, the only difference btwn the 100/102 REX and the 200 REX
> is the software load. The parts are apparently the same.
> [...]
> However, for reasons of communication and sanity, I'm only dealing
> with the 100/102 REX right now. I don't want any confusion about what
> board I'm talking about.

Hey Josh, as an idea: you could still build and test your REX modules for the 
100/102, but sell them to t200 owners with the caveat that the purchaser will 
need to install it in their own 200 and reload the software themselves.  I'm 
not sure how safe it is to assume that every t200 owner who is interested in a 
REX already has a working TPDD device, but I'd be willing to bet that a lot of 
them do.  (or they're going to want to have one soon, since they won't 
otherwise be able to load ROM images or make backups of their RAM images)







jim

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Josh Malone]

On Thu, Oct 5, 2017 at 2:39 PM, Stephen Adolph  wrote:
> I, for one, would be interested to see the economics of ordering a batch.
>
> I personally don't think you can do it.  I have sourced parts carefully to
> keep costs low,  in order to enable a bit of profit for club 100 and myself,
> but in no way did it compensate for the time.

That's basically the issue. I timed my last assembly and it took 50
minutes to assemble, program, and test. Assuming I can pack and ship
it in 10 minutes (which I can't, but let's keep the math easy), my
rough breakdown estimate shows I'm paying myself ~$30 an hour for this
work. But I haven't factored in any customer support time or returns.

So far, the approach I'm pondering is to start with a small batch run,
say, 15-20 boards, but place a larger order for some of the cheaper
components to get their price down a bit in anticipation of a future
run. The CPLDs don't get any cheaper until qty 1k so no point in
stocking up on them. I would sell them as a pre-order to fund the
parts purchase. Then, assemble/test/ship/etc and see if I burn out. If
not, do it again in a month or so. If I do, meh - I've got a few
partial reels to pass on to the next sucker who wants to build a run
:)

-Josh

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Stephen Adolph]

I, for one, would be interested to see the economics of ordering a batch.

I personally don't think you can do it.  I have sourced parts carefully to
keep costs low,  in order to enable a bit of profit for club 100 and
myself, but in no way did it compensate for the time.



On Thu, Oct 5, 2017 at 2:26 PM, John R. Hogerhuis  wrote:

> One idea is, put a few units up on Ebay.
>
> Then you can determine the actual market price.
>
> I wouldn't invest in a lot of inventory without figuring that out and
> maybe not invest in a lot of inventory in any event.
>
> -- John.
>

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Marko Peussa]

I could also pay up front, Kickstarter-like or something...

Cheers!

"John R. Hogerhuis"  kirjoitti 5.10.2017 kello 21.26:

> One idea is, put a few units up on Ebay.
> 
> Then you can determine the actual market price.
> 
> I wouldn't invest in a lot of inventory without figuring that out and maybe 
> not invest in a lot of inventory in any event.
> 
> -- John.

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[John R. Hogerhuis]

One idea is, put a few units up on Ebay.

Then you can determine the actual market price.

I wouldn't invest in a lot of inventory without figuring that out and maybe
not invest in a lot of inventory in any event.

-- John.

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Josh Malone]

Apparently, the only difference btwn the 100/102 REX and the 200 REX
is the software load. The parts are apparently the same. The NEC
boards are an entirely different beast and apparently much harder to
DIY.

However, for reasons of communication and sanity, I'm only dealing
with the 100/102 REX right now. I don't want any confusion about what
board I'm talking about.

**IF I do this** they will be programmed for 100/102 and tested in a
102, and guaranteed to work in a (functional) 100/102. That's it.

That said, I've basically got enough data from my form. The total
number of requested boards has exceeded 60. If I assume that 75% of
respondents will actually order a board, I'm still at the point where
a large parts order is starting to become economical. Now I have to
decide if and how I can actually make a run. I've sought advice from
other makers in and out of the retro community and the feedback has
been a mixture of "sounds good, but be careful" to "not worth your
time for that amount of money". I'm still deciding. I'll leave the
form up since it's just a survey, but I've got the data I need for
now.

Thanks,

-Josh

On Thu, Oct 5, 2017 at 1:31 PM, Gary Weber  wrote:
> Josh,
>
> I really like the idea of the poll you're doing, and I'd love to see REX
> back in stock for folks that want them.
>
> I see no reason, however, not to also gauge the potential interest of the
> Tandy 200 and NEC models.  I realize those boards are not available on
> OSHPark (yet), but the potential interest for these other variants might
> influence the original designer(s) on the decision to make those boards
> available up there as well.  :)
>
> Gary Weber
> www.web8201.net
>
>
> On Sat, Sep 30, 2017 at 6:26 PM, Josh Malone  wrote:
>>
>> Folks,
>>
>> There's been lots of interest lately in obtaining REX units. Several
>> members have now built REXes but we realize that not everybody wants to or
>> is equipped to build one. My personal feeling is that it would be great to
>> get these back "in stock" in one form or another. I think the first logical
>> step would be to see how many people actually want.
>>
>> Sooo...
>>
>> I've created a form that people can use to **express interest** in
>> acquiring a REX.
>>
>> https://goo.gl/forms/Kr4YgaskVhMCuzxz1
>>
>> This is basically a list of "how many REX units does the world need". This
>> is ONLY for the Tandy 100 or 102 REX.
>>
>> Please note:  This is NOT a pre-order!
>>
>> Filling out this form does NOT guarantee that you will get a REX. This
>> form is simply to gauge the number of REX units that it would take to meet
>> current demand from the community. The email address field is there only to
>> notify people if/when a board run is actually made, although I'm sure an
>> announcement will certainly be made on this list if/when a run is actually
>> made.
>>
>> This is just a research step. I'm not actively planning a board run, and I
>> have no idea what they would cost, though I hope it could be done around the
>> same price point as Club100 was selling. Maybe a number of people could
>> divide-and-conquer to meet current demand? Maybe we can organize a contract
>> manufacture run? I don't know.
>>
>> But, let us know if you want one. I'll share the results (numbers only) on
>> the list after a while.
>>
>> -Josh
>
>
>
>
> --
> Gary Weber
> g...@web8201.com

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Kenneth Pettit]

Hey Josh,

Ahh, I understand this statement perfectly.  This is why I have not jumped in 
to say I could do this.  In my opinion, the only viable solution is to have 
these made professionally in quantity in China or Vietnam and then pass the 
added cost along to the buyer.

Ken

Sent from my iPhone

> On Oct 5, 2017, at 7:58 AM, Josh Malone  wrote:
> 
> I'm working very hard currently to simplify the workflow to the point
> where I would have a prayer of fulfilling a large fraction of the 63
> interests expressed so far without burning out and selling my Tandy in
> disgust :) So, I'm only contemplating a single thing:
> 
> 1, 2, or 3 REX boards per customer, programmed for Tandy 100/102,
> assembled and tested, with 14-day DOA warranty.
> 
> Anything else is not on my radar at this point. In fact, the ONLY
> thing on my long-range scanners is a Tandy 200 REX (but that requires
> me to have a 200, so... later).
> 
> -Josh
> 
>> On Thu, Oct 5, 2017 at 9:55 AM, Mike Nugent  wrote:
>> Thanks, Josh, I had missed that before. I’ve filled it out.
>> 
>> — Nuge —
>> 
>> 
>>> On Oct 4, 2017, at 1:18 PM, Josh Malone  wrote:
>>> 
>>> I'll send the form URL one more time in case it's gotten buried in
>>> peoples' email
>>> 
>>> https://goo.gl/forms/Kr4YgaskVhMCuzxz1
>>> 
 On Wed, Oct 4, 2017 at 1:18 PM, Josh Malone  wrote:
 Mike: If you can respond to the survey, that's appreciated
 
 All:  I've just ordered a set of the castellated boards on rush order
 so I can test them. Once I validate the revised board I'll have some
 idea of how long a board will take to assemble, which will factor into
 my decision to actually make a run of REXes. I'll keep the list
 posted.
 
