Oberon #03: Hardware: SCORPION ZS 256 Modifications Explained

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          DR.DEATH / SPEED Co.            
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    Once again about "TURBO" in SCORPION ZS 256.  
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   Long ago, when the trees were big... No, not then, but later. Once I bought a computer SCORPION ZS 256K. It was great in every way, but the slowdown was terrible. I sat behind it for exactly three years and couldn't do anything about it. But one day a magazine like SPECTROFON came to us, I don't remember the number, and there was an article about SCORPION, specifically how to "turbocharge" it. I looked at that article and decided that I needed to make it. When I powered up the computer, everything was as it should be, but at the same time my raster shifted a little. Attention to this was drawn much later when I was writing BORDER effects. On my machine, everything was cool, but on others..??? The thing is that the number of cycles between interrupts is equal to the product of the number of lines (on the screen) and the line length (rendering time in cycles). On PENTAGON it comes out to about 71680 cycles = 320 lines * 224 cycles. But on SCORPION things are much worse, since the BORDER at the top and bottom is indeed drawn for 224 cycles, while the screen itself is drawn in less than 128 cycles. If we assume that the line is still 224 cycles, we get the number of cycles between interrupts on SCORPION to be approximately 69888 cycles = 312 lines * 224 cycles. Yes, and the thing is that the trick described in SPECTROFON simply increased the line rendering time by about 4 cycles, so it really seemed like TURBO, i.e. 312 lines * 228 cycles = 71136 cycles. But this is just an illusion. Because of this modification, your machines will not run the branded MULTICOLORs and BORDER effects at all. Therefore, I simply advise you to install a switch there. And for those who didn't see the article in SPECTROFON, I will explain the essence of the modification. You need to cut the 15th leg of the chip D4 5SSUE7 from +5 volts and connect this leg to ground ("TURBO") or to +5 volts (normal mode) through a switch.                 

  In the diagram, the newly introduced wires are drawn in green.                  

  P.S. Recently, I had the idea of a normal modification of SCORPION, i.e. increasing the number of lines on the screen from 312 to 320, like all normal machines.         





















  All designations in the drawing correspond to the designations on the SCORPION printed circuit board. 
  Anyone with interesting thoughts on this issue, or in general on the topic of SCORPION modifications, please contact the editorial office.                                 

   With this, I bid farewell!!!                  
       Until the next issue!!!            
                    Write letters!!!      

                   DR.DEATH               
                   SPEED Co.              
                   SAMARA CITY            
                   13.02.1997г.           

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Contents of the publication: Oberon #03

