Commodore 128 Alive!

Commodore 128 => Herdware => Topic started by: megabit on February 13, 2009, 06:24 AM

Title: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on February 13, 2009, 06:24 AM
I have a new piece of hardware for the 128 Internal ROM Socket. It uses the high capacity EPROMs (27010 1meg, 27020 2meg, 27040 4meg and 27080 8meg).

It comes in a 16k version ($8000 to $BFFF) for a maximum no. of 64 pages or 32k version ($8000 to $FFFF) for a maximum no. of 32 pages.

I need to know if there's an interest for this adapter before I invest anymore time and money on it.

I have a 16k version that has a 4meg EPROM full of programs that I use on my C128 and 128DCR.
Here is a list of the programs:

Merlin 128 v1.0                       Promos 2.0
My Disk Editor                         Function keys
Viza Write 128                        Viza Star 128
Seq Reader 128                       Begin & End Adrs
Fastrac File copy                     Directory Editor
Color 80 column                       Basic Data Maker
Monitor 64                              Basic Merge
Basic Merge +                         Maverick File Copy
Maverick Track Editor               Single 41 Data copy
Dual 41 Data Copy                   Single Nybbler
Dual Nybbler                           Single 81 Data copy
Maverick File Tracer                 Maverick Track & Sector Editor
64K VDC RAM Test                   REU Test

I have a 32k version that has a 1meg EPROM with Key Dos, Servant and Basic 8 installed.

I have sent the adapters to airship hoping he would write a review on it. I would happy to answer any questions you might have, but I would like to wait until airship has written his review.

Dan...
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: Blacklord on February 13, 2009, 09:07 AM
I'm interested.
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on February 13, 2009, 09:31 AM

By the way I forgot to mention, it won't cost an arm and a leg either.

For the Adapter with an EPROM is $20.00 USD, without an EPROM is $15.00 USD.

Dan...
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: Blacklord on February 13, 2009, 09:55 AM
Plus postage to Oz ?
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on February 13, 2009, 10:26 AM

Shipping/handling separate and I'll mail it anywhere USPS can send it.

Dan...
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: SmallCleverDinosaur on February 13, 2009, 05:30 PM
I'm interested too :)

Do you have a picture of the pcb so we can see what it looks like?

You presented an impressive list of C128 function ROM's. Are they all commercial (in origin) or are some of them "homemade".
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on February 13, 2009, 09:16 PM
QuoteDo you have a picture of the pcb so we can see what it looks like?

I don't know how to up load a picture to the forum. If airship writes a review on the adapter, maybe he will post a picture with it.

QuoteAre they all commercial (in origin) or are some of them "homemade".

In the 16k version, the following are home made, I wrote them back in the late 1980's and early 1990's.

My Disk Editor                         Function keys
Seq Reader 128                       Begin & End Adrs
Color 80 column                       Basic Data Maker
Basic Merge                            Basic Merge +

Key Dos, Servant and Basic 8 in the 32k version, I down loaded from Andrew's webpage.

Airship thought some of you would rather have a 32k version.

Another nice thing, there is no soldering involved to install it.

Dan...
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: SmallCleverDinosaur on February 13, 2009, 11:01 PM
Thank you very much for the pictures that you mailed me. I've taken the liberty to upload them here.

I think airship is right in assuming we'd rather want the 32K version. And very nice that no soldering is involved. Soldering on a 20-25 year old motherboard is not recommended :)

How do you decide which 16K or 32K ROM should be active? Via software?

What is the wire used for that's connected to another chip?

(http://commodore128.org.uk/images/forumpics/Mulitple_function_rom_C128_1_thm.JPG) (http://commodore128.org.uk/images/forumpics/Mulitple_function_rom_C128_1.JPG)   (http://commodore128.org.uk/images/forumpics/Mulitple_function_rom_C128_2_thm.JPG) (http://commodore128.org.uk/images/forumpics/Mulitple_function_rom_C128_2.JPG)
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on February 14, 2009, 01:29 AM

QuoteHow do you decide which 16K or 32K ROM should be active? Via software?

The 16k and 32k are two separate adapters.

QuoteWhat is the wire used for that's connected to another chip?

The quiky clip connects to an unused I/O that shows up at $D700, it's used to flip pages.

Dan...
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: SmallCleverDinosaur on February 14, 2009, 02:14 AM
Quote from: megabit on February 14, 2009, 01:29 AM

QuoteHow do you decide which 16K or 32K ROM should be active? Via software?

The 16k and 32k are two separate adapters.
What I actually meant was how you choose the active page in the 16K and 32K adapters respectively. But I got the answer to that in the next question :)

QuoteWhat is the wire used for that's connected to another chip?
Quote from: megabit on February 14, 2009, 01:29 AM
The quiky clip connects to an unused I/O that shows up at $D700, it's used to flip pages.
That is neat BTW :)

Many thanks also for the picture of the adapter installed in the C128D (below).

(http://commodore128.org.uk/images/forumpics/Mulitple_function_rom_C128D_thm.jpg) (http://commodore128.org.uk/images/forumpics/Mulitple_function_rom_C128D.jpg)
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on February 14, 2009, 03:20 AM
Quote from: megabit on February 13, 2009, 06:24 AM
Merlin 128 v1.0                       Promos 2.0
My Disk Editor                         Function keys
Viza Write 128                        Viza Star 128
Seq Reader 128                       Begin & End Adrs
Fastrac File copy                     Directory Editor
Color 80 column                       Basic Data Maker
Monitor 64                              Basic Merge
Basic Merge +                         Maverick File Copy
Maverick Track Editor               Single 41 Data copy
Dual 41 Data Copy                   Single Nybbler
Dual Nybbler                           Single 81 Data copy
Maverick File Tracer                 Maverick Track & Sector Editor
64K VDC RAM Test                   REU Test
How did you get past the copy protection in Vizawrite 128 and Vizastar 128?  When you use Maverick (and all of its sections), doesn't it jump to C64 mode?

                Truly,
                Robert Bernardo
                Fresno Commodore User Group
                http://videocam.net.au/fcug
                CommVEx v5 info -- http://www.commodore.ca/forum and click on ComVEX
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: airship on February 14, 2009, 04:22 AM
Sorry I haven't gotten a review up here. I've been under the weather, just barely able to browse and post a bit.

I'll get to it as soon as I can. Physically, it's a nice bit of work, easy to install and quite useful. More when I can.
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on February 14, 2009, 07:42 AM

QuoteSorry I haven't gotten a review up here. I've been under the weather, just barely able to browse and post a bit.

Get well soon. Miss your satire.

QuoteHow did you get past the copy protection in Vizawrite 128 and Vizastar 128?

It was easy, but time consuming.

QuoteWhen you use Maverick (and all of its sections), doesn't it jump to C64 mode?

All the maverick programs run in C64 mode.
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on February 14, 2009, 08:02 AM
QuoteHow did you get past the copy protection in Vizawrite 128 and Vizastar 128?
Quote from: megabit on February 14, 2009, 07:42 AMIt was easy, but time consuming.
Back in the 1980's Info 64 magazine had a review of Vizastar 128 (and by deduction, Vizawrite 128, too) and mentioned that it carried extra memory in its required cartridge in order to run the program.  One of my German friends told me that the cart was no more than a giant dongle which prevented the program from running without it.  What exactly was in that cart?  Why was it "time-consuming", as you said?