 -Josh
 
> On Wed, Oct 4, 2017 at 4:32 AM, Mike Nugent  wrote:
> Josh,
> 
> I’m currently in no position to make my own, so in view of a $60 ballpark 
> figure per completed unit, I’d like to order 3 of them. Thanks!
> 
> 
>> On Oct 3, 2017, at 4:24 PM, Josh Malone  wrote:
>> 
>> So far the responses to my inquiry are up to 49 units. Clearly the
>> world needs more REXs :)
>> 
>> 
>>> On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 4:07 PM, Josh Malone  
>>> wrote:
>>> You should be able to edit your responses to the form. I can't
>>> actually edit user responses myself. Sorry.
>>> 
 On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 2:37 PM, Gary Hammond  
 wrote:
 At $60 for a rex, I would like to add 1 more to the list to take my 
 request to 3.
 
 
 
> 
>> 

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Gary Weber]

Josh,

I really like the idea of the poll you're doing, and I'd love to see REX
back in stock for folks that want them.

I see no reason, however, not to also gauge the potential interest of the
Tandy 200 and NEC models.  I realize those boards are not available on
OSHPark (yet), but the potential interest for these other variants might
influence the original designer(s) on the decision to make those boards
available up there as well.  :)

Gary Weber
www.web8201.net


On Sat, Sep 30, 2017 at 6:26 PM, Josh Malone  wrote:

> Folks,
>
> There's been lots of interest lately in obtaining REX units. Several
> members have now built REXes but we realize that not everybody wants to or
> is equipped to build one. My personal feeling is that it would be great to
> get these back "in stock" in one form or another. I think the first logical
> step would be to see how many people actually want.
>
> Sooo...
>
> I've created a form that people can use to **express interest** in
> acquiring a REX.
>
> https://goo.gl/forms/Kr4YgaskVhMCuzxz1
>
> This is basically a list of "how many REX units does the world need". This
> is ONLY for the Tandy 100 or 102 REX.
>
> Please note:  This is NOT a pre-order!
>
> Filling out this form does NOT guarantee that you will get a REX. This
> form is simply to gauge the number of REX units that it would take to meet
> current demand from the community. The email address field is there only to
> notify people if/when a board run is actually made, although I'm sure an
> announcement will certainly be made on this list if/when a run is actually
> made.
>
> This is just a research step. I'm not actively planning a board run, and I
> have no idea what they would cost, though I hope it could be done around
> the same price point as Club100 was selling. Maybe a number of people could
> divide-and-conquer to meet current demand? Maybe we can organize a contract
> manufacture run? I don't know.
>
> But, let us know if you want one. I'll share the results (numbers only) on
> the list after a while.
>
> -Josh
>



-- 
Gary Weber
g...@web8201.com

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Brian White]

Josh, you have a socket that I previously sent someone else right? You
don't still need one? (or if you just want a spare I can send you a couple)

On Oct 5, 2017 10:58 AM, "Josh Malone"  wrote:

> I'm working very hard currently to simplify the workflow to the point
> where I would have a prayer of fulfilling a large fraction of the 63
> interests expressed so far without burning out and selling my Tandy in
> disgust :) So, I'm only contemplating a single thing:
>
> 1, 2, or 3 REX boards per customer, programmed for Tandy 100/102,
> assembled and tested, with 14-day DOA warranty.
>
> Anything else is not on my radar at this point. In fact, the ONLY
> thing on my long-range scanners is a Tandy 200 REX (but that requires
> me to have a 200, so... later).
>
> -Josh
>
> On Thu, Oct 5, 2017 at 9:55 AM, Mike Nugent  wrote:
> > Thanks, Josh, I had missed that before. I’ve filled it out.
> >
> > — Nuge —
> >
> >
> > On Oct 4, 2017, at 1:18 PM, Josh Malone  wrote:
> >
> >> I'll send the form URL one more time in case it's gotten buried in
> >> peoples' email
> >>
> >> https://goo.gl/forms/Kr4YgaskVhMCuzxz1
> >>
> >> On Wed, Oct 4, 2017 at 1:18 PM, Josh Malone 
> wrote:
> >>> Mike: If you can respond to the survey, that's appreciated
> >>>
> >>> All:  I've just ordered a set of the castellated boards on rush order
> >>> so I can test them. Once I validate the revised board I'll have some
> >>> idea of how long a board will take to assemble, which will factor into
> >>> my decision to actually make a run of REXes. I'll keep the list
> >>> posted.
> >>>
> >>> -Josh
> >>>
> >>> On Wed, Oct 4, 2017 at 4:32 AM, Mike Nugent  wrote:
>  Josh,
> 
>  I’m currently in no position to make my own, so in view of a $60
> ballpark figure per completed unit, I’d like to order 3 of them. Thanks!
> 
> 
>  On Oct 3, 2017, at 4:24 PM, Josh Malone 
> wrote:
> 
> > So far the responses to my inquiry are up to 49 units. Clearly the
> > world needs more REXs :)
> >
> >
> > On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 4:07 PM, Josh Malone 
> wrote:
> >> You should be able to edit your responses to the form. I can't
> >> actually edit user responses myself. Sorry.
> >>
> >> On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 2:37 PM, Gary Hammond 
> wrote:
> >>> At $60 for a rex, I would like to add 1 more to the list to take
> my request to 3.
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> 
> >
>

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Josh Malone]

I'm working very hard currently to simplify the workflow to the point
where I would have a prayer of fulfilling a large fraction of the 63
interests expressed so far without burning out and selling my Tandy in
disgust :) So, I'm only contemplating a single thing:

1, 2, or 3 REX boards per customer, programmed for Tandy 100/102,
assembled and tested, with 14-day DOA warranty.

Anything else is not on my radar at this point. In fact, the ONLY
thing on my long-range scanners is a Tandy 200 REX (but that requires
me to have a 200, so... later).

-Josh

On Thu, Oct 5, 2017 at 9:55 AM, Mike Nugent  wrote:
> Thanks, Josh, I had missed that before. I’ve filled it out.
>
> — Nuge —
>
>
> On Oct 4, 2017, at 1:18 PM, Josh Malone  wrote:
>
>> I'll send the form URL one more time in case it's gotten buried in
>> peoples' email
>>
>> https://goo.gl/forms/Kr4YgaskVhMCuzxz1
>>
>> On Wed, Oct 4, 2017 at 1:18 PM, Josh Malone  wrote:
>>> Mike: If you can respond to the survey, that's appreciated
>>>
>>> All:  I've just ordered a set of the castellated boards on rush order
>>> so I can test them. Once I validate the revised board I'll have some
>>> idea of how long a board will take to assemble, which will factor into
>>> my decision to actually make a run of REXes. I'll keep the list
>>> posted.
>>>
>>> -Josh
>>>
>>> On Wed, Oct 4, 2017 at 4:32 AM, Mike Nugent  wrote:
 Josh,

 I’m currently in no position to make my own, so in view of a $60 ballpark 
 figure per completed unit, I’d like to order 3 of them. Thanks!