• From the Authors
  The editorial of the third issue of Oberon reflects on its wide distribution across Russia and nearby countries, overcoming production challenges, and its aim to cater to various readers, including gamers, programmers, and hackers.
• How to Write in Oberon - M.M.A
  Guide on submitting articles to Oberon using ZX-WINWORD. Detailed format and process explanations for text, graphics, and music. Insight into editorial practices and preferences.
• Scroll - M.M.A
  A historical overview of the game THE EIDOLON on ZX Spectrum, covering its restoration process and gameplay mechanics, including level challenges and story background.
• Scroll
  Dark Star is a space shooter game where players pilot a ship against a tyrannical alien race. Players customize settings, navigate space, and combat enemy forces on various difficulty levels. Strategic planning and skill are vital for successful gameplay.
• Scroll - M.M.A
  Detailed gameplay mechanics for the game with Mechnotech klp2. Strategy involves disarming reactors and managing droid transformations. Insight into different droid types and weapons available.
• About Everything - M.M.A
  Discussion of reader interactions with the 'Oberon' editorial team, including feedback on previous issues and commentary on game compatibility and magazine content improvements.
• About Everything - M.M.A
  The autobiographical article explores the author's role in Samara's ZX Spectrum scene, detailing his contributions and aspirations. M.M.A positions himself as a leader and innovator in the community. It highlights the importance of local distribution and cultural impact.
• Amiga rulez? - M.M.A
  Critical essay on contemporary computer culture, contrasting IBM and Amiga platforms. Discusses societal impact of IBM standardization and advocates Amiga as a symbol of creativity and individuality. Reflects on the evolution of computer usage and preferences since the ZX Spectrum era.
• What Should 'Boot' Be - Unbeliever
  The article explores the evolution of boot programs for ZX Spectrum, discussing early developments and key innovations over time. It highlights significant breakthroughs in automation and design, including fully assembler-written boots and the introduction of modern features. The text concludes with reflections on ideal boot characteristics from a contemporary user's perspective.
• Letter from Queen Software
  An open letter from Queen Software criticizes ZX-WINWORD's design and Russian keyboard layout, denounces 'Mortal Compot' and the degradation of games, and shares views on demoscene events and computer emulation.
• Review - Unbeliever
  The review provides insights into various 128K exclusive games for the ZX Spectrum, highlighting titles like 'Space Gun', 'World Championship Soccer', and 'Night Breed'. Special attention is given to their graphical prowess and gameplay mechanics. Furthermore, the article addresses the acquisition of Spectrum software via the Internet.
• Review of Assemblers - Maxsoft
  Review of various assemblers for ZX Spectrum, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. Focus on EDAS 3.3, AFS, XAS, ZX-ASM, ALASM, MASM, and TASM 4.1. Each assembler is evaluated on performance, features, and usability.
• Our Answer - M.M.A
  Critical analysis of the electronic journal FAULTLESS, highlighting plagiarism issues and content quality. Discussion on the comparison with OBERON and other journals. Suggestions for improving FAULTLESS are provided.
• Our Response - Alex Noman
  Debate over the compatibility and capabilities of Scorpion and Profi computers with the ZX Spectrum. Critique of programming claims by Chung Software regarding outdated languages and methods. Discussion on operating systems like CP/M and iS-DOS in the context of their utility in modern computing.
• Our Response
  Exploring the varied interpretations of the term 'hacker' in Russian, highlighting distinctions and misconceptions.
• Hardware - Dr.Death
  Connection instructions for AY-3-8910 on Spectrum-compatible machines. Solutions for common audio issues in Russian computers. Advice for improving digital sound compatibility.
• Hardware - Dr.Death
  Discussion on modifying SCORPION ZS 256 for better performance, focusing on timing issues and TURBO mode. Explanation of improvements and potential problems with multicolors. Suggestions for further upgrades.
• Hardware - Poltergeist Corp.
  Analysis of hardware issues with Profi, a ZX Spectrum clone, focusing on INT signal problems causing graphic flickering. A solution is proposed involving a simple hardware modification. The author shares their success and the widespread adoption in Samara.
• Let's Gurm
  A microdrama illustrating the chaotic interaction between computer components during a printing task.
• Let's Feast
  Satirical story depicting an alternate reality where American culture and symbols are humorously twisted by Soviet influences.
• Let's Feast
  The story humorously describes Popov's efforts to help Papuans progress, amid desert struggles, political intrigue, and personal challenges.
• Let's Discuss
  Overview of military jargon known as 'Army Absurdities' collected by students, highlighting unique language and instructions used in military training and communications.
• Let's Feast
  Satirical article describing military humor and fictional military equipment.
• Literacy Campaign - Paul Atrides
  Analysis of hacker misconceptions and societal attitudes, exploring hacker culture's roots and ethical dilemmas.
• Primer - Paul Atrides
  Article discusses the role and activities of Russian hackers in the late 1990s, highlighting notable cases and categorizing different types of hackers. It covers the operations, risks, and impacts of hacking on international and local levels. The text also examines the societal perception of hackers and their portrayal in media.
• Contest - M.M.A
  A contest involving identifying songs from poorly translated lyrics, inspired by a radio segment. Participants guess the song and artist. No specific prize yet, but a free journal issue is promised.
• Contest
  A poetic reflection on personal struggle, misunderstood communication, and the burden of saving the world.
• Contest
  A poetic reflection on isolation and inner dreams, contrasting with harsh reality.
• Contest
  The article presents a poetic tribute to the community, emphasizing themes of unity, immortality, and strength through metal music.
• Advertisement
  Advertisement in Oberon magazine offers free publication and discusses available software, hardware, and stores related to ZX Spectrum.
• Advertisement
  Advertisement of computer repair and upgrades with pricing for various services. Options include drive connection, signal normalization, and memory upgrades. Specific services for different computer models like Pentagon and ATM.