https://wiki.geekdot.com/api.php?action=feedcontributions&feedformat=atom&user=Geekdot 2026-04-18T03:25:39Z User contributions MediaWiki 1.43.0 https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=XVDI_driver&diff=87 2026-03-26T13:07:44Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> XVDI is a native, independent video driver for the ATW800/2, written and maintained by Wolfgang (“Idek”) Hiestand and will be able to boot your ATW800/2 graphics from scratch. <br /> <br /> ===== Installation =====<br /> Wolfgang wrote an installer tool which makes the whole setup very simple.<br /> <br /> Download the most recent basic installation archive from the GeekDot website. Inside you’ll find a folder XVDIDRVR which contents you can copy to your floppy(image) or Atari hard drive and run the “INSTALL.PRG” program. This will install the needed files for your platform (68000 vs. 68030) into your AUTO folder. <br /> {| class=&quot;wikitable&quot;<br /> |+ Hint<br /> |-<br /> | You might recheck a previously existing AUTO folder running order after that, because XVDI will be put into the very front of the boot queue.<br /> |}<br /> Of course you can also install the drive manually. In that case, copy all files from the “DATA” folder to your local AUTO folder and rename one of the files named XVDI.000 or XVDI.030 to XVDI.PRG. <br /> Then make sure that the running order is<br /> # XVDI_RES.PRG<br /> # XVDI_R.PRG <br /> # XVDIMENU.PRG <br /> # XVDI.PRG<br /> <br /> '''XVDI_RES''' is a (optional) reset-handler, which blanks the ATW800/2 screen when you reset your ATARI - this has a purely &quot;cosmetic&quot; functionality. Without this, the contents of the screen will be kept until your ATARI fully rebooted and XVDI was re-initialized.<br /> <br /> '''XVDI_R''' is the redirector, so after that ran, you should see a bouncing logo on the screen connected to the ATW800/2 – press a key to resume. <br /> <br /> '''XVDIMENU''' gives you the choice of changing resolution etc.. It’s the same system used on other NOVA drivers.<br /> <br /> '''XVDI''' is, where the magic(tm) happens ;)<br /> <br /> ===== Usage =====<br /> <br /> This should be pretty self-explanatory. Choose your favorite resolution in the menu. Optionally adjust the timers for the &quot;bouncing logo&quot; and how log the menu should be displayed before XVDI will be loaded. Save your setting entering &quot;0&quot;. &lt;br&gt;<br /> <br /> '''''NB:''' The list of available resolutions is longer than the available screen size, so use your cursor keys to scroll through the complete list.''</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=ROM_programming&diff=86 2026-03-26T12:52:36Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> The ATW800/2 for the '''Mega ST bus''' features two flash ROMs that provide space for four 256 KB TOS images.<br /> <br /> The DIP switch at the back of the card can select these ROMs.<br /> Looking at the DIP switch from the back of the card, the switches read 1 and 2 from left to right:<br /> {| class=&quot;wikitable&quot;<br /> |+ Default programming<br /> |-<br /> ! Slot # !! Sw1 !! Sw2 !! Default ROM<br /> |-<br /> | 1|| Down || Down || TOS 2.06<br /> |-<br /> | 2|| Up|| Down || Latest EMU TOS<br /> |-<br /> | 3|| Down || Up|| Previous EMU TOS version <br /> |-<br /> | 4|| Up|| Up|| TOS 1.04<br /> |}<br /> <br /> === Disabling the ROMs ===<br /> Depending on your board revision there are diffrent ways to disable the onboard TOS ROM.<br /> <br /> ==== Revision 1.1b and later ====<br /> <br /> Owners of the most recent card revisions can simply pull the jumper marked with “ROM enable” on the card.<br /> <br /> ==== Revision 1.1a ====<br /> <br /> Owners of ATW800/2 with a '''revision of 1.1a''' can also use this red jumper but also need to do a tiny little bit of soldering.<br /> Due to a design mistake, the left pin of the jumper needs a connection to a 5V source. <br /> This is for example available at the 3rd pin from right of TRAM socket “SLOT 2” using a jumper wire on the backside of the card.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mk3_v1.1a_ROM_jumper_patch.jpg|none]]<br /> <br /> ==== Revisions previous to 1.1a ====<br /> Owners of the early card revisions need to '''physically remove''' the ROM chips from their sockets.<br /> <br /> You can do this by using either a dedicated PLCC pulling tool (shown below on the left) or a thin but sturdy tool and carefully sticking it into the notches in the corners of the socket one side at a time. Gently remove the ROM chip by lifting it up a little on each side. After a couple of lifts, it will pop out.<br /> [[File:Screenshot 2026-03-26 133224.png|center]]<br /> <br /> The PLCC package was intentionally chosen because this allows removing the ROM chips and external programming by using an EPROM burner/programmer/&quot;blower&quot;. <br /> That said, the PLCC sockets are not made for lots of insertions and removals and '''will wear out pretty quickly'''.&lt;br&gt;<br /> ''So try to keep the number of in's and out's as low as possible!''<br /> <br /> === Programming the ROMs ===<br /> <br /> 👉 The standard way to program the ROMs is in-system using the flash ROM called FLASHATW.TTP, which you can find in the driver archive.<br /> <br /> After downloading a suitable ROM image from, for example, from https://www.atariworld.org/tos-rom/ and saving it on your disk drive, start FLASHATW. Because it’s a TTP (TOS takes parameters), all you need to do is to enter the filename of your TOS ROM (e.g., tos206uk.img) and klick OK.<br /> <br /> After the ROM image has loaded, you’ll see this screen:<br /> <br /> [[File:Screenshot 2026-03-26 134609.png|center]]<br /> <br /> It displays the detected TOS version of the loaded file as well as the currently running TOS version. After that, it prints the device information of the installed flash ROMs.<br /> <br /> All you have to do then is acknowledge the process and wait a couple of seconds. The upper lines of the screen will flash for a while before the system resets itself and boots your newly programmed TOS.<br /> We recommend you boot your Mega ST into a native video mode (i.e., ST-High/Med) to do the programming. Running it when the ATW800/2 video-out is active might result in strange outputs.<br /> <br /> {| class=&quot;wikitable&quot;<br /> |+ Warning<br /> |-<br /> | ❗Do not flash your ROMs when using an accelerator. Due to their caches, accelerators might corrupt the process, which could result in a broken ROM image ❗ <br /> |}<br /> <br /> ==== Revive your ROM ====<br /> <br /> If you screwed up a ROM (slot), there is a way to revive it:<br /> <br /> # Switch to a different ROM slot by using the DIP switch.<br /> # Reset and boot into the ROM you’ve just selected.<br /> # Run a '''RAM''' EMU TOS as provided on the EMU TOS homepage download section (emutos-prg-1.x.zip).<br /> # Running a RAM EMU TOS will automatically reset your system and boot into EMU TOS, ''which resides in RAM instead of ROM''. Wait until the reboot is done.<br /> # You can now safely switch the ROM DIP switches to the slot you have merciless destroyed before.<br /> # Run the FLASHATW.TTP as explained before using a working ROM image.<br /> # You can now cold reset your Mega ST and it should boot from the image you just programmed.<br /> <br /> If nothing works anymore and you screwed up all four ROM images, there’s ''still'' a way to revive your system:<br /> <br /> You will find two original ROM images on the public share in a folder called “Restore images,” which you can use for external programming. These images are available in case you screwed up all of your ROMs and can’t boot anymore. &lt;br&gt;<br /> You will need an external programmer (maybe an PLCC adapter) and remove the ROM chips to do this. High and low ROM are marked on the PCB.</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=File:Screenshot_2026-03-26_134609.png&diff=85 2026-03-26T12:46:39Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>ROM Flash tool screen</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=ROM_programming&diff=84 2026-03-26T12:44:36Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> The ATW800/2 for the '''Mega ST bus''' features two flash ROMs that provide space for four 256 KB TOS images.<br /> <br /> The DIP switch at the back of the card can select these ROMs.<br /> Looking at the DIP switch from the back of the card, the switches read 1 and 2 from left to right:<br /> {| class=&quot;wikitable&quot;<br /> |+ Default programming<br /> |-<br /> ! Slot # !! Sw1 !! Sw2 !! Default ROM<br /> |-<br /> | 1|| Down || Down || TOS 2.06<br /> |-<br /> | 2|| Up|| Down || Latest EMU TOS<br /> |-<br /> | 3|| Down || Up|| Previous EMU TOS version <br /> |-<br /> | 4|| Up|| Up|| TOS 1.04<br /> |}<br /> <br /> === Disabling the ROMs ===<br /> Depending on your board revision there are diffrent ways to disable the onboard TOS ROM.<br /> <br /> ==== Revision 1.1b and later ====<br /> <br /> Owners of the most recent card revisions can simply pull the jumper marked with “ROM enable” on the card.<br /> <br /> ==== Revision 1.1a ====<br /> <br /> Owners of ATW800/2 with a '''revision of 1.1a''' can also use this red jumper but also need to do a tiny little bit of soldering.<br /> Due to a design mistake, the left pin of the jumper needs a connection to a 5V source. <br /> This is for example available at the 3rd pin from right of TRAM socket “SLOT 2” using a jumper wire on the backside of the card.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mk3_v1.1a_ROM_jumper_patch.jpg|none]]<br /> <br /> ==== Revisions previous to 1.1a ====<br /> Owners of the early card revisions need to '''physically remove''' the ROM chips from their sockets.<br /> <br /> You can do this by using either a dedicated PLCC pulling tool (shown below on the left) or a thin but sturdy tool and carefully sticking it into the notches in the corners of the socket one side at a time. Gently remove the ROM chip by lifting it up a little on each side. After a couple of lifts, it will pop out.<br /> [[File:Screenshot 2026-03-26 133224.png|center]]<br /> <br /> The PLCC package was intentionally chosen because this allows removing the ROM chips and external programming by using an EPROM burner/programmer/&quot;blower&quot;. <br /> That said, the PLCC sockets are not made lots of insertions and removals and '''will wear out pretty quickly'''.&lt;br&gt;<br /> ''So try to keep the number of in's and out's as low as possible!''<br /> <br /> === Programming the ROMs ===</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=ROM_programming&diff=83 2026-03-26T12:35:10Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> The ATW800/2 for the '''Mega ST bus''' features two flash ROMs that provide space for four 256 KB TOS images.<br /> <br /> The DIP switch at the back of the card can select these ROMs.<br /> Looking at the DIP switch from the back of the card, the switches read 1 and 2 from left to right:<br /> {| class=&quot;wikitable&quot;<br /> |+ Default programming<br /> |-<br /> ! Slot # !! Sw1 !! Sw2 !! Default ROM<br /> |-<br /> | 1|| Down || Down || TOS 2.06<br /> |-<br /> | 2|| Up|| Down || Latest EMU TOS<br /> |-<br /> | 3|| Down || Up|| Previous EMU TOS version <br /> |-<br /> | 4|| Up|| Up|| TOS 1.04<br /> |}<br /> <br /> === Disabling the ROMs ===<br /> Depending on your board revision there are diffrent ways to disable the onboard TOS ROM.<br /> <br /> Owners of a '''revision 1.1b''' (and later) card can simply pull the jumper marked with “ROM enable” on the card.<br /> <br /> Owners of ATW800/2 with a '''revision of 1.1a''' can also use this red jumper but also need to do a tiny little bit of soldering.<br /> Due to a design mistake, the left pin of the jumper needs a connection to a 5V source. <br /> This is for example available at the 3rd pin from right of TRAM socket “SLOT 2” using a jumper wire on the backside of the card.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mk3_v1.1a_ROM_jumper_patch.jpg|none]]<br /> <br /> Owners card '''revisions before 1.1a''' need to remove the ROM chips from their sockets.<br /> <br /> You can do this by using either a dedicated PLCC pulling tool (shown below on the left) or a thin but sturdy tool and carefully sticking it into the notches in the corners of the socket one side at a time. Gently remove the ROM chip by lifting it up a little on each side. After a couple of lifts, it will pop out.<br /> [[File:Screenshot 2026-03-26 133224.png|center]]</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=File:Screenshot_2026-03-26_133224.png&diff=82 2026-03-26T12:34:15Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>ROM removal illustration</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=ROM_programming&diff=81 2026-03-26T12:24:58Z

