Acorn A3000 Battery Damage - Complete Board Strip & Trace Repair Plan C 2019-04-18 | I bought an Acorn A3000 that was being sold 'for parts only' due to some pretty serious battery damage. I had to try and save it!Video shows complete teardown to board, removal of all components in affected area, neutralizing of corrosion, stripping back the solder mask from damaged traces and how I repaired traces and vias with a mixture of solder and magnet wire. I then reassemble and do a preliminary test boot.Also shows a way to jerryrig a 'Del' key to save the keyboard ribbon when testing the machine and testing of 74 logic chips on an eprom programmer.I probably went a bit over-the top but better to be sure. Many traces were rusty or had high resistance.Waiting on some new keyboard connectors for part 2::mouser.co.uk/ProductDetail/TE-Connectivity-AMP/7-520355-0?qs=%2Fha2pyFadujRi2Z6jxSELYK2qCaK%2Fu0lLKNZOnNcMpVpmJiy6B3FpA%3D%3DPart 2: youtu.be/Ae_-DW-ItEcPOST Error Calculator:retro-kit.co.uk/page.cfm/content/Common-RISC-OS-POST-failure-errorsGood luck All
Dangerous Fake UK Mains Cables Plan C 2024-09-19 | Dangerous Fake UK Mains Cables. Worth checking. Thanks for watching. Good luck all.
This Fixed Stick Drift When Even Replacing Gimbals Twice Didnt. Very Cheap and Easy. Plan C 2024-09-12 | Very cheap and easy fix to rectify stick drift on a controller or gamepad using only a couple of resistors. Worked when replacing the gimbals did not. Compensates for tuning at factory for original sticks.Cheaper than new gimbal. Minimal disassembly, fairly basic tools (soldering iron, solder, a few resistors)Worth a shot if all else fails. Should also work on drone controllers etc. will not work for Hall Effect (magnetic) based sticks.Video covers basic idea, testing different values and gives some rough suggested started test values. The calculation for resistors in parallel is complicated but they are just my findings through experimenting.WARNING! I SAY THE WORD 'POT' A LOT IN THIS VIDEO LOLGood Luck All
PS5 No power Fix. (Wifi). Very short version. Plan C 2024-08-25 | 3 minute version.Basically, a missing resistor and a cooked wifi module.Full repair vid is here for those interested:youtu.be/vGfPqOQQwuY?si=v-MXT__vaAEarKysMusic is digital math / hop upCut and paste below:AirwaveMusicTV - Music for your heart. ♥Soundcloud: http://bit.ly/2394bHw | Facebook: http://bit.ly/1SuQFfRSubscribe: http://bit.ly/1WUhw6QDigital Math - Hop Up► Digital Math / digital-math / digital.math / digital_math ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------FREE DOWNLOAD: / digital-math-hop-up Free to use on YouTube:You can use THIS track in your own videos as long as you add the following info in the description:- Music provided by AirwaveMusicTV ( / airwavemusictv )- A link to this upload of the track on my channel- Social media links---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Buy on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/hop...Argofox Creative Commons: / argofox / argofoxcc / mmmontagemusic Artwork by Artem Rhads Chebohahttp://rhads.deviantart.com / therhads ► AirwaveMusicTV / airwavemusictv / airwavemusictvofficial / airwavemusictv / airwavemusictv plus.google.com/+AirwaveMusicTVDonate via PayPal and support my channel: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr...Business inquiries & submissions: AirwaveMusicTV@gmail.com
Playstation 5 No Power. Diagnosis and Fix (EDM-020) Plan C 2024-08-16 | This PS5 Would not turn on at all. In this video I take the board out, show the tests I did to work out the problem and fix it. These include:0:00 - Intro0:55 - PSU test1:15 - Inspection for damage & previous work.3:16 - Testing fuses4:37 - Testing for shorts9:54 - Re-balling replacement wifi module12:09 - Removal of damaged wifi module and antenna connector16:51 - Fit replacement module18:10 - Replacing antenna connector19:50 - Replace liquid metal21:05 - Initial testing23:30 - Summary reassembly & testsThanks to The Cod3r for his excellent video series.My videos are pretty 'bare metal'. A few handheld shots and not much post processing. I just try to document the repair in the hope it may be helpful.Good luck all.
Hombrew Sinclair QL Power Supply Plan C 2024-05-05 | In this video, I build a power supply for a sinclair QL by following an old schematic I found on the internet. I talk through how the various power rails are created by the power supply and in the computer itself.I put the power supply through several tests and eventually hook it up to a real Sinclair QL.The finished product is pretty raw. I built it out of curiosity in order to try and learn something. I am not an electrical engineer, just a hobbyist with an interest. The video is for entertainment only. I am explaining it to myself as much as other people. The schematic that the power supply is based on can be found here:qlforum.co.uk/viewtopic.php?t=1231&sid=3ec386d4e2d8b262c7818ca09b8d70c9&start=20It was designed by 1024MAK M.Kinsey Example of MP1584 DC-DC Converter:ebay.co.uk/itm/36153517554615-0-15 3VA transformer I used:esr.co.uk/shop/contents/en-uk/p42421_15---0---15v-2.0A-30VA-Open-Frame-Transformer.html3D Printed power Plug Housing for Servo Cable:thingiverse.com/thing:6610958/filesEarly Video Showing ATX Conversion from Stock (inc 9v - rough audio):youtu.be/l8P8wsdjCFo?si=rHvsZZitELLHZaIU(No affiliations)Good Luck All
