ZX Format #07: Enhancements with GMX for Scorpion

Some information about GMX based on materials from the Scorpion company

music by MIDISOFT

Our company is constantly conducting research and development aimed at expanding the capabilities of the Scorpion computer (and, when possible, the entire family of Spectrum-compatible computers) and eliminating the shortcomings that have drawn criticism from users, primarily of other computers (Pentagon, Profi). Time flies quickly, and life imposes new requirements on our good old Spectrum. First and foremost, this involves improving the graphical characteristics of the computer, performance, and memory capacity. On the other hand, due to various reasons, today most of the computers we produce are sold with a Kempston-mouse controller and IBM keyboards, as they are convenient to work with, and regular ZX Spectrum keyboards are no longer produced. Many also order HDD controllers (SMUC). Therefore, by the end of 1997, a new Scorpion board is planned to be released. This board will already have those controllers installed that have become popular today and for which a large amount of software has already been written. These include the IBM keyboard and mouse controller, which operates via the Kempston-mouse interface, and most importantly, the HDD controller + IBM slot. From my experience, I can say that anyone who has ever worked with our HDD in TR-DOS, and there's no need to mention IS DOS, usually forgets that there is also a disk drive installed on the computer and remembers this only when they need to transfer programs from someone or for someone. Installing these devices on the main board will free up space on the system connector for connecting new HardWare devices, both those already in production, such as General Sound, and those planned for release. But most importantly, the cost of such a board is planned to be much lower than what all the mentioned devices currently cost if purchased separately. At the same time, the technical specifications of this board will be much higher and will better meet today's requirements. Namely:

1. RAM capacity from 256kB to 2048kB (in the form of 30pin Simm modules).
2. ROM capacity 512kB.
3. Graphics: 1 - Standard ZX Spectrum 2 - 640*200, 16 colors, hardware vertical scroller to speed up operation in text modes.
4. Clock frequency 3.5/7 MHz, switchable both hardware and software.
5. Additional capabilities (the most interesting).

1. The ability to disable all additional ports and switch the computer to standard ZX Spectrum mode. When the ports are disabled, the standard ROM is also enabled. The same applies, but additionally, the timing parameters of the scans and interrupt signals for the Pentagon computer, which is the main computer used by demo builders, are fully emulated.

2. Since the circuitry of the board is designed at a modern technical level using programmable logic matrices (PLMs) from Altera, and the schematic itself is "stored" in the system ROM, it becomes possible to change the computer’s circuitry quite radically by simply replacing the ROM or switching the ROM banks. The latter allows having several versions of computer circuits on one board, differing, for example, in various scan frequency options - one for regular televisions and CGA monitors, another for VGA or EGA monitors. There is more than enough room for realizing various ideas.

All this is good, the Scorpion user will say, but what should I do with the computer I bought, spending a lot of money on it? Therefore, anticipating these fair questions, we want to reassure the owners of any Scorpions in advance. When creating the new model of the computer, it was decided that all users of old computers should have the opportunity to upgrade their computer to the capabilities of the new one. This has always been the case when new Scorpion boards appeared, and it will be so this time as well. Moreover, this time the opportunity to upgrade the old model of Scorpion to new capabilities will appear even before the production of the new board begins. To this end, our company is currently developing and preparing for mass production a board under the working title: GMX (Grafic_Memory_eXtension device for Scorpion 256). A working prototype of the controller was presented at Enlight_97.

This board performs all functions for expanding and modifying old Scorpion 256 boards to the level of the new Scorpion board in terms of graphics characteristics, RAM volume, ROM, additional capabilities for compatibility with ZX Spectrum and Pentagon, loading and modifying the circuit, etc. In short, having any model of Scorpion, whether branded or "non-branded," can easily be upgraded to the capabilities of the new computer by connecting the GMX board. Here is a brief overview of the technical specifications of this device.

