Cyberhug Technologies
PS2 Essentials: Laser Replacement easy fix: Disk Cannot be read.
updated
The first thing to do in a datassette that is 40 years old, is tho change the rubber belts that are used for the movement of the cassettes and the overall operation.
The second thing is to make sure that the head and the surrounding area (pinch roller and capstan) are clean of dirt too.
Isoprop alcohol can help here.
Another essential point to check is the azimuth angle, in other words the angle and the way the tape is getting in contact with the head in order for the data to be read and/or written.
Finally, before closing every repair session like this, you must apply just a few drops of WD40 to all the gears and the mechanically moving parts.
Our second faulty datassette here, was seriously damaged because the motor was out of order. Although a rare situation, it can happen.
It is certain that belts would need replacement as well.
If you have a spares box, try to locate an identical motor - in my case it was one salvaged from an old walkman - and make sure it run on 6 volts.
Origin: Japan
Year of introduction: 1981
End of production: 1986?
CPU: 2x Hitachi 6309
Speed: 0.614MHz
RAM: 16kB
ROM: 32kB
Colors: 2
Sound: Beeper
OS: Monitor &
Microsoft Basic - Epson interpreter
Display modes:
Text: 4x20
Graphics: 120x32 dots
Video: Built-in LCD screen only.
Media: ROM cartridge
Modular micro-cassette recorder (optional)
External tape recorder (optional)
Power supply: Male DC jack at the computer:
1 - +9V DC 0.6A (UNREGULATED)
2 - GND
====================================
I/O: Serial
Tape IO
Barcode scanner in
RS232C
System bus
============================================
Manual :
files.support.epson.com/pdf/hx20__/hx20__u1.pdf
Opinion :
feertech.com/legion/retro/computer/2021/07/12/epson-hx20.html
Wikipedia :
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epson_HX-20
Programs :
geocities.ws/abcmcfarren/hx20/hx20.htm
For me it was another pleasant evening fixing stuff.
It is a sentimental thing :-)
You see, my first Walkman ever, was a UNISEF V1 in grey color, back in 1984.
So, tonight, this unit has new drive belts, a calibrated playback speed, azimuth fix and a clean tape-head. Capstan cleaned along with the pinch roller as well.
Featuring high-definition output via HDMI, a classic style joystick and 64 built-in classic games, along with 2x USB ports.
At a glance - Specifications:
Commodore 64 Mini C64 Retro Games
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Accurate C64 operation
NTSC & PAL Display modes (60 & 50 Hz)
Pixel filter options (sharp, CRT, scanline emulation)
Pixel perfect graphics
Save game function
2 USB ports: plug in a USB keyboard and use as a fully functional home computer, or add a second joystick for 2-player games
Supports firmware upgrades via USB flash drive
Today, my catch was surprisingly good, as i managed to get some real Nintendo gems for gaming and several other retro electronics.
One of the problems that, sooner or later, will pop up, is the high voltage CRT transformer (flyback) failure.
A friend brought this monitor to my lab -along with a new, modern version of the flyback transformer, in order to bring his monitor back to life and back to gaming action..!
Kauno Radijo Gamykla (KRG), Kaunas, Lithuania, around 1973.
The radio factory “Banga”, was founded in 19 of June, 1956.
Interestingly, a similar TV set was owned not only by the Soviet Union, but also by other European countries and even the USA, under the brand name Euromatic 405D model.
The Silelis (Shiljalis) 405D-1 model, was launched for the domestic markets only.
On 25th of April 1995, Banga Co. was declared bankrupt and the “Šilelis” production was stopped.
For the most part, it is because the button mechanism that simply needs to be cleaned.
Around the eject, the reset or the on/off button, dust and dirt can easily be hidden over the years! Tea and coffee too! :-D
Nevertheless, it has always been a problematic device, i have managed to work with it only the first couple of years experiencing mediocre quality.
I went from forum to forum looking for solutions when it has completely stopped been detected by ANY OS so, there was always a dead end.
It looks like everyone that faced troubles so far, have send the headphones to the nearest electronics recycle bin or straight to the trash.