Acorn A3010 Motherboard Repair Plan C 2024-04-14 | Repair of Acorn A3010 motherboard that appeared dead and had suffered corrosion damage due to a leaking onboard battery.Video shows summary of clean up of damage caused by battery acid, basic initial tests, cursory overview of trace repairs to battery damaged areas. I scope for clocks and reset, check the address bus and trace out broken connections. Finally, a brief power up and test. Also demonstrate a useful diagnostic tool for vintage Acorn computers.Hopefully, there will be a part 2 detailing the rest of the restoration if I manage to obtain a case and etc. Thanks to SparksUK and Gadget UK.Good luck All!Schematics:archive.org/details/a30x0trmcover/A30x0%2BA4000trmif not here then here:drive.google.com/file/d/1UYZv2mETkY9Xoz-fz9RuZ3pgmmb08x6P/view?usp=sharingdrive.google.com/file/d/1K0gPXLdzkM4tBN_k44YPsZ9sA4594fv0/view?usp=sharingdrive.google.com/file/d/1kRcQLbRu2OqIn1BMPVnRA3Z9SI5HuO-N/view?usp=sharingService Manual:drive.google.com/file/d/1uvlZt-zdkU2mWPW06kai2xTjRgcHhPtJ/view?usp=drive_linkContinuity Worksheet Between ARM250 & ROMs:drive.google.com/file/d/1UFj3rjQ7Gopoecn1tmbq7alQDJedWK__/view?usp=sharingHow to Jerry Rig Del Key with a Button to Clear CMOS(Save Keyboard Membrane Wear While Testing)drive.google.com/file/d/1wmJFrfNet46kEmjA_LQ4GTwqKAXPVdN7/view?usp=sharingAcorn P.O.S.T. Box Diagnostic Tool:myelin.nz/acorn/postboxAcorn POST Error Codes explanation/calculator:(Usually flashes of the floppy drive light)retro-kit.co.uk/page.cfm/content/Common-faults-on-the-Acorn-Archimedes
Atari 2600 from Oven to Heatsink (Light Sixer) Plan C 2022-11-05 | While refurbishing a couple of Atari 2600s, I experiment with a cheap and simple way to convert the RF can (which contains the mainboard and 3 custom chips) into a heatsink. The seed for this idea came when watching a video by @GadgetUK164 where he said it would be a good idea to mount a fan in or on the RF can (link below).Normally, the three custom chips slowly 'cook' inside the RF can as they get hot and there is very little airflow. It is literally like an oven!Over the years, the heat from the 3 chips had left heat/burn marks on the roof of the RF can!The 3 custom chips (RIOT, TIA and 6507) are no longer manufactured and date from the very early 1980s or even late 1970s. The chips in these units were dated early 1981. Chips generally last longer if kept cool.Replacements are available from retailers like Best Electronics in California but once they run out, that is it.Hopefully, this modification will help to keep these custom chips (and therefore the 2600) going for as long as possible.Good Luck AllGadget UK video that started me thinking:youtu.be/BP84oiKwGiA @17:15Orange paint mod for bezel here:youtu.be/qxfbHP4LmQw @13:42
Trying to Run My Combi Boiler off a 200W Power Bank Plan C 2022-10-23 | With all the talk about rolling blackouts this winter, I tried powering my combination boiler off of a powerbank which has an inverter.Even if you have gas, without electricity the boiler will not work as the pump, ignition etc all need power. I did a few brief experiments to see if it would work and tried to work out how much time it would give heating and / or hot water for in a blackout.On watching the footage back, the startup did briefly push the power drawe to 400W which is well ahead of the powerbanks rated output but it then settled back to well within limits. It started fine multiple times.Obviously, a generator would work too but these have limitations such as noise, being outside, not being able to use in the rain etc.These units can be had for as as little as £100 with vouchers etc. Please note this is just an idea and your mileage may vary massively depending on what boiler and powerbank you use and how you set the thermostat. I AM NOT SUGGESTING ANYBODY DO THIS. I AM NOT A BOILER ENGINEER!Good luck All.This unit:amazon.co.uk/Jackery-Portable-Explorer-Generator-Outdoors/dp/B08RNPYLQWOther units:amazon.co.uk/powkey-200Watt-Portable-Generator-42000mAh/dp/B08CN8TLH3
HP Pavilion Slimline, Black Screen no P.O.S.T. Power Supply Fix Plan C 2022-06-12 | A neighbour's old desktop PC showed strange behaviour. More often than not, it would not start and just show a black screen. It would not POST.I fixed it by changing a capacitor in the proprietary power supply. Not the most exciting repair but I thought I would document the process.The PC is an old Pentium Dual Core HP Pavilion Slimline desktop S3714UK but the principle would hold true for newer machines as well.Good Luck All
Another Acorn Archimedes A3000 Repair Vlog Plan C 2022-06-03 | A pretty detailed video log of an Acorn A3000 repair. The machine was purchased from Ebay and was apparently recovered from a skip years previously. It was in very good cosmetic condition but had several faults and would not even POST or boot initally. The video covers the fault finding process, using the the service manual, schematics and an oscilloscope to get the machine to boot. After that, the floppy drive, power supply, keyboard and mouse controls are serviced and/or repaired.Key points:Intro: Initial cleanup and board repairs: 02:33 Fault finding steps per the Service Manual: 06:10Floppy drive: 18:51Keyboard: 20:53PCB trace repairs: 25:24Power supply tests: 27:44Mouse trace repairs: 31:07Keyboard ribbon repairs: 32:02To do: 33:51Service Manual:chrisacorns.computinghistory.org.uk/docs/Acorn/Manuals/Acorn_A3000SM.pdfBwack Saver:github.com/bwack/C64-Saver-bwackGood Luck All
Making & Testing a NeatPLA for the Commodore 64 Plan C 2022-04-16 | 'NeatPLA' is an evolution of 'DodgyPLA'. Both are CPLD-based replacements which I have found to show good compatibility. In this video, I build and test a 'NeatPLA'. Two simple tests are used - 1) Super Zaxxon and 2) a dedicated glitch test circuit designed by Eslapion. The test rig is a 250407 motherboard revision.Links:NeatPLA Github:github.com/1c3d1v3r/neatPLADodgyPLA Github:github.com/desaster/c64-dodgyplaXlinx Programmer & Software Links:Software:Making Xilinx Software work on Windows 10:youtu.be/VMEIPCjqinAProgrammer:amazon.co.uk/Waveshare-Compatible-Platform-Cable-USB/dp/B00KM70UFGEslapion PLA Glitch Test Circuit:http://sleepingelephant.com/~sleeping/ipw-web/bulletin/bb/viewtopic.php?t=5533&start=210Music is "Inspiartion" (Filmora 11 Copyright Free)Good Luck All.
