And now we present information for those who love to tinker with their computers using soldering irons. (C) Gribanov D.G. (sometimes-GDGSOFT)
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│ ─══ Improvements "PENTAGON 128" ══─ │
╚──────────────────────────────────╝
Attention users of the PENTAGON, two improvements are offered that significantly enhance the operation of this computer:
IMPROVEMENT N 1
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When connecting to a keyboard made using thin-film technology, due to the high specific resistance, which greatly exceeds the resistance of a short circuit present in keyboards made with metal contacts or reed switches, spontaneous activation of some keys may occur, leading to unpredictable consequences. For example, while playing 48 IRONS on the keyboard, certain combinations of pressed keys can easily cause you to exit the game (Q-QUIT will activate) at the most inconvenient moment.
After cursing everyone present: those sitting, standing, and any others, and spitting on your one and only beloved computer, not forgetting to wipe it off afterwards, you start the beloved 48 IRONS again. This continues until you explode with indignation and begin to smash your computer. In particular - the keyboard.
To avoid such unpleasantness, it is enough to find a couple of microchips 555ЛИ1 or 155ЛИ1 somewhere.
The essence of the improvement lies in filtering the address signals A8-A15 arriving at the keyboard diodes with the signal A0 according to the scheme presented below:
┌──┐
A8...A15 ───┤& ├──to the cathode of the diode
│ │ corresponding
A0 ───┤ │ A8...A15 discharge
└──┘
Signals A8...A15 can be taken from the buffer microchip 555АП5 (DD70) pins 18,16,14,12,9,7,5,3 respectively. The cathodes of diodes VD4-VD11 need to be desoldered from the board. All connections are made with wires, preferably fluoroplastic ones. The 555ЛИ1 microchips can be conveniently placed on neighboring fourteen-pin microchips.
IMPROVEMENT N 2
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Designed for owners of the computer who want to play some games together or even in threes.
This improvement concerns SINCLAIR joysticks, i.e., SINCLAIR 1 and SINCLAIR 2 joysticks.
For those who have made this improvement, there are no longer any problems with the interdependence of joysticks on each other, as well as the interdependence of the joystick and the keyboard.
The essence of the improvement: solder a diode in series in the circuit going from the socket of the connector. The improvement scheme is attached.
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│ H A R D W A R E │
╚───────────────────╝
(C) Kripko Yuri (Left Handed)
#FD dedicated to children!
Port #FD on (ATM) TURBO 2+
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In TURBO 2+, the SPECTRUM 128 configuration port switches if the A9 address bus bit is high, but when using the OUT (#FD) command, A to switch memory pages, this bit does not open, i.e., it is low, which does not allow doing what is done on PENTAGON 128 computers. The essence of this improvement is to ignore this bit during port decoding. How this happens can be understood from the scheme. Simply cutting A9 from the first pin of D17 and applying a logical high to the first pin of D17 is not possible, as it would disrupt the decoding of AY 8912 (8910) ports, as well as the DAC and TLRD (telephone line) port.
And now I want to present another development for the SPECTRUM - a stereo 8-bit DAC connected to the music coprocessor. The scheme itself is simple and should not cause difficulties. However, if someone finds something unclear in this or the previous scheme, then feel free to ask, and detailed descriptions of the schemes will be published in the next issue of the magazine.
It is worth mentioning how to control this device. In the AY 8910 music processor (40-pin package), there are two ports that work for input and output, to which this device should be connected. These ports can be programmed for input or output through the sixth and seventh bits of R7 of the music processor. Zeros in these bits indicate that the ports are programmed for reading information, while a one indicates that information can be output through the ports. Thus, the state we need for data output is required. Therefore, we write 255 (#FF) into R7, and through R14 and R15 we control the left and right channels of the DAC. When reproducing digitizations through this device, the sound quality becomes higher than if music is output through the music processor, as implemented in DIGITAL STUDIO, INSTRUMENT, and SAMPLER.
P.S. At the moment, there are no programs that support this device (allowing music to be written for this device). So, GO FOR IT, PROGRAMMERS!
That's all for now. We are waiting for new letters! For, as they say, "one head is good, but N is N times better"!
* * *
Contents of the publication: Adventurer #02
- Guests
Interview with SURDAKAR GROUP discussing their origins, notable projects, and future plans in software and game development.
- Modifications for PENTAGON 128
The article presents modifications for the PENTAGON 128 computer, including a keyboard fix to prevent accidental key presses and a joystick improvement for multi-player gaming. It also describes a stereo DAC development for enhanced sound quality with the AY 8910 audio processor. The author encourages programmers to create software supporting this DAC.
- Interface
The article discusses the ongoing engagement and challenges faced by the Adventurer magazine team, particularly in fostering contributions from readers. It highlights the importance of clarity in language and communication for potential contributors. The piece also provides game tips for several ZX Spectrum titles, emphasizing community support and collaboration.
- Interface
The article discusses the role of hackers in the SPECCY community, highlighting their contributions to software development and maintenance. It contrasts ethical hackers with those who engage in software piracy, illustrating the importance of hackers for preserving the legacy of ZX Spectrum. Ultimately, the author defends the positive impact of hackers on the gaming scene.
- Novella
This article presents a sci-fi novella detailing an interstellar conflict where Earth faces a malevolent alien race. A skilled coordinator must navigate through alien territories using robots to secure resources and defeat enemies. The story highlights strategy and exploration in a galaxy fraught with danger.
- Review
The article reviews various games from CODEMASTERS and others, evaluating them based on graphics, sound, and playability. The review highlights the evolution of game quality and the significance of user feedback in shaping perceptions. Overall, the article emphasizes the ongoing development in the gaming landscape.
- Experience Exchange
The article discusses essential assembly programming procedures for ZX Spectrum, aimed at beginners. It outlines several crucial routines, including memory clearing, screen commands, and mathematical operations. The text provides practical examples to enhance understanding and application of assembly language in programming.
- Advertisements
Article presents advertisements and calls for collaboration in the ZX Spectrum community, inviting programmers, artists, and musicians to contribute. It highlights the acceptance of any ZX Spectrum-related materials, along with details on available software and hardware for sale. The issue emphasizes the importance of participation and partnership among enthusiasts.
- Presentation of ROBIN OF SHERLOCK Adventure Game
The article presents the adventure game ROBIN OF SHERLOCK by DELTA 4 SOFTWARE, emphasizing the need for a good command of English to fully appreciate its humor and dialogues. It highlights game mechanics, including item collection, character interaction, and the interconnectedness of game parts. The text also offers tips on navigating the game and solving crimes within its storyline.
- Presentation
Авторская презентация игры 'МИНЕР', аналог MINESWEEPER для ZX Spectrum, с подробным описанием игрового процесса и особенностей управления.
- System Overview for ZX Spectrum
Overview of various utility programs for ZX Spectrum, including disk utilities and graphic editors, discussing their features and shortcomings.