This hopeless idea, gave me the freedom to start experimenting a bit with this device before it ends up in the trash. It was a lost case either way.
Its analog architecture, gave me the idea to get rid of all digital (USB, volume controller, crystal etc.) elements, and try to make it work the old fashioned way.
Further technical info on QUORA:
quora.com/What-is-the-name-of-the-4-contacts-3-5mm-male-jack-for-cellular-phones
Rare, as i haven't been able to spot any more info anywhere around the internet so far.
The closest model to this one, is the TH-850 but it only has AM reception, no telescopic antenna and no fine tuning knob.
It was produced before the Hertz scale was adopted by radio manufacturers.
(e.g. KHz - MHz indication on the frequency search panels).
The term "cycles per second" was largely replaced by "hertz" around mid '60s.
To make it easier and shorter, the "per second" was omitted, so that "megacycles" (Mc) was used as an abbreviation of "megacycles per second" (that is, megahertz (MHz) and "kilocycles" (Kc) was used as an abbreviation of "kilocycles per second" (that is, kilohertz (KHz).
Metrics Prefixes by WiKi below:
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metric_prefix
It is definitely not another Spectrum, yet it lacks the feeling of the original one. It comes as an attractive package though because,
we can emulate tape loading, we can load our favorite games via USB, we can load different ROMs (16K, 128K etc..) to emulate specific models, we can start typing programs, we can save our programs - of course without tape errors...
Well, not bad after all :-)
Download the full manual .pdf and browse around the website below.
Retro Games UK:
retro32.com/the-spectrum/221120247846-the-spectrum-faq-games-downloads-manuals-common-issues
Old video about the ZX Spectrum VEGA:
youtube.com/watch?v=vEDqIONy6Gs
They are marketed under many different names throughout the world, but the manufacturers all used the same All-In-A-VCS CPU chip, the 6591 mostly.
The built-in games were pretty limited, for the most part, variations of the same games, in different looks-difficulty-colors-feels and levels.
6591 CPU pin-out, IC info and more:
forums.atariage.com/topic/241219-a2600-clone-6591-chip-pinout
6591 CPU drawing and schematic for basic functions:
hackaday.com//wp-content/uploads/2012/04/megaboylight.jpg
Atari is one of the most recognized names in the world of video games. Since its formation in 1972, the company pioneered hundreds of iconic titles including Asteroids, Centipede, and Missile Command.
The iconic Atari 2600 console is credited with kick-starting the home video games industry as we know it.
The Atari 'Retro' Handheld features the immortalized "wood" effect, TV output, volume control and includes 50 classic games built-in:
Asteroids, Pong, Centipede, Missile Command, Breakout, Millipede etc.
Re-imagined design featuring the classic Atari wood effect and orange buttons, also with a preview of the game's covers artwork included.
In total, 50 of Atari's most iconic games built-in, feat. a 2.4" color screen with A/V Output to play on the big screen, it is powered by 4x AAA batteries.
This computer came from my friend and supporter, Oliver from Hamburg, Germany.
The computer almost feels like new and no repairs needed .... :-D
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Brand CE-TEC (Manufacturer: Daewoo)
Model MPC-80
Year 1985
Origin Germany
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RAM 64kB
VRAM 16kB
Media MSX cartridges - Cassettes
Video Texas Instruments TMS9929A
Audio PSG (AY-3-8910)
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Keyboard layout QWERTZ
PSU Built-In (220V. European)
Project details and BOM below:
GitHub Project Page: github.com/robinhedwards/A8PicoCart
It is cheaper too!
During my attempt to built an XT-IDE-CF card for my 8-bit PC, i thought I should share some thoughts about KIT form hardware, that eveybody should be aware of.
I didn't make it on the first try so, here is the list of the essential things you have to consider before getting started with your KIT, or even before placing your order in the first place!