Bonus Turtle Feel Good Footage! Plan C 2022-03-30 | Why not? We have all had a shit couple of years.Good luck All
Acorn A3000 Extreme Refurb : Acid Damaged Acorn and a Magic POSTBox Plan C 2021-09-19 | This video documents the repair of an Acorn Archimedes A3000 which had suffered extreme battery damage. It was pretty much a complete strip and rebuild of the motherboard. The unit is then tested and brought back to full working order. A diagnostic tool called a POSTBox, which helped greatly with the repair, is also showcased.The unit was very kindly donated to the channel by GadgetUK164 and featured in his recent video:"Acorn Archimedes A300 Repair (From Hell)"youtu.be/iGhJbeUrA0YA massive thank you to GadgetUK for both the donation and all the help as well as to Zarchos, who donated some machines to GadgetUK in the first place. I am blown away by the generosity.The repair process is also documented in some detail in a thread on the Star Dot forums:stardot.org.uk/forums/viewtopic.php?t=23013The memory test script used in the repair can also be found there.This repair actually took months and was only possible thanks to the in-depth knowledge and patience of the people at Star Dot so a massive thank you to them as well.The POSTBox diagnostic toll was sourced from Star Dot. Details of the unit can be found here:myelin.nz/acorn/postboxContinuity tests spreadsheet and bare motherboard photos here:drive.google.com/drive/folders/17mnQDncaZLgUeX4i0YTH0fuGZ5GodSwY?usp=sharingPlease note: There were times when I gave up on the repair for weeks at a time and there were some parts I did not set out to video. I had to cobble together some of the footage. There are a few short sections of handheld video towards the end. A few sections have less than perfect audio. Not terrible but I have tried to limit them as much as possible.Credits:Music: "Mind Over Matter" by Jay Man - http://ourmusicbox.comCreative Commons — Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported— CC BY-SA 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b..."drum-roll-sound-effect""Free Sounds Library"Free Sound Effects Site.Licence: License: Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0). http://www.freesoundslibrary.comGood luck All
Random Fix: Clone XBox 360 Wireless Gamepad Repair Plan C 2021-07-25 | I fixed a Xbox 360 controller clone (Easy SMX) for a neighbour. Nothing Earth shattering. The right hand analogue stick didn't go up or down. In this video, I replace the offending stick and make the parts sourced from Ebay fit this particular model. Fwiw, I think the controller was using gimbals based on the PS2.I assumed that these parts would be interchangeable - a clone Xbox controller would suit Ebay parts described as for Xbox controllers. I was wrong...Good luck all!
ARMSID vs Real 6581 SID (Re-Upload) Plan C 2021-05-10 | I originally put this up in September 2019 and then took it down with a bunch of other videos in a panic after some rap artist put a copyright claim in for me having a telly on in another room whilst I was doing a board repair video. (It turned out to be rubbish but it put me off Youtube for a few months).I have re-uploaded this video to try to help people hear a fair comparison of the ARMSID to the original 6581 SID as many 6581 chips are failing now and we need to figure out how to make a replacement. I have tried to pick the tunes that may highlight any differences.I do not pretend to own any of the 1 bar clips in this comparison video. All effort has been made to limit the use of any such material to a bare minimum in order to enable a fair comparison of hardware under reasonable use scenarios.Copyright Disclaimer: Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.The clips used in this video and their respective (and truly talented) creators are:The Last Ninja - Ben DaglishThe Last Ninja 3 - Reyn OuwehandMonty on the Run - Ron HubbardThing on a Spring - Ron HubbardAlien - Paul ClanceyR-Type - C. Huelsbeck & R. VacaWizball - Martin GalwayGolden Axe - Jeroen Tel If anybody has an issue with me using these audio clips then I will take them down. Please let me know in the comments. Thanks.The ARMSID was using the original firmware in this video.Good luck All.
Building a 128K ZX Spectrum Clone with an LED Keyboard Plan C 2021-04-29 | In this video I show the process of building a brand new 128k ZX Spectrum clone complete with LED backlit keyboard. The Harlequin is a clone of the 128k Spectrum which is designed to fit in the original rubber key 48k case and uses off-the-shelf components to replicate the workings of the custom ULA chip used by Sinclair. As the original ULA chips age and fail, the Harlequin offers a way to continue using the ZX Spectrum.Video shows the key steps of each stage of construction of both the computer and the keyboard.Finishes with a reverse polarity protection mod to avoid any future problems.Good luck all.Timestamps:Intro: 00:00Computer Build: 02:23Keyboard Build: 08:42RP Protection 16:34Afrotechmods Reverse Polarity Video:youtu.be/IrB-FPcv1DcZelux Soldering Video:youtu.be/IhV53v_CBtE
Random Fix: 12v Switch Mode Power Supply Repair Plan C 2020-10-20 | A neighbour asked me to try and fix the charger for his robotic vacuum cleaner. I figured I would video it as it is a common failure in many switch mode power supplies.Video shows disassembly, finding the faulty component and selecting a suitable replacement from my spare parts bin.There will be some more retro computer stuff coming shortly.Music is 'Busy as a Bee' by Jay Manwww.our-music-box.comGood luck All
Amiga 500 (Heavy) PSU Brief Walkthrough & Repair Plan C 2020-09-15 | Repair of linear type Amiga 500 power supply from Ebay. Pretty simple fix. I love the simplicity and repairability of this type of unit. Quick waffle about how it works then on with the actual repair:Time Stamps:Getting into it: 0:27How it works: 01:39Actual Repair: 03:54(More detailed reverse engineering video about this power supply with hand drawn schematics here:)youtu.be/kWHNvDOai-AGood luck All