 On Oct 3, 2017, at 4:24 PM, Josh Malone  wrote:

> So far the responses to my inquiry are up to 49 units. Clearly the
> world needs more REXs :)
>
>
> On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 4:07 PM, Josh Malone  wrote:
>> You should be able to edit your responses to the form. I can't
>> actually edit user responses myself. Sorry.
>>
>> On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 2:37 PM, Gary Hammond  
>> wrote:
>>> At $60 for a rex, I would like to add 1 more to the list to take my 
>>> request to 3.
>>>
>>>
>>>

>

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Mike Nugent]

Thanks, Josh, I had missed that before. I’ve filled it out.

— Nuge —


On Oct 4, 2017, at 1:18 PM, Josh Malone  wrote:

> I'll send the form URL one more time in case it's gotten buried in
> peoples' email
> 
> https://goo.gl/forms/Kr4YgaskVhMCuzxz1
> 
> On Wed, Oct 4, 2017 at 1:18 PM, Josh Malone  wrote:
>> Mike: If you can respond to the survey, that's appreciated
>> 
>> All:  I've just ordered a set of the castellated boards on rush order
>> so I can test them. Once I validate the revised board I'll have some
>> idea of how long a board will take to assemble, which will factor into
>> my decision to actually make a run of REXes. I'll keep the list
>> posted.
>> 
>> -Josh
>> 
>> On Wed, Oct 4, 2017 at 4:32 AM, Mike Nugent  wrote:
>>> Josh,
>>> 
>>> I’m currently in no position to make my own, so in view of a $60 ballpark 
>>> figure per completed unit, I’d like to order 3 of them. Thanks!
>>> 
>>> 
>>> On Oct 3, 2017, at 4:24 PM, Josh Malone  wrote:
>>> 
 So far the responses to my inquiry are up to 49 units. Clearly the
 world needs more REXs :)
 
 
 On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 4:07 PM, Josh Malone  wrote:
> You should be able to edit your responses to the form. I can't
> actually edit user responses myself. Sorry.
> 
> On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 2:37 PM, Gary Hammond  wrote:
>> At $60 for a rex, I would like to add 1 more to the list to take my 
>> request to 3.
>> 
>> 
>> 
>>> 

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Brian White]

Oh and in addition to all that, I just remembered we probably don't have an
image of what goes on the flash chip. You might have to program a completed
rex the normal way, desolder it's flash chip, and use the programmer to
dump it. Then that would be your image to write new flash chips.

So, no.

-- 
bkw

On Oct 5, 2017 9:40 AM, "Brian White"  wrote:

> You can get programming adapter sockets for both chips for about $9 each.
>
> http://www.ebay.com/itm/271973284613
>
> http://www.ebay.com/itm/152444697107
>
> And for the cpld, it would be easy to wire up the programmer and a 5v
> supply via breadboard.
>
> That leaves the flash.
>
> Instead of the bare tsop adapter above, which would require another
> adapter to the programmers dip40 zif socket, there are other kits for $30
> that adapt to dip40 to go into programmers. And/or there are programmer
> kits that already include a tsop48 adapter too.
>
> http://www.ebay.com/itm/331991622286
>
> http://www.ebay.com/itm/232365429018
>
> So it's easy enough to make the physical connection to program both chips.
>
> But I don't know off-hand if the TL866 programmer happens to support this
> flash chip.
>
> If your programmer does support the flash chip, then it would be easy
> enough to do.
>
> I would not trust the data in a writeable chip that has been handled
> loose, soldered no less, while not part of a circuit that kept the write
> enable pin nailed to the gnd pin.
>
> You couldn't test the final result, which makes a problem when it doesn't
> work for the buyer. Did they corrupt it with static while handling or
> soldering? Or overheat while soldering? Is their M100 100%? Did you
> actually send out a corrupt chip? That can result in some bad feelings on
> one or both sides.
>
> Then again, you could program and mail out bare chips for little more than
> the cost of the chip. A couple bucks. There is practically no labor
> involved once you have the programmer set up the first time. So if someone
> claims it doesn't work and it seems to be the programming, you could just
> send them, even expect them to buy, another chip.
>
> Same as when you buy the blank new chips. If one doesn't work, you just
> have to buy another. They can't warranty them.
>
> So really it might be fine.
>
> Then the problem is just, do enough people want kits to justify setting up
> this alternative workflow? If it's one guy, you could simply build a
> complete rex in less time and effort than getting those programming
> adapters, figuring out how to use them the first time.
>
> Also, simply packaging that tsop chip so that the legs survive mailing is
> tricky. They came to me in a huge fiberglass tray. You could maybe saw out
> chunks of that tray to hold one or a few chips? Or you would have to
> actually make some kind of special packaging by hand. Unless you managed to
> get your chips in cut-tape packaging instead of trays. The cpld you could
> probably get away with simply taping it to a card. But those tsop legs have
> to basically be suspended so nothing touches them on all sides. That could
> end up being some labor right there. Mailing the complete rex is trivial.
>
> --
> bkw
>
> On Oct 4, 2017 9:18 PM, "Josh Malone"  wrote:
>
>> Programmed kits are not an option, since you have to assemble the board
>> to program it :) A standalone flash and cpld programmer would be
>> prohibitively expensive for such a small run. This would be for assembled,
>> programmed, and tested units only.
>>
>> On Oct 4, 2017 6:28 PM, "Lee Olivares"  wrote:
>>
>>> Personally interested in a kit of parts and a flashed ROM if such an
>>> option were to present itself.
>>>
>>> I hit the form for a pair of units, since that's what I'd originally
>>> wanted from the M100 store ages ago.
>>>
>>> On Wed, Oct 4, 2017 at 2:41 PM, Daryl Tester <
>>> dt-m...@handcraftedcomputers.com.au> wrote:
>>>
 On Wed, 4 Oct 2017 13:18:56 -0400, Josh Malone wrote:

 I'll send the form URL one more time in case it's gotten buried in
> peoples' email
>
> https://goo.gl/forms/Kr4YgaskVhMCuzxz1
>

 +1'd.  (and thanks for that Josh, it saved me having to find it).


 --
 Regards,
   Daryl Tester
   Handcrafted Computers Pty. Ltd.

>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> --
>>>
>>>  - Lee
>>>  - 909.437.0250 <(909)%20437-0250>
>>>  - Destroying technology problems.
>>>
>>

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Brian White]

You can get programming adapter sockets for both chips for about $9 each.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/271973284613

http://www.ebay.com/itm/152444697107

And for the cpld, it would be easy to wire up the programmer and a 5v
supply via breadboard.

That leaves the flash.

Instead of the bare tsop adapter above, which would require another adapter
to the programmers dip40 zif socket, there are other kits for $30 that
adapt to dip40 to go into programmers. And/or there are programmer kits
that already include a tsop48 adapter too.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/331991622286

http://www.ebay.com/itm/232365429018

So it's easy enough to make the physical connection to program both chips.

But I don't know off-hand if the TL866 programmer happens to support this
flash chip.