1. Is there any documentation and/or instructions/diagram and in hard copies delivered along with the kit?
2. Check if the EEPROM or EPROM has actually something written in it... :-) If there is firmware that is...
3. Keep a local copy of the .BIN file before you conduct the first test...
4. Watch out for the wrong BOM and any kind of suspicious surplus... :-)
5. Don't be discouraged in case of failure...
6. Find HIRES pics on the web, if in any doubt, then try to compare...
7. Check on GitHub for any recent changes or differences that are found on the PCB or the pictures of the ready made ones that you're trying to compare.
8. Follow the changes posted and test again!..
Good luck!
In Japan, the HX-10 was also named Pasopia IQ to fit in the Pasopia computer family developed by Toshiba.
SPECS at a glance:
CPU : Z80A at 3.6Mhz
RAM : 64Kb
VRAM : 16Kb
Sound : General Instruments AY-3-8910 Programmable Sound Generator
IO Ports : 2 joystick sockets,1 cardridge slot,Tape-recorder plug (1200/2400 bauds),Composite video output,Centronics interface,RF video output, 1 expansion bus
Additional Info and system files can be found using the link below:
http://www.msxarchive.nl/pub/msx/emulator/openMSX/
(Many thanks guys!)
In some cases the info are available but what happens if info are scattered around and specifics needed?
Can AI help better?
Is an AI model better and a more contemporary solution, than the obsolete search engines?
Part 1 can be found here below:
youtube.com/watch?v=6CNe-kqErgg
In this episode, we're going to test the following:
01. A workaround with another CGA monitor, from an old Atari PC
02. A new keyboard, as the original one was not found with the PC
03. Attempt to install an HDD controller and the appropriate MFM HDD
04. Both the FDDs' operation
05. Accessing the Seagate ST-11 Controller's HDD Utility program
06. The mapping of the video output modes that this PC can produce and the micro switches (10x) positions (link below for more details):
http://www.seasip.info/AmstradXT/pc1640dip.html
The monitor that was found along with it, works only for powering the system as the PSU is a built-in one for both devices.
The monitor is a MM type, suitable for the 1512 PC and the CGA/EGA socket cannot work with the 1640 PC model.
A workaround on this problem, or the replacement of the monitor with the MD type, is imminent :-D
Looking around the local flea market, as i usually do, I came across this little console which is in -now- in excellent condition...
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(PROS): 1. Cheap Price
2. No more proprietary chips used to clone hardware (Emulation Used)
3. Controllers backward compatibility with previous models
4. Use of PPU from an established electronics vendor
(CONS): 1. Too short controller cables
2. Too many duplicate games included (not really 600 in total)
3. No HDMI output thus, Mediocre Resolution
4. No SD card support
5. Non-International games menus
6. Lightweight, easy to slip while playing
7. Low Overall Quality
Pre-WWII - Bakelite Doorbell still in Service!
So, early in the morning, what one should carry with him on his way to work?
It is a weird setup as the monitor comes from an Amstrad 1512 which has a different video out socket although those machines were identical sharing common material, PSU, keyboard and components. The setup found in trash with no keyboard - i looked around for a few minutes...
Main goal now is to clean it, test it, upgrade it and make it fully functional the best way possible.
A Great Collection of DOS tools found online and the link is here below:
http://www.lanet.lv/simtel.net/msdos/diskutil-pre.html
The truth is that the Atari VCS is not the first video game console ever, but it would become the ultimate star. Millions of young people around the globe, will hold it as a childhood memory 'till this day.
The initial console idea, was developed in 1975 by Atari and Warner Bros, the parent company.
In the beginning, the console was set to come with an integrated ROM game, but finally, Atari preferred a cartridge version. This game was the famous “Combat”.
This was the first cartridge that will allow console owners to wait a few months for the releases of new games.
A first series of 8 games, was followed by many others and among them, the famous “Space Invaders”, a title giving Atari global success that would cash in more then $100 millions. Many third companies also encountered success, such as Namco and its “Pacman”.
Sears actually sold the same unit under their own name.
In 1982, the VCS becomes “2600” until Atari is sold in 1984, followed by new versions “5200” and the “7800”. The 2600 continued to be produced and new games appeared until 1991.