C64 Re-Brick Reloaded (re-uploaded!) Plan C 2020-09-10 | Opened up the notorious C64 power brick. Tried to de-epoxy it and ended-up designing a modern replacement power supply to fit in the existing case. Video shows schematic, build and test under load.Re-upload of a video that was removed due to copyright strike. Dates from 2017. Any copyright music removed.Link to Google Drive (scan of schematic, simple BOM and some Eagle files):drive.google.com/drive/folders/0BzujMMpM5EE4RGlPM3ZxV3hxLVU?usp=sharingThe PSU design was inspired by the following videos: Greisis Workbench PSU (with links to his BOM & schematics):youtu.be/oY6ycn7qmzoc64 Re-brick video:youtu.be/Fej_3XbufRAMusic is 'Chopstick Slapstick' by Jay Man our-music-box.comI hope to do another improved version in the not too distant future...Good luck All
Ebay PS4 WLOD Repair (HDMI Port) & Clean up Plan C 2020-09-06 | Bought a PS4 off Ebay which showed a black screen but a white light. Replaced the mangled HDMI port,Video shows:sped up disassembly, replacement of HDMI port, my method of port alignment, sped up replacement of thermal paste on APU, sped up cleaning of Blu Ray drive and sped up re-assembly.Music is 'Spy And Die' by Jay Manhttps://www.Our-Music-Box.comyoutube.com/watch?v=-uHnNt-Y9M8Tools used:Aoyue 968A+ re-work station (soldering iron)Quick 861DW hot air station (on port)Duratool 80w desoldering gun (to unblock holes + hot air)Amtech NC-559-V2-TF fluxKapton tapeLeaded solderT10 security screwdriverPhillips screwdriverArtic MX-4 thermal pastecocktail stickpart of old credit card.Good luck All
Random Fix: Fixing a Blown XBox One Power Supply (PCB Repair) Plan C 2020-08-28 | Bought and repaired a broken Day One Edition XBox One from Ebay. Ended-up repairing the power supply as it had failed fairly catastrophically. Detailed the repair in the hope it may help others.Component / values used in repair:Switchmode chip: TNY277PN (or better)R801: 1206 SMD resistor 2.2 Ohms / 2R2C806: SMD Cap 37 pfR806: SMD Resistor 0608 '30C' OR 20KOhmsOnboard fuse: T4A - 4 Amp time delay fuseElecrolytic capacitor on burned trace: 10 uf/50vCracked ceramic cap on 5v standby line: 10 uf / 50vMOV: 14N471KX/Y CAP: 0.47ufMosfets on 5vsb rail: 2N7002,N, 60VAdapter Used to convert XBox 360 supply for testing can be found on Amazon for about £6. Use at own risk but I don't see why it wouldn't work. I get nothing from it.Good luck All...
LED TV Black Screen Fix (Backlight) Plan C 2020-07-20 | Fixed an LED TV for a mate and thought I would document it. Quick teardown, test of power supply, a way you can get away with bodging LEDs if there are just a couple of failed ones. I decided to change them all. 00:23 - How to check remote00:45 - Check backlight 01:51 - Power supply overview07:00 - Teardown summary10:18 - Testing LED strips11:26 - Finding individual bad LEDS and potential bodge fix This machine is an LG 42LN5400.Got the full set of LEDs from eBay for about £20.Shopjimmy's detailed teardown vid for this particular model before starting here (most of these TVs are fairly similar)youtu.be/T2FboV-1PJgElectronics Repair Channel Here:youtube.com/channel/UCooKQlg-HZ0PFAPc4Ymg3RAGood Luck All.
PS4 Washer Fix, 2 Year Tweak! Plan C 2020-06-26 | I 'fixed' a broken PS4 off eBay using the washer fix about 2 years ago. It started playing-up recently ... just as I sat down with a new copy of The Last of Us Part II on Disc!Since I had it open, I thought it would be worth showing the washer fix in case it is useful to anybody else. This is a well-known trick and not my idea.This PS4 is an older model CUH1116A. It was originally sold to me (wrongly) as white light of death. I replaced the HDMI chip (not shown in this video) but it turned out it was really a blue light of death unit, which can be a bit of a nightmare.The washer fix got it going and it has been working ever since ... touch wood.Hopefully, this video may help others.Good luck All.
Amstrad CPC6128 Gotek, Bwack Saver and Mosfet Reverse Polarity Protection from Scrap Drone Parts Plan C 2020-06-07 | I decided to tidy-up my Amstrad CPC6128 because it was running off two wall warts - one for the computer and one for the disk drive. One was centre pin positive 5v and one centre pin negative 12v!To protect against future mishaps, I fitted a Bwack saver over-voltage unit in series with an n-channel mosfet that I pilfered from a broken drone ESC. I do some tests out of circuit to make sure it all works. I also fit a Gotek with an OLED screen and 3d printed bracket.Video shows:Wiring of Gotek to existing Amstrad cablesOverview of programming Gotek (very brief)How to wire the Bwack saver into the AmstradHow the Reverse polarity protection mosfet works.Tests out of circuit.FittingGood Luck All.Links:Afrotechmods Mosfet Reverse Polarity Video:youtu.be/IrB-FPcv1DcBwack Saver: github.com/bwack/C64-Saver-bwackHXC2001 Gotek Bootloader (non-free) and instructions:torlus.com/floppy/forum/viewtopic.php?f=33&t=1683Example Floppy Cable Adapter:ebay.co.uk/itm/Amstrad-CPC-6128-Plus-Gotek-Ribbon-Cable-Set-Vintage-Computer-Schneider-Retro/133404825195?hash=item1f0f8c166b:g:MD4AAOSwJrBeYh-DGotek Bracket:thingiverse.com/thing:2876318GadgetUK Amstrad Saver Video:youtu.be/Kgiy67EvFbYBuilding, testing and fitting a Bwack Saver:youtu.be/nbJtqEZ6yJEMusic is Sneaky by Jay ManFree Musicyoutube.com/watch?v=ZI-4UPEGNYQ&t=12syoutube.com/channel/UCEXX5i6961zc4-L8thTctBg
3D Printed Surgical Mask Straps Plan C 2020-04-06 | Putting my 3d Printers to use to help fight the pandemic. These are easy to print and helpful to medical staff. Not my idea but worth promoting. Kudos to original developer. Will be printing and sending to my local areas of need.Good luck All.Link:thingiverse.com/thing:4249113HackthePandemic: Other things that may help:thingiverse.com/groups/hackthepandemicMaker Mask - 3d Printed Mask:makermask.com