<p>Geekdot: Created page with &quot;Category:ATW800/2 The ATW800/2 for the &#039;&#039;&#039;Mega ST bus&#039;&#039;&#039; features two flash ROMs that provide space for four 256 KB TOS images. The DIP switch at the back of the card can select these ROMs. Looking at the DIP switch from the back of the card, the switches read 1 and 2 from left to right: {| class=&quot;wikitable&quot; |+ Default programming |- ! Slot # !! Sw1 !! Sw2 !! Default ROM |- | 1|| Down || Down || TOS 2.06 |- | 2|| Up|| Down || Latest EMU TOS |- | 3|| Down || Up|| Pre...&quot;</p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> The ATW800/2 for the '''Mega ST bus''' features two flash ROMs that provide space for four 256 KB TOS images.<br /> <br /> The DIP switch at the back of the card can select these ROMs.<br /> Looking at the DIP switch from the back of the card, the switches read 1 and 2 from left to right:<br /> {| class=&quot;wikitable&quot;<br /> |+ Default programming<br /> |-<br /> ! Slot # !! Sw1 !! Sw2 !! Default ROM<br /> |-<br /> | 1|| Down || Down || TOS 2.06<br /> |-<br /> | 2|| Up|| Down || Latest EMU TOS<br /> |-<br /> | 3|| Down || Up|| Previous EMU TOS version <br /> |-<br /> | 4|| Up|| Up|| TOS 1.04<br /> |}<br /> <br /> === Disabling the ROMs ===<br /> Depending on your board revision there are diffrent ways to disable the onboard TOS ROM.<br /> <br /> Owners of a '''revision 1.1b''' (and later) card can simply pull the jumper marked with “ROM enable” on the card.<br /> <br /> Owners of ATW800/2 with a '''revision of 1.1a''' can also use this red jumper but also need to do a tiny little bit of soldering.<br /> Due to a design mistake, the left pin of the jumper needs a connection to a 5V source. <br /> This is for example available at the 3rd pin from right of TRAM socket “SLOT 2” using a jumper wire.<br /> <br /> <br /> Owners of previous card revisions need to remove the ROM chips from their sockets.<br /> <br /> You can do this by using either a dedicated PLCC pulling tool (shown below left) or a thin but sturdy tool and carefully sticking it into the notches in the corners of the socket one side at a time. Gently remove the ROM chip by lifting it up a little on each side. After a couple of lifts, it will pop out.</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=Hardware_compatibility&diff=80 2026-03-26T12:06:06Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> === Hardware successfully tested with the ATW800/2 ===<br /> <br /> As for now we positively tested the ATW800/2 against these accelerators:<br /> <br /> * AdSpeed<br /> * Turbo25<br /> * PAK68 <br /> * PAK68/2<br /> * PAK030 (Set your ATW800/2 ROM to TOS1.04)<br /> * TerribleFire 536<br /> * SpeedyTT<br /> <br /> Also those devices seem to work OK up to now (more in-depth testing needed):<br /> <br /> * Lightning ST <br /> * Cloudy(-Storm) ST (Remove your ATW800/2's ROM chips)<br /> * Thunder TT &amp; Storm TT<br /> * Magnum ST (Most alternate RAM solution should work)<br /> * c´t IDE Interface (needs patched GALs available in the ATW800/2 fileshare)<br /> <br /> === Known issues ===<br /> Speeding up your system bus (i.e. beyond the standard 8 or 16Mhz) might result in pixel errors.<br /> <br /> * An accelerator known for doing this is the '''DSTB1'''.<br /> * Overclocked TTs (e.g. 48Mhz) might show artefacts on the screen. It was reported, that disabling the cache might help in this case.<br /> <br /> === Known incompatibilities ===<br /> * OverScan ST is incompatible with the ATW800/2<br /> <br /> To be continued...</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=Jumper_settings&diff=79 2026-01-17T11:18:58Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> During the evolution of the ATW800/2 the jumpers on the card were sometime (re)used in a different way depending on the [https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php/ATW800/2_revisions card-revision] and installed CPLD firmware. This was done to guarantee backwards compatibility for earlier card revisions when upgraded with a newer firmware.&lt;br&gt;<br /> The Mk3 V1.1 PCB introduced an additional jumper which can only be used when plugged into a Mega-ST. Here's a list of the jumper settings depending on the card and firmware version.<br /> <br /> Please mind that '''jumpers are populated or not populated based on the bus version of your card''' (Mega-ST or VME bus). Refer to the manual for the location of the jumpers.<br /> <br /> == Mk3 v1.0d - 1.1 ==<br /> <br /> === Mega ST ===<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V0 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - used for setting the IDE controller base address<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V1 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - used for setting the VRAM base address.&lt;br&gt; Introduced with FPGA firmware V0205 which supports 4MB VRAM (24bit colour).<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE<br /> <br /> === TT / Mega-STe ===<br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V0 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - not used<br /> * IDE - not used<br /> * ADDR - Selects Atari Model. Closed: Mega-STE, Open: TT<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V1 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - not used<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE&lt;br&gt;Only works with HDDRIVER 12.6 or later. <br /> * ADDR - Selects Atari Model. Closed: Mega-STE, Open: TT<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V2 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - used for setting the VRAM base address.&lt;br&gt; Introduced with FPGA firmware V0205 which supports 4MB VRAM (24bit colour).<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE&lt;br&gt;Only works with HDDRIVER 12.6 or later. <br /> * ADDR - Selects Atari Model. Closed: Mega-STE, Open: TT&lt;br&gt;'''For the Mega-STE you also need to set the A0/A1 for the VRAM base of 0xA00000!'''<br /> <br /> == Mk3 v1.1[a|b] ==<br /> The version 1.1'''a''' was already shipped with the then latest CPLD and FPGA firmware. So the minimum firmware releases are covered here. <br /> <br /> === Mega ST ===<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V1 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - used for setting the VRAM base address.&lt;br&gt; Introduced with FPGA firmware V0205 which supports 4MB VRAM (24bit colour).<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE<br /> * ROM - Closed: Enable onboard TOS ROM, Open: Disable onboard TOS ROM<br /> <br /> &lt;span id=&quot;v11a_bug&quot;&gt;'''NB: The Mk3 1.1''a''''' card has a design mistake which requires a small soldering patch to make the ROM jumper work as expected.<br /> Additionally to pulling the jumper you need to connect the left pin to 5V, eg. available at the 3rd pin from right of TRAM socket “SLOT 2” using a jumper wire:<br /> <br /> [[File:Mk3 v1.1a ROM jumper patch.jpg|frameless]]<br /> <br /> If you own the Mk3 1.1'''b''', this is not necessary. Just pull the jumper.<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V2 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - used for setting the VRAM base address.&lt;br&gt; Introduced with FPGA firmware V0205 which supports 4MB VRAM (24bit colour).<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE&lt;br&gt;Only works with HDDRIVER 12.6 or later. <br /> * ADDR - Selects Atari Model. Closed: Mega-STE, Open: TT&lt;br&gt;'''For the Mega-STE you also need to set the A0/A1 for the VRAM base of 0xA00000!'''<br /> <br /> == VRAM address setting ==<br /> Here are two tables explaining the A0/A1 jumper settings depending on the bus version of the ATW800/2:<br /> <br /> {| class=&quot;wikitable&quot;<br /> |+ Mega-ST version<br /> |-<br /> ! A0 !! A1 !! Address !! VRAM size !! Remark<br /> |-<br /> | Open || Open || 0xC00000|| 2MB || Default setting<br /> |-<br /> | Open || Close || 0xA00000 || 2MB || Alternative range<br /> |-<br /> | Close || Open || n/a || n/a|| NOT supported<br /> |-<br /> | Close || Close || 0xA00000|| 4MB || Needed for true-color<br /> |}<br /> <br /> <br /> {| class=&quot;wikitable&quot;<br /> |+ VME version<br /> |-<br /> ! A0 !! A1 !! Address !! VRAM size !! Remark<br /> |-<br /> | Open || Open || 0x(FE)C00000|| 2MB || TT only Default setting<br /> |-<br /> | Open || Close || 0x(FE)A00000 || 2MB || Mega-STe or alternative f. TT<br /> |-<br /> | Close || Open || n/a || n/a|| NOT supported<br /> |-<br /> | Close || Close || 0x(FE)A00000|| 4MB || TT only - Needed for true-color<br /> |}</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=ATW800/2_revisions&diff=78 2026-01-17T11:18:12Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> During development there have been several revisions of the ATW800/2 card. This article should help you to identify your card.<br /> <br /> === Pre ATW800/2 ===<br /> Before the ATW800/2 was released there were some (more limited) predecessors:<br /> <br /> The [https://www.geekdot.com/stgatw/ STG[A&lt;nowiki&gt;]&lt;/nowiki&gt;TW] was a hybrid of the STGA graphic card adapter to an ET4000 ISA cards and a TRAM carrier.&lt;br&gt;<br /> It was a testbed the get more familiar with the Mega-ST bus and its capabilities.<br /> <br /> === Released revisions ===<br /> <br /> Only the Mark 3 models were released and sold to the public. So all Revisions start with a &quot;Mk3&quot; marking.<br /> <br /> * V1.0d - First public release. Sold in the 1st batch of 50 cards<br /> * V1.1 - 2nd batch release. Differences to V1.0d:<br /> ** Removed (optional) buffer for external T-Links <br /> ** Removed option for supplying 3.3V to the Nano20k <br /> ** Removed the chip-select solder bridge for the C011 <br /> ** Added solder bridge to choose voltage for SMD/THT 5MHz oscillator <br /> ** Expanded USB connector to 2x5 pins to have external USB controllers to provide power to the USB port<br /> ** Added solder bridge close to the USB port for power-source selection (card or in-port) <br /> * V1.1a - 3rd batch release<br /> ** Added ROM Enable jumper (which does not work without [[Jumper settings#v11a_bug|a little patch]])<br /> ** Minor layout changes to simplify the building process<br /> * V1.1b - 4th batch release<br /> ** Fixed ROM Enable jumper &quot;bug&quot;</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=ATW800/2_revisions&diff=77 2026-01-17T11:17:02Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> During development there have been several revisions of the ATW800/2 card. This article should help you to identify your card.<br /> <br /> === Pre ATW800/2 ===<br /> Before the ATW800/2 was released there were some (more limited) predecessors:<br /> <br /> The [https://www.geekdot.com/stgatw/ STG[A&lt;nowiki&gt;]&lt;/nowiki&gt;TW] was a hybrid of the STGA graphic card adapter to an ET4000 ISA cards and a TRAM carrier.&lt;br&gt;<br /> It was a testbed the get more familiar with the Mega-ST bus and its capabilities.<br /> <br /> === Released revisions ===<br /> <br /> Only the Mark 3 models were released and sold to the public. So all Revisions start with a &quot;Mk3&quot; marking.<br /> <br /> * V1.0d - First public release. Sold in the 1st batch of 50 cards<br /> * V1.1 - 2nd batch release. Differences to V1.0d:<br /> ** Removed (optional) buffer for external T-Links <br /> ** Removed option for supplying 3.3V to the Nano20k <br /> ** Removed the chip-select solder bridge for the C011 <br /> ** Added solder bridge to choose voltage for SMD/THT 5MHz oscillator <br /> ** Expanded USB connector to 2x5 pins to have external USB controllers to provide power to the USB port<br /> ** Added solder bridge close to the USB port for power-source selection (card or in-port) <br /> * V1.1a - 3rd batch release<br /> ** Added ROM Enable jumper (which does not work without [[Jumper settings#v11a_bug|a little patch]])<br /> ** Minor layout changes to simplify the building process</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=ATW800/2_revisions&diff=76 2026-01-17T11:15:52Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> During development there have been several revisions of the ATW800/2 card. This article should help you to identify your card.<br /> <br /> === Pre ATW800/2 ===<br /> Before the ATW800/2 was released there were some (more limited) predecessors:<br /> <br /> The [https://www.geekdot.com/stgatw/ STG[A&lt;nowiki&gt;]&lt;/nowiki&gt;TW] was a hybrid of the STGA graphic card adapter to an ET4000 ISA cards and a TRAM carrier.&lt;br&gt;<br /> It was a testbed the get more familiar with the Mega-ST bus and its capabilities.<br /> <br /> === Released revisions ===<br /> <br /> Only the Mark 3 models were released and sold to the public. So all Revisions start with a &quot;Mk3&quot; marking.<br /> <br /> * V1.0d - First public release. Sold in the 1st batch of 50 cards<br /> * V1.1 - 2nd batch release. Differences to V1.0d:<br /> ** Removed (optional) buffer for external T-Links <br /> ** Removed option for supplying 3.3V to the Nano20k <br /> ** Removed the chip-select solder bridge for the C011 <br /> ** Added solder bridge to choose voltage for SMD/THT 5MHz oscillator <br /> ** Expanded USB connector to 2x5 pins to have external USB controllers to provide power to the USB port<br /> ** Added solder bridge close to the USB port for power-source selection (card or in-port) <br /> * V1.1a - 3rd batch release<br /> ** Added ROM Enable jumper (which does not work without [[Jumper settings|a little patch#v11a_bug]])<br /> ** Minor layout changes to simplify the building process</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=ATW800/2_revisions&diff=75 2026-01-17T11:14:54Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> During development there have been several revisions of the ATW800/2 card. This article should help you to identify your card.<br /> <br /> === Pre ATW800/2 ===<br /> Before the ATW800/2 was released there were some (more limited) predecessors:<br /> <br /> The [https://www.geekdot.com/stgatw/ STG[A&lt;nowiki&gt;]&lt;/nowiki&gt;TW] was a hybrid of the STGA graphic card adapter to an ET4000 ISA cards and a TRAM carrier.&lt;br&gt;<br /> It was a testbed the get more familiar with the Mega-ST bus and its capabilities.<br /> <br /> === Released revisions ===<br /> <br /> Only the Mark 3 models were released and sold to the public. So all Revisions start with a &quot;Mk3&quot; marking.<br /> <br /> * V1.0d - First public release. Sold in the 1st batch of 50 cards<br /> * V1.1 - 2nd batch release. Differences to V1.0d:<br /> ** Removed (optional) buffer for external T-Links <br /> ** Removed option for supplying 3.3V to the Nano20k <br /> ** Removed the chip-select solder bridge for the C011 <br /> ** Added solder bridge to choose voltage for SMD/THT 5MHz oscillator <br /> ** Expanded USB connector to 2x5 pins to have external USB controllers to provide power to the USB port<br /> ** Added solder bridge close to the USB port for power-source selection (card or in-port) <br /> * V1.1a - 3rd batch release<br /> ** Added ROM Enable jumper (which does not work without [[Jumper settings|a little patch]])<br /> ** Minor layout changes to simplify the building process</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=Jumper_settings&diff=74 2026-01-17T11:13:49Z