1. Memory expansion up to 2MB. Among various existing and potential options for organization, the choice fell on the one implemented in Profi. That is, it is done so that just 256KB are addressed as before, through the usual Scorpion standard, and everything above that - according to the Profi standard - port 0DFFDh. Since Profi's maximum memory is 1MB, it is possible to work with all memory from 0 to 1MB according to the Profi standard. Physically, these will simply be different memory pages. For example, you can load some program for Profi that uses memory up to 1MB, and at the same time painlessly use the Shadow Service Monitor. Memory expansion gradations: 256KB, 512KB, 1MB, 1256KB, 2MB - standard Simm modules. Moreover, you can install from one module with a capacity of 256KB (resulting in Scorpion memory) to 2 modules of 1MB each - the total memory will be 2MB. We specifically did not plan for a larger volume because, firstly, it becomes quite expensive, secondly, it is still not needed by many, and everyone will have to pay to some extent, and thirdly, when using the Z80 processor, very large memory cannot be used effectively. Why was the Profi standard chosen? The answer is simple: why invent new standards when there are already computers with expanded memory, and there are no technical limitations on using the same ports for addressing it. In addition, with the chosen addressing standard, programs from Profi designed for expanded memory immediately work. Again, the appearance of any new memory expansion standard requires at least time for programs to appear for it, and for users to get accustomed to it. And in this option, this is not required. Additionally, upper memory addressing modes are used, which significantly increase performance when working with it. This is especially relevant for the operation of the Shadow Service Monitor (from ROM!), and programs that use it (let's remember about the "hard drive"). The SM experiences significant difficulties due to the limitations imposed by the ability to address expanded memory only through one window in the processor's address space. Similar problems are experienced by all programs that actively use expanded memory when "transferring" fragments from one bank to another.

2. Graphic screen 640*200(208) and plus hardware scroller. The number of colors is the same as in a regular ZX Spectrum. For each byte of graphics - one byte of attributes. To make the image colorful, the mandatory presence of 2 Simm modules is required, i.e., at least 512KB. Addressing of the graphic screen starts from 40h, being completely linear, i.e., the first 80 bytes - the first line of the screen, the next 80 bytes - the next, and so on. Screen attributes are stored in one of the expanded memory pages. Their addressing is exactly the same. The main purpose of the expanded graphics is the standard text screen of 80*25 characters (a character has a size of 8 by 8 pixels), necessary for working with text editors and mail programs. To speed up operation in text mode, hardware scrolling up and down is used. To shift the image vertically by any number of pixels, it is only necessary to write two bytes to the "scroller" ports, which set the initial address in the video RAM area for displaying the image. Upon resetting the computer, the value 0 is set in the scroller ports. To move the entire image up by one pixel line, the value 01 must be written to the scroller ports. To move up by one character position - write the value 08, etc. All other possible applications of expanded graphics are considered secondary, as nothing worthwhile can be created using Z80 for processing such graphics, in our opinion. We admit that many may disagree with this statement. Time will tell, but even if our approach is wrong, in the future, due to the ability to change the circuit by changing the ROM firmware, it will be possible to introduce additional graphic modes. Why was the choice made for a graphic screen rather than a purely text one? The reason is that the text mode (with a hardware character generator) is significantly more complex to implement; ideally, the character generator should be loadable, which complicates the design even further. However, since there is an opportunity to radically change the circuitry without changing the hardware (which would have sounded like nonsense before), it is quite possible that a completely different circuit with different graphic characteristics will be added to the existing one. The appearance of such a circuit depends only on you, or rather, on your programs, which will lack the existing hardware resources. We would like to emphasize once again that even serious and radical changes in the circuit require only replacing the firmware of the ROM. During discussions about the graphic capabilities of the GMX board with potential users, we received numerous suggestions and recommendations on what should be added to the circuit. At the top of the list was an additional graphic mode of 320*200 - each point with its own color. We are currently working on creating such a mode, and I repeat once again that this will only lead to changes in the ROM. Additionally, if possible, we plan to create something like a simple blitter: hardware transfer of one memory area to another, filling a memory area with a specified byte, etc.