If your programmer does support the flash chip, then it would be easy
enough to do.

I would not trust the data in a writeable chip that has been handled loose,
soldered no less, while not part of a circuit that kept the write enable
pin nailed to the gnd pin.

You couldn't test the final result, which makes a problem when it doesn't
work for the buyer. Did they corrupt it with static while handling or
soldering? Or overheat while soldering? Is their M100 100%? Did you
actually send out a corrupt chip? That can result in some bad feelings on
one or both sides.

Then again, you could program and mail out bare chips for little more than
the cost of the chip. A couple bucks. There is practically no labor
involved once you have the programmer set up the first time. So if someone
claims it doesn't work and it seems to be the programming, you could just
send them, even expect them to buy, another chip.

Same as when you buy the blank new chips. If one doesn't work, you just
have to buy another. They can't warranty them.

So really it might be fine.

Then the problem is just, do enough people want kits to justify setting up
this alternative workflow? If it's one guy, you could simply build a
complete rex in less time and effort than getting those programming
adapters, figuring out how to use them the first time.

Also, simply packaging that tsop chip so that the legs survive mailing is
tricky. They came to me in a huge fiberglass tray. You could maybe saw out
chunks of that tray to hold one or a few chips? Or you would have to
actually make some kind of special packaging by hand. Unless you managed to
get your chips in cut-tape packaging instead of trays. The cpld you could
probably get away with simply taping it to a card. But those tsop legs have
to basically be suspended so nothing touches them on all sides. That could
end up being some labor right there. Mailing the complete rex is trivial.

-- 
bkw

On Oct 4, 2017 9:18 PM, "Josh Malone"  wrote:

> Programmed kits are not an option, since you have to assemble the board to
> program it :) A standalone flash and cpld programmer would be prohibitively
> expensive for such a small run. This would be for assembled, programmed,
> and tested units only.
>
> On Oct 4, 2017 6:28 PM, "Lee Olivares"  wrote:
>
>> Personally interested in a kit of parts and a flashed ROM if such an
>> option were to present itself.
>>
>> I hit the form for a pair of units, since that's what I'd originally
>> wanted from the M100 store ages ago.
>>
>> On Wed, Oct 4, 2017 at 2:41 PM, Daryl Tester <
>> dt-m...@handcraftedcomputers.com.au> wrote:
>>
>>> On Wed, 4 Oct 2017 13:18:56 -0400, Josh Malone wrote:
>>>
>>> I'll send the form URL one more time in case it's gotten buried in
 peoples' email

 https://goo.gl/forms/Kr4YgaskVhMCuzxz1

>>>
>>> +1'd.  (and thanks for that Josh, it saved me having to find it).
>>>
>>>
>>> --
>>> Regards,
>>>   Daryl Tester
>>>   Handcrafted Computers Pty. Ltd.
>>>
>>
>>
>>
>> --
>>
>>  - Lee
>>  - 909.437.0250 <(909)%20437-0250>
>>  - Destroying technology problems.
>>
>

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Josh Malone]

Programmed kits are not an option, since you have to assemble the board to
program it :) A standalone flash and cpld programmer would be prohibitively
expensive for such a small run. This would be for assembled, programmed,
and tested units only.

On Oct 4, 2017 6:28 PM, "Lee Olivares"  wrote:

> Personally interested in a kit of parts and a flashed ROM if such an
> option were to present itself.
>
> I hit the form for a pair of units, since that's what I'd originally
> wanted from the M100 store ages ago.
>
> On Wed, Oct 4, 2017 at 2:41 PM, Daryl Tester <
> dt-m...@handcraftedcomputers.com.au> wrote:
>
>> On Wed, 4 Oct 2017 13:18:56 -0400, Josh Malone wrote:
>>
>> I'll send the form URL one more time in case it's gotten buried in
>>> peoples' email
>>>
>>> https://goo.gl/forms/Kr4YgaskVhMCuzxz1
>>>
>>
>> +1'd.  (and thanks for that Josh, it saved me having to find it).
>>
>>
>> --
>> Regards,
>>   Daryl Tester
>>   Handcrafted Computers Pty. Ltd.
>>
>
>
>
> --
>
>  - Lee
>  - 909.437.0250 <(909)%20437-0250>
>  - Destroying technology problems.
>

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Lee Olivares]

Personally interested in a kit of parts and a flashed ROM if such an option
were to present itself.

I hit the form for a pair of units, since that's what I'd originally wanted
from the M100 store ages ago.

On Wed, Oct 4, 2017 at 2:41 PM, Daryl Tester <
dt-m...@handcraftedcomputers.com.au> wrote:

> On Wed, 4 Oct 2017 13:18:56 -0400, Josh Malone wrote:
>
> I'll send the form URL one more time in case it's gotten buried in
>> peoples' email
>>
>> https://goo.gl/forms/Kr4YgaskVhMCuzxz1
>>
>
> +1'd.  (and thanks for that Josh, it saved me having to find it).
>
>
> --
> Regards,
>   Daryl Tester
>   Handcrafted Computers Pty. Ltd.
>



-- 

 - Lee
 - 909.437.0250
 - Destroying technology problems.

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Daryl Tester]

On Wed, 4 Oct 2017 13:18:56 -0400, Josh Malone wrote:


I'll send the form URL one more time in case it's gotten buried in
peoples' email

https://goo.gl/forms/Kr4YgaskVhMCuzxz1


+1'd.  (and thanks for that Josh, it saved me having to find it).


--
Regards,
  Daryl Tester
  Handcrafted Computers Pty. Ltd.

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Josh Malone]

I'll send the form URL one more time in case it's gotten buried in
peoples' email

https://goo.gl/forms/Kr4YgaskVhMCuzxz1

On Wed, Oct 4, 2017 at 1:18 PM, Josh Malone  wrote:
> Mike: If you can respond to the survey, that's appreciated
>
> All:  I've just ordered a set of the castellated boards on rush order
> so I can test them. Once I validate the revised board I'll have some
> idea of how long a board will take to assemble, which will factor into
> my decision to actually make a run of REXes. I'll keep the list
> posted.
>
> -Josh
>
> On Wed, Oct 4, 2017 at 4:32 AM, Mike Nugent  wrote:
>> Josh,
>>
>> I’m currently in no position to make my own, so in view of a $60 ballpark 
>> figure per completed unit, I’d like to order 3 of them. Thanks!
>>
>>
>> On Oct 3, 2017, at 4:24 PM, Josh Malone  wrote:
>>
>>> So far the responses to my inquiry are up to 49 units. Clearly the
>>> world needs more REXs :)
>>>
>>>
>>> On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 4:07 PM, Josh Malone  wrote:
 You should be able to edit your responses to the form. I can't
 actually edit user responses myself. Sorry.

 On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 2:37 PM, Gary Hammond  wrote:
> At $60 for a rex, I would like to add 1 more to the list to take my 
> request to 3.
>
>
>
>>

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Josh Malone]

Mike: If you can respond to the survey, that's appreciated

All:  I've just ordered a set of the castellated boards on rush order
so I can test them. Once I validate the revised board I'll have some
idea of how long a board will take to assemble, which will factor into
my decision to actually make a run of REXes. I'll keep the list
posted.