<p>Geekdot: /* CPLD Firmware V1 */</p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> During the evolution of the ATW800/2 the jumpers on the card were sometime (re)used in a different way depending on the [https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php/ATW800/2_revisions card-revision] and installed CPLD firmware. This was done to guarantee backwards compatibility for earlier card revisions when upgraded with a newer firmware.&lt;br&gt;<br /> The Mk3 V1.1 PCB introduced an additional jumper which can only be used when plugged into a Mega-ST. Here's a list of the jumper settings depending on the card and firmware version.<br /> <br /> Please mind that '''jumpers are populated or not populated based on the bus version of your card''' (Mega-ST or VME bus). Refer to the manual for the location of the jumpers.<br /> <br /> == Mk3 v1.0[a|b|c] - 1.1 ==<br /> <br /> === Mega ST ===<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V0 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - used for setting the IDE controller base address<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V1 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - used for setting the VRAM base address.&lt;br&gt; Introduced with FPGA firmware V0205 which supports 4MB VRAM (24bit colour).<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE<br /> <br /> === TT / Mega-STe ===<br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V0 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - not used<br /> * IDE - not used<br /> * ADDR - Selects Atari Model. Closed: Mega-STE, Open: TT<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V1 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - not used<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE&lt;br&gt;Only works with HDDRIVER 12.6 or later. <br /> * ADDR - Selects Atari Model. Closed: Mega-STE, Open: TT<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V2 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - used for setting the VRAM base address.&lt;br&gt; Introduced with FPGA firmware V0205 which supports 4MB VRAM (24bit colour).<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE&lt;br&gt;Only works with HDDRIVER 12.6 or later. <br /> * ADDR - Selects Atari Model. Closed: Mega-STE, Open: TT&lt;br&gt;'''For the Mega-STE you also need to set the A0/A1 for the VRAM base of 0xA00000!'''<br /> <br /> == Mk3 v1.1[a|b] ==<br /> The version 1.1'''a''' was already shipped with the then latest CPLD and FPGA firmware. So the minimum firmware releases are covered here. <br /> <br /> === Mega ST ===<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V1 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - used for setting the VRAM base address.&lt;br&gt; Introduced with FPGA firmware V0205 which supports 4MB VRAM (24bit colour).<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE<br /> * ROM - Closed: Enable onboard TOS ROM, Open: Disable onboard TOS ROM<br /> <br /> &lt;span id=&quot;v11a_bug&quot;&gt;'''NB: The Mk3 1.1''a''''' card has a design mistake which requires a small soldering patch to make the ROM jumper work as expected.<br /> Additionally to pulling the jumper you need to connect the left pin to 5V, eg. available at the 3rd pin from right of TRAM socket “SLOT 2” using a jumper wire:<br /> <br /> [[File:Mk3 v1.1a ROM jumper patch.jpg|frameless]]<br /> <br /> If you own the Mk3 1.1'''b''', this is not necessary. Just pull the jumper.<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V2 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - used for setting the VRAM base address.&lt;br&gt; Introduced with FPGA firmware V0205 which supports 4MB VRAM (24bit colour).<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE&lt;br&gt;Only works with HDDRIVER 12.6 or later. <br /> * ADDR - Selects Atari Model. Closed: Mega-STE, Open: TT&lt;br&gt;'''For the Mega-STE you also need to set the A0/A1 for the VRAM base of 0xA00000!'''<br /> <br /> == VRAM address setting ==<br /> Here are two tables explaining the A0/A1 jumper settings depending on the bus version of the ATW800/2:<br /> <br /> {| class=&quot;wikitable&quot;<br /> |+ Mega-ST version<br /> |-<br /> ! A0 !! A1 !! Address !! VRAM size !! Remark<br /> |-<br /> | Open || Open || 0xC00000|| 2MB || Default setting<br /> |-<br /> | Open || Close || 0xA00000 || 2MB || Alternative range<br /> |-<br /> | Close || Open || n/a || n/a|| NOT supported<br /> |-<br /> | Close || Close || 0xA00000|| 4MB || Needed for true-color<br /> |}<br /> <br /> <br /> {| class=&quot;wikitable&quot;<br /> |+ VME version<br /> |-<br /> ! A0 !! A1 !! Address !! VRAM size !! Remark<br /> |-<br /> | Open || Open || 0x(FE)C00000|| 2MB || TT only Default setting<br /> |-<br /> | Open || Close || 0x(FE)A00000 || 2MB || Mega-STe or alternative f. TT<br /> |-<br /> | Close || Open || n/a || n/a|| NOT supported<br /> |-<br /> | Close || Close || 0x(FE)A00000|| 4MB || TT only - Needed for true-color<br /> |}</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=Jumper_settings&diff=73 2026-01-17T11:04:43Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> During the evolution of the ATW800/2 the jumpers on the card were sometime (re)used in a different way depending on the [https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php/ATW800/2_revisions card-revision] and installed CPLD firmware. This was done to guarantee backwards compatibility for earlier card revisions when upgraded with a newer firmware.&lt;br&gt;<br /> The Mk3 V1.1 PCB introduced an additional jumper which can only be used when plugged into a Mega-ST. Here's a list of the jumper settings depending on the card and firmware version.<br /> <br /> Please mind that '''jumpers are populated or not populated based on the bus version of your card''' (Mega-ST or VME bus). Refer to the manual for the location of the jumpers.<br /> <br /> == Mk3 v1.0[a|b|c] - 1.1 ==<br /> <br /> === Mega ST ===<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V0 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - used for setting the IDE controller base address<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V1 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - used for setting the VRAM base address.&lt;br&gt; Introduced with FPGA firmware V0205 which supports 4MB VRAM (24bit colour).<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE<br /> <br /> === TT / Mega-STe ===<br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V0 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - not used<br /> * IDE - not used<br /> * ADDR - Selects Atari Model. Closed: Mega-STE, Open: TT<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V1 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - not used<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE&lt;br&gt;Only works with HDDRIVER 12.6 or later. <br /> * ADDR - Selects Atari Model. Closed: Mega-STE, Open: TT<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V2 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - used for setting the VRAM base address.&lt;br&gt; Introduced with FPGA firmware V0205 which supports 4MB VRAM (24bit colour).<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE&lt;br&gt;Only works with HDDRIVER 12.6 or later. <br /> * ADDR - Selects Atari Model. Closed: Mega-STE, Open: TT&lt;br&gt;'''For the Mega-STE you also need to set the A0/A1 for the VRAM base of 0xA00000!'''<br /> <br /> == Mk3 v1.1[a|b] ==<br /> The version 1.1'''a''' was already shipped with the then latest CPLD and FPGA firmware. So the minimum firmware releases are covered here. <br /> <br /> === Mega ST ===<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V1 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - used for setting the VRAM base address.&lt;br&gt; Introduced with FPGA firmware V0205 which supports 4MB VRAM (24bit colour).<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE<br /> * ROM - Closed: Enable onboard TOS ROM, Open: Disable onboard TOS ROM<br /> <br /> '''NB: The Mk3 1.1''a''''' card has a design mistake which requires a small soldering patch to make the ROM jumper work as expected.<br /> Additionally to pulling the jumper you need to connect the left pin to 5V, eg. available at the 3rd pin from right of TRAM socket “SLOT 2” using a jumper wire:<br /> <br /> [[File:Mk3 v1.1a ROM jumper patch.jpg|frameless]]<br /> <br /> If you own the Mk3 1.1'''b''', this is not necessary. Just pull the jumper.<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V2 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - used for setting the VRAM base address.&lt;br&gt; Introduced with FPGA firmware V0205 which supports 4MB VRAM (24bit colour).<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE&lt;br&gt;Only works with HDDRIVER 12.6 or later. <br /> * ADDR - Selects Atari Model. Closed: Mega-STE, Open: TT&lt;br&gt;'''For the Mega-STE you also need to set the A0/A1 for the VRAM base of 0xA00000!'''<br /> <br /> == VRAM address setting ==<br /> Here are two tables explaining the A0/A1 jumper settings depending on the bus version of the ATW800/2:<br /> <br /> {| class=&quot;wikitable&quot;<br /> |+ Mega-ST version<br /> |-<br /> ! A0 !! A1 !! Address !! VRAM size !! Remark<br /> |-<br /> | Open || Open || 0xC00000|| 2MB || Default setting<br /> |-<br /> | Open || Close || 0xA00000 || 2MB || Alternative range<br /> |-<br /> | Close || Open || n/a || n/a|| NOT supported<br /> |-<br /> | Close || Close || 0xA00000|| 4MB || Needed for true-color<br /> |}<br /> <br /> <br /> {| class=&quot;wikitable&quot;<br /> |+ VME version<br /> |-<br /> ! A0 !! A1 !! Address !! VRAM size !! Remark<br /> |-<br /> | Open || Open || 0x(FE)C00000|| 2MB || TT only Default setting<br /> |-<br /> | Open || Close || 0x(FE)A00000 || 2MB || Mega-STe or alternative f. TT<br /> |-<br /> | Close || Open || n/a || n/a|| NOT supported<br /> |-<br /> | Close || Close || 0x(FE)A00000|| 4MB || TT only - Needed for true-color<br /> |}</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=Jumper_settings&diff=72 2026-01-17T11:01:44Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> During the evolution of the ATW800/2 the jumpers on the card were sometime (re)used in a different way depending on the [http://ATW800/2%20revisions card-revision] and installed CPLD firmware. This was done to guarantee backwards compatibility for earlier card revisions when upgraded with a newer firmware.&lt;br&gt;<br /> The Mk3 V1.1 PCB introduced an additional jumper which can only be used when plugged into a Mega-ST. Here's a list of the jumper settings depending on the card and firmware version.<br /> <br /> Please mind that '''jumpers are populated or not populated based on the bus version of your card''' (Mega-ST or VME bus). Refer to the manual for the location of the jumpers.<br /> <br /> == Mk3 v1.0[a|b|c] - 1.1 ==<br /> <br /> === Mega ST ===<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V0 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - used for setting the IDE controller base address<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V1 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - used for setting the VRAM base address.&lt;br&gt; Introduced with FPGA firmware V0205 which supports 4MB VRAM (24bit colour).<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE<br /> <br /> === TT / Mega-STe ===<br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V0 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - not used<br /> * IDE - not used<br /> * ADDR - Selects Atari Model. Closed: Mega-STE, Open: TT<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V1 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - not used<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE&lt;br&gt;Only works with HDDRIVER 12.6 or later. <br /> * ADDR - Selects Atari Model. Closed: Mega-STE, Open: TT<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V2 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - used for setting the VRAM base address.&lt;br&gt; Introduced with FPGA firmware V0205 which supports 4MB VRAM (24bit colour).<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE&lt;br&gt;Only works with HDDRIVER 12.6 or later. <br /> * ADDR - Selects Atari Model. Closed: Mega-STE, Open: TT&lt;br&gt;'''For the Mega-STE you also need to set the A0/A1 for the VRAM base of 0xA00000!'''<br /> <br /> == Mk3 v1.1[a|b] ==<br /> The version 1.1'''a''' was already shipped with the then latest CPLD and FPGA firmware. So the minimum firmware releases are covered here. <br /> <br /> === Mega ST ===<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V1 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - used for setting the VRAM base address.&lt;br&gt; Introduced with FPGA firmware V0205 which supports 4MB VRAM (24bit colour).<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE<br /> * ROM - Closed: Enable onboard TOS ROM, Open: Disable onboard TOS ROM<br /> <br /> '''NB: The Mk3 1.1''a''''' card has a design mistake which requires a small soldering patch to make the ROM jumper work as expected.<br /> Additionally to pulling the jumper you need to connect the left pin to 5V, eg. available at the 3rd pin from right of TRAM socket “SLOT 2” using a jumper wire:<br /> <br /> [[File:Mk3 v1.1a ROM jumper patch.jpg|frameless]]<br /> <br /> If you own the Mk3 1.1'''b''', this is not necessary. Just pull the jumper.<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V2 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - used for setting the VRAM base address.&lt;br&gt; Introduced with FPGA firmware V0205 which supports 4MB VRAM (24bit colour).<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE&lt;br&gt;Only works with HDDRIVER 12.6 or later. <br /> * ADDR - Selects Atari Model. Closed: Mega-STE, Open: TT&lt;br&gt;'''For the Mega-STE you also need to set the A0/A1 for the VRAM base of 0xA00000!'''<br /> <br /> == VRAM address setting ==<br /> Here are two tables explaining the A0/A1 jumper settings depending on the bus version of the ATW800/2:<br /> <br /> {| class=&quot;wikitable&quot;<br /> |+ Mega-ST version<br /> |-<br /> ! A0 !! A1 !! Address !! VRAM size !! Remark<br /> |-<br /> | Open || Open || 0xC00000|| 2MB || Default setting<br /> |-<br /> | Open || Close || 0xA00000 || 2MB || Alternative range<br /> |-<br /> | Close || Open || n/a || n/a|| NOT supported<br /> |-<br /> | Close || Close || 0xA00000|| 4MB || Needed for true-color<br /> |}<br /> <br /> <br /> {| class=&quot;wikitable&quot;<br /> |+ VME version<br /> |-<br /> ! A0 !! A1 !! Address !! VRAM size !! Remark<br /> |-<br /> | Open || Open || 0x(FE)C00000|| 2MB || TT only Default setting<br /> |-<br /> | Open || Close || 0x(FE)A00000 || 2MB || Mega-STe or alternative f. TT<br /> |-<br /> | Close || Open || n/a || n/a|| NOT supported<br /> |-<br /> | Close || Close || 0x(FE)A00000|| 4MB || TT only - Needed for true-color<br /> |}</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=File:Mk3_v1.1a_ROM_jumper_patch.jpg&diff=71 2026-01-17T10:52:09Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>This is one spot you can get 5V for the jumper</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=Jumper_settings&diff=70 2026-01-17T10:43:11Z