               Truly,
               Robert Bernardo
               Fresno Commodore User Group
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               CommVEx v5 info - http://www.commodore.ca/forum and click on ComVEX
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on February 14, 2009, 01:18 PM

QuoteWhat exactly was in that cart?  Why was it "time-consuming", as you said?

Robert, you really are curious about how I managed to remove the copy protection.

There is no copy protection on the disk and your friends from Germany are correct about the cartridge, but it's ROM only, you can't write to it. I converted both programs for internal ROM sometime in 1990. I even gave a demonstration at CUGKC back then. They had quite a few members at that time.

Anyway, let me see if I can remember what I did. The loader would only load small portions of the program at a time. At the end of each small portion were, I think, 3 bytes of data that the loader would use to load the next small portion. This is where the time consuming part enters the picture. I had to load each small portion one at a time to get the information for the next and so on until the whole program was loaded. There were quite a few small portions. I remember keeping notes as I went, so I could back track if I had to.

The cartridges have code in them, but I never tried to go through any of it to see if the program used it for anything other than a dongle.

The cartridges are still there only in internal ROM instead of cartridge ROM. The program is loaded in RAM and then before the program is started, a page is flipped to put the ROM portion for the program at $8000 in internal ROM.

I had to go through the program code to find where it accessed the cartridge ROM and change it to access internal ROM instead.

Now you know.

Dan...
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on February 14, 2009, 04:22 PM
Quote from: megabit on February 14, 2009, 01:18 PM...about the cartridge, but it's ROM only, you can't write to it.
Right.
Quote from: megabit on February 14, 2009, 01:18 PMI even gave a demonstration at CUGKC back then.
I will be visiting the CUGKC sometime this summer.
Quote from: megabit on February 14, 2009, 01:18 PMThe loader would only load small portions of the program at a time. At the end of each small portion were, I think, 3 bytes of data that the loader would use to load the next small portion. This is where the time consuming part enters the picture. I had to load each small portion one at a time to get the information for the next and so on until the whole program was loaded. There were quite a few small portions.
Very tricky!
Quote from: megabit on February 14, 2009, 01:18 PMThe cartridges are still there only in internal ROM instead of cartridge ROM. The program is loaded in RAM and then before the program is started, a page is flipped to put the ROM portion for the program at $8000 in internal ROM.

I had to go through the program code to find where it accessed the cartridge ROM and change it to access internal ROM instead.
Thanks for the look at how you did it.

              Truly,
              Robert Bernardo
              Fresno Commodore User Group
              http://videocam.net.au/fcug
              CommVEx v5 info - http://www.commodore.ca/forum and click on ComVEX
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on February 14, 2009, 09:35 PM

QuoteI will be visiting the CUGKC sometime this summer.

Let me know what month when you find out, so I can be there.

Dan...
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: got128 on February 16, 2009, 10:02 AM
I would be interested in either the 1 or 2 Meg version (32k).  Do you have any documentation for it?

got128
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on February 16, 2009, 02:43 PM
QuoteI would be interested in either the 1 or 2 Meg version (32k).  Do you have any documentation for it?

got128

I plan to put a something together after airship does his review. I'm sure he'll find something I'll have to fix.

I plan to put a manual together with instructions, how it works, Merlin source code, parts list, layout and schematic. Some may want to make their own adapter.

I will try to cover all the information you'll need to program your own EPROM. Lord willing, I'll be around to answer any questions you might have. Except when I'm on the lake fishing.

Dan...
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on February 16, 2009, 03:56 PM
Quote from: megabit on February 14, 2009, 09:35 PMLet me know what month when you find out, so I can be there.
Oh, thanks.  It's a busy summer for me.  For travel to the CUGKC, I have the following slots: July 7-12, July 28-Aug. 5, and August 10-???

                  Truly,
                  Robert Bernardo
                  Fresno Commodore User Group
                  http://videocam.net.au/fcug
                  CommVEx v5 info - http://www.commodore.ca/forum and click on ComVEX
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: airship on February 17, 2009, 06:38 AM
Feel free to cut and paste the following review to other forums.
---------------------------------------------------------------

THE MEGABIT 128 INTERNAL ROM ADAPTER
For the C128/C128D Internal ROM Socket
Developed by D. C. Newbury

Review by Mark R. Brown

THE BASICS

The Megabit 128 internal ROM Adapter is a small circuit board that plugs into the internal expansion ROM socket on the Commodore 128 or C128D. Its purpose is to allow you to use high-capacity EPROMS: 27010 (1 meg.), 27020 (2 meg.), 27040 (4 meg.), or 27080 (8 meg.).

It's very easy to install. Since the board is longer than a standard EPROM, you have to bend down a couple of small disk caps on the 128 motherboard before you snap it into the internal ROM socket. There's also a pigtail with a clip that has to be attached to a pin on the U3 chip. Piece of cake. No soldering. Easily removed if you need to.

Newbury currently sells two different versions of the adapter board. One addresses up to 16K at a time; the other addresses up to 32K at once. Each is the same price: $15 PPD in the US. Each uses the same EPROMs; which you choose comes down to how big a memory space you need to have active at any one time. The 32K version lets you include bigger apps, like KeyDos, the Servant, and BASIC 8.

THE BARGAIN

An even better deal than just buying the bare board is to add five bucks and order either board with an EPROM preprogrammed with some apps and a nice menu program. This not only gives you a set of useful apps right out the gate, it means non-technical types can actually do something with this board.

Because if you want to do something of your own, you're on your own. While the developer is a very helpful guy, there's no easy way right now to get your own apps up and running on this board. Here's what he wrote back when I asked how to program my own EPROM apps for this board:

"I will have to put something together, like a separate manual that will have the commented ML listings for the auto start routine, menu and program loaders. It may take awhile."

Then he mentioned something about fishing.

Just remember that full support for developing your own menus and apps is planned. It's coming. Sometime. Also remember you're only paying $20 (shipping included) for the preprogrammed edition of either version of this little marvel. If it were $50 or more, I'd linger here awhile, complaining. But for twenty bucks I think that's more than fair.

Okay. Fine. So we're stuck for the time being with the programs and menu system he's burnt for us. So let's talk about that.

Because what's already included is a load and a half.

THE BYTES

When I turn on my C128 in 40-column mode and press F1, nothing happens. At least, nothing happens on my C128. It might be interference with JiffyDOS, since I get the JiffyDOS '@$' command with F1. I don't know, but I'm not going to pull my JiffyDOS chip to find out. Maybe it's just an 80-column app. The manual doesn't make that clear. So let's try 80-column mode.

Press F1 and... okay, THERE we go! A nice menu of apps. What's available? Some of the best, most-used C128 and C64 utilities. Here's a list:

16K version w/4meg EPROM:
Merlin 128 v1.0
Promos 2.0
My Disk Editor
Function keys
Viza Write 128
Viza Star 128
Seq Reader 128
Begin & End Adrs
Fastrac File copy
Directory Editor
Color 80 column
Basic Data Maker
Monitor 64
Basic Merge
Basic Merge +
Maverick File Copy
Maverick Track Editor
Single 41 Data copy
Dual 41 Data Copy
Single Nybbler
Dual Nybbler
Single 81 Data copy
Maverick File Tracer
Maverick Track & Sector Editor
64K VDC RAM Test
REU Test

32k version w/1meg EPROM:
Key Dos
Servant
BASIC 8
My Disk Editor
Seq Reader 128
Color 80 Col
BASIC Merge
Function Keys
Begin & End Adrs
BASIC Data Maker
BASIC Merge +

The 16k version is a melange of C128 and C64 apps, some commercial and some written by Newbury. All are very useful. I can't imagine there's much you'd want to do that isn't covered in here somewhere. But, just to be contrary, I do miss not having a disk cataloger and a simple text editor like ZED.