Random Fix: Hoverboard. No Power. Wont Charge Plan C 2019-12-01 | Fixed a hoverboard for a friend. Symptoms were no power and wouldn't charge. Video shows teardown, replacement of component on mainboard (transistor), quick look at battery and charger, and sped-up re-assembly.Good luck All.Music: Busy As A Bee - Comedy | Super Fast - Royalty Free MusicMusic by: Jay ManLinks: http://OurMusicBox.com youtube.com/watch?v=R9CtCeqBgxU
Making and Testing a DodgyPLA (Open Source CPLD PLA for C64) Plan C 2019-11-09 | Thought I would test the limits of my home etching and build a few CPLD PLAs for the Commodore 64. Video shows cold toner transfer method, building of board from scratch, programming with a Xilinx programmer and iMPACT and then a quick test in one of my fussiest C64s with an especially fussy Super Zaxxon cartridge.Good Luck All.Links:DodgyPLA (board, schematics, .jed files):github.com/desaster/c64-dodgyplaCold Toner Transfer better explanation:youtube.com/watch?v=HBIxvwZ_0ogXilinx Software:Making Xilinx Software work on Windows 10:youtube.com/watch?v=VMEIPCjqinAFirmware Used: (.jed file)github.com/hackup/c64-dodgypla (link to .jed file used here)Other DodgyPLA Builds:XCPLA Build:hackup.net/2019/06/the-xcpla-yet-another-pla-replacement/nggallery/slideshowKludge Build: (.jed, gerbers for fab house etc)gitlab.com/kludge/dodgyplaAll of these are based on original work by skoe:bitbucket.org/skoe/pla/src/defaultDetailed Analysis of the C64 PLA:http://skoe.de/docs/c64-dissected/pla/c64_pla_dissected_a4ds.pdfMusic:––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––Track: Affect — Vishmak [Audio Library Release]Music provided by Audio Library PlusWatch: youtu.be/5uh7qw3NPWAFree Download / Stream: http://alplus.io/AffectVishmak––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––🎵 Track Info:Title: Affect by Vishmak Genre and Mood: Dance & Electronic + DramaticLicense: Royalty free music for YouTube, Facebook and Instagram videos giving the appropriate credit. ——— 😊 Vishmak:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/18xeE...YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7QU...Instagram: instagram.com/the_vishmakSoundCloud: soundcloud.com/vishmak———🎧 Listen to all our releases on our Spotify playlist: http://alplus.io/spotify———
DIY C64 EPROM PLA Board with Filters Plan C 2019-10-13 | I threw together a single-sided PCB to convert an EPROM to be a PLA in a C64 breadbin. The design is based on filtering designed by Ray Carlsen. Video shows etching, construction and testing. Original idea: Ray Carlsen. Idea for PCB from Mindflareretro's rePLAcement which was inspired by GadgetUK's OTP EPROM video.Kicad files (Sorry about the name. It was a placeholder & I don't know how to re-name it in Kicad):drive.google.com/open?id=1tctaYB2EPzRde0xitydnHz8wfMoirD_QRay Carlsen Schematic:http://personalpages.tds.net/%7Ercarlsen/cbm/c64/epromplaGadgetUK OTP PLA Video:youtu.be/sT4OBNvboJ0Mindflareretro PLA Video:youtu.be/ofg33zk9uCAGood luck All.
eBay C64 Flaky CPU & Srange SD2IEC Read Error Fix (Re-upload) Plan C 2019-09-28 | This is a re-upload of an old video. I took a few down after receiving an (erroneous) copyright strike from some rapper I have never heard of called liluzisomething (I had a TV on in another room on a different video)! I put it back up with free to use music and sound effects as it is an unusual fault and may help somebody else to diagnose a problem.It is an old mic so apologies for some of the audio. I since got a better one.Good luck AllSong Title: Chopstick SlapstickMusic by Jay Man - OurMusicBoxhttp://www.youtube.com/c/ourmusicboxSound Effects: Incorrect: bad-beep-incorrect - richerlandtv - freesound.org - cc3 no changes made freesound.org/people/RICHERlandTV/sounds/216090Correct: Triange - public domain - creative commons 0.
Making & Programming a Nano Swinsid-b Plan C 2019-09-22 | I followed Tolaemon's excellent tutorial to make a few SID replacements for some C64s. I used a cheap USBASP programmer and ProgISP instead of an expensive AVR programmer and Atmel Studio. Bonus drunk footage of un-bricking a mis-programmed Atmega using a TL866ii at the end Tolaemon's Howto: (includes firmwares, gerbers etc): http://www.tolaemon.com/nss/index.htm Software used to program Atmega: Progisp: noobieelectronic.blogspot.com/2018/01/how-to-install-progisp-on-pc.html USBASP Drivers: https://protostack.com.au/2015/01/usbAVR Fuse Calculator: http://www.engbedded.com/fusecalc Good Luck All
Testing a Few DIY PLA Options (A Bit More Scientifically) Plan C 2019-09-16 | I hooked-up a 74LS279 Latch circuit to my C64 test rig to test some DIY PLA solutions. The circuit tests for glitches in the PLA by means of a set/reset latch. I got the idea from MindFlareRetro's video below. I tested 45ns OTP ROMs with and without filters designed by Ray Carlsen, a supposed '906B' chip from eBay (supposed to be the only true drop-in EPROM - if you can find a real one), a couple of pre-programmed PLS100N's (the chip Commodore copied) and a known glitchy MOS PLA for reference. For the record, the eBay vendor that I bought the PLS100Ns from was very professional and issued my with a replacement without issues. He couldn't have been more helpful.The chips tested were:1) Atmel AT27C512R4RU - OTP Chip - Just CASRAM capacitor2) Same Chip with a DIY filter designed by Ray Carlsen: http://personalpages.tds.net/%7Ercarlsen/cbm/c64/eprompla/readpla.jpg3) eBay M27C512-90B6 - (no filtering)4) Genuine but glitchy MOS PLA 5) eBay PLS100NiNSPIRATION:Mindflareretro's video is here: The PLAin Truth About The C64 PLA youtube.com/watch?v=ofg33zk9uCA Ray Carlsen's pages are here: http://personalpages.tds.net/%7Ercarlsen/cbmGadgetUK164's Video which started me off here:youtube.com/watch?v=sT4OBNvboJ0ps I recently got a copyright strike from Youtube for using, of all things, circus music! I have taken down two other videos as a precaution:C64 Flakey PLA Fix &C64 Re-brick reloadedIf I can find them, I will re-upload with no circus music!Good luck AllMusic is:––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––Track: Affect — Vishmak [Audio Library Release]Music provided by Audio Library PlusWatch: youtu.be/5uh7qw3NPWAFree Download / Stream: http://alplus.io/AffectVishmak––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––🎵 Track Info:Title: Affect by Vishmak Genre and Mood: Dance & Electronic + DramaticLicense: Royalty free music for YouTube, Facebook and Instagram videos giving the appropriate credit. ———