3. Professional ROM040 (512KB). In developing software for current versions, we have already encountered limitations on the volume of ROM and RAM (256KB). Therefore, further development of built-in software will only proceed with support for the GMX extender. It is planned to redesign the Shadow Monitor to operate in 640*200 mode, localize it, and further expand the built-in service capabilities of the shadow monitor, primarily aimed at improving service functions when working with HDD, supporting various operating systems (in terms of file organization), as well as supporting the ability to work with HAYEs-compatible modems. All this requires significant space in the ROM. Additionally, as mentioned earlier, the GMX board's schematic is also stored in the ROM. Moreover, it is designed so that from the SM, the circuit can be radically changed by loading one of several possible options. Also, it should not be forgotten that large capacity ROM has the most favorable price/volume ratio. As for the Profi ROM for regular boards, they will only be changed if any errors in their operation are discovered, or if the added capabilities fit within existing hardware limitations. Currently, a version numbered 4.1 is being released. The most important and main advantage of the PPROM installed on the GMX board will be the ability for the user to reprogram it. This primarily concerns programs - recorded on the ROM disk. The user will be able to choose programs to their liking, create the content of their ROM disk, and also update the version of the Profi ROM on-site. This is achieved by using modern flash memory chips as ROM.

4. Increased compatibility with ZX Spectrum and Pentagon. For this, an additional menu line Standard Spectrum is introduced in the shadow monitor menu. This disables all additional ports and simultaneously enables the standard ROM of ZX Spectrum 128 '& TRDOS. In addition, the possibility of setting the timing parameters of Pentagon-128 and Profi has been introduced. When switching to these modes, the computer turns into an absolutely standard ZX Spectrum or into a Pentagon (it can easily be made into Pentagon-512) or Profi, completely "forgetting" about its additional capabilities. Exiting this mode is, of course, only by the reset button. The introduction of such modes has long been overdue and remains relevant today, as some programmers are stubborn in their desire to write programs as they wish. Well, in that case, "if the mountain does not go to Muhammad, then Muhammad will go to the mountain." The main thing is that the benefit is for everyone. The standard Pentagon mode, as well as Pentagon-128, primarily provides complete compatibility with Pentagon-class computers regarding the timing diagrams of the television scan counters, the length and position of the INT signal, and the absence of the Wait signal. This will allow some demo programs to work as they would on the Pentagon.

5. Turbo mode with an acceleration factor of 1.8-1.9. The GMX board has a Turbo mode circuit that increases performance - by 1.8-1.9 times when executing programs from RAM. When working with ROM, the performance increases exactly 2 times. Turbo/Normal switching is done as before: both software and hardware. At the user's request, versions with a clock frequency of 14MHz will be supplied. However, their cost will be higher due to the use of more expensive chips and a faster processor. It is likely that there will be an option to replace the simple GMX board with a more powerful one. At least, we will try to do just that.

6. Structural execution. How is this expander structurally executed? It is a board measuring about 80*110 mm, inserted into the Z80 socket on any Scorpion model. It is better (more reliable) if instead of the socket you solder in a standard connector. In addition, a ribbon cable (included) is soldered to 10 points on the old board, through which the following signals are supplied/removed to/from the GMX board via a 10-pin connector: R, G, B, Sync, Magic, RDR/- reading ROM, CSR/- addressing RAM, +5v, Ground.

7. Economic indicators. The estimated cost of the GMX board with 512KB RAM is $35 - 40 (Manufacturer's price). For comparison: today, the cost of turbocharging the old Scorpion board is $10, and installing Profi ROM040 is $20. That is, all additional capabilities are available to the user for $5-10. If you want to save a little more - desolder more than half of the ICs from the main board. A list will be attached :-)

8. Start dates for mass production and sales. As always, it is difficult to give specific deadlines, as one then has to justify why they were not met. For example, this was the case with the HDD controller, which was developed and prepared for more than two years. Nevertheless, work on it has been successfully completed, and the number of HDD users exceeded a thousand by the summer of 1997. Currently, the GMX board is at the stage of PCB layout, so we hope that mass production and sales will begin closer to the end of autumn 1997. Well, time will tell how accurately we have predicted.

9. Using GMX on other Spectrum-compatible computer models. We plan to supply all information on how to upgrade another computer to enable GMX functionality along with the GMX documentation. In fact, for any Spectrum-compatible computer using the GMX board, the following is required: support for the music coprocessor, support for the TRDOS controller, support for the keyboard port, tape recorder, joystick, printer, and a few other insignificant details. All this is present in practically any Spectrum and can be used in one way or another.