When you pick a program it comes up in a flash, of course. C64 programs kick into C64 mode and run flawlessly.

The programs have not been modified in any way that I can tell, other than to make them work from the internal ROM. That means when you're done using one of these programs, you have to power cycle your machine to quit. (Newbury's own programs do politely drop you back into BASIC when you exit them.)

No problem, as long as you didn't expect this thing to work like Partner 128, letting you jump back and forth from applications to utilities like Bond from babes to bomb blasts. You can't have everything, dude.

You DID remember to save your program before you hit F1, didn't you?

THE BITS

What other goodies do you get? For twenty bucks? Are you kidding?

Newbury sent me a review package that was complete with a printed manual and a CD-ROM containing the documentation for all of the programs on the EPROM. I doubt you'll get all that for a couple of sawbucks. But I assume he'll be making it all available on the web for free.

Installation instructions are complete and more than adequate to the (very simple) task. The manual includes documentation for all of the utility programs Newbury developed himself. The CD-ROM has PDF manuals and d64 files for all of the commercial apps included.

As stated above, there is, as yet, no documentation on how to create your own EPROMs. But did I mention that it's coming?

THE BOTTOM LINE

Best twenty bucks you ever spent. Ever. Pawn your grandpa's watch and buy this right now. Really. I mean it.

Though I desperately want to create a menu and load it up with my own apps, for twenty bucks what Newbury provides is an excellent selection.

The board couldn't be easier to install. If you can install an internal ROM, you can install this board.

This is a fine product and it solves a basic problem. At least it did for me.

I've already decided to keep the 32K version installed permanently. I had burnt EPROMs for KeyDos, the Servant, and BASIC 8, and have been struggling for a year over which of them to keep in that socket. Now I don't have to choose. Best of all, all three apps are 128-mode programs; I hate having to switch to C64 mode to do anything. Now I don't have to.
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: SmallCleverDinosaur on February 17, 2009, 07:34 AM
Wow :) You couldn't have had better reviews than that, could you? So, Dan, how do I order this marvel? What is the postage for Sweden, Europe?
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on February 17, 2009, 04:02 PM

Wow Mark, I'm speechless. Thank you very much for the nice review!

Now I had better get to work on the 'Do it yourself' manual.

The 32k version adapter that I sent to airship was a modified 16k version. I had to lay out a new board and have ordered half a dozen to play with. They should be here by Friday.

Question, should I put the commercial programs from the 16k version in the 32k version before I send them out?

I did not mention to airship that the printed manual is not included in the package; it was just for his convenience. It costs too much (ink, paper, cover and postage). But, if you want to pay extra for a printed manual, we could work something out. The adapter will come with a CD that has the manual in pdf format and all the other goodies.

QuoteWhen I turn on my C128 in 40-column mode and press F1, nothing happens. At least, nothing happens on my C128. It might be interference with JiffyDOS, since I get the JiffyDOS '@$' command with F1. I don't know, but I'm not going to pull my JiffyDOS chip to find out. Maybe it's just an 80-column app. The manual doesn't make that clear. So let's try 80-column mode.

I did find a bug in the adapters after I sent them to airship. It's a hardware problem, not in the software. Sometimes when you power up, the internal ROM will not be on page 0. The F1 function key will not get reprogrammed and you can't get access to the menu. You have to power down and up to make it work. The new 32k board will correct the problem.

QuoteWow  You couldn't have had better reviews than that, could you? So, Dan, how do I order this marvel? What is the postage for Sweden, Europe?

To come up with shipping cost, I will need to know your address. I don't need a name until you're ready to order an adapter. If you PM me your address I will find out. I don't mind going to the Post Office, there's this nice to look at......

QuoteBut I assume he'll be making it all available on the web for free.

You can send a copy of the CD to anyone you want, maybe Andrew or Lance will post it.


Airship, I noticed in your review that you didn't mention the other two programs in the ROM; the up arrow and left arrow keys.

Dan...
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on February 18, 2009, 08:18 AM
Quote from: megabit on February 17, 2009, 04:02 PM
Question, should I put the commercial programs from the 16k version in the 32k version before I send them out?
In addition to those already listed in the 32K version?  If so, then yes!

                  Truly,
                  Robert Bernardo
                  Fresno Commodore User Group
                  http://videocam.net.au/fcug
                  CommVEx v5 info -- http://www.commodore.ca/forum and click on ComVEX
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on February 18, 2009, 08:23 AM
Quote from: airship on February 17, 2009, 06:38 AMIts purpose is to allow you to use high-capacity EPROMS: 27010 (1 meg.), 27020 (2 meg.), 27040 (4 meg.), or 27080 (8 meg.).

[snip]

Newbury currently sells two different versions of the adapter board. One addresses up to 16K at a time; the other addresses up to 32K at once. Each is the same price: $15 PPD in the US. Each uses the same EPROMs...

     What is the pricing for the other high-capacity EPROMs - 27020, 27040, 27080?

                Truly,
                Robert Bernardo
                Fresno Commodore User Group
                http://videocam.net.au/fcug
                CommVEx v5 info - http://www.commodore.ca/forum and click on ComVEX
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on February 18, 2009, 08:27 AM
Quote from: airship on February 17, 2009, 06:38 AMIt might be interference with JiffyDOS, since I get the JiffyDOS '@$' command with F1.
So, in other words, with the 128 Function ROM, you lose the use of the JiffyDOS key on F1?

                  Truly,
                  Robert Bernardo
                  Fresno Commodore User Group
                  http://videocam.net.au/fcug
                  CommVEx v5 info -- http://www.commodore.ca/forum and click on ComVEX
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: airship on February 18, 2009, 08:43 AM
Quote from: RobertB on February 18, 2009, 08:27 AMSo, in other words, with the 128 Function ROM, you lose the use of the JiffyDOS key on F1?
You've got two ROMs fighting for control of the same key - apparently the function ROM wins over the Kernal ROM.
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on February 18, 2009, 12:04 PM

QuoteIn addition to those already listed in the 32K version?  If so, then yes!

OK, I can do that. The same programs as the 16k, plus the three 32k ROM programs.


QuoteWhat is the pricing for the other high-capacity EPROMs - 27020, 27040, 27080?


Right now the pricing for all four EPROMs are the same, $5.00 USD.
I can buy the EPROMs for just under $5.00 each. If my cost goes up, then I will have to pass on the increase.


QuoteSo, in other words, with the 128 Function ROM, you lose the use of the JiffyDOS key on F1?

QuoteYou've got two ROMs fighting for control of the same key - apparently the function ROM wins over the Kernal ROM.


The Internal ROM adapter will reprogram F1 just before it prints the ready prompt.

If you decide to program you own EPROM, then you can program any one of the 10 function keys to access the menu.

Or you could change the JiffyDos Kernal by swapping F1 with another command you don't use as often. Losing the command to read the directory is for the birds.

