Msg: 107 *Conference*

06-20-91 07:37:46

From: RICHARD HANSON

To : TOM WOODHEAD

Subj: REPLY TO MSG #105 (M200)

Hi Woody:
        Let me reply to this in the open so others may add their two cents.
Looks like you're interested in differences between the Model 200 and the Model
100.  Okay.  I'll give it a shot.
 
* Same chip (8085)?  Yes.  The Model 200 uses the same processor, as far as I
know.  Technically speaking, I am not up on all the other chips the Model 200
uses that the Model 100 does not.
 
* LCD: The LCD is a 1200 baud, serial device.  It's display is 40 characters by
16 lines.  The Model 100/102 uses a 600 baud, serial device, 40 chr by 8 lines.
I recall some discussion, not long ago, about the Model 200's LCD and its
speed.  It had something to do with the way it's mapped, making it even faster
then first believed.  I think there's a program in the library, written by
James Yi, that proves this out.  Robert Benson, Library Manager, could add more
along these lines.
 
* Same external ports? Yes.  The Model 200 has all the same ports as a Model
102.  I say 102, not 100 since the 100's system bus is internal (under a hatch
under the keyboard).  Both the 102 and 200 have their system bus available
externally via a flat, 40 pin, female connector.
 
* M200 base memory: The Model 200 comes with 1, 24K bank, and room to add 2,
more 24K banks.  The 200 is already programmed to see all of the banks and
switch to these banks if they are present.  Unfortunately, each bank is
independently addressed.  Bank 1 can not talk to bank 2, etc.  Programs in bank
xx will not access data in bank yy, and files developped in one bank will not
"automatically" extend to the other banks as the first fills up.  You "can"
copy whole files between banks, but that's it.  To get around the non-connected
bank limitations of the Model 200, a programmer named, Paul Globman, has
developed a set of utilities for the Model 200 and sells these utilities for
under $30.  An excellent value.  Paul advertises in Portable 100 Magazine.
 
I'm sure I've missed a few things along the way, so let's hope some of our
Model 200 users will chime into this conversation and add the missing parts,
along with their valuable insights.  Joe Stephan would be one of those folks.
-Rick-