-Josh

On Wed, Oct 4, 2017 at 4:32 AM, Mike Nugent  wrote:
> Josh,
>
> I’m currently in no position to make my own, so in view of a $60 ballpark 
> figure per completed unit, I’d like to order 3 of them. Thanks!
>
>
> On Oct 3, 2017, at 4:24 PM, Josh Malone  wrote:
>
>> So far the responses to my inquiry are up to 49 units. Clearly the
>> world needs more REXs :)
>>
>>
>> On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 4:07 PM, Josh Malone  wrote:
>>> You should be able to edit your responses to the form. I can't
>>> actually edit user responses myself. Sorry.
>>>
>>> On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 2:37 PM, Gary Hammond  wrote:
 At $60 for a rex, I would like to add 1 more to the list to take my 
 request to 3.



>

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Mike Nugent]

Josh,

I’m currently in no position to make my own, so in view of a $60 ballpark 
figure per completed unit, I’d like to order 3 of them. Thanks!


On Oct 3, 2017, at 4:24 PM, Josh Malone  wrote:

> So far the responses to my inquiry are up to 49 units. Clearly the
> world needs more REXs :)
> 
> 
> On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 4:07 PM, Josh Malone  wrote:
>> You should be able to edit your responses to the form. I can't
>> actually edit user responses myself. Sorry.
>> 
>> On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 2:37 PM, Gary Hammond  wrote:
>>> At $60 for a rex, I would like to add 1 more to the list to take my request 
>>> to 3.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Josh Malone]

You should be able to edit your responses to the form. I can't
actually edit user responses myself. Sorry.

On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 2:37 PM, Gary Hammond  wrote:
> At $60 for a rex, I would like to add 1 more to the list to take my request 
> to 3.
>
>
>

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Josh Malone]

pulls maybe? Price is too good to be true. 8Mbit is kinda small to
counterfeit, seems to me. Could be actual new stock if someone dumped
their inventory cheap.



On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 3:14 PM, Stephen Adolph  wrote:
> http://www.ebay.com/itm/1PCS-IC-AM29F800BB-70EC-AM29F800BB-70EI-TSOP48-AMD-NEW-GOOD-QUALITY-/351587670024?epid=1648855918=item51dc421808:g:yN8AAOSwU9xUMJ1x
>
> pretty cheap flash. If genuine, this is a good price, free shipping...
>
>
> On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 2:37 PM, Gary Hammond  wrote:
>>
>> At $60 for a rex, I would like to add 1 more to the list to take my
>> request to 3.
>>
>>
>>
>

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Stephen Adolph]

http://www.ebay.com/itm/1PCS-IC-AM29F800BB-70EC-AM29F800BB-70EI-TSOP48-AMD-NEW-GOOD-QUALITY-/351587670024?epid=1648855918=item51dc421808:g:yN8AAOSwU9xUMJ1x

pretty cheap flash. If genuine, this is a good price, free shipping...


On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 2:37 PM, Gary Hammond  wrote:

> At $60 for a rex, I would like to add 1 more to the list to take my
> request to 3.
>
>
>
>

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Gary Hammond]

At $60 for a rex, I would like to add 1 more to the list to take my request to 
3.

 

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Josh Malone]

Oh - forgot to mention that I do intend to purchase and test the
castellated board from OSHPark before doing a big run.

-Josh

On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 2:30 PM, Josh Malone  wrote:
> Absolutely! I was speaking entirely in the theoretical - I am not
> equipped to verify any design changes beyond building it an popping it
> in my 102 and seeing if the magic smoke comes out or not. :)
>
> My only goal right now is to help the community meet the current
> demand for the current REX unit -- which currently stands at 45 boards
> according to the poll responses. I personally think this is doable.
>
> -Josh
>
> On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 2:22 PM, Stephen Adolph  wrote:
>> Regarding changing the design.
>>
>> I would not do so unless you plan to verify the design.
>>
>> Right now we have a fair amount of history with the current design.  There
>> are >1 hundred rex out there. I have 20 model T I test with and still make
>> plenty of mistakes.
>>
>> Introducing hardware variants sounds like a disaster for support..   who
>> Would want to have multiple sw streams or worse firmware and or software
>> streams aligned to different hardware ?
>>
>> The cpld must be xcr3064xl vq 44 and can be purchased.  I can make some
>> flash chips available.
>>
>> I hope that is good enough!
>>
>> Steve
>>
>>
>> On Monday, October 2, 2017, Stephen Adolph  wrote:
>>>
>>> Regarding flash.
>>>
>>> I will return the favor that John H gave me.  I Have several hundred rex
>>> flash chips on hand and will make a quantity available for someone to build
>>> with.
>>>
>>> Contact me directly to discuss
>>>
>>> Steve
>>>
>>>
>>> On Monday, October 2, 2017, Jerry Stoner  wrote:

 XCR3064XL-10VQG44I is listed as the replacement for XCR3064XL-10PCG44I.

 Jerry

 On 2 October 2017 at 12:42, Stephen Adolph  wrote:
>
> What i have done in the past is buy trays of of eBay.
>
>
> On Monday, October 2, 2017, Ken Pettit  wrote:
>>
>> Yes, that is an error.  I have noticed that before also, but this part
>> is in fact EOL.
>>
>>
>> https://www.xilinx.com/support/documentation/customer_notices/xcn07022.pdf
>>
>> Ken
>>
>> On 10/2/17 10:04 AM, Josh Malone wrote:
>>>
>>> On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 12:58 PM, Ken Pettit 
>>> wrote:


 Actually, the CPLD is also obsolete and no longer in production.
 There are no current in-production CPLD or FPGA devices that are 5V
 tolerant.  There is still a market for 5V tolerant CPLDs/FPGAs in the
 hobiest community, but not the commercial sector, therefore they are no
 longer manufactured.

 Ken
>>>
>>>
>>> #include 
>>>
>>> It seems odd, then, that Digikey lists a manf lead time on the
>>> XCR3064XL-10VQG44I which is 5v tolerant:
>>>
>>>
>>> https://www.digikey.com/scripts/DkSearch/dksus.dll?Detail=239918050=636425420847306637
>>
>>



 --

 -
 Jerry Stoner
 jerry...@gmail.com

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Josh Malone]

Absolutely! I was speaking entirely in the theoretical - I am not
equipped to verify any design changes beyond building it an popping it
in my 102 and seeing if the magic smoke comes out or not. :)

My only goal right now is to help the community meet the current
demand for the current REX unit -- which currently stands at 45 boards
according to the poll responses. I personally think this is doable.

-Josh

On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 2:22 PM, Stephen Adolph  wrote:
> Regarding changing the design.
>
> I would not do so unless you plan to verify the design.
>
> Right now we have a fair amount of history with the current design.  There
> are >1 hundred rex out there. I have 20 model T I test with and still make
> plenty of mistakes.
>
> Introducing hardware variants sounds like a disaster for support..   who
> Would want to have multiple sw streams or worse firmware and or software
> streams aligned to different hardware ?
>
> The cpld must be xcr3064xl vq 44 and can be purchased.  I can make some
> flash chips available.
>
> I hope that is good enough!
>
> Steve
>
>
> On Monday, October 2, 2017, Stephen Adolph  wrote:
>>
>> Regarding flash.
>>
>> I will return the favor that John H gave me.  I Have several hundred rex
>> flash chips on hand and will make a quantity available for someone to build
>> with.
>>
>> Contact me directly to discuss
>>
>> Steve
>>
>>
>> On Monday, October 2, 2017, Jerry Stoner  wrote:
>>>
>>> XCR3064XL-10VQG44I is listed as the replacement for XCR3064XL-10PCG44I.
>>>
>>> Jerry
>>>
>>> On 2 October 2017 at 12:42, Stephen Adolph  wrote:

 What i have done in the past is buy trays of of eBay.