Dan...
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on February 18, 2009, 12:27 PM
Quote from: megabit on February 18, 2009, 12:04 PMOK, I can do that. The same programs as the 16k, plus the three 32k ROM programs.
Nice!
QuoteI can buy the EPROMs for just under $5.00 each.
Thanks for the clarification.
QuoteIf you decide to program you own EPROM, then you can program any one of the 10 function keys to access the menu.

Or you could change the JiffyDos Kernal by swapping F1 with another command you don't use as often. Losing the command to read the directory is for the birds.
Then call me a California Towhee sparrow.  ;)

              Liking the JD one-key directory command,
              Robert Bernardo
              Fresno Commodore User Group
              http://videocam.net.au/fcug
              CommVEx v5 info - http://www.commodore.ca/forum and click on ComVEX
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: got128 on February 19, 2009, 12:37 PM
Dan,

You might want to check these guys out for a source of EEPROMS:

http://www.arcadecomponents.com/memory.html

I have had very good luck with them.

BTW, I have a PC-powered burner; i don't know if your manual will cover these, but i can sure help with testing and docs if you are. 

I could even stitch-up some of the most common combinations and post them up here(?) if it would help.

got128
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: Andrew Wiskow on February 19, 2009, 06:41 PM
Quote from: airship on February 18, 2009, 08:43 AMYou've got two ROMs fighting for control of the same key - apparently the function ROM wins over the Kernal ROM.

The same thing happens with the Servant ROM installed on a JiffyDOS C128.  But it's not really that hard to type "@$" and press return, so it doesn't really bother me too much.  :)
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: SmallCleverDinosaur on February 19, 2009, 07:06 PM
Maybe we should hack Jiffydos so that it places its "@$" on another F-key? But then again, I wouldn't want to risk getting Maurice all over me for distributing Jiffydos ;)
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: airship on February 20, 2009, 01:46 AM
JiffyDOS no longer exists.

CMD products no longer exist.

They are dead to the CBM community.

Maurice and all of 'his' products are hereby officially shunned.
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on February 20, 2009, 02:19 AM
QuoteJiffyDOS no longer exists.

CMD products no longer exist.

They are dead to the CBM community.

Maurice and all of 'his' products are hereby officially shunned.

I'll go alone with that. I don't use Jiffydos anyway.

Dan...
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on February 20, 2009, 03:13 AM
Quote from: SmallCleverDinosaur on February 19, 2009, 07:06 PMMaybe we should hack Jiffydos so that it places its "@$" on another F-key?
Well, there is always PiffyDOS.  :)

               Truly,
               Robert Bernardo
               Fresno Commodore User Group
               http://videocam.net.au/fcug
               CommVEx v5 info -- http://www.commodore.ca/forum and click on ComVEX
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on February 20, 2009, 03:28 AM
Quote from: me on February 20, 2009, 03:13 AMWell, there is always PiffyDOS.  :)
Oops, I forgot about S-JiffyDOS.

               Truly,
               Robert Bernardo
               Fresno Commodore User Group
               http://videocam.net.au/fcug
               CommVEx v5 info -- http://www.commodore.ca/forum and click on ComVEX
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: timofonic on February 20, 2009, 08:51 AM
I'm interested. What about a version using flash ram?
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on February 20, 2009, 09:58 AM

QuoteWhat about a version using flash ram?

I'll be on the lake fishing in April, I'll let you work on that one.

Dan...
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: timofonic on February 20, 2009, 05:03 PM
Quote from: megabit on February 20, 2009, 09:58 AM

QuoteWhat about a version using flash ram?

I'll be on the lake fishing in April, I'll let you work on that one.

Dan...

Sorry, it was just a suggestion.
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on February 25, 2009, 04:46 PM
Quote from: megabit on February 18, 2009, 12:04 PMThe same programs as the 16k, plus the three 32k ROM programs.

Right now the pricing for all four EPROMs are the same, $5.00 USD.
Dan, I'd like to place a pre-order for three of the Function ROMs -- all with 27080 EPROMs and with the same programs as the 16K plus all the 32K ROM programs.

                 Needing to feed a bunch of C128DCRs,
                 Robert Bernardo
                 Fresno Commodore User Group
                 http://videocam.net.au/fcug
                 CommVEx v5 info - http://www.commodore.ca/forum and click on ComVEX
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on February 26, 2009, 12:27 AM
QuoteDan, I'd like to place a pre-order for three of the Function ROMs -- all with 27080 EPROMs and with the same programs as the 16K plus all the 32K ROM programs.

Great! I'll let you know when they're ready.

Dan...
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on February 26, 2009, 12:44 AM
QuoteQuote
What about a version using flash ram?


I'll be on the lake fishing in April, I'll let you work on that one.

Dan...



Sorry, it was just a suggestion.

Sorry timofonic, I didn't mean to sound flippant, but that project would take up a lot of time.
I assumed you wanted to program the flash while installed in the function ROM socket.
It would be a good project for someone.

Dan...
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on March 01, 2009, 05:49 PM
Quote from: airship on February 17, 2009, 06:38 AMEach is the same price: $15 PPD in the US.
Postage Paid in the U.S. is no longer the case.  Dan Newbury says shipping and handling are *not* included.

            Truly,
            Robert Bernardo
            Fresno Commodore User Group
            http://videocam.net.au/fcug
            CommVEx v5 info - http://www.commodore.ca/forum and click on ComVEX
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on March 01, 2009, 07:42 PM

QuoteEach is the same price: $15 PPD in the US.

     Postage Paid in the U.S. is no longer the case.  Dan Newbury says shipping and handling are *not* included.

I'm sorry, I didn't catch that in airships review. Shipping and handling is separate.

Here is the pricing:

Adapter without EPROM $15.00 USD

Adapter with EPROM $20.00 USD

Shipping and handling for 1ea. Adapter/EPROM/CD:

USA is $2.50
Canada is $3.00
Europe is about $5.00

If you want more than one, then it will cost more to ship.

Dan...
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: airship on March 04, 2009, 02:23 AM
Dan, make sure the guy at Commodore Free knows the correct pricing before he goes to press.
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on March 04, 2009, 03:58 AM

QuoteDan, make sure the guy at Commodore Free knows the correct pricing before he goes to press.

Thanks, sent an email, hope he replies.

Dan...
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on March 10, 2009, 02:35 AM
     At yesterday's SCCAN meeting, we plugged in a Megabit 128 ROM adapter (32K version) into Joe M.'s flat C128 and gave the adapter its first tests.  Here are the notes --

             1. The 128 ROM adapter board is fairly large and at first could not fit with the JiffyDOS 128
                 Kernal board plus riser which is to the side.  The JD 128 Kernal board plus riser must be
                 removed.  Then the 128 ROM adapter can be easily inserted.  The JD 128 Kernal is then
                 replaced.  With a regular CBM kernal ROM in place, a 128 ROM adapter board would fit
                 more easily.
              2. The wire which leads from the C128 ROM adapter to pin 12 of U36 is stiff (hard to lay
                  flat against the motherboard), though strong and good-looking.
              3. No problem engaging the menu with the F1 key.
              4. VizaWrite would sometimes crash (break) on start-up, necessitating a system power
                  down and power up.
              5. Pushing the C128's reset switch does not clear the 128 ROM adapter.  A complete
                  cold start would.
              6. A surprise... the ZED 128 text editor is included.  Another surprise... ZED 128
                  initializes correctly from the 128 ROM adapter, but when a user tries to type more
                  than one character into the program, the whole program freezes up.
              7. No problem with initializing Maverick's FileCopy or Single Drive Copy modules.  The
                  Maverick other modules have not been tested.