Fix Ethernet Cable Clip with Two Zip Ties Plan C 2019-09-07 | Easy way to fix an Ethernet cable which has a broken clip and keeps falling out. There are variations on this technique and it is not my idea but, as I had a broken cable, I thought I would demonstrate it.Requires only two 2.5mm wide cable ties. Saves an otherwise good cable.Also a good excuse to test out a new mic lol.Good luck All
Re-Homing a Repaired A500+ Board (The Hole Story Part II) Plan C 2019-08-25 | I wanted to turn the last A500+ board I repaired back into a full Amiga as the board was in very good condition. I sourced a damaged A500+ case that somebody had hacked-up cheaply from eBay and set about repairing it with a mix of 3d printed parts, putty & paint. Also programmed and fitted a Gotek floppy emulator in a non-destructive manner.Was therapeutic if nothing else!Good luck AllExpansion Port Cover:thingiverse.com/thing:2281340Memory Trapdoor Cover:thingiverse.com/thing:3788368A500 OLED Gotek Carrier - non destructivethingiverse.com/thing:2882336HxC2001 Website:http://hxc2001.free.fr/floppy_drive_emulator/index.html#Download_HxCFirmwareForGotekAnother Helpful Gotek Link:exxoshost.co.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?t=593USB Serial Drivers for Windows 10:exxoshost.co.uk/forum/download/file.php?id=1842&sid=3714bd11ef54b5bf70ddff51478dea9dSilabs site where you migh find other drivers:exxoshost.co.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?t=593Music:Bleeps Galore by Roccow - www.freemusicarchive.orgPlanetcruizer by Skip - www.freemusicarchive.org
eBay C64: Numerous Faults & Repairs (250407) Plan C 2019-08-20 | This C64 had been in the wars. After cleaning and fixing some obvious faults, it lead me a merry dance, despite repeatedly passing diagnostic tests! The diag cart reported the bad RAM (which I should have paid more attention to) but missed a flaky PLA and a glitchy SID.List of faults & fixes with timestamps:Pre-powerup tests 00:35Graft new leg onto VIC II Chip 02:38Out of Memory Piggyback RAM tests 03:44Case repair using Acetone 06:07Strange PLA graphics issue 06:56Gitchy SID 09:04Cleanup montage 05:54Good Luck AllSID Test Program:http://hackjunk.com/tag/c64-sid-testMemtest Program:https://csdb.dk/release/?id=158763Music Credits:––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––Track: Affect — Vishmak [Audio Library Release]Music provided by Audio Library PlusWatch: youtu.be/5uh7qw3NPWAFree Download / Stream: http://alplus.io/AffectVishmak––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––🎵 Track Info:Title: Affect by Vishmak Genre and Mood: Dance & Electronic + DramaticLicense: Royalty free music for YouTube, Facebook and Instagram videos giving the appropriate credit. ———
Fixing a Faulty Amiga 500 Plus Board: The Hole Story Plan C 2019-08-07 | I bought a 'non-working, for parts only' A500+ board off eBay as I wanted to rescue it. I negotiated a price but still probably overpaid lol.It had all chips stripped and was claimed to have a grey screen/no boot. When it arrived, I had a bit of a surprise! The hole wasn't the issue though...The fixes were pretty simple so I have detailed the whole process. To save you having to look at the schematic, I have linked a helpful picture that I found on the web and my half-arsed spreadsheet of the main connections below. The picture was by kipper2k on eab.abime.net. The thread is also linked below for reference.drive.google.com/open?id=17Z12ktTfPR3yjqNaXRsvwWxx7IkjVLu4Now she just needs a re-cap and a case...Good luck All.Different Agnus pinouts:en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MOS_Technology_Agnus#PinoutLink to EAB Thread I got the picture from:http://eab.abime.net/showthread.php?t=82924Music is:––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––Track: Affect — Vishmak [Audio Library Release]Music provided by Audio Library PlusWatch: youtu.be/5uh7qw3NPWAFree Download / Stream: http://alplus.io/AffectVishmak––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––🎵 Track Info:Title: Affect by Vishmak Genre and Mood: Dance & Electronic + DramaticLicense: Royalty free music for YouTube, Facebook and Instagram videos giving the appropriate credit. ———
Building and Fitting a Bwack C64 Saver v2.4 Plan C 2019-08-02 | Thanks to Bwack for open-sourcing version 2 of his awesome C64 saver!In this video, I build one, do a quick test and then fit inside a previously repaired C64. A lot of work went into the design of the Bwack saver and it's predecessor, the Ray Carlsen saver. They are both designed to protect a C64 from a failing power supply which can kill irreplaceable chips through over-voltage.Plenty more info at:Bwack Saver v2 Github:github.com/bwack/C64-Saver-bwackCarlsen Saver (plus Mobo fitting instructions & loads of other stuff):portcommodore.com/rcarlsen/cbm/c64/SAVERThanks to Bwack and Ray for keeping these machines alive.Here is the BOM I got from the schematic:Q2 = IRFR5305 (SMD)Q1 = 2N7000D1 = TL431C1 = 47uf 16VD2 & D3 = 6v8 ZenerR1 = 3K9R2 = 3K3R3 = 3K3R4 = 330KR5 = 3K3R6 = 3K9R7 = 33KR8 = 82KNo 0.1uf cap requiredGood luck all.