 On Monday, October 2, 2017, Ken Pettit  wrote:
>
> Yes, that is an error.  I have noticed that before also, but this part
> is in fact EOL.
>
>
> https://www.xilinx.com/support/documentation/customer_notices/xcn07022.pdf
>
> Ken
>
> On 10/2/17 10:04 AM, Josh Malone wrote:
>>
>> On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 12:58 PM, Ken Pettit 
>> wrote:
>>>
>>>
>>> Actually, the CPLD is also obsolete and no longer in production.
>>> There are no current in-production CPLD or FPGA devices that are 5V
>>> tolerant.  There is still a market for 5V tolerant CPLDs/FPGAs in the
>>> hobiest community, but not the commercial sector, therefore they are no
>>> longer manufactured.
>>>
>>> Ken
>>
>>
>> #include 
>>
>> It seems odd, then, that Digikey lists a manf lead time on the
>> XCR3064XL-10VQG44I which is 5v tolerant:
>>
>>
>> https://www.digikey.com/scripts/DkSearch/dksus.dll?Detail=239918050=636425420847306637
>
>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> --
>>>
>>> -
>>> Jerry Stoner
>>> jerry...@gmail.com

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Stephen Adolph]

Regarding changing the design.

I would not do so unless you plan to verify the design.

Right now we have a fair amount of history with the current design.  There
are >1 hundred rex out there. I have 20 model T I test with and still make
plenty of mistakes.

Introducing hardware variants sounds like a disaster for support..   who
Would want to have multiple sw streams or worse firmware and or software
streams aligned to different hardware ?

The cpld must be xcr3064xl vq 44 and can be purchased.  I can make some
flash chips available.

I hope that is good enough!

Steve


On Monday, October 2, 2017, Stephen Adolph  wrote:

> Regarding flash.
>
> I will return the favor that John H gave me.  I Have several hundred rex
> flash chips on hand and will make a quantity available for someone to build
> with.
>
> Contact me directly to discuss
>
> Steve
>
>
> On Monday, October 2, 2017, Jerry Stoner  > wrote:
>
>> XCR3064XL-10VQG44I is listed as the replacement for XCR3064XL-10PCG44I.
>>
>> Jerry
>>
>> On 2 October 2017 at 12:42, Stephen Adolph  wrote:
>>
>>> What i have done in the past is buy trays of of eBay.
>>>
>>>
>>> On Monday, October 2, 2017, Ken Pettit  wrote:
>>>
 Yes, that is an error.  I have noticed that before also, but this part
 is in fact EOL.

 https://www.xilinx.com/support/documentation/customer_notice
 s/xcn07022.pdf

 Ken

 On 10/2/17 10:04 AM, Josh Malone wrote:

> On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 12:58 PM, Ken Pettit 
> wrote:
>
>>
>> Actually, the CPLD is also obsolete and no longer in production.
>> There are no current in-production CPLD or FPGA devices that are 5V
>> tolerant.  There is still a market for 5V tolerant CPLDs/FPGAs in the
>> hobiest community, but not the commercial sector, therefore they are no
>> longer manufactured.
>>
>> Ken
>>
>
> #include 
>
> It seems odd, then, that Digikey lists a manf lead time on the
> XCR3064XL-10VQG44I which is 5v tolerant:
>
> https://www.digikey.com/scripts/DkSearch/dksus.dll?Detail
> emSeq=239918050=636425420847306637
>


>>
>>
>> --
>>
>> -
>> Jerry Stoner
>> jerry...@gmail.com
>>
>

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Stephen Adolph]

Regarding flash.

I will return the favor that John H gave me.  I Have several hundred rex
flash chips on hand and will make a quantity available for someone to build
with.

Contact me directly to discuss

Steve


On Monday, October 2, 2017, Jerry Stoner  wrote:

> XCR3064XL-10VQG44I is listed as the replacement for XCR3064XL-10PCG44I.
>
> Jerry
>
> On 2 October 2017 at 12:42, Stephen Adolph  > wrote:
>
>> What i have done in the past is buy trays of of eBay.
>>
>>
>> On Monday, October 2, 2017, Ken Pettit > > wrote:
>>
>>> Yes, that is an error.  I have noticed that before also, but this part
>>> is in fact EOL.
>>>
>>> https://www.xilinx.com/support/documentation/customer_notice
>>> s/xcn07022.pdf
>>>
>>> Ken
>>>
>>> On 10/2/17 10:04 AM, Josh Malone wrote:
>>>
 On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 12:58 PM, Ken Pettit  wrote:

>
> Actually, the CPLD is also obsolete and no longer in production. There
> are no current in-production CPLD or FPGA devices that are 5V tolerant.
> There is still a market for 5V tolerant CPLDs/FPGAs in the hobiest
> community, but not the commercial sector, therefore they are no longer
> manufactured.
>
> Ken
>

 #include 

 It seems odd, then, that Digikey lists a manf lead time on the
 XCR3064XL-10VQG44I which is 5v tolerant:

 https://www.digikey.com/scripts/DkSearch/dksus.dll?Detail
 emSeq=239918050=636425420847306637

>>>
>>>
>
>
> --
>
> -
> Jerry Stoner
> jerry...@gmail.com 
>

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Jerry Stoner]

XCR3064XL-10VQG44I is listed as the replacement for XCR3064XL-10PCG44I.

Jerry

On 2 October 2017 at 12:42, Stephen Adolph  wrote:

> What i have done in the past is buy trays of of eBay.
>
>
> On Monday, October 2, 2017, Ken Pettit  wrote:
>
>> Yes, that is an error.  I have noticed that before also, but this part is
>> in fact EOL.
>>
>> https://www.xilinx.com/support/documentation/customer_notice
>> s/xcn07022.pdf
>>
>> Ken
>>
>> On 10/2/17 10:04 AM, Josh Malone wrote:
>>
>>> On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 12:58 PM, Ken Pettit  wrote:
>>>

 Actually, the CPLD is also obsolete and no longer in production. There
 are no current in-production CPLD or FPGA devices that are 5V tolerant.
 There is still a market for 5V tolerant CPLDs/FPGAs in the hobiest
 community, but not the commercial sector, therefore they are no longer
 manufactured.

 Ken

>>>
>>> #include 
>>>
>>> It seems odd, then, that Digikey lists a manf lead time on the
>>> XCR3064XL-10VQG44I which is 5v tolerant:
>>>
>>> https://www.digikey.com/scripts/DkSearch/dksus.dll?Detail
>>> emSeq=239918050=636425420847306637
>>>
>>
>>


-- 

-
Jerry Stoner
jerry...@gmail.com

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Stephen Adolph]

What i have done in the past is buy trays of of eBay.