<p>Geekdot: Created page with &quot;Category:ATW800/2 During the evolution of the ATW800/2 the jumpers on the card were sometime (re)used in a different way depending on the [http://ATW800/2%20revisions card-revision] and installed CPLD firmware. This was done to guarantee backwards compatibility for earlier card revisions when upgraded with a newer firmware.&lt;br&gt; The Mk3 V1.1 PCB introduced an additional jumper which can only be used when plugged into a Mega-ST. Here&#039;s a list of the jumper settings dep...&quot;</p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> During the evolution of the ATW800/2 the jumpers on the card were sometime (re)used in a different way depending on the [http://ATW800/2%20revisions card-revision] and installed CPLD firmware. This was done to guarantee backwards compatibility for earlier card revisions when upgraded with a newer firmware.&lt;br&gt;<br /> The Mk3 V1.1 PCB introduced an additional jumper which can only be used when plugged into a Mega-ST. Here's a list of the jumper settings depending on the card and firmware version.<br /> <br /> Please mind that '''jumpers are populated or not populated based on the bus version of your card''' (Mega-ST or VME bus). Refer to the manual for the location of the jumpers.<br /> <br /> == Mk3 v1.0[a|b|c] - 1.1 ==<br /> <br /> === Mega ST ===<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V0 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - used for setting the IDE controller base address<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V1 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - used for setting the VRAM base address.&lt;br&gt; Introduced with FPGA firmware V0205 which supports 4MB VRAM (24bit colour).<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE<br /> <br /> === TT / Mega-STe ===<br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V0 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - not used<br /> * IDE - not used<br /> * ADDR - Selects Atari Model. Closed: Mega-STE, Open: TT<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V1 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - not used<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE&lt;br&gt;Only works with HDDRIVER 12.6 or later. <br /> * ADDR - Selects Atari Model. Closed: Mega-STE, Open: TT<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V2 ====<br /> * A0/A1 - used for setting the VRAM base address.&lt;br&gt; Introduced with FPGA firmware V0205 which supports 4MB VRAM (24bit colour).<br /> * IDE - Closed: Enable IDE, Open: Disable IDE&lt;br&gt;Only works with HDDRIVER 12.6 or later. <br /> * ADDR - Selects Atari Model. Closed: Mega-STE, Open: TT&lt;br&gt;'''For the Mega-STE you also need to set the A0/A1 for the VRAM base of 0xA00000!'''<br /> <br /> == Mk3 v1.1a ==<br /> The version 1.1'''a''' was already shipped with the then latest CPLD and FPGA firmware. So the minimum firmware releases are covered here. <br /> <br /> === Mega ST ===<br /> <br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V1 ====<br /> dsdsd<br /> <br /> === TT / Mega-STe ===<br /> ==== CPLD Firmware V2 ====<br /> dsdsd</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=External_Link_interface&diff=69 2025-11-03T09:03:27Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> Depending on the revision of your card there are two ways to connect external Transputer(s)<br /> <br /> === Mk3 V1.0d ===<br /> The first 50 ATW800/2 had a prerequisite for adding an optional buffer to the card but it's not fitted by default. The buffering of the external link interface allows longer cables to an external Transputer farm (max. 2 meters).<br /> <br /> To use it you will need to add some extra components to the bottom side of the card:<br /> <br /> * one 5V, TSOP48, 74xx162245 buffer (IC5) <br /> * 4x 0603 100nF caps (C19/21/22/23)<br /> * 2x6 90° Pinheader to the edge of the card<br /> * a 10k resistor <br /> * a shottky diode<br /> <br /> Due to a f-up by the idiot who designed the card (forgot his name), you need to do some fixing:<br /> <br /> * Do not solder '''pin 32''' of the 74xx162245 to the PCB but lift it a bit upwards from the PCB (BLUE ARROW)<br /> * (optional but recommended) cut the trace leading to pin 32 (RED mark)<br /> * Solder the resistor and the diode in parallel to the &quot;ERROR&quot; pin of the nearby TRAM socket. (YELLOW mark)<br /> * The cathode (that's the end normally marked with a white stripe) of the diode need to be connected ''towards pin 32'' of the buffer<br /> <br /> This solder stunt is not for the fainthearted - don't drink too much coffee before doing this. Shaky hands won't help here.<br /> A microscope will help ''dramatically'' and you might need a ''very'' thin wire to be soldered to that pin.<br /> <br /> Here's a piccy of the whereabouts...<br /> [attachment=0]External-Fix.jpg[/attachment]<br /> <br /> Sorry for this, but I was assuming that out of the 50 1st batch owners 1 or max. 2 will actually own an external Transputer farm to be attached to the ATW800/2. <br /> <br /> ==== A simpler solution ====<br /> <br /> Another more crude but simpler solution would be to directly connect an external TRAM to the TRAM socket of the ATW800/2.<br /> The cable would be limited to roughly 30-50cm but all you'd need would be 5 cables (given there's external 5V provided):<br /> * Link0 in<br /> * Link0 out<br /> * Analyze<br /> * Reset<br /> * Error<br /> <br /> === Mk3 V1.1 and later cards ===<br /> Later cards just offer a simple, straight link connection to the outside. Still, a 2x6 90° Pinheader needs to be retrofitted to the edge of the card.&lt;br&gt;<br /> To this you can either connect more Transputer(s) e.g. on a simple TRAM carrier directly (cable &lt; 10cm) or a small external PCB containing some sort of buffer. We will provide schematics for these soon.</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=FPGA_programming&diff=68 2025-11-03T08:32:06Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> To fix a currently unknown bug or add more cool features to the card’s main firmware, we might need to update the card’s firmware in the future.<br /> <br /> The firmware is stored inside the flash memory on the FPGA piggyback card, a Nano 20k (nicknamed “Seurat” after the artists who invented the pointillism painting technique); it can be programmed using two tools.<br /> <br /> === Preparation ===<br /> <br /> While you can update the Seurat firmware with having the ATW800/2 installed in your ATARI it's recommended to remove it for easier access and making absolutely sure that your ATARI won't be harmed (which ''theoretically'' can't happen). &lt;br&gt;<br /> All you need to do is plugging a USB-C cable to the little piggybacked FPGA board which has its other end connected to your computer running the flashing software.<br /> <br /> Firmware images can be found in [https://nextcloud.geekdot.com/s/jt4fYYakAjMwXbp?path=%2FFirmware%2FFPGA_Seurat the public share].&lt;br&gt;<br /> The firmware filenames contain their version, e.g. &lt;code&gt;AtariNano20k_V0205.fs&lt;/code&gt; means version 2.05.<br /> <br /> === Windows ===<br /> <br /> On Windows, we recommend using the GoWin Programmer tool. This is also available in the public share (for Windows 32 and 64 bit).&lt;br&gt;<br /> If you like to get the most recent version can also be downloaded for free at [https://www.gowinsemi.com/en/support/download%20eda/ https://www.gowinsemi.com/en/support/download_eda/]<br /> You have to register before downloading. Sorry.<br /> On the download page, scroll down to the “Programmer” section and make sure to pick the education version, which is the free one.<br /> <br /> After installing and running the GoWin Programmer the first time, you have to set up its connection (aka “cable”). It will greet you with this dialog box:<br /> <br /> [[File:GoWin1.png|center]]<br /> <br /> Initially the three dropdown fields might be empty, so connect your Nano 20k using its USB-C port. The LED on the Nano 20k should start pulsing or blinking. Wait for Windows to recognize the new device, then click on the “Query/Detect Cable” button in the dialog box until the fields are updated.<br /> Make sure the values are the same as in the dialog box above and click “Save.”<br /> Now you’ll see the main window showing you one device (row). You can click in each column and change its settings: '''Series''' should be set to GW2AR and '''Device''' to GW2AR-18C.<br /> <br /> [[File:GoWin2.png|center]]<br /> <br /> Clicking “Operation” will open a new dialog box, which you need to configure “Access Mode” and “Operation” as shown in the following screenshot:<br /> <br /> [[File:GoWin3.png|center]]<br /> <br /> In “Programming Options” you can specify a bitstream (aka “firmware”) for your nano. This is optional as you can do this later in the main window by clicking the “FS File” column.<br /> <br /> === Linux and macOS ===<br /> <br /> For Linux we recommend openFPGA. GoWIN also has a Linux tool, but we have no experience using it.<br /> https://github.com/trabucayre/openFPGALoader<br /> <br /> Here’s how to install openFPGALoader via git on Linux (and mac OS):<br /> https://wiki.sipeed.com/hardware/en/tang/Tang-Nano-Doc/flash-in-linux.html<br /> <br /> When installed, connect your Nano 20k and make sure your system has detected it. Then let openFPGALoader detect your FPGA<br /> <br /> &lt;code&gt;$ sudo ./openFPGALoader --detect&lt;/code&gt;<br /> <br /> If that worked, the programming command will look something like this:<br /> <br /> &lt;code&gt;$ sudo ./openFPGALoader -b tangnano20k -f /path/to/your/ATW800_2-stuff/AtariNano20k.fs&lt;/code&gt;<br /> <br /> On macOS we recommend using homebrew to easily install openFPGALoader. Here, the code looks like this:<br /> <br /> &lt;code&gt;$ brew install openfpgaloader&lt;/code&gt;<br /> <br /> is all you need to type. Everything else is the same as on Linux.<br /> <br /> You can also install openFPGA in Windows using, e.g., Cygwin, MSYS2, etc. As usual, you’ll have to jump through several burning hoops to get this working. If you’d like to go this route, please use Google and wade through the recipes available there.</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=FPGA_programming&diff=67 2025-11-03T08:31:14Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> To fix a currently unknown bug or add more cool features to the card’s main firmware, we might need to update the card’s firmware in the future.<br /> <br /> The firmware is stored inside the flash memory on the FPGA piggyback card, a Nano 20k (nicknamed “Seurat” after the artists who invented the pointillism painting technique); it can be programmed using two tools.<br /> <br /> === Preparation ===<br /> <br /> While you can update the Seurat firmware with having the ATW800/2 installed in your ATARI it's recommended to remove it for easier access and making absolutely sure that your ATARI won't be harmed (which ''theoretically'' can't happen). &lt;br&gt;<br /> All you need to do is plugging a USB-C cable to the little piggybacked FPGA board which has its other end connected to your computer running the flashing software.<br /> <br /> Firmware images can be found in [https://nextcloud.geekdot.com/s/jt4fYYakAjMwXbp?path=%2FFirmware%2FFPGA_Seurat the public share].&lt;br&gt;<br /> The firmware filenames contain their version, e.g. &lt;code&gt;AtariNano20k_V0205.fs&lt;/code&gt; means version 2.05.<br /> <br /> === Windows ===<br /> <br /> On Windows, we recommend using the GoWin Programmer tool. This is also available in the public share (for Windows 32 and 64 bit).&lt;br&gt;<br /> If you like to get the most recent version can also be downloaded for free at [https://www.gowinsemi.com/en/support/download%20eda/ https://www.gowinsemi.com/en/support/download_eda/]<br /> You have to register before downloading. Sorry.<br /> On the download page, scroll down to the “Programmer” section and make sure to pick the education version, which is the free one.<br /> <br /> After installing and running the GoWin Programmer the first time, you have to set up its connection (aka “cable”). It will greet you with this dialog box:<br /> <br /> [[File:GoWin1.png|center]]<br /> <br /> Initially the three dropdown fields might be empty, so connect your Nano 20k using its USB-C port. The LED on the Nano 20k should start pulsing or blinking. Wait for Windows to recognize the new device, then click on the “Query/Detect Cable” button in the dialog box until the fields are updated.<br /> Make sure the values are the same as in the dialog box above and click “Save.”<br /> Now you’ll see the main window showing you one device (row). You can click in each column and change its settings: '''Series''' should be set to GW2AR and '''Device''' to GW2AR-18C.<br /> <br /> [[File:GoWin2.png|center]]<br /> <br /> Clicking “Operation” will open a new dialog box, which you need to configure “Access Mode” and “Operation” as shown in the following screenshot:<br /> <br /> [[File:GoWin3.png|center]]<br /> <br /> In “Programming Options” you can specify a bitstream (aka “firmware”) for your nano. This is optional as you can do this later in the main window by clicking the “FS File” column.<br /> <br /> === Linux and macOS ===<br /> <br /> For Linux we recommend openFPGA. GoWIN also has a Linux tool, but we have no experience using it.<br /> https://github.com/trabucayre/openFPGALoader<br /> <br /> Here’s how to install openFPGALoader via git on Linux (and mac OS):<br /> https://wiki.sipeed.com/hardware/en/tang/Tang-Nano-Doc/flash-in-linux.html<br /> <br /> When installed, connect your Nano 20k and make sure your system has detected it. Then let openFPGALoader detect your FPGA<br /> <br /> &lt;code&gt;$ sudo ./openFPGALoader --detect&lt;/code&gt;<br /> <br /> If that worked, the programming command will look something like this:<br /> <br /> &lt;code&gt;$ sudo ./openFPGALoader -b tangnano20k -f /path/to/your/ATW800_2-stuff/AtariNano20k.fs&lt;/code&gt;<br /> <br /> On macOS we recommend using homebrew to easily install openFPGALoader. Here, the code looks like this:<br /> <br /> &lt;code&gt;$ brew install openfpgaloader&lt;/code&gt;<br /> <br /> is all you need to type. Everything else is the same as on Linux.<br /> <br /> You can also install openFPGA in Windows using, e.g., Cygwin, MSYS2, etc. As usual, you’ll have to jump through several burning hoops to get this working; going through all of this here would cause this little manual to explode, so I won’t. If you’d like to go this route, please use Google and wade through the recipes available there.