                              Truly,
                              Robert Bernardo
                              Fresno Commodore User Group
                              http://videocam.net.au/fcug
                              http://retro-link.com
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: SmallCleverDinosaur on March 10, 2009, 06:44 AM
If Maurice Randall is doing a great job pissing everone off (pardon my French), Mr Dan Newbury does the completely opposite thing :)

I received my internal adapter today, only 10 days after I sent the money through PayPal. That time includes packaging of the adapter itself, a very thorough installation instruction and a CD-ROM on which he has printed his own label. Very professional. And then shipping it to Sweden, on the other side of the World. Impressive!

I can't wait to test this device.

If you will ever buy something from Dan, you can do it with a 100% confidence :)
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on March 12, 2009, 02:11 AM
Quote1. The 128 ROM adapter board is fairly large and at first could not fit with the JiffyDOS 128 Kernal board plus riser which is to the side. The JD 128 Kernal board plus riser must be removed. Then the 128 ROM adapter can be easily inserted. The JD 128 Kernal is then replaced. With a regular CBM Kernal ROM in place, a 128 ROM adapter board would fit more easily.

I did some sanding on the right side of the PCB, as much as I dared. But it does not help. The Jiffydos adapter sits up high enough that it will sit over the right side of the Internal ROM adapter PCB. But the edge of the Jiffydos adapter sits against the right edge of the Internal EPROM. It would be prudent to put a strip of insulating tape alone the edge of the Jiffydos adapter to prevent shorting.

Quote2. The wire which leads from the C128 ROM adapter to pin 12 of U36 is stiff (hard to lay flat against the motherboard), though strong and good-looking.

The wire used is a military grade shielded single conductor cable. The shield is to prevent any stray signals from triggering the page switching circuit.

Quote4. VizaWrite would sometimes crash (break) on start-up, necessitating a system power down and power up.

That break out may be the Jiffydos Kernal. My stock 128 does not do that, well, semi-stock 128. I change one byte in the Kernal of all my 128's.

Quote5. Pushing the C128's reset switch does not clear the 128 ROM adapter. A complete cold start would.

There are five programs in the Internal EPROM that require a power down and power up. They are: VizaWrite, VizaStar, Basic 8, Servant and KeyDos. The reason is that the Internal ROM is not set to page 0 when you push the reset button and the F1 function key will not be programmed. During a power up, there is a hardware circuit that assures page 0 will come up every time.
There are two ways to fix the problem.
1. Add another wire from the adapter to the system reset line
2. Add a switch to page 0 routine somewhere in the reset routine in the Kernal.

All the other programs will default to page 0 when you exit the program by pushing the reset button.

Quote6. A surprise... the ZED 128 text editor is included. Another surprise... ZED 128 initializes correctly from the 128 ROM adapter, but when a user tries to type more than one character into the program, the whole program freezes up.

Surprise, you're right, it doesn't work. The program works fine from disk, but when loaded from Internal ROM it crashes.
Here is what I found: When you enter the Internal ROM menu, the pre-configuration registers A & B ($D501 & $D502) are re-programmed in order to access the 32k of data in the Internal ROM. No Kernal or I/O except when you have to switch a page in Internal ROM.
When ZED is selected from the menu, the loader routine will transfer the program from ROM to RAM in the proper location, then jump to start of the program. That part works well, but use another key after start up, it will crash. The program expects the pre-configuration registers to be at their default values.
So, restoring the register values before program startup fixes the problem.

Robert, if you will send me your EPROMs, I will re-program them for you, as well as DLH, airship and SmallCleverDinosaur and I willl send them back to you.

Dan...

Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on March 12, 2009, 03:31 AM
Quote from: megabit on March 12, 2009, 02:11 AMIt would be prudent to put a strip of insulating tape alone the edge of the Jiffydos adapter to prevent shorting.
Thanks for the advice.
QuoteThe wire used is a military grade shielded single conductor cable. The shield is to prevent any stray signals from triggering the page switching circuit.
Ooo, military grade... very nice.  Joe M. of SCCAN wanted to route the wire between the chips on the board (just as he had done for the JiffyDOS wires), but because of the stiffness of the wire, it had to be held down by electrical tape.  It was slightly annoying for him, but it was no big deal for me.
QuoteThat (Vizawrite) break out may be the Jiffydos Kernal. My stock 128 does not do that, well, semi-stock 128.
Ah, we tried Vizawrite with and without JiffyDOS on, but it still would sometimes break.
QuoteThere are five programs in the Internal EPROM that require a power down and power up. They are: VizaWrite, VizaStar, Basic 8, Servant and KeyDos. The reason is that the Internal ROM is not set to page 0 when you push the reset button and the F1 function key will not be programmed. During a power up, there is a hardware circuit that assures page 0 will come up every time.
There are two ways to fix the problem.
1. Add another wire from the adapter to the system reset line
2. Add a switch to page 0 routine somewhere in the reset routine in the Kernal.
It sounds like Option 1 would be the way to go.  Where on the adapter would you solder that reset wire?
QuoteWhen ZED is selected from the menu, the loader routine will transfer the program from ROM to RAM in the proper location, then jump to start of the program. That part works well, but use another key after start up, it will crash. The program expects the pre-configuration registers to be at their default values.
So, restoring the register values before program startup fixes the problem.

Robert, if you will send me your EPROMs, I will re-program them...
That is very kind of you.  After this Sunday's FCUG meeting, I will repackage the items and send them back to you.

                         Truly,
                         Robert Bernardo
                         Fresno Commodore User Group
                         http://videocam.net.au/fcug
                         http://retro-link.com/smf
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: Andrew Wiskow on March 12, 2009, 03:37 AM
Quote from: megabit on March 12, 2009, 02:11 AMMy stock 128 does not do that, well, semi-stock 128. I change one byte in the Kernal of all my 128's.

Okay, Dan...  You've piqued my curiosity...   What byte do you change in the Kernal of your 128s?
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: SmallCleverDinosaur on March 12, 2009, 04:41 AM
Quote from: megabit on March 12, 2009, 02:11 AM
Robert, if you will send me your EPROMs, I will re-program them for you, as well as DLH, airship and SmallCleverDinosaur and I willl send them back to you.
To make things easier for both of us, just burn a new EPROM and send me that one, and I will transfer the cost of the EPROM to you. I can always use an extra EPROM :)

Quote from: Andrew Wiskow on March 12, 2009, 03:37 AM
Quote from: megabit on March 12, 2009, 02:11 AMMy stock 128 does not do that, well, semi-stock 128. I change one byte in the Kernal of all my 128's.

Okay, Dan...  You've piqued my curiosity...   What byte do you change in the Kernal of your 128s?
Yes please, tell us Dan, I got really curious about that one too! :)
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on March 12, 2009, 05:30 AM

QuoteOkay, Dan...  You've piqued my curiosity...   What byte do you change in the Kernal of your 128s?

It will have to wait, my wife just called me to lunch.