Taking this opportunity, I would like to briefly introduce the readers of the ZX Format magazine to our work over the past year, as well as to briefly discuss new peripheral devices that are being mass-produced and sold, including by mail. Throughout this year, our main efforts have been directed at supporting and developing the HDD controller and IBM peripherals (SMUC controller). This includes upgrading the Profi ROM to new capabilities and reworking a large volume of application and game programs to ensure that these programs can be loaded and run on HDD. It can now be said that almost all software distributed by us - which amounts to more than two hundred game and system disks - can work with HDD. New features include, for example, auto-starting the computer from any user-defined section or disk, which has proven to be very convenient, especially when using IS-DOS. To ensure the operability of large-capacity HDDs - over 528MB, as well as faster HDD operation, the HDD operating mode according to the LBA standard has finally been improved. In short: in this mode, data addressing on the HDD is done not by the usual coordinates (cylinder/head/sector), but by the absolute sector number. The conversion and selection of the required sector is performed by the hard drive itself. In such a mode, working with HDD is accelerated by 1.5-2 times! However, some old HDD models do not support this mode. Our company actively collaborates with various groups of programmers writing for ZX Spectrum. As a result of such collaboration, various application programs supporting HDD operation appear. These include various copy and loader programs that allow quick work with various sections and disks on the HDD. Imagine having a hundred or more disks at your disposal and needing to work with them quickly and efficiently. Finding the necessary file, copying it to another disk, renaming it, creating a directory listing of all or some disks, etc. Without convenient and effective programs, this would be difficult. Additionally, it should be noted that all these programs are written "for the future" - they include support for the GMX board, specifically the use of the graphic screen and memory up to 2MB of RAM. The next promising feature of the SMUC controller is the ability to connect various inexpensive cards from IBM PC. These primarily include HAYE-s compatible modem boards. The only difficulty lies in writing software support for such modems. Over the past year, the situation has significantly improved. Programs have emerged from various authors that allow internal modems to be connected to SMUC, surprisingly working at speeds of 14400 and even 33600. Now it remains to write mail programs (for receiving, processing, writing, and sending emails), and then the way will be opened for accessing email systems and, who knows, - the Internet. For detailed and thorough information on what we are working on, what has been done over the past year, what programs and literature we distribute, and how to order and receive all this by mail, please send a request to: 199048 St. Petersburg, P.O. Box 083, to Zonov Sergey Yurievich.

or by phone: (812) 298-0653, 172-3117 (order department, from 10 to 14), 251-1262 (service center, from 10 to 19) or by email: FidoNet: 2:5030/529.16, E-mail: sczs@spb.tsi.ru.

Any shortcomings in the built-in software, as well as what capabilities you would like to see in it, and in principle on the computer, can be reported by phone (812) 130-1995, or better by email: FidoNet: 2:5030/25.1, E-mail: moa@deeds.spb.ru.

