Msg: 4903 *Conference*
01-21-94 17:34:45
From: RICHARD HANSON
To : ADAM LIPSIUS
Subj: REPLY TO MSG #4900 (NOT SO BAD, NEC PC8021A)
---- Adam: Again, by the numbers... > I am interested to know about ROM software. I have opened the bottom of > the case of my PC8021a, and I see some chips and some empty slots inside, > what can be installed? Most of the ROMs I carry have a version for the NEC8201; some don't. When you receive the catalog, make a note of those you are interested in and well discuss them. You may have one extra ROM and two banks of 32K each. Again, I have the ROMs and can get you loaded with RAM. > Also, what can be attached to the expansion connector > on the left slide of the case (there is a slot with a trap door)? Do > you know what the SIO-1 and SIO-2 plugs can be used for? Sorry, I don't know these things but do have one set of manuals for myself and a set of User Guide and Reference Manual for sale; $20 for the two. > I hope to use my PC8021a for several purposes: > remote entry of info wp/db and upload it into the IBM compat I have. > prototyping Z-80 based programs for robotics Again, consider Lapdos II (see catalog when it arrives) > I wonder if the computer can control stepper motors from the RS-232 > port? I was also thinking about prototyping a burgular alarm. Yes, the RS232 port is fully programmable on all our Model T's. We do have a few folks online who have done such. Again, let me call your attention to the (6)TechRef menu as well as the (7)Uploads menu for NEC reference files and programs. > I have not programmed in assembly language, but have light > experience in several flavors of basic and pascal, so the > programming syntax will be unknown to me. KNowing that it must fit > into 32k, it seems that assembly language is the way to go. You're in luck. We carry the famous ROM2/Cleuseau ROM with an NEC8201 version. It's a developers ROM for both assembly and BASIC programming. > Also, re: the floppy cable - $30 is a bit steep - if you could > supply a schematic or pinouts I could probably make one, that is if > AMP makes a plug to fit the drive and computer, else I will have to > go with a pre-made one, please let me know if you have one on hand. I never did get around to mapping the cable but perhaps someone else on this BBS, like our co-sysop Robert Benson, may be interested in doing that job. As for price, believe me, I paid over $20 each from Tandy. After everything is said and done, at $30 I would just break even. > Also, does the NEC PC8021a have a modem built in? is it one of the > SIO ports? As far as I know, the NEC 8201 does not have a built in modem and I don't really know what the SIO is used for at this time. > Thanks in advance for you help. I look forward to becoming an active > member of your board. You're welcome and you are already an active member of both the BBS and the club. You've arrived. -Rick-