Dan..
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: Alex on March 12, 2009, 08:06 AM
Quote from: megabit on March 12, 2009, 05:30 AM

QuoteOkay, Dan...  You've piqued my curiosity...   What byte do you change in the Kernal of your 128s?

It will have to wait, my wife just called me to lunch.

Dan..
Come on - finish your lunch quickly! I'm also dyeing to learn which byte is it... BTW: do you still take orders for the adapter? I'm very interesting in getting one for my C128D.
Cheers
Alex
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on March 12, 2009, 08:36 AM

QuoteOkay, Dan...  You've piqued my curiosity...   What byte do you change in the Kernal of your 128s?


When I purchased my first 128 back in the 80"s, brought it home, hooked it up and turned it on. Well, isn't this cool, it auto boots the program!

I got tired of it real quick because I turn the 128 on and off quite a bit and push the reset button even more. It made my teeth grit every time the stepper motor would ratchet out to track 1 sector 0 and back again. I could picture myself replacing the stepper motor on the disk drive every 4 or 5 months.

With the help of two books I picked up (128 Internals and Basic 7.0 Internals), I was able to follow the code to the PHOENIX routine that would check the Internal ROM and Cartridge areas and then moves on to the Auto Boot routine.

The PHOENIX routine is called only once in Basic and no where in the Kernal. It turned out to be easy to fix, almost like the software engineers had it in mind to remove the auto boot or leave it in.

After the routine checks the Internal ROM and Cartridge area, it clears the interrupt (CLI) and then checks for an auto boot. What I do is change the CLI to an RTS. It never reaches the auto boot area, instead it will return to Basic where the routine was called. The very next command is JMP $401C, guess what, the next command at $401C is CLI, then it prints the READY prompt.

If you need to auto boot a disk, put a disk in the drive and type BOOT and CR and your drive will ratchet out to track 1 sector 0 to look for an auto boot.

It does not interfere with any program or the operating system that I know of. It's quiet, saves your disk drive and the computer comes up twice as fast.

When I get a 128, that is the first thing I do to it.


QuoteIt sounds like Option 1 would be the way to go.  Where on the adapter would you solder that reset wire?

When I finish the 'How to do it Yourself' manual, I will show it as an option on the schematic that will come with the manual. Actually, it's just a wire connected to the board with a direction diode and quickie clip on the other end that goes to the system reset line.

QuoteBTW: do you still take orders for the adapter? I'm very interesting in getting one for my C128D.

I'm putting together 20 units now and will have them finished this weekend. It looks like I will have to make more than 20. There's alot of interest in the adapter.

Dan...
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: Andrew Wiskow on March 12, 2009, 09:07 AM
Quote from: megabit on March 12, 2009, 08:36 AMI'm putting together 20 units now and will have them finished this weekend. It looks like I will have to make more than 20. There's alot of interest in the adapter.

I'm definately interested, too...  I'm just waiting for all of the bugs to get worked out first.  ;)
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: al on March 13, 2009, 08:57 PM
I hope my name is on the waiting list. :)
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on March 13, 2009, 09:50 PM

Lets see,---Al, Al, Al,  ya, here it is!  You're on the list. The parts came in, so it should be ready this weekend.

Dan...
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on March 15, 2009, 04:49 AM

I have put together 20 ea. Megabit Internal ROM Adapters and 10 ea. are ready to ship if anyone that was not on the list that would like to have one.

Price is:  $20.00 USD + shipping & handling.

Shipping & handling:

USA   $2.50 all 50 states
Canada   $3.00 USD
Europe   about $5.00 USD, Sweden was $5.00, other countries will have to check
Aussie   don't know yet until I get an order

The above rates are for 1 unit (adapter & CD); more than 1 will cost more to ship.

Payment:

PayPal   USA & International
Money order USA only

Dan...

Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: Blacklord on March 15, 2009, 05:50 AM
Dan,

Work out for Oz please & I'll Paypal you the cash.

cheers,

Lance
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: SmallCleverDinosaur on March 19, 2009, 07:28 PM
Quote from: megabit on March 12, 2009, 02:11 AM
Quote6. A surprise... the ZED 128 text editor is included. Another surprise... ZED 128 initializes correctly from the 128 ROM adapter, but when a user tries to type more than one character into the program, the whole program freezes up.

Surprise, you're right, it doesn't work. The program works fine from disk, but when loaded from Internal ROM it crashes.
Here is what I found: When you enter the Internal ROM menu, the pre-configuration registers A & B ($D501 & $D502) are re-programmed in order to access the 32k of data in the Internal ROM. No Kernal or I/O except when you have to switch a page in Internal ROM.
When ZED is selected from the menu, the loader routine will transfer the program from ROM to RAM in the proper location, then jump to start of the program. That part works well, but use another key after start up, it will crash. The program expects the pre-configuration registers to be at their default values.
So, restoring the register values before program startup fixes the problem.

Robert, if you will send me your EPROMs, I will re-program them for you, as well as DLH, airship and SmallCleverDinosaur and I willl send them back to you.
I received my new EPROM yesterday, thanks Dan! :)
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: dabone on March 20, 2009, 08:33 AM
Off topic but the autoboot disable you were talking about...
QuoteAfter the routine checks the Internal ROM and Cartridge area, it clears the interrupt (CLI) and then checks for an auto boot. What I do is change the CLI to an RTS. It never reaches the auto boot area, instead it will return to Basic where the routine was called. The very next command is JMP $401C, guess what, the next command at $401C is CLI, then it prints the READY prompt.

Exactly what byte is it to change to do this?

Thanks,
Later,
dabone
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on March 20, 2009, 10:04 AM

QuoteExactly what byte is it to change to do this?

Turn your 128 on and go to the built in monitor.

Enter   DFF883   and hit return. This is what you will see:

. FF883   20  CD  02   JSR  $02CD
. FF886   CE  C0  0A   DEC  $0AC0
. FF883   10  E2         BPL  $F86D
. FF88B   58              CLI
. FF88C   A2  08         LDX  #$08
. FF88E   A9  30         LDA  #$30
. FF890   85  BF         STA  $BF
. FF892   86  BA         STX  $BA
. FF894   8A              TXA
. FF895   20  3D  F2   JSR  $F23D

The one byte that you want to change is at F88B.
Change CLI to RTS in the binary file that you are going to program in the EPROM.

Dan...
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: dabone on March 20, 2009, 12:13 PM
And the dummy with the hex editor that knows nothing about ml code?
CLI=58

RTS=???

Thanks,
dabone
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: SmallCleverDinosaur on March 20, 2009, 05:10 PM
To find out the hex code of RTS (or of any ML op-code), enter the monitor and type

A1300 RTS

Then the monitor will show

A 01300  60       RTS

The "A" is for assemble and that's what just happened. You assembled the op-code RTS into ML. And the monitor responds by showing the hex code for RTS which is 60.
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: dabone on March 20, 2009, 11:29 PM
Thanks.


Later,
dabone
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: al on March 21, 2009, 09:54 AM
The Megabit 128 adaptor came in today. What a nice production it is. Very well done. Nice install docs, CDROM. Well made and pretty at that.

Big thanks.
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on March 21, 2009, 10:30 AM
QuoteThe Megabit 128 adaptor came in today. What a nice production it is. Very well done. Nice install docs, CDROM. Well made and pretty at that.

Big thanks.