Getting into & Attempting to Back-Engineer an Amiga 500 (Heavy) PSU Plan C 2019-07-20 | In this video I gently open an Amiga 500 power supply which has very well-hidden screws and then attempt to reverse engineer it with a few homemade schematics.This is the 'heavy' / linear version of Amiga power supply. I take it apart in a non-destructive way so it can be put back as original. I just wanted to check the caps etc out but while I was in there I thought it would be interesting to try and figure out how it works.I go through my understanding of how each rail works one at a time. I did this purely to aid my own understanding but thought it may be useful to others somehow. Please let me know if you think I got anything wrong lol!The model is 312-503-02. Made in West Germany. I usually use a converted ATX but like to have the originals as well.Good luck All.
Is this Samsung Travel Adapter Genuine? Plan C 2019-07-16 | Wasn't sure if a Samsung charger I bought online was fake so I compared it against some known genuine ones on an old oscilloscope and then I tore it apart... What was inside was slightly unexpected. It is an ETA-U90WE. Apparently, Rev 1.4I modify it slightly to improve the output and will keep it as a spare.Update: I am now pretty convinced it is a good fake. I bought an identical unit from a reputable source for comparison. The fake weighs 47g, the real one weighs 53g. The model numbers are identical. The text is identical and the ink is identical. The real one shows shows max 50mV ripple at 2 amps and tops-out at 2.2a before folding back. The fake manages maybe 1.7a with severe voltage sag and more than 400mV ripple before collapsing. It also shows 200mV ripple at 1 amp. The real one increases output voltage to compensate for losses as the amps drawn increase. The fake does not. I also noticed a listing on Alibaba showing an identical board to the suspect one and the vendor has disappeared lol. It may be that this was an inadequate early revision but I doubt it. In any event, it hasn't given me any problems (apart from providing noisy power to my phone).Very difficult to spot. The main giveaway was the improper safety capacitor.Good luck all.Test Equipment Used:Hameg 20MHz Oscilloscope - Second-hand, eBayUnit-T UT658 USB tester - Purchased onlineBritish Standard Isolation Transformer - Second-hand, eBay60 Watt 30V Electronic Load - Purchased online
Replacing the MOVs in an Ageing Surge Protection Strip Plan C 2019-07-04 | After a lightning strike knocked out the router at my parent's house, I figured it was time to replace the Metal Oxide Varistors in my ageing surge protector strip. It was getting on and they wear out over time. Quick walkthrough of how I did it.Not the most exciting repair. Pretty simple preventative maintenance. Just a couple of pence on parts and a bit of soldering. Should keep it going for a while and keep it out of landfill anyway...It is also a good idea to put surge suppression on the cable modem coax...Good luck all.
Netgear Power Supply Repair (& Moan About Some eBay Chargers) Plan C 2019-06-16 | Overview of a simple fix for a Virgin Superhub 12v power supply. Turned out to be the output cap. Quick overview of main components followed by a whinge about some other USB and wallwart power supplies that I have torn-down.EDIT: THE BLUE CAP IS A CLASS Y1 SAFETY CAP NOT Y2. For more explanation about the different types see here:illinoiscapacitor.com/pdf/Papers/EMI_RFI_interference_suppression.pdfGood luck All.
3D Printer Mods: Tevo Tornado & Atom X Plan C 2019-06-06 | Overview of Mods to my Tevo Tornado and Reprap Atom X Printers:Link to 433Mhz Shutoff System:Video: youtu.be/n-JgQ3SaVMEFiles: drive.google.com/open?id=1nXcDwCVmPUcDuk1CiX6P3krTGfCGPx34Octopi Temp Failsafe & Smartplug Howto:Video: youtu.be/6kWmHCm7L8IOctopi 3d Printer Monitor Wemos D1:thingiverse.com/thing:2884823Tevo Tornado Bed Cable Strain Relief Options:thingiverse.com/search?q=tevo+tornado+strain+relief&dwh=985cf9868a4fef0Box End TPU Strain Relief:drive.google.com/open?id=19u7NFEU0l3z4JmzPm4mFaS9OcBOtrpKhMy Logitech C270 Simple Camera Mount:thingiverse.com/thing:3662572Hacked FireAngel Smoke Alarm Code (still draft but works fine for me - feel free to modify and improve):drive.google.com/open?id=139xRYbk741onWTzqSe_t0VkfEefZBje1(Schematic to follow)Bed Level Reminder:thingiverse.com/thing:2685349My Tornado Firmware:drive.google.com/open?id=1D324ZTjnWXQDUAdmHwy0ywlf3zv1T10WMy AtomX Files:drive.google.com/open?id=0BzujMMpM5EE4NUNkU3F3RW9XSk0Spool Holder:thingiverse.com/thing:2740809Y Motor Brace:thingiverse.com/thing:2734468Tornado Filament Guide:thingiverse.com/thing:2829160?fbclid=IwAR1t_g1HzWxLiN7tM3pNzixcdAbhVKNHjxCUk89EapdIU5YO8LAOGhEPtjcSSRs:What I used (No affiliation. not saying it is the best, cheapest or safest. Others maybe better/cheaper): uk.farnell.com/crydom/cwd2425/ssr-25a-240vac/dp/1613781Discussion Link for other options and Ideas re SSR Setups:facebook.com/groups/TEVO.Tornado.Owners/search/?query=ssr&epa=SEARCH_BOXPower Supply (no afiliation):Meanwell LRS-150-24 (This is 220v - Check if you are 110v)Old Moaning Tornado Safety Video:youtu.be/fsY-H7bZ9x0These smoke alarm and shut-off systems are hobby grade projects made in my spare time and are not intended to be a substitute for monitoring your 3d printer. Use at your own risk and never leave your 3d printer unattended. If you are in doubt about working with mains power then leave it alone and ask somebody who is qualified to help you.Good luck all.