</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=File:GoWin3.png&diff=66 2025-11-03T08:14:48Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>GoWin screenshot 3</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=File:GoWin2.png&diff=65 2025-11-03T08:13:49Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>GoWin screenshot 2</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=File:GoWin1.png&diff=64 2025-11-03T08:10:52Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>GoWin screenshot 1</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=CPLD_programming&diff=63 2025-10-03T15:52:25Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> (Re)Programming/flashing the CPLD (nicknamed &quot;Absinth&quot;) should normally not be needed.<br /> If there should a currently unknown bug which inhibits the ATW800/2 from working properly or a new feature requiring a firmware change it might be necessary.<br /> <br /> The firmware is stored inside the flash memory build into the CPLD and requires special hardware, cable and software to reprogram it.&lt;br&gt;<br /> Also, you'll need to solder a 2x5 pinrow onto your ATW800/2 which is located at the front right corner of the card, the bus connector facing towards you. It has a silk-screen print &quot;JTAG&quot;.<br /> <br /> === Hardware ===<br /> <br /> This hardware is called '''USB Blaster''' and was originally made by Altera (now Intel), the manufacturer of the CPLD used on the ATW800/2. This programmer is still available but quite costly for a hobbist and especially for a &quot;one shot task&quot; like updating a firmware once every 2 years. <br /> <br /> So quite soon the market was swamped with cheaper clones and even cheaper know-offs. To make things worse, the clones all ''look'' the same! You can't tell them apart from just a photo, you need to see the inside. <br /> <br /> ==== The good ====<br /> As said, the original USB Blaster from Altera still available at Mouser and the like. Prepare for $/€250+. Even used ones are quite expensive still. <br /> <br /> [[File:BB orig.jpg|none|400px|This is what $250+ will get you: A 100% original.]]<br /> <br /> This original USB Blaster has a flex-cable attached to the case and ALTERA markings all over the place.<br /> <br /> ==== The bad ====<br /> <br /> Around 2005 the first clones appeared on the market. Initially they were 1:1 copies. Those obviously work fine but are hard to find now. Then they started to replace the original controller (EPM3032) with cheaper ones, which did the same job... somehow. YMMV. &lt;br&gt;<br /> All clones you can buy now do look more or less the same. <br /> <br /> [[File:BB clone.jpg|300px|The usual set you can buy on the internet these days]]<br /> <br /> With those clones, you usually get a ribbon cable (2x5 connectors) and and a Mini(!)-USB to USB-A cable to connect it to your PC.<br /> <br /> To make sure which version you're buying, you would need to open the case to have a look at the PCB inside. Here's my version (from ~2010) with works quite OK with the Altera tools:<br /> <br /> [[File:BB ok.jpg|none|400px|An early clone which works with Quartus]]<br /> <br /> You can spot 2 ICs and an oscillator. One IC is managing USB the other does the protocol handling with the CPLD/FPGA. But those are rare now.<br /> <br /> ==== ...and the ulgy ====<br /> <br /> As of today, most USB Blasters offered on Amazon or AliExpress are clones of clones of clones. Most of them are reduced to a single WCH CH552G microcontroller which is a clone of an 8051 which was used in earlier clones.<br /> <br /> [[File:BB fake.jpg|none|400px|A current clone which will BSOD your Windows]]<br /> <br /> This is a real one-chip-solution. They even spare the oscillator. And out of the box this might not work. The typical symptom of a &quot;bad clone&quot; is that your Windows PC will give you a blue screen of death as soon as you plug it in. <br /> '''If this is the case with your model don't despair!'''<br /> <br /> <br /> {| class=&quot;wikitable&quot;<br /> |+ Check your model first before making changes!<br /> |-<br /> | I just bought [https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005006124786647.html one of these clones from Aliexpress] for 5€ incl. shipping(!) and while it has exact the PCB pictured above it seems to have the firmware patch already installed. It looks like our Chinese friends reacted fast and replaced their crap with the good stuff.<br /> |}<br /> <br /> <br /> Thanks to Rob Brown, who reversed those useless pieces of electronics, you can flash its firmware to actually make it working. [https://www.downtowndougbrown.com/2024/06/fixing-a-knockoff-altera-usb-blaster-that-never-worked/ Rob described all steps in depth on his webpage].<br /> <br /> Of course the downside of this is: You need to do some nerdy things... <br /> <br /> ===== In a (Linux) nutshell you do this =====<br /> <br /> * Open the case<br /> * force the board into bootloader mode, short the &quot;3V3&quot; and &quot;D+&quot; pins on the internal header together while plugging it into USB<br /> * Run a python tool called [https://github.com/MarsTechHAN/ch552tool ch552tool] on your computer to upload the new firmware<br /> * which you got from [https://github.com/dougg3/CH55x-USB-Blaster/releases/download/v1.1.0/usb_blaster.bin here].<br /> <br /> ===== Alternatively, a Windows recipe =====<br /> (taken from the comments on Robs page.)<br /> <br /> * install CH375_DRIVER (CH372DRV.EXE [https://www.wch-ic.com/downloads/CH372DRV_EXE.html from WCH website])<br /> * driver CH372DRV.EXE can be renamed CH372DRV.CAB and files be extracted with Winzip/RAR etc.<br /> * open plastic case, add 10k resistor between D+ and 3V3<br /> * install WCHISP_Tool3.3 or latest [https://www.wch-ic.com/downloads/WCHISPTool_Setup_exe.html WCHISP_Studio] (better!)<br /> * if device not detected update driver from via Device_Manager using driver files from extracted .CAB<br /> * make sure to select CH55x/USB chip model CH552<br /> * Object File1 = load the usb_blaster.bin file here and check box on the right<br /> * Make sure “Enable RST Pin as manual reset pin” and “Run the Taget Program …” are NOT checked !<br /> <br /> '''IMPORTANT!'''<br /> * Make sure “Automatic Download When Device Connect” is CHECKED !<br /> * insert device on USB2.0 port.<br /> * it will automatically download usb_blaster.bin file in device flash memory<br /> * remove 10k resistor from D+ and 3v3<br /> * Plug in USB =&gt; You now have a fully functional “Altera USB Blaster Device” 🙂<br /> <br /> For the last 3 steps you have to act fast. The bootloader will time out fairly quickly.<br /> <br /> === Software ===<br /> <br /> The CPLD is long time EOL and so is the software needed to program that thing. The software is still available for free but it does not play well with recent OS versions. The most recent supported Windows is version 10, the Linux version comes in a ''huge'' (4GB) VM image incl. the Linux kernel etc. which is IMHO a total overkill for just programming the CPLD.<br /> <br /> That said, we recommend using a (virtual) Windows XP, 7, 8 or 10 installation with the programming tool called Quartus Programmer provided in our public share, which is a comparably mere 122MB, located in &quot;[https://nextcloud.geekdot.com/s/jt4fYYakAjMwXbp?path=%2FFirmware%2FCPLD_Absinth Firmware\CPLD_Absinth]&quot;.<br /> <br /> === Prerequisites ===<br /> <br /> Certain things have to be done before you can reprogram the Absinth CPLD. <br /> <br /> # Download the ''correct'' firmware file. There are firmware files for the Mega-ST and the VME cards. Additionally for the VME cards there are 2 variants, depending on the CPLD used:<br /> #* If your CPLD has a red dot marking, it's a EPM3128 - so choose the firmware file ending to &quot;3128.pof&quot;<br /> #* All other cards (Mega-ST &amp; VME) need the file ending on &quot;3064.pof&quot;<br /> # Get an external 5V power supply (1 ampere is sufficient). <br /> # Remove your ATW800/2 from your ATARI<br /> # Remove installed TRAMs if your have some installed.<br /> # Solder a 2x5 pinrow onto the ATW800/2 where the silkscreen print says &quot;JTAG&quot; (close by the CPLD).<br /> # Make sure your USB Blaster is recognized by your system when plugged in<br /> # Attach your external power source to your ATW800/2 - Seurats &quot;heartbeat LED&quot; will start pulsing if everything was done right.<br /> #* A VME card can be supplied with power by using the unpopulated Mega-ST power connector (Silkscreen print &quot;MST_PWR)<br /> #* Mega-ST cards can be powered through their soldered-on power cable - e.g. by using the running Mega-ST while the card itself is removed.<br /> <br /> === Programming ===<br /> <br /> After installing, start Quartus Programmer and it should greet you with this screen:<br /> <br /> [[File:Quartus Programmer.png|none|800px]]<br /> <br /> Take these steps to reprogram the ATW800/2 CPLD (&quot;Absinth&quot;):<br /> <br /> # Connect your USB Blaster cable to your ATW800/2<br /> #* Pin 1 is marked on the cards silkscreen. Align this to the red marked cable of your USB Blaster flat-cable.<br /> # If everything is correctly configured it should be detected by Quartus Programmer and shown in its UI (1) - if not, click the &quot;Hardware Setup&quot; button and do a search there.<br /> # Click the &quot;Auto Detect&quot; button in Quartus Programmer (2), the name of used CPLD should be shown in the &quot;Device&quot; column (4) as well as in the diagram below.<br /> # Double-click into the &quot;File&quot; column (3) to select your previously downloaded firmware file to be programmed.<br /> # Make sure that the checkboxes for &quot;Program/Configure&quot; and &quot;Verify&quot; are checked (5).<br /> # Click the &quot;Start&quot; button to beginn programming. <br /> <br /> Programming takes just 1-2 seconds. When everything went fine, power down your external power-supply and then disconnect the USB Blaster from your ATW800/2.</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=ATW800/2_revisions&diff=62 2025-09-03T15:37:07Z

<p>Geekdot: Created page with &quot;Category:ATW800/2 During development there have been several revisions of the ATW800/2 card. This article should help you to identify your card. === Pre ATW800/2 === Before the ATW800/2 was released there were some (more limited) predecessors: The [https://www.geekdot.com/stgatw/ STG[A&lt;nowiki&gt;]&lt;/nowiki&gt;TW] was a hybrid of the STGA graphic card adapter to an ET4000 ISA cards and a TRAM carrier.&lt;br&gt; It was a testbed the get more familiar with the Mega-ST bus and its...&quot;</p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> During development there have been several revisions of the ATW800/2 card. This article should help you to identify your card.<br /> <br /> === Pre ATW800/2 ===<br /> Before the ATW800/2 was released there were some (more limited) predecessors:<br /> <br /> The [https://www.geekdot.com/stgatw/ STG[A&lt;nowiki&gt;]&lt;/nowiki&gt;TW] was a hybrid of the STGA graphic card adapter to an ET4000 ISA cards and a TRAM carrier.&lt;br&gt;<br /> It was a testbed the get more familiar with the Mega-ST bus and its capabilities.<br /> <br /> === Released revisions ===<br /> <br /> Only the Mark 3 models were released and sold to the public. So all Revisions start with a &quot;Mk3&quot; marking.<br /> <br /> * V1.0d - First public release. Sold in the 1st batch of 50 cards<br /> * V1.1 - 2nd batch release. Differences to V1.0d:<br /> ** Removed (optional) buffer for external T-Links <br /> ** Removed option for supplying 3.3V to the Nano20k <br /> ** Removed the chip-select solder bridge for the C011 <br /> ** Added solder bridge to choose voltage for SMD/THT 5MHz oscillator <br /> ** Expanded USB connector to 2x5 pins to have external USB controllers to provide power to the USB port<br /> ** Added solder bridge close to the USB port for power-source selection (card or in-port) <br /> * V1.1a - 3rd batch release<br /> ** Added ROM Enable jumper<br /> ** Minor layout changes to simplify the building process</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=IDE_emulation&diff=61 2025-08-03T11:43:52Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> === !!! This functionality is considered ALPHA and must not used with important and/or valuable data !!! ===<br /> <br /> The '''Mega-ST version''' of the ATW800/2 offers a IDE harddisk emulation using the MicroSD card slot on the FPGA piggyback module (NOT the external MicroSD slot at the edge of the card!)<br /> <br /> With firmware V1 on, the VME cards can use the IDE interface too - but only in conjuction with HDDRIVER 6.12 and later. &lt;br&gt;<br /> Additionally the functionality on VME machines is very limited.<br /> <br /> Please refer to the manual for the how-to and procedure.</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=TRAM_(Transputer_Modules)&diff=60 2025-07-27T12:01:24Z