Thank you for the nice words.
I'm glad you like it.
Enjoy.  :)

Dan...
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on March 21, 2009, 03:37 PM
Quote from: al on March 21, 2009, 09:54 AMWhat a nice production it is. Very well done. Nice install docs, CDROM. Well made and pretty at that.
I agree.  On Saturday I show it off at the TOGA meeting in San Jose.

                     Truly,
                     Robert Bernardo
                     Fresno Commodore User Group
                     http://videocam.net.au/fcug
                     The Other Group of Amigoids
                     http://www.calweb.com/~rabel1/
                     Southern California Commodore/Amiga Network
                     http://www.sccaners.org/
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on March 21, 2009, 04:18 PM

There is one thing you have to keep in mind when you install the Adapter.

Your 128 computer is 20+ years old and the tin plated leads on the IC's have
corrosion on them. So when you connect the clip to pin 12 of U3, move the
clip up and down the lead a couple times to make a good connection.

The same goes for the 28-pin socket.

Dan...

Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on March 22, 2009, 06:53 PM
Quote from: megabit on March 21, 2009, 04:18 PM
Your 128 computer is 20+ years old and the tin plated leads on the IC's have
corrosion on them. So when you connect the clip to pin 12 of U3, move the
clip up and down the lead a couple times to make a good connection.
Good advice.  However, in my case, Ray Carlsen removed every chip in my main C128DCR and put in sockets for the ones that had been previously soldered in.  Then he re-inserted all the chips.   In other words, I now have a fully-socketed C128DCR.  So, maybe my C128DCR just has a few years of "corrosion" now.  :)

                     Truly,
                     Robert Bernardo
                     Fresno Commodore User Group
                     http://videocam.net.au/fcug
                     Notacon 6 / Blockparty 3 on April 16-19
                     http://www.notacon.org , http://www.demoparty.us
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on March 22, 2009, 07:44 PM
QuoteHowever, in my case, Ray Carlsen removed every chip in my main C128DCR and put in sockets for the ones that had been previously soldered in.  Then he re-inserted all the chips.   In other words, I now have a fully-socketed C128DCR.

Is there a good reason for that?
Ray must have alot of time on his hands.  :)

Dan...
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on March 22, 2009, 08:06 PM
Quote from: megabit on March 22, 2009, 07:44 PMIs there a good reason for that? Ray must have alot of time on his hands.  :)
I'm trying to remember the exact circumstances.  IIRC, the computer was not coming up with the correct free memory, 80-columns was not working, loading from disk was not working correctly but C64 programs on cart would work.  He had it for a long time, trying to debug it.  When the easy answers were not found, then he went with chip by chip replacement (hence, all the sockets).  He finally traced it to the cartridge expansion port!  Two "teeth" in the port were crossed/short-circuiting.  He replaced the port, and all the problems were solved.

                    His and my e-mails about this are
                    archived somewhere,
                    Robert Bernardo
                    Fresno Commodore User Group
                    http://videocam.net.au/fcug
                    Notacon 6 / Blockparty 3 on April 16-19
                    http://www.notacon.org , http://www.demoparty.us
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on March 23, 2009, 03:08 PM
Quote from: me on March 21, 2009, 03:37 PMOn Saturday I show it off at the TOGA meeting in San Jose.
While showing it off at the meeting, I realized that with the word/text processors, spreadsheet, database, and file utilities put into a fully-optioned Megabit ROM Adapter, it would make a C128 a complete business machine right "out of the box".  All it needs is a game or two (80-column or 40-column) for when a person is not doing business.  :)  For instance, those Genie C128 game files at

                   http://cbmfiles.com/genie/C128GamesListing.html

                                 Truly,
                                 Robert Bernardo
                                 Fresno Commodore User Group
                                 http://videocam.net.au/fcug
                                 Notacon 6 / Blockparty 3 on April 16-19
                                 http://www.notacon.org , http://www.demoparty.us
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on March 23, 2009, 05:25 PM

QuoteAll it needs is a game or two (80-column or 40-column) for when a person is not doing business.

How about something for your secretary to do between work, like Solitaire.
Something for you, like Leader Board Golf.

There is 4 meg of ROM space to put in any game/s you want.

I have made a Cartridge for the C64 that will use the same EPROMs.
I've been thinking of putting World Class Leader board in it and all of the
different Courses.

Dan...

Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: SmallCleverDinosaur on March 23, 2009, 07:03 PM
Quote from: megabit on March 23, 2009, 05:25 PM
I have made a Cartridge for the C64 that will use the same EPROMs.
That sounds interesting :)

How have you solved the bank switching between the banks of the EPROM? Using one of the expansion ports I/O areas and a flip-flop IC perhaps?

Would it work with the C128 (in C128 mode)? I.e is the EXROM line directly grounded on the PCB or does it pass through a switch?
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on March 23, 2009, 08:18 PM
QuoteUsing one of the expansion ports I/O areas and a flip-flop IC perhaps?

Yes.

QuoteWould it work with the C128 (in C128 mode)? I.e is the EXROM line directly grounded on the PCB or does it pass through a switch?

It does not work in C128 mode. Plug it in and turn on the computer, it will go directly to C64 mode and a menu. From there you can select any one of the programs or go to basic.

Dan...
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: SmallCleverDinosaur on March 23, 2009, 08:44 PM
Have you designed the PCB yourself? If so, why don't you add a switch to the EXROM line (and the GAME line if the cartridge supports 16K ROM-images)?

Then it can be used in C128 mode too with a slightly modified code for the menu :)
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on March 23, 2009, 09:44 PM
QuoteHave you designed the PCB yourself? If so, why don't you add a switch to the EXROM line (and the GAME line if the cartridge supports 16K ROM-images)?

Then it can be used in C128 mode too with a slightly modified code for the menu

The Internal ROM Adapter will work with 128 programs as well as C64 programs and will not tie up the expansion port.

The C64 cartridge will work with 8K programs, 16K programs, single file programs any size that will fit in RAM, multi-file programs if you modify them and it will switch itself off so you can run from the basic prompt.

The only external switch is a system reset to regain control of the cartridge.


Dan...
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on March 24, 2009, 04:27 AM
Quote from: megabit on March 23, 2009, 05:25 PMHow about something for your secretary to do between work, like Solitaire. Something for you, like Leader Board Golf.
Now you're talking!  :)

               Truly,
               Robert Bernardo
               Fresno Commodore User Group
               http://videocam.net.au/fcug
               Notacon 6 / Blockparty 3 on April 16-19
               http://www.notacon.org , http://www.demoparty.us
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: Andrew Wiskow on March 24, 2009, 04:35 PM
Quote from: RobertB on March 24, 2009, 04:27 AM
Quote from: megabit on March 23, 2009, 05:25 PMHow about something for your secretary to do between work, like Solitaire. Something for you, like Leader Board Golf.
Now you're talking!  :)

Funny, Robert...  I would've sworn that you would've insisted on a Star Trek game...   ;)
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: airship on March 25, 2009, 12:42 AM
Andrew, Star Trek is not a game... it's a way of life! :)
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on March 25, 2009, 04:14 AM
Quote from: Andrew Wiskow on March 24, 2009, 04:35 PMFunny, Robert...  I would've sworn that you would've insisted on a Star Trek game...   ;)
:)  Ah, I haven't found a good C128 80-column Star Trek game.  There is the tried-and-true C64 Star Trek: Space Operations Simulator.