The Atari VCS/2600CX console lived for 14 years.
Console Specs:
Media : ROM cartridges
CPU : 8-bit MOS Technology 6507 @ 1.19 MHz
Memory : 128 bytes of RAM
Graphics : Television Interface Adaptor (TIA Chip)
Tandata created the Homelink system in conjunction with the Nottingham Building Society and the Bank of Scotland, so that subscribers get a computer terminal enabling banking transactions to be carried out from home.
All models have been designed to provide an attractive and user-friendly connection with Viewdata systems, including British Telecom's Prestel service. They could be used with a standard UHF TV, or with a screen by means of Composite Video or RGB output.
In addition, data could be passed to a printer or a tape recorder.
Many thanks to Binary Dinosaurs!
Overview: binarydinosaurs.co.uk/Museum/Tandata/td2500.php
Hi-RES picture of PCB: binarydinosaurs.co.uk/Museum/Tandata/tandataPA-13.jpg
PSU Pinout: binarydinosaurs.co.uk/scripts/picshow.php?image=/Museum/Tandata/PA-pinout.jpg&back=/Museum/Tandata/pa.php
These kinds of car keys are lightweight, reliable and robust. With proper maintenance (protection from dust and new batteries), will be working for the years to come!
The display shows the energy and load power and plenty of other useful information like Watts, KW/h, Amp, Cost, Voltage Frequency, Power factor, minimum power, maximum power, electricity price in 2x tariffs.
Saving electricity not only helps our pockets, but also the environment by protecting important resources.
MANUFACTURER Sony
TYPE Home Computer
ORIGIN Japan
YEAR 1984
BUILT IN LANGUAGE Microsoft Extended (MSX Basic V1.0)
Personal DataBank sofware built-in
KEYBOARD QWERTY mechanical keyboard
AZERTY for the HB-75F
CPU Z80A
SPEED 3,6 Mhz
RAM 64 kb, 30 kb left for the programming
VRAM 16 kb
ROM 32 kb + 16kb for built-in software
TEXT MODES:
Mode 0 : 40 x 24
Mode 1 : 32 x 24
GRAPHIC MODES:
Mode 2 : 256 x 192 with 16 colors (Hires mode)
Mode 3 : 64 x 48 with 16 colors (Multi colour mode)
32 sprites
COLORS 16
SOUND General Instruments AY-3-8910 Programmable Sound Generator
3 channels, 8 octaves
I/O PORTS 2 joystick sockets
2 cardridge slot (1 at the rear)
Tape-recorder plug (1200/2400 bauds)
RGB video output
Centronics interface
Monitor video output
Scart video output
OS: MSX DOS
The truth is not obvious as 8 bit machines from the past, used mono audio input and the modern devices can only output stereo sound.
I tried stereo-to-stereo cables from the market and i also tried to use the mono-to-mono cable that was included in the ZX Spectrum's bundle pack.
None of the above attempts worked, there is some incompatibility on both.
I thought i should make my own cable, i based the findings on experimentation and narrowed down the combinations to a combination of
a custom cable made stereo on one side (player) and mono on the side of the computer.
Last but not least, the tests have been conducted using WAV files - instead of MP3s - due to better volume levels and quality, by using a wonderful piece of software which is called OTLA loader which can convert the MP3s but also can create a turbo loader copy of the game.
GET OTLA from google Archives:
code.google.com/archive/p/otla/downloads
The result is to be compared with the manufacturer's documentation and this way we get to the faulty components or misbehavior around our device easier and faster.
This device presented today, is the simplest design we can construct, based on a single NPN transistor which we have put to work as a switch.
USEFUL Links:
electronics-notes.com/articles/test-methods/logic-probes/what-is-a-logic-probe.php
HOW to: Using 2 transistors:
electronicsarea.com/logic-probe-using-two-transistors
HOW to: Using IC:
http://www.learningaboutelectronics.com/Articles/Logic-probe-circuit.php
MULTIMETER vs. Logic Probe:
techtownforum.com/2021/06/07/logic-probe-vs-multimeter
We use quite a few remote controllers daily, for the TV, for the A/C, DVD player or games console etc.