<p>Geekdot: Created page with &quot;Category:ATW800/2 While the Transputer was an ingenious thing itself, INMOS went one step further and created the &#039;&#039;TRAM&#039;&#039;, short for “TRAnsputerModule”. A small 1.05 by 3.66 inch PCB providing a Transputer and some RAM and featuring just 16 PINs to the outside. &lt;br&gt; This so-called size-1 TRAM then was also available as double, three, four or even 8 times bigger version, called size-2, size-3, size-4 or size-8 accordingly. Original specs are available [http://tra...&quot;</p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> While the Transputer was an ingenious thing itself, INMOS went one step further and created the ''TRAM'', short for “TRAnsputerModule”. A small 1.05 by 3.66 inch PCB providing a Transputer and some RAM and featuring just 16 PINs to the outside. &lt;br&gt;<br /> This so-called size-1 TRAM then was also available as double, three, four or even 8 times bigger version, called size-2, size-3, size-4 or size-8 accordingly. Original specs are available [http://transputer.net/tn/29/tn29.html here].<br /> <br /> Initially a (compute) TRAM normally consisted of a Transputer (socket) and memory. The amount of memory went up from mere 32k to multiple megabytes over their evolution.<br /> <br /> Later peripheral TRAMs were developed offering features like RS422, graphics, network or SCSI interfaces.<br /> <br /> A list of Inmos TRAMs can be found [https://www.geekdot.com/inmos/ here]. A selection of third party TRAMs are listed on [https://www.geekdot.com/3rd-party-trams/ this page].<br /> <br /> '''TRAMs are quite fragile''', so make sure to read the [https://www.geekdot.com/handling-trams/ &quot;Handling TRAMs&quot; article] on geekdot.com.</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=CPLD_programming&diff=59 2025-07-05T11:57:20Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> (Re)Programming/flashing the CPLD (nicknamed &quot;Absinth&quot;) should normally not be needed.<br /> If there should a currently unknown bug which inhibits the ATW800/2 from working properly or a new feature requiring a firmware change it might be necessary.<br /> <br /> The firmware is stored inside the flash memory build into the CPLD and requires special hardware, cable and software to reprogram it.&lt;br&gt;<br /> Also, you'll need to solder a 2x5 pinrow onto your ATW800/2 which is located at the front right corner of the card, the bus connector facing towards you. It has a silk-screen print &quot;JTAG&quot;.<br /> <br /> === Hardware ===<br /> <br /> This hardware is called '''USB Blaster''' and was originally made by Altera (now Intel), the manufacturer of the CPLD used on the ATW800/2. This programmer is still available but quite costly for a hobbist and especially for a &quot;one shot task&quot; like updating a firmware once every 2 years. <br /> <br /> So quite soon the market was swamped with cheaper clones and even cheaper know-offs. To make things worse, the clones all ''look'' the same! You can't tell them apart from just a photo, you need to see the inside. <br /> <br /> ==== The good ====<br /> As said, the original USB Blaster from Altera still available at Mouser and the like. Prepare for $/€250+. Even used ones are quite expensive still. <br /> <br /> [[File:BB orig.jpg|none|400px|This is what $250+ will get you: A 100% original.]]<br /> <br /> This original USB Blaster has a flex-cable attached to the case and ALTERA markings all over the place.<br /> <br /> ==== The bad ====<br /> <br /> Around 2005 the first clones appeared on the market. Initially they were 1:1 copies. Those obviously work fine but are hard to find now. Then they started to replace the original controller (EPM3032) with cheaper ones, which did the same job... somehow. YMMV. &lt;br&gt;<br /> All clones you can buy now do look more or less the same. <br /> <br /> [[File:BB clone.jpg|300px|The usual set you can buy on the internet these days]]<br /> <br /> With those clones, you usually get a ribbon cable (2x5 connectors) and and a Mini(!)-USB to USB-A cable to connect it to your PC.<br /> <br /> To make sure which version you're buying, you would need to open the case to have a look at the PCB inside. Here's my version (from ~2010) with works quite OK with the Altera tools:<br /> <br /> [[File:BB ok.jpg|none|400px|An early clone which works with Quartus]]<br /> <br /> You can spot 2 ICs and an oscillator. One IC is managing USB the other does the protocol handling with the CPLD/FPGA. But those are rare now.<br /> <br /> ==== ...and the ulgy ====<br /> <br /> As of today, most USB Blasters offered on Amazon or AliExpress are clones of clones of clones. Most of them are reduced to a single WCH CH552G microcontroller which is a clone of an 8051 which was used in earlier clones.<br /> <br /> [[File:BB fake.jpg|none|400px|A current clone which will BSOD your Windows]]<br /> <br /> This is a real one-chip-solution. They even spare the oscillator. And out of the box this might not work. The typical symptom of a &quot;bad clone&quot; is that your Windows PC will give you a blue screen of death as soon as you plug it in. <br /> '''If this is the case with your model don't despair!'''<br /> <br /> <br /> {| class=&quot;wikitable&quot;<br /> |+ Check your model first before making changes!<br /> |-<br /> | I just bought [https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005006124786647.html one of these clones from Aliexpress] for 5€ incl. shipping(!) and while it has exact the PCB pictured above it seems to have the firmware patch already installed. It looks like our Chinese friends reacted fast and replaced their crap with the good stuff.<br /> |}<br /> <br /> <br /> Thanks to Rob Brown, who reversed those useless pieces of electronics, you can flash its firmware to actually make it working. [https://www.downtowndougbrown.com/2024/06/fixing-a-knockoff-altera-usb-blaster-that-never-worked/ Rob described all steps in depth on his webpage].<br /> <br /> Of course the downside of this is: You need to do some nerdy things... <br /> In a nutshell you do this<br /> <br /> * Open the case<br /> * force the board into bootloader mode, short the &quot;3V3&quot; and &quot;D+&quot; pins on the internal header together while plugging it into USB<br /> * Run a python tool called [https://github.com/MarsTechHAN/ch552tool ch552tool] on your computer to upload the new firmware<br /> * which you got from [https://github.com/dougg3/CH55x-USB-Blaster/releases/download/v1.1.0/usb_blaster.bin here].<br /> <br /> For the last 3 steps you have to act fast. The bootloader will time out fairly quickly.<br /> <br /> === Software ===<br /> <br /> The CPLD is long time EOL and so is the software needed to program that thing. The software is still available for free but it does not play well with recent OS versions. The most recent supported Windows is version 10, the Linux version comes in a ''huge'' (4GB) VM image incl. the Linux kernel etc. which is IMHO a total overkill for just programming the CPLD.<br /> <br /> That said, we recommend using a (virtual) Windows XP, 7, 8 or 10 installation with the programming tool called Quartus Programmer provided in our public share, which is a comparably mere 122MB, located in &quot;[https://nextcloud.geekdot.com/s/jt4fYYakAjMwXbp?path=%2FFirmware%2FCPLD_Absinth Firmware\CPLD_Absinth]&quot;.<br /> <br /> === Prerequisites ===<br /> <br /> Certain things have to be done before you can reprogram the Absinth CPLD. <br /> <br /> # Download the ''correct'' firmware file. There are firmware files for the Mega-ST and the VME cards. Additionally for the VME cards there are 2 variants, depending on the CPLD used:<br /> #* If your CPLD has a red dot marking, it's a EPM3128 - so choose the firmware file ending to &quot;3128.pof&quot;<br /> #* All other cards (Mega-ST &amp; VME) need the file ending on &quot;3064.pof&quot;<br /> # Get an external 5V power supply (1 ampere is sufficient). <br /> # Remove your ATW800/2 from your ATARI<br /> # Remove installed TRAMs if your have some installed.<br /> # Solder a 2x5 pinrow onto the ATW800/2 where the silkscreen print says &quot;JTAG&quot; (close by the CPLD).<br /> # Make sure your USB Blaster is recognized by your system when plugged in<br /> # Attach your external power source to your ATW800/2 - Seurats &quot;heartbeat LED&quot; will start pulsing if everything was done right.<br /> #* A VME card can be supplied with power by using the unpopulated Mega-ST power connector (Silkscreen print &quot;MST_PWR)<br /> #* Mega-ST cards can be powered through their soldered-on power cable - e.g. by using the running Mega-ST while the card itself is removed.<br /> <br /> === Programming ===<br /> <br /> After installing, start Quartus Programmer and it should greet you with this screen:<br /> <br /> [[File:Quartus Programmer.png|none|800px]]<br /> <br /> Take these steps to reprogram the ATW800/2 CPLD (&quot;Absinth&quot;):<br /> <br /> # Connect your USB Blaster cable to your ATW800/2<br /> #* Pin 1 is marked on the cards silkscreen. Align this to the red marked cable of your USB Blaster flat-cable.<br /> # If everything is correctly configured it should be detected by Quartus Programmer and shown in its UI (1) - if not, click the &quot;Hardware Setup&quot; button and do a search there.<br /> # Click the &quot;Auto Detect&quot; button in Quartus Programmer (2), the name of used CPLD should be shown in the &quot;Device&quot; column (4) as well as in the diagram below.<br /> # Double-click into the &quot;File&quot; column (3) to select your previously downloaded firmware file to be programmed.<br /> # Make sure that the checkboxes for &quot;Program/Configure&quot; and &quot;Verify&quot; are checked (5).<br /> # Click the &quot;Start&quot; button to beginn programming. <br /> <br /> Programming takes just 1-2 seconds. When everything went fine, power down your external power-supply and then disconnect the USB Blaster from your ATW800/2.</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=CPLD_programming&diff=58 2025-07-05T11:53:57Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> (Re)Programming/flashing the CPLD (nicknamed &quot;Absinth&quot;) should normally not be needed.<br /> If there should a currently unknown bug which inhibits the ATW800/2 from working properly or a new feature requiring a firmware change it might be necessary.<br /> <br /> The firmware is stored inside the flash memory build into the CPLD and requires special hardware, cable and software to reprogram it.&lt;br&gt;<br /> Also, you'll need to solder a 2x5 pinrow onto your ATW800/2 which is located at the front right corner of the card, the bus connector facing towards you. It has a silk-screen print &quot;JTAG&quot;.<br /> <br /> === Hardware ===<br /> <br /> This hardware is called '''USB Blaster''' and was originally made by Altera (now Intel), the manufacturer of the CPLD used on the ATW800/2. This programmer is still available but quite costly for a hobbist and especially for a &quot;one shot task&quot; like updating a firmware once every 2 years. <br /> <br /> So quite soon the market was swamped with cheaper clones and even cheaper know-offs. To make things worse, the clones all ''look'' the same! You can't tell them apart from just a photo, you need to see the inside. <br /> <br /> ==== The good ====<br /> As said, the original USB Blaster from Altera still available at Mouser and the like. Prepare for $/€250+. Even used ones are quite expensive still. <br /> <br /> [[File:BB orig.jpg|none|400px|This is what $250+ will get you: A 100% original.]]<br /> <br /> This original USB Blaster has a flex-cable attached to the case and ALTERA markings all over the place.<br /> <br /> ==== The bad ====<br /> <br /> Around 2005 the first clones appeared on the market. Initially they were 1:1 copies. Those obviously work fine but are hard to find now. Then they started to replace the original controller (EPM3032) with cheaper ones, which did the same job... somehow. YMMV. &lt;br&gt;<br /> All clones you can buy now do look more or less the same. <br /> <br /> [[File:BB clone.jpg|300px|The usual set you can buy on the internet these days]]<br /> <br /> With those clones, you usually get a ribbon cable (2x5 connectors) and and a Mini(!)-USB to USB-A cable to connect it to your PC.<br /> <br /> To make sure which version you're buying, you would need to open the case to have a look at the PCB inside. Here's my version (from ~2010) with works quite OK with the Altera tools:<br /> <br /> [[File:BB ok.jpg|none|400px|An early clone which works with Quartus]]<br /> <br /> You can spot 2 ICs and an oscillator. One IC is managing USB the other does the protocol handling with the CPLD/FPGA. But those are rare now.<br /> <br /> ==== ...and the ulgy ====<br /> <br /> As of today, most USB Blasters offered on Amazon or AliExpress are clones of clones of clones. Most of them are reduced to a single WCH CH552G microcontroller which is a clone of an 8051 which was used in earlier clones.<br /> <br /> [[File:BB fake.jpg|none|400px|A current clone which will BSOD your Windows]]<br /> <br /> This is a real one-chip-solution. They even spare the oscillator. And out of the box this might not work. The typical symptom of a &quot;bad clone&quot; is that your Windows PC will give you a blue screen of death as soon as you plug it in. <br /> '''If this is the case with your model don't despair!'''<br /> <br /> {| class=&quot;wikitable&quot;<br /> |+ Hint<br /> |-<br /> | That said, I just bought [https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005006124786647.html one of these clones from Aliexpress] for 5€ incl. shipping(!) and it seems to have the firmware patch already installed. It looks like our Chinese friends reacted fast and replaced their crap with to good stuff.<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Thanks to Rob Brown, who reversed those useless pieces of electronics, you can flash its firmware to actually make it working. [https://www.downtowndougbrown.com/2024/06/fixing-a-knockoff-altera-usb-blaster-that-never-worked/ Rob described all steps in depth on his webpage].<br /> <br /> Of course the downside of this is: You need to do some nerdy things... <br /> In a nutshell you do this<br /> <br /> * Open the case<br /> * force the board into bootloader mode, short the &quot;3V3&quot; and &quot;D+&quot; pins on the internal header together while plugging it into USB<br /> * Run a python tool called [https://github.com/MarsTechHAN/ch552tool ch552tool] on your computer to upload the new firmware<br /> * which you got from [https://github.com/dougg3/CH55x-USB-Blaster/releases/download/v1.1.0/usb_blaster.bin here].<br /> <br /> For the last 3 steps you have to act fast. The bootloader will time out fairly quickly.<br /> <br /> === Software ===<br /> <br /> The CPLD is long time EOL and so is the software needed to program that thing. The software is still available for free but it does not play well with recent OS versions. The most recent supported Windows is version 10, the Linux version comes in a ''huge'' (4GB) VM image incl. the Linux kernel etc. which is IMHO a total overkill for just programming the CPLD.<br /> <br /> That said, we recommend using a (virtual) Windows XP, 7, 8 or 10 installation with the programming tool called Quartus Programmer provided in our public share, which is a comparably mere 122MB, located in &quot;[https://nextcloud.geekdot.com/s/jt4fYYakAjMwXbp?path=%2FFirmware%2FCPLD_Absinth Firmware\CPLD_Absinth]&quot;.<br /> <br /> === Prerequisites ===<br /> <br /> Certain things have to be done before you can reprogram the Absinth CPLD. <br /> <br /> # Download the ''correct'' firmware file. There are firmware files for the Mega-ST and the VME cards. Additionally for the VME cards there are 2 variants, depending on the CPLD used:<br /> #* If your CPLD has a red dot marking, it's a EPM3128 - so choose the firmware file ending to &quot;3128.pof&quot;<br /> #* All other cards (Mega-ST &amp; VME) need the file ending on &quot;3064.pof&quot;<br /> # Get an external 5V power supply (1 ampere is sufficient). <br /> # Remove your ATW800/2 from your ATARI<br /> # Remove installed TRAMs if your have some installed.<br /> # Solder a 2x5 pinrow onto the ATW800/2 where the silkscreen print says &quot;JTAG&quot; (close by the CPLD).<br /> # Make sure your USB Blaster is recognized by your system when plugged in<br /> # Attach your external power source to your ATW800/2 - Seurats &quot;heartbeat LED&quot; will start pulsing if everything was done right.