Working on my MSX for RC2014 is not a planned or organised project. For the most part, when I have some time on the weekends and the occasional evening, I just follow my fancy - would ever takes my interest at the time I sit down.
Sometimes, I just do some research and reading, other times, I might work on a design for a new module or do some software or any number of things.
The natural result of this, is there a few items in the backlog, at various stages of completion or operation.
So this journal entry is to briefly note where some of these undertakings are at:
On the software front, I have been spending a lot of time trying to get proper serial drivers implemented. This has required learning the serial driver specifications for MSX (extended bios and fossil). To test the drivers I have a couple of applications. A telnet for accessing BBS and a new implementation of a xmodem utility. It is getting close to be able to make an official release over in the github project.
I certainly have spent far more time on this, than I anticipated would be required - but aint that just usual!
On the hardware front I have got a few things going:
This backplane supports all 80 pins, which includes the ‘USERx’ lines. This allows me to avoid having hookup wires between the Memory and PPI modules, making for a clean and simpler install. Very handy as I often am removing and replacing modules.
It also aligns with the yellow colour scheme and includes some LEDS to add to the cool factor. As a kid in the 80s, I always wanted my computer to have lots of leds - but never managed to achieve that goal. After so many decades that dream is coming a reality!
I think the new backplane show off the kit just nicely:
Fully installed and operational
Another reason for the backplane, was to make it a little easier to incorporate a backplane extension to support MSX cartridges. Its very early days for this module. I have a PCB made, but have yet to build and test it.
This one is still in the experimentation stage. For the current Video board, I am not particularly happy with the quality of the Composite and S-Video outputs. And the RGB is only just okay. On the Composite lines, there appears to be quite a bit of noise.
So I have been trying to figure out what is causing the noise and how might I reduce it. This is an area where my skill and knowledge are lacking.
I have a new experimental PCB design, that incorporates some improvements, including:
I feel that this module’s design is now completed. I have a working RTC and support for MSX’s F4 warm start register. Once adjusted, using a simple little timing utility - it seems to keep time just fine.
I intend to add this kit to my Tindie store in the near future:
Also on the backlog is the MSX Music module, 3 1/2” Floppy interface, enhanced CPU, designing 3d printable cases, software enhancements and lots of other ideas.
Bloody hell, where will I find the TIME for all of this!
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