Contents of the publication: ZX Format #07

• From the Authors
  Update on SMUC, distribution issues, and plans for future ZX Format issues. Authors address outdated SMUC info and distribution problems of ZF-6. Upcoming content includes game descriptions and new projects.
• Аторы журнала
  Contact information and editorial team details for ZX-Format No.7. Provides mailing and electronic addresses, as well as contact phone numbers. Information on the availability of their website and specific contact instructions.
• Содержание номера
  The article provides an overview of notable software releases on the St. Petersburg market for autumn. It also includes detailed descriptions of games, programming tips, and hardware projects. Interviews, philosophical tales, and reader letters enrich the issue.
• Игрушки - Welcome
  An overview of software novelties for ZX Spectrum, including games like 'Los Angeles Drugs Bust' and 'Jungle Warfare'. Each game description provides insights into graphics, gameplay, and features. A variety of genres from action to strategy are covered, showcasing the diversity of software offerings.
• Игрушки - Алешкин А.В.
  The article describes the game 'TAI-PAN' as an arcade-economic game set in the 19th-century East, focusing on trading and survival amidst pirates and danger. It details the gameplay mechanics, such as trading goods, managing finances, and navigating seas with different ships. Despite its engaging plot and interface, the game didn't achieve much popularity in Russia.
• Игрушки - Soft
  A whimsical narrative in a fantastical world where colors converse with the Last, a character recounting tales of ancient humans, coders, and a mysterious past. The story explores themes of language, translation, and the creation of 'the Last' amidst fantastical beings like flying hippos and sea giraffes. It serves as a fictional narrative with humorous elements, blending science fiction with satire.
• Игрушки - Alex ASP
  A parody on Tolkien's 'The Lord of the Rings' named 'Bored of the Rings' by Delta 4 is explored. The text references adaptations, humorous adventures of characters like Fordo and Bimbo, and differing versions from Delta 4 over the years. Anticipated prequels and correspondence excerpts with Delta 4's Fergus McNeill are mentioned.
• Игрушки - Гил-Гелад
  The article provides a detailed guide on navigating the 3D Construction Kit interface for ZX Spectrum. It explains menu options for file management, game setup, and in-game conditions. Additionally, it covers object creation, editing, and logic implementation within the program.
• Программистам - Дмитрий Рудовский
  The article concludes the description of BB commands and provides tips on their usage. It details the usage of the CLOCK command for time and alarm management on ZX Spectrum. Additionally, it explains the SORT command for array sorting and introduces new logical and mathematical functions.
• Программистам - Angel
  Introduction to assembly programming for beginners, covering basic concepts and commands. Detailed explanation of processor registers and flags, with examples. Offers practical advice on transitioning from Basic to assembly language.
• Программистам - GreenFort
  Discussion on fast calculations in assembler for tasks like vector graphics and astronomy. Describes procedures for binary division and multiplication, with examples for different byte sizes. Highlights the adaptability of these methods for increased precision.
• Программистам - TP, Stinger
  Detailed technical description of the Mod file format for music composition on ZX Spectrum, focusing on structure and data offsets for title, instruments, and patterns.
• Программистам - Research
  The article describes the capabilities and limitations of the Convert program, focusing on its use for converting images to the BMC format. It includes technical details about the program's functions, such as dithering methods, sprite and screen format output, and the removal of extraneous dots. Additionally, the article briefly discusses the source code of X-Color and its potential applications.
• Обзор
  The article discusses the ENLiGHT'97 demo-party held in St. Petersburg on August 24, 1997, featuring platforms like Spectrum, Amiga, and PC. The event attracted around 1100 delegates, leading to overcrowding and technical issues, which caused the cancellation of the second day. Despite these issues, the event was generally enjoyable, and there is hope for another event in 1998.
• Обзор
  Review of VideoFAIR exhibition in Manezh with highlights on video and audio equipment. Amiga-service and various companies showcased their technological advancements in video editing and broadcast systems. Notable innovations include 3D laser-scanned displays and professional audio solutions.
• Железо - Nemo
  Discussion of KAY technology export to decentralize Spectrum production. Highlights potential benefits and challenges of local manufacturing. Emphasizes quality assurance and support systems.
• Железо
  The article describes the development of a new Scorpion motherboard, focusing on enhancing graphics, speed, and compatibility with modern peripherals like IBM keyboards and mice. It introduces the GMX (Graphic Memory Extension) board, designed to upgrade existing Scorpion models to match the capabilities of the new motherboard. The GMX board offers significant improvements in memory, graphics, and processing speed, while maintaining compatibility with ZX Spectrum and Pentagon standards.
• Железо
  The article provides a detailed overview of two popular audio amplifiers for ZX Spectrum users in St. Petersburg. It highlights the advantages and specifications of the 2 X 2W low-voltage amplifier and the 2 X 22W car amplifier. The article also includes a price list and ordering instructions through the 'Nemo' company.
• Примьера
  The article describes the improvements and features of the Turbo Assembler version 1.1 for ZX Spectrum. It highlights the differences from version 1.0, such as bug fixes, screen size changes, and added features like line editor and syntax checking. It also details the memory allocation and provides a guide on using the editor and compiler functions.