                      Truly,
                      Robert Bernardo
                      Fresno Commodore User Group
                      http://videocam.net.au/fcug
                      Notacon 6 / Blockparty 3 on April 16-19
                      http://www.notacon.org , http://www.demoparty.us
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on March 25, 2009, 04:16 AM
Quote from: airship on March 25, 2009, 12:42 AM...Star Trek is not a game... it's a way of life! :)
Well said!

                    Truly,
                    Robert Bernardo
                    Fresno Commodore User Group
                    http://videocam.net.au/fcug
                    Notacon 6 / Blockparty 3 on April 16-19
                    http://www.notacon.org , http://www.demoparty.us
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: dabone on March 25, 2009, 01:54 PM
Got mine today.
It wasn't what I expected. When I first asked about it it was 16 or 32k version only.
So I open the package,  glanced at the directions, popped open the 128 and tossed it in.
(Flat 128 with 64k VDC upgrade)
Imagine my suprise when I press f1 and get 3 pages of selections!
Very nice job.. Great looking product and dead simple to install.
(I put my shield back in, It's a little bowed, but it helps hold the uiec/sd.)

I would ask that you post how to redefine which function key the rom redefines.
(Yeah, I'm running jiffy dos also). It would be nice to put it on either f2 or f8 for me.

Thanks for the cool new upgrade.
(The wife still doesn't understand what I'm doing with the antique in the corner)


Later,
dabone
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: SmallCleverDinosaur on March 25, 2009, 06:05 PM
Quote from: RobertB on March 25, 2009, 04:16 AM
Quote from: airship on March 25, 2009, 12:42 AM...Star Trek is not a game... it's a way of life! :)
Well said!
Very well said I'd like to add :)

Waiting for the upcoming release (http://www.apple.com/trailers/paramount/startrek/) :)
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: Blacklord on March 26, 2009, 12:05 AM
Quote from: dabone on March 25, 2009, 01:54 PM

(The wife still doesn't understand what I'm doing with the antique in the corner)

You could trade her in then :)
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: dabone on March 26, 2009, 12:26 AM
QuoteYou could trade her in then

The last time I did that it got REAL expensive.


Later,
dabone
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: radrick on April 06, 2009, 10:20 PM
How can I order one?
payPal?
R
Quote from: megabit on February 13, 2009, 06:24 AM
I have a new piece of hardware for the 128 Internal ROM Socket. It uses the high capacity EPROMs (27010 1meg, 27020 2meg, 27040 4meg and 27080 8meg).

It comes in a 16k version ($8000 to $BFFF) for a maximum no. of 64 pages or 32k version ($8000 to $FFFF) for a maximum no. of 32 pages.

I need to know if there's an interest for this adapter before I invest anymore time and money on it.

I have a 16k version that has a 4meg EPROM full of programs that I use on my C128 and 128DCR.
Here is a list of the programs:

Merlin 128 v1.0                       Promos 2.0
My Disk Editor                         Function keys
Viza Write 128                        Viza Star 128
Seq Reader 128                       Begin & End Adrs
Fastrac File copy                     Directory Editor
Color 80 column                       Basic Data Maker
Monitor 64                              Basic Merge
Basic Merge +                         Maverick File Copy
Maverick Track Editor               Single 41 Data copy
Dual 41 Data Copy                   Single Nybbler
Dual Nybbler                           Single 81 Data copy
Maverick File Tracer                 Maverick Track & Sector Editor
64K VDC RAM Test                   REU Test

I have a 32k version that has a 1meg EPROM with Key Dos, Servant and Basic 8 installed.

I have sent the adapters to airship hoping he would write a review on it. I would happy to answer any questions you might have, but I would like to wait until airship has written his review.

Dan...

Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: megabit on April 07, 2009, 05:57 AM
QuoteHow can I order one?
payPal?
R

Send me an email with your country and I'll send you a quote.

Dan...

newbury@planetkc.com

Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on April 08, 2009, 10:13 AM
     After Murphy's Law struck at MossyCon 5, I finally demoed the Megabit 128 ROM adapter.  Whew!  :)

                 But it worked at home...  ;)
                 Robert Bernardo
                 Fresno Commodore User Group
                 http://videocam.net.au/fcug
                 Notacon 6 / Blockparty 3 on April 16-19
                 http://www.notacon.org , http://www.demoparty.us
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM (at Notacon/Blockparty)
Post by: RobertB on April 22, 2009, 06:36 AM
     Along with the uIEC, SD2IEC, Behr-Bonz VIC-20 Multicart, Cynthcart v1.2.4, I had the Megabit 128 ROM adapter on display at the Commodore table in the games room of last weekend's Notacon/Blockparty (photos and video to come later).  Many attendees were curious about the uIEC and SD2IEC, less for the Behr-Bonz VIC-20 Multicart, and even less so on the Cynthcart and 128 ROM adapter.  I gave it my best shot... I tried to explain each device in detail to each attendee who asked.
     I had brought all of the C= equipment -- NTSC/PAL flatscreen monitor/t.v. (courtesy of Larry Anderson), 1571 drive, C64 with JiffyDOS, VIC-20 with JiffyDOS, 2 heavy-duty power supplies, 3 boxes of disks, 3 joysticks, one NTSC C64 DTV, and one PAL C64 DTV.  One big suitcase was crammed with most of the equipment, barely passing the airline requirements of under 50 pounds.  I had to put the rest of the smaller items and cables in my carry-on case and even camera case.
     If only I had brought a C128... then I could have properly demonstrated the 128 ROM adapter.  Jim Mazurek of the Chicago SWRAP Commodore Computer Club met with me again this year, helped me immensely in gettng the equipment up and running, and even said that if there were Commodore for Notacon/Blockparty next year, he would bring the heavy C= stuff instead of my having to lug the equipment all the way from California!
     On the evaluation form for Notacon/Blockparty, in the question for what you'd like to see at the event, I wrote, "More Commodore".  :)

                  Truly,
                  Robert Bernardo
                  Fresno Commodore User Group
                  http://videocam.net.au/fcug
                  July 25-26 CommVEx v5 - http://www.commodore.ca/forum and click on ComVEX
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on May 01, 2009, 03:15 PM
     Ah, that's good that you figured it out.  I was paging through my Basic 8 manual, trying to figure out what your problem was.  :)

                 Time to put the Patech binder back on the shelf,
                 Robert Bernardo
                 Fresno Commodore User Group
                 http://videocam.net.au/fcug
                 July 25-26 Commodore Vegas Expo - http://www.commodore.ca/forum
                 and click on ComVEX
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: maraud on September 09, 2009, 01:27 PM
Just got my hands on one of these, and all I can say is WOW!!!

I now have all the great ROM functionality (plus some great non-ROM apps) I always wanted without any limitations.....  ie, Servant always "buggin me" when I didn't need it!

Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: Mark Smith on November 26, 2009, 03:25 PM
Just resurrecting this thread ... seems all of the posts by Megabit have gone ?!?

Where can you buy these ROM adapters ?

Mark
Title: Re: 128 Function ROM
Post by: RobertB on November 26, 2009, 06:39 PM
Quote from: Mark Smith on November 26, 2009, 03:25 PMWhere can you buy these ROM adapters ?
From Megabit here on the forum.

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