Msg: 4896 *Conference*

01-20-94 21:28:15

From: RICHARD HANSON

To : ADAM LIPSIUS

Subj: REPLY TO MSG #4889 (NEC 8021 BLUES)

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Welcome aboard, Adam.  I'll answer your questions as they appear...

 > I have an NEC 8021 and

I believe you have an NEC PC 8201a

 > what model of Tandy is the NEC 8021 compatible to?

It is closest to the 100 and 102.  Most programs for the 100/102 will run on
the NEC with some modifications.  You will find a BASIC translation chart in
the (6)TechRef area listing.

 > Can the peripherals be used interchangeably?

Yes, to some extent.

 > I have aquired a "Tandy Portable DIsk Dirve 2" form Radio Shack, beleive
 > it or not in 1994? I was wondering can I connect this to the NEC 8021?

Yes, the TPDD2 is a fine drive that will serve you well for many years, and
yes, it will work with your NEC8201 using TS-DOS on either ROM or disk.  I will
send you a catalog.  In 1994?  Sure, why not?  I sell TPDDs and TPDD2s all the
time and have a small inventory of both.

 > I have only the drive, no cables, disks, or manuals. Do you have any advice
 > as to how I should proceed?

I can usually scare up a cable but the price is high; around $30.  Disks aren't
a problem.  Use off-the-shelf DSDDs with confidence.  As for a manual, you
don't need the one that came with it.  Use the one that comes with TS-DOS when
you purchase that product.  I know you will cause it's the only DOS that allows
the NEC to use the TPDD/TPDD2 devices.

 > I am experienced in the IBM clone-world of computers...

When you receive the catalog, take a look at Lapdos II.  Lapdos II was designed
to transfer files to and from your DOS computer and your TPDD2 or NEC--as well
as a TPDD, Model 100, 102, or 200.  You will "love" Lapdos II.

 > ...and have experience dating back to the commodore PET.  I still have my
 > TRS-80 model 1,and My CoCo 2.

Ahhh... so you're one of those old timers, huh.  A real, carved out of oxide
geek type person.  Excellent.  I started in 1967 on an IBM 1401.  I owed a ton
of trash 80's.  Good machines!

Hope this helps... -Rick-