<br /> #* A VME card can be supplied with power by using the unpopulated Mega-ST power connector (Silkscreen print &quot;MST_PWR)<br /> #* Mega-ST cards can be powered through their soldered-on power cable - e.g. by using the running Mega-ST while the card itself is removed.<br /> <br /> === Programming ===<br /> <br /> After installing, start Quartus Programmer and it should greet you with this screen:<br /> <br /> [[File:Quartus Programmer.png|none|800px]]<br /> <br /> Take these steps to reprogram the ATW800/2 CPLD (&quot;Absinth&quot;):<br /> <br /> # Connect your USB Blaster cable to your ATW800/2<br /> #* Pin 1 is marked on the cards silkscreen. Align this to the red marked cable of your USB Blaster flat-cable.<br /> # If everything is correctly configured it should be detected by Quartus Programmer and shown in its UI (1) - if not, click the &quot;Hardware Setup&quot; button and do a search there.<br /> # Click the &quot;Auto Detect&quot; button in Quartus Programmer (2), the name of used CPLD should be shown in the &quot;Device&quot; column (4) as well as in the diagram below.<br /> # Double-click into the &quot;File&quot; column (3) to select your previously downloaded firmware file to be programmed.<br /> # Make sure that the checkboxes for &quot;Program/Configure&quot; and &quot;Verify&quot; are checked (5).<br /> # Click the &quot;Start&quot; button to beginn programming. <br /> <br /> Programming takes just 1-2 seconds. When everything went fine, power down your external power-supply and then disconnect the USB Blaster from your ATW800/2.</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=CPLD_programming&diff=57 2025-07-02T10:30:04Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> (Re)Programming/flashing the CPLD (nicknamed &quot;Absinth&quot;) should normally not be needed.<br /> If there should a currently unknown bug which inhibits the ATW800/2 from working properly or a new feature requiring a firmware change it might be necessary.<br /> <br /> The firmware is stored inside the flash memory build into the CPLD and requires special hardware, cable and software to reprogram it.&lt;br&gt;<br /> Also, you'll need to solder a 2x5 pinrow onto your ATW800/2 which is located at the front right corner of the card, the bus connector facing towards you. It has a silk-screen print &quot;JTAG&quot;.<br /> <br /> === Hardware ===<br /> <br /> This hardware is called '''USB Blaster''' and was originally made by Altera (now Intel), the manufacturer of the CPLD used on the ATW800/2. This programmer is still available but quite costly for a hobbist and especially for a &quot;one shot task&quot; like updating a firmware once every 2 years. <br /> <br /> So quite soon the market was swamped with cheaper clones and even cheaper know-offs. To make things worse, the clones all ''look'' the same! You can't tell them apart from just a photo, you need to see the inside. <br /> <br /> ==== The good ====<br /> As said, the original USB Blaster from Altera still available at Mouser and the like. Prepare for $/€250+. Even used ones are quite expensive still. <br /> <br /> [[File:BB orig.jpg|none|400px|This is what $250+ will get you: A 100% original.]]<br /> <br /> This original USB Blaster has a flex-cable attached to the case and ALTERA markings all over the place.<br /> <br /> ==== The bad ====<br /> <br /> Around 2005 the first clones appeared on the market. Initially they were 1:1 copies. Those obviously work fine but are hard to find now. Then they started to replace the original controller (EPM3032) with cheaper ones, which did the same job... somehow. YMMV. &lt;br&gt;<br /> All clones you can buy now do look more or less the same. <br /> <br /> [[File:BB clone.jpg|300px|The usual set you can buy on the internet these days]]<br /> <br /> With those clones, you usually get a ribbon cable (2x5 connectors) and and a Mini(!)-USB to USB-A cable to connect it to your PC.<br /> <br /> To make sure which version you're buying, you would need to open the case to have a look at the PCB inside. Here's my version (from ~2010) with works quite OK with the Altera tools:<br /> <br /> [[File:BB ok.jpg|none|400px|An early clone which works with Quartus]]<br /> <br /> You can spot 2 ICs and an oscillator. One IC is managing USB the other does the protocol handling with the CPLD/FPGA. But those are rare now.<br /> <br /> ==== ...and the ulgy ====<br /> <br /> As of today, most USB Blasters offered on Amazon or AliExpress are clones of clones of clones. Most of them are reduced to a single WCH CH552G microcontroller which is a clone of an 8051 which was used in earlier clones.<br /> <br /> [[File:BB fake.jpg|none|400px|A current clone which will BSOD your Windows]]<br /> <br /> This is a real one-chip-solution. They even spare the oscillator. And out of the box this might not work. The typical symptom of a &quot;bad clone&quot; is that your Windows PC will give you a blue screen of death as soon as you plug it in. <br /> '''If this is the case with your model don't despair!'''<br /> <br /> Thanks to Rob Brown, who reversed those useless pieces of electronics, you can flash its firmware to actually make it working. [https://www.downtowndougbrown.com/2024/06/fixing-a-knockoff-altera-usb-blaster-that-never-worked/ Rob described all steps in depth on his webpage].<br /> <br /> Of course the downside of this is: You need to do some nerdy things... <br /> In a nutshell you do this<br /> <br /> * Open the case<br /> * force the board into bootloader mode, short the &quot;3V3&quot; and &quot;D+&quot; pins on the internal header together while plugging it into USB<br /> * Run a python tool called [https://github.com/MarsTechHAN/ch552tool ch552tool] on your computer to upload the new firmware<br /> * which you got from [https://github.com/dougg3/CH55x-USB-Blaster/releases/download/v1.1.0/usb_blaster.bin here].<br /> <br /> For the last 3 steps you have to act fast. The bootloader will time out fairly quickly.<br /> <br /> === Software ===<br /> <br /> The CPLD is long time EOL and so is the software needed to program that thing. The software is still available for free but it does not play well with recent OS versions. The most recent supported Windows is version 10, the Linux version comes in a ''huge'' (4GB) VM image incl. the Linux kernel etc. which is IMHO a total overkill for just programming the CPLD.<br /> <br /> That said, we recommend using a (virtual) Windows XP, 7, 8 or 10 installation with the programming tool called Quartus Programmer provided in our public share, which is a comparably mere 122MB, located in &quot;[https://nextcloud.geekdot.com/s/jt4fYYakAjMwXbp?path=%2FFirmware%2FCPLD_Absinth Firmware\CPLD_Absinth]&quot;.<br /> <br /> === Prerequisites ===<br /> <br /> Certain things have to be done before you can reprogram the Absinth CPLD. <br /> <br /> # Download the ''correct'' firmware file. There are firmware files for the Mega-ST and the VME cards. Additionally for the VME cards there are 2 variants, depending on the CPLD used:<br /> #* If your CPLD has a red dot marking, it's a EPM3128 - so choose the firmware file ending to &quot;3128.pof&quot;<br /> #* All other cards (Mega-ST &amp; VME) need the file ending on &quot;3064.pof&quot;<br /> # Get an external 5V power supply (1 ampere is sufficient). <br /> # Remove your ATW800/2 from your ATARI<br /> # Remove installed TRAMs if your have some installed.<br /> # Solder a 2x5 pinrow onto the ATW800/2 where the silkscreen print says &quot;JTAG&quot; (close by the CPLD).<br /> # Make sure your USB Blaster is recognized by your system when plugged in<br /> # Attach your external power source to your ATW800/2 - Seurats &quot;heartbeat LED&quot; will start pulsing if everything was done right.<br /> #* A VME card can be supplied with power by using the unpopulated Mega-ST power connector (Silkscreen print &quot;MST_PWR)<br /> #* Mega-ST cards can be powered through their soldered-on power cable - e.g. by using the running Mega-ST while the card itself is removed.<br /> <br /> === Programming ===<br /> <br /> After installing, start Quartus Programmer and it should greet you with this screen:<br /> <br /> [[File:Quartus Programmer.png|none|800px]]<br /> <br /> Take these steps to reprogram the ATW800/2 CPLD (&quot;Absinth&quot;):<br /> <br /> # Connect your USB Blaster cable to your ATW800/2<br /> #* Pin 1 is marked on the cards silkscreen. Align this to the red marked cable of your USB Blaster flat-cable.<br /> # If everything is correctly configured it should be detected by Quartus Programmer and shown in its UI (1) - if not, click the &quot;Hardware Setup&quot; button and do a search there.<br /> # Click the &quot;Auto Detect&quot; button in Quartus Programmer (2), the name of used CPLD should be shown in the &quot;Device&quot; column (4) as well as in the diagram below.<br /> # Double-click into the &quot;File&quot; column (3) to select your previously downloaded firmware file to be programmed.<br /> # Make sure that the checkboxes for &quot;Program/Configure&quot; and &quot;Verify&quot; are checked (5).<br /> # Click the &quot;Start&quot; button to beginn programming. <br /> <br /> Programming takes just 1-2 seconds. When everything went fine, power down your external power-supply and then disconnect the USB Blaster from your ATW800/2.</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=CPLD_programming&diff=56 2025-06-27T10:48:53Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> (Re)Programming/flashing the CPLD (nicknamed &quot;Absinth&quot;) should normally not be needed.<br /> If there should a currently unknown bug which inhibits the ATW800/2 from working properly or a new feature requiring a firmware change it might be necessary.<br /> <br /> The firmware is stored inside the flash memory build into the CPLD and requires special hardware, cable and software to reprogram it.&lt;br&gt;<br /> Also, you'll need to solder a 2x5 pinrow onto your ATW800/2 which is located at the front right corner of the card, the bus connector facing towards you. It has a silk-screen print &quot;JTAG&quot;.<br /> <br /> === Hardware ===<br /> <br /> This hardware is called '''USB Blaster''' and was originally made by Altera (now Intel), the manufacturer of the CPLD used on the ATW800/2. This programmer is still available but quite costly for a hobbist and especially for a &quot;one shot task&quot; like updating a firmware once every 2 years. <br /> <br /> So quite soon the market was swamped with cheaper clones and even cheaper know-offs. To make things worse, the clones all ''look'' the same! You can't tell them apart from just a photo, you need to see the inside. <br /> <br /> ==== The good ====<br /> As said, the original USB Blaster from Altera still available at Mouser and the like. Prepare for $/€250+. Even used ones are quite expensive still. <br /> <br /> [[File:BB orig.jpg|none|400px|This is what $250+ will get you: A 100% original.]]<br /> <br /> This original USB Blaster has a flex-cable attached to the case and ALTERA markings all over the place.<br /> <br /> ==== The bad ====<br /> <br /> Around 2005 the first clones appeared on the market. Initially they were 1:1 copies. Those obviously work fine but are hard to find now. Then they started to replace the original controller (EPM3032) with cheaper ones, which did the same job... somehow. YMMV. &lt;br&gt;<br /> All clones you can buy now do look more or less the same. <br /> <br /> [[File:BB clone.jpg|300px|The usual set you can buy on the internet these days]]<br /> <br /> With those clones, you usually get a ribbon cable (2x5 connectors) and and a Mini(!)-USB to USB-A cable to connect it to your PC.<br /> <br /> To make sure which version you're buying, you would need to open the case to have a look at the PCB inside. Here's my version (from ~2010) with works quite OK with the Altera tools:<br /> <br /> [[File:BB ok.jpg|none|400px|An early clone which works with Quartus]]<br /> <br /> You can spot 2 ICs and an oscillator. One IC is managing USB the other does the protocol handling with the CPLD/FPGA. But those are rare now.<br /> <br /> ==== ...and the ulgy ====<br /> <br /> As of today, most USB Blasters offered on Amazon or AliExpress are clones of clones of clones. Most of them are reduced to a single WCH CH552G microcontroller which is a clone of an 8051 which was used in earlier clones.<br /> <br /> [[File:BB fake.jpg|none|400px|A current clone which will BSOD your Windows]]<br /> <br /> This is a real one-chip-solution. They even spare the oscillator. And out of the box this will not work. Normally the will even give you a blue screen of death when you plug them into your Windows PC. They're a total rip-off...<br /> <br /> ...but thanks to Rob Brown, who reversed those useless pieces of electronics, you can flash their firmware to actually make them working. [https://www.downtowndougbrown.com/2024/06/fixing-a-knockoff-altera-usb-blaster-that-never-worked/ Rob described all steps in depth on his webpage].<br /> <br /> Of course the downside of this is: You need to do some nerdy things... <br /> In a nutshell you do this<br /> <br /> * Open the case<br /> * force the board into bootloader mode, short the &quot;3V3&quot; and &quot;D+&quot; pins on the internal header together while plugging it into USB<br /> * Run a python tool called [https://github.com/MarsTechHAN/ch552tool ch552tool] on your computer to upload the new firmware<br /> * which you got from [https://github.com/dougg3/CH55x-USB-Blaster/releases/download/v1.1.0/usb_blaster.bin here].<br /> <br /> For the last 3 steps you have to act fast. The bootloader will time out fairly quickly.<br /> <br /> === Software ===<br /> <br /> The CPLD is long time EOL and so is the software needed to program that thing. The software is still available for free but it does not play well with recent OS versions. The most recent supported Windows is version 10, the Linux version comes in a ''huge'' (4GB) VM image incl. the Linux kernel etc. which is IMHO a total overkill for just programming the CPLD.<br /> <br /> That said, we recommend using a (virtual) Windows XP, 7, 8 or 10 installation with the programming tool called Quartus Programmer provided in our public share, which is a comparably mere 122MB, located in &quot;[https://nextcloud.geekdot.com/s/jt4fYYakAjMwXbp?path=%2FFirmware%2FCPLD_Absinth Firmware\CPLD_Absinth]&quot;.