On Monday, October 2, 2017, Ken Pettit  wrote:

> Yes, that is an error.  I have noticed that before also, but this part is
> in fact EOL.
>
> https://www.xilinx.com/support/documentation/customer_notices/xcn07022.pdf
>
> Ken
>
> On 10/2/17 10:04 AM, Josh Malone wrote:
>
>> On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 12:58 PM, Ken Pettit  wrote:
>>
>>>
>>> Actually, the CPLD is also obsolete and no longer in production. There
>>> are no current in-production CPLD or FPGA devices that are 5V tolerant.
>>> There is still a market for 5V tolerant CPLDs/FPGAs in the hobiest
>>> community, but not the commercial sector, therefore they are no longer
>>> manufactured.
>>>
>>> Ken
>>>
>>
>> #include 
>>
>> It seems odd, then, that Digikey lists a manf lead time on the
>> XCR3064XL-10VQG44I which is 5v tolerant:
>>
>> https://www.digikey.com/scripts/DkSearch/dksus.dll?Detail;
>> itemSeq=239918050=636425420847306637
>>
>
>

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Ken Pettit]

Yes, that is an error.  I have noticed that before also, but this part 
is in fact EOL.


https://www.xilinx.com/support/documentation/customer_notices/xcn07022.pdf

Ken

On 10/2/17 10:04 AM, Josh Malone wrote:

On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 12:58 PM, Ken Pettit  wrote:


Actually, the CPLD is also obsolete and no longer in production. There are no 
current in-production CPLD or FPGA devices that are 5V tolerant.  There is 
still a market for 5V tolerant CPLDs/FPGAs in the hobiest community, but not 
the commercial sector, therefore they are no longer manufactured.

Ken


#include 

It seems odd, then, that Digikey lists a manf lead time on the
XCR3064XL-10VQG44I which is 5v tolerant:

https://www.digikey.com/scripts/DkSearch/dksus.dll?Detail=239918050=636425420847306637

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Josh Malone]

On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 12:58 PM, Ken Pettit  wrote:
>
>
> Actually, the CPLD is also obsolete and no longer in production. There are no 
> current in-production CPLD or FPGA devices that are 5V tolerant.  There is 
> still a market for 5V tolerant CPLDs/FPGAs in the hobiest community, but not 
> the commercial sector, therefore they are no longer manufactured.
>
> Ken


#include 

It seems odd, then, that Digikey lists a manf lead time on the
XCR3064XL-10VQG44I which is 5v tolerant:

https://www.digikey.com/scripts/DkSearch/dksus.dll?Detail=239918050=636425420847306637

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Ken Pettit]

On 10/2/17 9:27 AM, Josh Malone wrote:


I'd like to have a discussion (possibly offline?) with people about 
what a support model for the REX looks like going forward. In addition 
to software and/or improvements, the NOR chip is obsolete (though 
still in decent stock) - so eventually it will become unobtanium and 
the REX will either need to be redesigned or replaced. The CPLD 
appears to be a current product though.




Actually, the CPLD is also obsolete and no longer in production. There 
are no current in-production CPLD or FPGA devices that are 5V tolerant.  
There is still a market for 5V tolerant CPLDs/FPGAs in the hobiest 
community, but not the commercial sector, therefore they are no longer 
manufactured.


Ken

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Josh Malone]

On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 11:48 AM, Stephen Adolph 
wrote:

> T200 = different software load.  not sure if I released that or not.
>

Ah, okay. I have only a 102, so I can't test a 200 REX, though I could
theoretically build them.


What's missing from this entire discussion is software maintenance and bug
> fix.
>
> That is 95% of the job going forward.  Building is a straight forward and
> bounded time commitment.  Software maintenance, bug fix, is a much deeper
> dive.  Let alone improvements.
>
> I'm reasonably confident in the firmware, but if a change was ever needed,
> someone would have to update and test the RTL.
>

Agreed. And it's especially bad if the person doing the software work isn't
making any money from the hardware sales, but someone else is.

I'd like to have a discussion (possibly offline?) with people about what a
support model for the REX looks like going forward. In addition to software
and/or improvements, the NOR chip is obsolete (though still in decent
stock) - so eventually it will become unobtanium and the REX will either
need to be redesigned or replaced. The CPLD appears to be a current product
though.

-Josh

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Stephen Adolph]

T200 = different software load.  not sure if I released that or not.

What's missing from this entire discussion is software maintenance and bug
fix.

That is 95% of the job going forward.  Building is a straight forward and
bounded time commitment.  Software maintenance, bug fix, is a much deeper
dive.  Let alone improvements.

I'm reasonably confident in the firmware, but if a change was ever needed,
someone would have to update and test the RTL.




On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 11:43 AM, David Boyd  wrote:

> Yes, according to the REX page at bitchin100, which was written by the
> designer, Steve Adolph. I’ll just go try it...
>
> Yes.
>
>
> On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 11:06 Josh Malone  wrote:
>
>> On Sun, Oct 1, 2017 at 11:10 AM, David Boyd  wrote:
>>
>>> A note: The basic REX model is also fine for the 200, not just the
>>> 100/102
>>>
>>
>> What do you mean by this? Is the REX referenced here:
>>
>>   http://tandy.wiki/Building_a_REX
>>
>> also suitable for the model 200?
>>
>> -Josh
>>
> --
> --
> Dave Boyd
>
> Hey! Just for fun, copy this line to your sig file!
>

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[David Boyd]

 Yes, according to the REX page at bitchin100, which was written by the
designer, Steve Adolph. I’ll just go try it...

Yes.


On Mon, Oct 2, 2017 at 11:06 Josh Malone  wrote:

> On Sun, Oct 1, 2017 at 11:10 AM, David Boyd  wrote:
>
>> A note: The basic REX model is also fine for the 200, not just the 100/102
>>
>
> What do you mean by this? Is the REX referenced here:
>
>   http://tandy.wiki/Building_a_REX
>
> also suitable for the model 200?
>
> -Josh
>
-- 
-- 
Dave Boyd

Hey! Just for fun, copy this line to your sig file!

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Josh Malone]

On Sun, Oct 1, 2017 at 11:10 AM, David Boyd  wrote:

> A note: The basic REX model is also fine for the 200, not just the 100/102
>

What do you mean by this? Is the REX referenced here:

  http://tandy.wiki/Building_a_REX

also suitable for the model 200?

-Josh

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Josh Malone]

Somehow my gmail missed this post. ??

Anyway, I didn't post a price point because a) I hadn't computed it, and b)
I think it would depend on a couple factors, incl. batch size and being
able to find an alternate flash chip sourceable from a cheaper supplier.

In any case, responses to the form so far indicate a potential need for 38
REX units. The flash ships get significantly cheaper at qty 30, so using
that number, I calculate that parts cost should be around $20 per board,
including shipping and misc consumables. So, let's just assume the rough
price point doesn't exceed the original $60 per unit. This point would
still allow smaller runs to be made and sold at or below that price, but
larger runs might be doable for cheaper. I didn't record the total time it
took to build my first board, but it wouldn't representative anyway. I
think with a good workflow, I could get it down to ~45 mins per board,
possibly lower if I buy a better vise and the castellated board works out
(thanks Stephen!), programming gets sped up, etc. I'd be willing to crank
out some boards for that kind of money.

I also don't know if any interested parties want any compensation for the
design or software (I haven't asked yet, but I think it should be asked.
Building units for one's self is different than building them for sale,
IMO).