Acorn A3000 Repair Part 2, Case, Keyboard Connector & Membrane Fixes + Sound Mod Plan C 2019-04-26 | Follow on to previous video where I repaired a battery damaged A3000. In this video I fix all the broken case catches, do the Zarchos sound mod, repair the keyboard membrane, make new keyboard connectors, clean the floppy drive, scope the power supply and test it (it is fine!)Previous video showing motherboard repairs:youtu.be/q-kJUwcjHccKeyboard connectors:20 way (easier!):mouser.co.uk/ProductDetail/TE-Connectivity-AMP/7-520355-0?qs=%2Fha2pyFadujRi2Z6jxSELYK2qCaK%2Fu0lLKNZOnNcMpVpmJiy6B3FpA%3D%3D2*13 way to cut down (what I did):http://www.cjemicros.co.ukI would go with the 20-way but they arrived late and I am impatient!Sound Mod Tutorial (Thanks Zarchos):stardot.org.uk/forums/viewtopic.php?t=11287Good luck all
Archimedes A3000 Mods: Gotek with OLED & Compact Flash Hard Drive Plan C 2019-04-02 | With help from the guys on the Stardot forums and using a Gotek floppy emulator (flashed to the latest firmware), I finally got a compact flash 'hard drive' working in my A3000! Video shows steps taken. May or may not be the correct approach but seems to work so far... Not perfect. Very occasional filecore error on initial first boot if case open. I am currently blaming that on a bad connection as it seems to go away with the lid closed lol. I also saved some ailing discs in the process and show a 3d printed CMOS battery mod designed to fit in the bay provided. Links:HXC2001 Firmware for Gotek:hxc2001.com/download/floppy_drive_emulatorIDEMGr! File (final post on page):stardot.org.uk/forums/viewtopic.php?f=13&t=13665&start=30& here:drive.google.com/open?id=1rvx2zE6_FyW0F3J8oCWsHEQXVji-DRHYCompact Flash Adapter I used:ebay.co.uk/itm/UK-5V-CF-Compact-Flash-to-40-Pin-3-5Inch-IDE-Bootable-HD-Converter-Adapter-Eage/273382237548?hash=item3fa6d9e56c:g:rzAAAOSwHNxaH~oM&frcectupt=trueSandisk Card Type Used:Sandisk SDCFJ-256Cheap DIY USB Optical mouse hack:youtu.be/r73GwTQbnXI3D Printed Battery Holder:(to follow)Original Refurb Videos (apologies for audio quality - long ago lol):youtu.be/J8WYqlOxFkMyoutu.be/j1QO5wVu3tIArticle on Different Podules (and some files inc. IDEMgr)http://chrisacorns.computinghistory.org.uk/32bit_UpgradesH2Z/HCCS_IDE_A3000.htmlGood Luck All.
Unscientific Testing of DIY PLAs on Five C64s Plan C 2019-03-25 | I made a couple of DIY PLA chips by following the instructions on GadgetUK164's excellent video here: youtu.be/sT4OBNvboJ0I then tested the substitute PLAs in each of my five C64's.The tests are not very scientific and were done more out of interest than anything else.For an in-depth discussion of the workings of C64 PLA (and different replacement option including the PLAnkton) see Mindflareretro's excellent video here:youtu.be/ofg33zk9uCAUPDATE: I subsequently repeated this experiment on these 5 machines with some M27C512-90B6 Chips from Ebay. I am not sure if they are genuine or not. They are marked 'Korea' and claim to be made by ST Microelectronics.These worked in ALL my 250407 boards (1*Rev A, 2*Rev B and 1*RevC) for at least 20 passes of the diagnostics cart and no capacitor was needed between CASRAM and Gnd. I got all excited and bought 10... Then I discovered that the chip does not work on my 250425 board. The diagnostics would not run and strange key presses were returned under normal operation. It has been suggested that removing Capacitor 203 on this board may improve things with this chip, but I could not find C203 on my particular 250425 board! Here is a link. I have no affiliation and am not sure if they are real or not. YMMV.ebay.co.uk/itm/STMicroelectronics-M27C512-90B6-27C512-64-x-8k-OTP-EPROM-PDIP28-x-1pc/162927594508?hash=item25ef3dcc0c:g:P2cAAOSwl~Vaml6tGood luck all.
PLAying Around with a Black Screen eBay Commodore 64 (Fix) Plan C 2019-03-01 | Repair of Breadbin C64 with black screen from eBay. Tests with a PLAnkton PLA substitute and chip swapping with my test bench had me scratching my head. Pretty simple fix in the end but not what I was expecting. The PLAnkton I used in the first part of the video is Detailed here:https://www.polyplay.xyz/PLAnkton-PLA-Replacementor here.retroleum.co.uk/c64-chipsebay.ca/itm/Commodore-64-PLA-906114-01-C64-replacement-PLAnkton/163543624270?hash=item2613f5aa4e:g:2M8AAOSw-K9ZMg7v:rk:1:pf:0Just for info. I have no affiliation.Good Luck All
Sinclair QL Fixes, White Screen, Easy Composite PAL, ATX Power Mod, MicroDrive Tests Plan C 2019-02-13 | Had these sitting around for a while with no power supply. Fix of one QL with a white screen (upper ram fault), replacement of keyboard membrane, composite PAL video without mods and how to power the unit inc microdrives from an ATX in a way that can be easily reversed later. Later part shows my ham-fisted testing of the microdrives on two QLs with some cartridges from ebay and some attempts at fixing one microdrive which refused to read. 3/4 worked in the end.Good Luck All.
Easy Fix for Loose HDMI Port Plan C 2019-02-10 | 5 minute fix. Will work for any HDMI port. Shown on a GTX 970 graphics card as the connection on mine was playing-up. No soldering or special tools required. Worth a try if your image is cutting out and getting annoying.Good luck all
eBay Retro Joystick Repair Plan C 2019-02-03 | Used a broken HDMI cable to repair a C64/Amiga/Atari/ Joystick with a strange fault. Probably just should have bought another cable but it turned into a bit of a mission lol.Quick look at and fix of the auto-fire (555 timer circuit).Good luck All.