Your remote controller might give you trouble sending the signal to your device.
Especially after many years of every day use, the controller is failing.
You can try in-depth cleaning of the inside of the remote controller, as well as the outside.
Cleaning the contacts can sometimes make all the difference, but not always, problematic might be a power line or the infrared led up on the top side as well but this is rare.
You can use antibacterial wipes or domestic detergents to break down and dissolve any oily stains, sweat or any kind of leftovers inside the device.
developers and also many researchers in the filed of artificial intelligence.
ANALYSIS & categorization:
Backgammon is a game with the same
chance as Bridge, Scrabble, Poker etc.
Many algorithms for
playing such games have been implemented over the years.
DEMO:
Sinclair ZX Spectrum 16K/48K by PSION, (c) 1983.
GAME TYPE:
Probability/Chance.
HISTORICAL FACT:
The first successful software for Backgammon game was
BKG, by Hans Berline, which won the
Backgammon world champion in 1979.
REF. Backgammon Java Developing - Full journal paper here:
naun.org/main/NAUN/computers/16-158.pdf#:~:text=There%20are%20some%20typical%20algorithms%20used%20for%20implement,The%20expectiminimax%20tree%20is%20a%20specialized%20variation%20of
SOLUTION:
Backgammon solution, usually, consists of a MiniMax search
with the inclusion of the Alpha-Beta prune and chance nodes
to handle probabilities.
Game programming deals with many
computations and has a lot of different objects interacting and
moving.
MiniMax algorithm here:
http://worldcomp-proceedings.com/proc/p2011/FEC3509.pdf
MODEL MPC 100
MANUFACTURER Sanyo
TYPE Home Computer
ORIGIN Japan
YEAR 1984
BUILT IN LANGUAGE Microsoft Extended Basic (MSX Basic V1.0)
KEYBOARD Full-stroke keyboard (5 F-keys with 10 functions)
CPU Zilog Z80A (equivalent by NEC)
SPEED 3.58 MHz
CO-PROCESSOR Video chip compatible with the TI: TMS 9918/A or TMS 9928/A
RAM 64 KB
VRAM 16 KB
ROM 32 KB BASIC/BIOS ( MSX Microsoft BASIC V1.0)
TEXT MODES Mode 0 : 40 x 24
Mode 1 : 32 x 24
GRAPHIC MODES Mode 2 : 256 x 192 with 16 colors (Hires mode)
Mode 3 : 64 x 48 with 16 colors (Multi colour mode)
32 sprites
COLORS 16
SOUND General Instruments AY-3-8910 Programmable Sound Generator
3 channels, 8 octaves
I/O PORTS Joystick connector, Cardridge slot, Expansion bus, Tape-recorder plug (1200/2400 bauds), A/V video output, RF video output (with channel 1 or 2 selection switch), Centronics interface, Light-pen
All emulators allow you to replay classic games from systems like the Super Nintendo and PlayStation 2 on modern hardware — usually with some enhancements too.
This one is part of the Free McBoot memory card and allows you to play retro-on-retro (e.g. SNES on PS2) and that is why we love it so much!
Credits:
Hiryu, who originally wrote the SNES Station PS2 emulator and everyone behind it.
Download SNES Station:
emuparadise.me/Super_Nintendo_Entertainment_System_(SNES)_Emulators/Playstation_2/SNES-Station/98
SNES ROMs:
emulatorgames.net/roms/super-nintendo
These old magazines in particular, describe a sort of an explosion of diversity in hardware and software initial and original designs.
You may come across stand-alone software gems or hardware ideas serving us today but invented back then so, enjoy every step back in time like this..!
It is an Amstrad CPC collection of game tapes but also some documentation, manuals and joysticks that came along.
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In this video, as we're browsing over the goodies, i try to share an idea of creating some new, dedicated playlists for:
1. MSX Home micros
2. Domestic Appliances repairs
3. Classic Games Reviews
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So, put your ideas or comments in the well known comments area here below, thanks and cheers!