So, assume $60 per unit. :)

-Josh


On Sat, Sep 30, 2017 at 11:07 PM, Mike Stein  wrote:
>
>> I think a rough price point would be useful; why is that a problem?
>>
>
>

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[David Boyd]

A note: The basic REX model is also fine for the 200, not just the 100/102

On Sat, Sep 30, 2017 at 21:26 Josh Malone  wrote:

> Folks,
>
> There's been lots of interest lately in obtaining REX units. Several
> members have now built REXes but we realize that not everybody wants to or
> is equipped to build one. My personal feeling is that it would be great to
> get these back "in stock" in one form or another. I think the first logical
> step would be to see how many people actually want.
>
> Sooo...
>
> I've created a form that people can use to **express interest** in
> acquiring a REX.
>
> https://goo.gl/forms/Kr4YgaskVhMCuzxz1
>
> This is basically a list of "how many REX units does the world need". This
> is ONLY for the Tandy 100 or 102 REX.
>
> Please note:  This is NOT a pre-order!
>
> Filling out this form does NOT guarantee that you will get a REX. This
> form is simply to gauge the number of REX units that it would take to meet
> current demand from the community. The email address field is there only to
> notify people if/when a board run is actually made, although I'm sure an
> announcement will certainly be made on this list if/when a run is actually
> made.
>
> This is just a research step. I'm not actively planning a board run, and I
> have no idea what they would cost, though I hope it could be done around
> the same price point as Club100 was selling. Maybe a number of people could
> divide-and-conquer to meet current demand? Maybe we can organize a contract
> manufacture run? I don't know.
>
> But, let us know if you want one. I'll share the results (numbers only) on
> the list after a while.
>
> -Josh
>
-- 
-- 
Dave Boyd

Hey! Just for fun, copy this line to your sig file!

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Lee Kelley]

I have an original one but might want a second one.  I'll go to the form.

On Sat, Sep 30, 2017 at 10:30 PM, David Szasz <dasz...@gmail.com> wrote:

> Thanks, your discussion is piquing my interest and making my mouth water.
> And it would certainly complement my infrequently used NADSbox to boot!
>
> On Sat, Sep 30, 2017 at 11:07 PM, Mike Stein <mhs.st...@gmail.com> wrote:
>
>> I think a rough price point would be useful; why is that a problem?
>>
>> - Original Message -
>> *From:* Josh Malone <josh.mal...@gmail.com>
>> *To:* Model 100 Discussion <m100@lists.bitchin100.com>
>> *Sent:* Saturday, September 30, 2017 9:26 PM
>> *Subject:* [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest
>>
>> Folks,
>>
>> There's been lots of interest lately in obtaining REX units. Several
>> members have now built REXes but we realize that not everybody wants to or
>> is equipped to build one. My personal feeling is that it would be great to
>> get these back "in stock" in one form or another. I think the first logical
>> step would be to see how many people actually want.
>>
>> Sooo...
>>
>> I've created a form that people can use to **express interest** in
>> acquiring a REX.
>>
>> https://goo.gl/forms/Kr4YgaskVhMCuzxz1
>>
>> This is basically a list of "how many REX units does the world need".
>> This is ONLY for the Tandy 100 or 102 REX.
>>
>> Please note:  This is NOT a pre-order!
>>
>> Filling out this form does NOT guarantee that you will get a REX. This
>> form is simply to gauge the number of REX units that it would take to meet
>> current demand from the community. The email address field is there only to
>> notify people if/when a board run is actually made, although I'm sure an
>> announcement will certainly be made on this list if/when a run is actually
>> made.
>>
>> This is just a research step. I'm not actively planning a board run, and
>> I have no idea what they would cost, though I hope it could be done around
>> the same price point as Club100 was selling. Maybe a number of people could
>> divide-and-conquer to meet current demand? Maybe we can organize a contract
>> manufacture run? I don't know.
>>
>> But, let us know if you want one. I'll share the results (numbers only)
>> on the list after a while.
>>
>> -Josh
>>
>>
>


-- 
*"I will never in my lifetime make a film that cannot be seen by the whole
family"*  Arther P. Jacobs

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[David Szasz]

Thanks, your discussion is piquing my interest and making my mouth water.
And it would certainly complement my infrequently used NADSbox to boot!

On Sat, Sep 30, 2017 at 11:07 PM, Mike Stein <mhs.st...@gmail.com> wrote:

> I think a rough price point would be useful; why is that a problem?
>
> - Original Message -
> *From:* Josh Malone <josh.mal...@gmail.com>
> *To:* Model 100 Discussion <m100@lists.bitchin100.com>
> *Sent:* Saturday, September 30, 2017 9:26 PM
> *Subject:* [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest
>
> Folks,
>
> There's been lots of interest lately in obtaining REX units. Several
> members have now built REXes but we realize that not everybody wants to or
> is equipped to build one. My personal feeling is that it would be great to
> get these back "in stock" in one form or another. I think the first logical
> step would be to see how many people actually want.
>
> Sooo...
>
> I've created a form that people can use to **express interest** in
> acquiring a REX.
>
> https://goo.gl/forms/Kr4YgaskVhMCuzxz1
>
> This is basically a list of "how many REX units does the world need". This
> is ONLY for the Tandy 100 or 102 REX.
>
> Please note:  This is NOT a pre-order!
>
> Filling out this form does NOT guarantee that you will get a REX. This
> form is simply to gauge the number of REX units that it would take to meet
> current demand from the community. The email address field is there only to
> notify people if/when a board run is actually made, although I'm sure an
> announcement will certainly be made on this list if/when a run is actually
> made.
>
> This is just a research step. I'm not actively planning a board run, and I
> have no idea what they would cost, though I hope it could be done around
> the same price point as Club100 was selling. Maybe a number of people could
> divide-and-conquer to meet current demand? Maybe we can organize a contract
> manufacture run? I don't know.
>
> But, let us know if you want one. I'll share the results (numbers only) on
> the list after a while.
>
> -Josh
>
>

Re: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest

[Mike Stein]

I think a rough price point would be useful; why is that a problem?
  - Original Message - 
  From: Josh Malone 
  To: Model 100 Discussion 
  Sent: Saturday, September 30, 2017 9:26 PM
  Subject: [M100] Who wants a REX? Gauging interest


  Folks,


  There's been lots of interest lately in obtaining REX units. Several members 
have now built REXes but we realize that not everybody wants to or is equipped 
to build one. My personal feeling is that it would be great to get these back 
"in stock" in one form or another. I think the first logical step would be to 
see how many people actually want.


  Sooo...


  I've created a form that people can use to **express interest** in acquiring 
a REX.

  https://goo.gl/forms/Kr4YgaskVhMCuzxz1

  This is basically a list of "how many REX units does the world need". This is 
ONLY for the Tandy 100 or 102 REX.

  Please note:  This is NOT a pre-order!

  Filling out this form does NOT guarantee that you will get a REX. This form 
is simply to gauge the number of REX units that it would take to meet current 
demand from the community. The email address field is there only to notify 
people if/when a board run is actually made, although I'm sure an announcement 
will certainly be made on this list if/when a run is actually made.


  This is just a research step. I'm not actively planning a board run, and I 
have no idea what they would cost, though I hope it could be done around the 
same price point as Club100 was selling. Maybe a number of people could 
divide-and-conquer to meet current demand? Maybe we can organize a contract 
manufacture run? I don't know.


  But, let us know if you want one. I'll share the results (numbers only) on 
the list after a while.


  -Josh