• Примьера - STS
  Description of the Riff Tracker MOD-editor for General Sound, its features, and functionalities. Provides detailed instructions on using editing and sample management. Notes on the current version limitations and expected improvements.
• Примьера - Paul Atrides, Alex Noman
  Presentation of Oberon Creative Pack, consisting of ZX-WinWord and Sprite Cutter. ZX-WinWord is a text editor combining text and graphics with advanced features. Sprite Cutter allows sprite creation and manipulation in various formats.
• Примьера
  Presentation of the second demo version of the game Headball by ZX-Masters, discussing its features and improvements since the first demo. The game offers two-player mode, four levels, three types of projectiles, various options, and computer difficulty settings. Availability of Turbo mode and enhanced synchronization and animation make it unique among other Spectrum games.
• Интервью - Ruster
  Interview with Digital Reality about ongoing projects like DOOM and Paradise Lost. Discussion of challenges and progress in game development. Preview of their submissions for the ENLiGHT event.
• Интервью - Ruster
  Interview with members of the newly formed group EXTREME. They work on demos for Spectrum and Amiga platforms and discuss their team members and activities. The interview also touches upon the state of the Amiga scene in Moscow.
• Интервью - Борис Прытков
  Interview with Samara-based Spectrum enthusiasts discussing their achievements and challenges. Emphasis on community building and publication of Oberon magazine. Efforts to establish a Spectrum network and convert the game WALKER.
• Интервью - Борис Прытков
  The article is an interview with members of the group Flash inc. discussing their projects for ZX Spectrum and PC, including a music editor with an innovative interface and a new multicolor graphic editor.
• Интервью - Михаил Акимов
  Interview with Moscow-based group Progress discussing their current work on Spectrum demos, plans for future projects on Amiga, and opinions on the Russian demoscene.
• Интервью - Михаил Акимов
  Interview with Felix about changes in the tech landscape, the enduring appeal of Amiga despite PC dominance, and his work on 'Winnie the Pooh - 2' for Spectrum.
• Интервью - Ruster
  Interview with Slash about the ENLiGHT event, including sponsorship issues, attendee behavior, and the quality of music and demos. Discussion of the current state of the Spectrum and Amiga markets. Commentary on music trackers and the future of hardware development.
• Интервью - Ruster
  Interview with V. Mednonogov after ENLiGHT'97 discussing impressions of the event, future of Spectrum, and his current project 'Black Raven'. Mednonogov shares his views on new hardware and software development and the importance of copyright. He also discusses his plans for upcoming projects and the challenges faced in game development.
• Здесь был ты
  A satirical guide to gaining power and invisibility using magical rituals and Orbit gum.
• Здесь был ты - Saggitarius
  A contemplative novella about a man's existential journey after encountering a mysterious individual offering a device called the Stop Crane. Through flashbacks, the protagonist reflects on his life, uniqueness, and his desire to break free from societal constraints. Ultimately, he faces the moral dilemma of using the Stop Crane to transcend time and existence.
• Почта - Eagle Soft
  Critique of ZX-Spectrum software, highlighting the limitations of current programs and recommending the removal of outdated tools. Discussion on the limitations of assembly programs and the need for more efficient assemblers like M80. Evaluation of current music and graphic editors, with a focus on the redundancy of certain applications.
• Почта
  Discussion of reader inquiries on ZX Format distribution and content. Responses include details on acquiring issues and technical insights on the KAY-256 computer. The magazine also addresses criticism of its market outlook article.
• Почта
  This advertisement highlights XL Design Inc.'s software distribution campaign, offering games like 'Plutonia' and upcoming releases such as 'Mortal Kombat'. Mouse controllers are promoted with humorous selling points and pricing details. Studio LOGROS provides a wide range of software and peripherals, with options for local and remote purchases.
• Разное - Александр Сысоев
  The article discusses the creation of an RPG game by the OBERON GROUP, inspired by 'Eye of Beholder'. It describes the game's humorous plot set in a distant galaxy and the battle against invaders on a planet named Agima. The team invites musicians, artists, coders, and scriptwriters for collaboration.
• Разное - Viator
  The article describes the development of a new graphics editor called STATE OF THE ART for ZX Spectrum, aiming to improve upon existing editors like ART-STUDIO and ARTIST-2. The team AVALON, inspired by feedback from the SPECCY artist community, incorporates features from editors on Amiga and PC, while also addressing specific user requests. Key features include a user-friendly interface, enhanced magnify mode, advanced shape and window manipulation, and optimized performance.
• Разное
  Discussion on enhancing consumer quality of Spectrum computers without altering their technical specifications. Suggestions include improving existing support, developing platform ideology, and structural changes. The article also touches on the potential of electronic books and their commercial viability.
• Amiga Club - Максим Петров
  The article describes the author's admiration for the Amiga computer, emphasizing its aesthetic and technical merits compared to other platforms. It explores the author's programming experiences on Amiga, highlighting its efficiency and the impressive capabilities of its new hardware upgrades. The article concludes by reflecting on the unique community and passion of Amiga enthusiasts.