<br /> <br /> === Prerequisites ===<br /> <br /> Certain things have to be done before you can reprogram the Absinth CPLD. <br /> <br /> # Download the ''correct'' firmware file. There are firmware files for the Mega-ST and the VME cards. Additionally for the VME cards there are 2 variants, depending on the CPLD used:<br /> #* If your CPLD has a red dot marking, it's a EPM3128 - so choose the firmware file ending to &quot;3128.pof&quot;<br /> #* All other cards (Mega-ST &amp; VME) need the file ending on &quot;3064.pof&quot;<br /> # Get an external 5V power supply (1 ampere is sufficient). <br /> # Remove your ATW800/2 from your ATARI<br /> # Remove installed TRAMs if your have some installed.<br /> # Solder a 2x5 pinrow onto the ATW800/2 where the silkscreen print says &quot;JTAG&quot; (close by the CPLD).<br /> # Make sure your USB Blaster is recognized by your system when plugged in<br /> # Attach your external power source to your ATW800/2 - Seurats &quot;heartbeat LED&quot; will start pulsing if everything was done right.<br /> #* A VME card can be supplied with power by using the unpopulated Mega-ST power connector (Silkscreen print &quot;MST_PWR)<br /> #* Mega-ST cards can be powered through their soldered-on power cable - e.g. by using the running Mega-ST while the card itself is removed.<br /> <br /> === Programming ===<br /> <br /> After installing, start Quartus Programmer and it should greet you with this screen:<br /> <br /> [[File:Quartus Programmer.png|none|800px]]<br /> <br /> Take these steps to reprogram the ATW800/2 CPLD (&quot;Absinth&quot;):<br /> <br /> # Connect your USB Blaster cable to your ATW800/2<br /> #* Pin 1 is marked on the cards silkscreen. Align this to the red marked cable of your USB Blaster flat-cable.<br /> # If everything is correctly configured it should be detected by Quartus Programmer and shown in its UI (1) - if not, click the &quot;Hardware Setup&quot; button and do a search there.<br /> # Click the &quot;Auto Detect&quot; button in Quartus Programmer (2), the name of used CPLD should be shown in the &quot;Device&quot; column (4) as well as in the diagram below.<br /> # Double-click into the &quot;File&quot; column (3) to select your previously downloaded firmware file to be programmed.<br /> # Make sure that the checkboxes for &quot;Program/Configure&quot; and &quot;Verify&quot; are checked (5).<br /> # Click the &quot;Start&quot; button to beginn programming. <br /> <br /> Programming takes just 1-2 seconds. When everything went fine, power down your external power-supply and then disconnect the USB Blaster from your ATW800/2.</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=CPLD_programming&diff=55 2025-06-27T10:33:58Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> (Re)Programming/flashing the CPLD (nicknamed &quot;Absinth&quot;) should normally not be needed.<br /> If there should a currently unknown bug which inhibits the ATW800/2 from working properly or a new feature requiring a firmware change it might be necessary.<br /> <br /> The firmware is stored inside the flash memory build into the CPLD and requires special hardware, cable and software to reprogram it.&lt;br&gt;<br /> Also, you'll need to solder a 2x5 pinrow onto your ATW800/2 which is located at the front right corner of the card, the bus connector facing towards you. It has a silk-screen print &quot;JTAG&quot;.<br /> <br /> === Hardware ===<br /> <br /> This hardware is called '''USB Blaster''' and was originally made by Altera (now Intel), the manufacturer of the CPLD used on the ATW800/2. This programmer is still available but quite costly for a hobbist and especially for a &quot;one shot task&quot; like updating a firmware once every 2 years. <br /> <br /> So quite soon the market was swamped with cheaper clones and even cheaper know-offs. To make things worse, the clones all ''look'' the same! You can't tell them apart from just a photo, you need to see the inside. <br /> <br /> ==== The good ====<br /> As said, the original USB Blaster from Altera still available at Mouser and the like. Prepare for $/€250+. Even used ones are quite expensive still. <br /> <br /> [[File:BB orig.jpg|none|400px|This is what $250+ will get you: A 100% original.]]<br /> <br /> This original USB Blaster has a flex-cable attached to the case and ALTERA markings all over the place.<br /> <br /> ==== The bad ====<br /> <br /> Around 2005 the first clones appeared on the market. Initially they were 1:1 copies. Those obviously work fine but are hard to find now. Then they started to replace the original controller (EPM3032) with cheaper ones, which did the same job... somehow. YMMV. &lt;br&gt;<br /> All clones you can buy now do look more or less the same. <br /> <br /> [[File:BB clone.jpg|300px|The usual set you can buy on the internet these days]]<br /> <br /> With those clones, you usually get a ribbon cable (2x5 connectors) and and a Mini(!)-USB to USB-A cable to connect it to your PC.<br /> <br /> To make sure which version you're buying, you would need to open the case to have a look at the PCB inside. Here's my version (from ~2010) with works quite OK with the Altera tools:<br /> <br /> [[File:BB ok.jpg|none|400px|An early clone which works with Quartus]]<br /> <br /> You can spot 2 ICs and an oscillator. One IC is managing USB the other does the protocol handling with the CPLD/FPGA. But those are rare now.<br /> <br /> ==== ...and the ulgy ====<br /> <br /> As of today, most USB Blasters offered on Amazon or AliExpress are clones of clones of clones. Most of them are reduced to a single WCH CH552G microcontroller which is a clone of an 8051 which was used in earlier clones.<br /> <br /> [[File:BB fake.jpg|none|400px|A current clone which will BSOD your Windows]]<br /> <br /> This is a real one-chip-solution. They even spare the oscillator. And out of the box this will not work. Normally the will even give you a blue screen of death when you plug them into your Windows PC. They're a total rip-off...<br /> <br /> ...but thanks to Rob Brown, who reversed those useless pieces of electronics, you can flash their firmware to actually make them working. [https://www.downtowndougbrown.com/2024/06/fixing-a-knockoff-altera-usb-blaster-that-never-worked/ Rob described all steps in depth on his webpage].<br /> <br /> Of course the downside of this is: You need to do some nerdy things... <br /> In a nutshell you do this<br /> <br /> * Open the case<br /> * force the board into bootloader mode, short the &quot;3V3&quot; and &quot;D+&quot; pins on the internal header together while plugging it into USB<br /> * Run a python tool called [https://github.com/MarsTechHAN/ch552tool ch552tool] on your computer to upload the new firmware<br /> * which you got from [https://github.com/dougg3/CH55x-USB-Blaster/releases/download/v1.1.0/usb_blaster.bin here].<br /> <br /> For the last 3 steps you have to act fast. The bootloader will time out fairly quickly.<br /> <br /> === Software ===<br /> <br /> The CPLD is long time EOL and so is the software needed to program that thing. The software is still available for free but it does not play well with recent OS versions. The most recent supported Windows is version 10, the Linux version comes in a ''huge'' (4GB) VM image incl. the Linux kernel etc. which is IMHO a total overkill for just programming the CPLD.<br /> <br /> That said, we recommend using a (virtual) Windows XP, 7, 8 or 10 installation with the programming tool called Quartus Programmer provided in our public share, which is a comparably mere 122MB, located in &quot;[https://nextcloud.geekdot.com/s/jt4fYYakAjMwXbp?path=%2FFirmware%2FCPLD_Absinth Firmware\CPLD_Absinth]&quot;.<br /> <br /> === Prerequisites ===<br /> <br /> Certain things have to be done before you can reprogram the Absinth CPLD. <br /> <br /> # Get an external 5V power supply (1 ampere is sufficient). <br /> # Remove your ATW800/2 from your ATARI<br /> # Remove installed TRAMs if your have some installed.<br /> # Solder a 2x5 pinrow onto the ATW800/2 where the silkscreen print says &quot;JTAG&quot; (close by the CPLD).<br /> # Make sure your USB Blaster is recognized by your system when plugged in<br /> # Attach your external power source to your ATW800/2<br /> #* A VME card can be supplied with power by using the unpopulated Mega-ST power connector (Silkscreen print &quot;MST_PWR)<br /> #* Mega-ST cards can be powered through their soldered-on power cable - e.g. by using the running Mega-ST while the card itself is removed.<br /> <br /> === Programming ===<br /> <br /> After installing, start Quartus Programmer and it should greet you with this screen:<br /> <br /> [[File:Quartus Programmer.png|none|800px]]<br /> <br /> Take these steps to reprogram the ATW800/2 CPLD (&quot;Absinth&quot;):<br /> <br /> # Connect your USB Blaster cable to the ATW800/2<br /> # If everything is correctly configured it should be detected by Quartus Programmer and shown in its UI (1) - if not, click the &quot;Hardware Setup&quot; button and do a search there.<br /> <br /> # Click the &quot;Auto Detect&quot; button in Quartus Programmer (2), the name of used CPLD should be shown in the &quot;Device&quot; column as well as in the diagram below.<br /> #</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=CPLD_programming&diff=54 2025-06-27T10:32:44Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> (Re)Programming/flashing the CPLD (nicknamed &quot;Absinth&quot;) should normally not be needed.<br /> If there should a currently unknown bug which inhibits the ATW800/2 from working properly or a new feature requiring a firmware change it might be necessary.<br /> <br /> The firmware is stored inside the flash memory build into the CPLD and requires special hardware, cable and software to reprogram it.&lt;br&gt;<br /> Also, you'll need to solder a 2x5 pinrow onto your ATW800/2 which is located at the front right corner of the card, the bus connector facing towards you. It has a silk-screen print &quot;JTAG&quot;.<br /> <br /> === Hardware ===<br /> <br /> This hardware is called '''USB Blaster''' and was originally made by Altera (now Intel), the manufacturer of the CPLD used on the ATW800/2. This programmer is still available but quite costly for a hobbist and especially for a &quot;one shot task&quot; like updating a firmware once every 2 years. <br /> <br /> So quite soon the market was swamped with cheaper clones and even cheaper know-offs. To make things worse, the clones all ''look'' the same! You can't tell them apart from just a photo, you need to see the inside. <br /> <br /> ==== The good ====<br /> As said, the original USB Blaster from Altera still available at Mouser and the like. Prepare for $/€250+. Even used ones are quite expensive still. <br /> <br /> [[File:BB orig.jpg|none|400px|This is what $250+ will get you: A 100% original.]]<br /> <br /> This original USB Blaster has a flex-cable attached to the case and ALTERA markings all over the place.<br /> <br /> ==== The bad ====<br /> <br /> Around 2005 the first clones appeared on the market. Initially they were 1:1 copies. Those obviously work fine but are hard to find now. Then they started to replace the original controller (EPM3032) with cheaper ones, which did the same job... somehow. YMMV. &lt;br&gt;<br /> All clones you can buy now do look more or less the same. <br /> <br /> [[File:BB clone.jpg|300px|The usual set you can buy on the internet these days]]<br /> <br /> With those clones, you usually get a ribbon cable (2x5 connectors) and and a Mini(!)-USB to USB-A cable to connect it to your PC.<br /> <br /> To make sure which version you're buying, you would need to open the case to have a look at the PCB inside. Here's my version (from ~2010) with works quite OK with the Altera tools:<br /> <br /> [[File:BB ok.jpg|none|400px|An early clone which works with Quartus]]<br /> <br /> You can spot 2 ICs and an oscillator. One IC is managing USB the other does the protocol handling with the CPLD/FPGA. But those are rare now.<br /> <br /> ==== ...and the ulgy ====<br /> <br /> As of today, most USB Blasters offered on Amazon or AliExpress are clones of clones of clones. Most of them are reduced to a single WCH CH552G microcontroller which is a clone of an 8051 which was used in earlier clones.<br /> <br /> [[File:BB fake.jpg|none|400px|A current clone which will BSOD your Windows]]<br /> <br /> This is a real one-chip-solution. They even spare the oscillator. And out of the box this will not work. Normally the will even give you a blue screen of death when you plug them into your Windows PC. They're a total rip-off...<br /> <br /> ...but thanks to Rob Brown, who reversed those useless pieces of electronics, you can flash their firmware to actually make them working. [https://www.downtowndougbrown.com/2024/06/fixing-a-knockoff-altera-usb-blaster-that-never-worked/ Rob described all steps in depth on his webpage].<br /> <br /> Of course the downside of this is: You need to do some nerdy things... <br /> In a nutshell you do this<br /> <br /> * Open the case<br /> * force the board into bootloader mode, short the &quot;3V3&quot; and &quot;D+&quot; pins on the internal header together while plugging it into USB<br /> * Run a python tool called [https://github.com/MarsTechHAN/ch552tool ch552tool] on your computer to upload the new firmware<br /> * which you got from [https://github.com/dougg3/CH55x-USB-Blaster/releases/download/v1.1.0/usb_blaster.bin here].<br /> <br /> For the last 3 steps you have to act fast. The bootloader will time out fairly quickly.<br /> <br /> === Software ===<br /> <br /> The CPLD is long time EOL and so is the software needed to program that thing. The software is still available for free but it does not play well with recent OS versions. The most recent supported Windows is version 10, the Linux version comes in a ''huge'' (4GB) VM image incl. the Linux kernel etc. which is IMHO a total overkill for just programming the CPLD.<br /> <br /> That said, we recommend using a (virtual) Windows XP, 7, 8 or 10 installation with the programming tool called Quartus Programmer provided in our public share, which is a comparably mere 122MB, located in &quot;[https://nextcloud.geekdot.com/s/jt4fYYakAjMwXbp?path=%2FFirmware%2FCPLD_Absinth Firmware\CPLD_Absinth]&quot;.<br /> <br /> === Prerequisites ===<br /> <br /> Certain things have to be done before you can reprogram the Absinth CPLD. <br /> <br /> # Get an external 5V power supply (1 ampere is sufficient). <br /> # Remove your ATW800/2 from your ATARI<br /> # Remove installed TRAMs if your have some installed.<br /> # Solder a 2x5 pinrow onto the ATW800/2 where the silkscreen print says &quot;JTAG&quot; (close by the CPLD).<br /> # Make sure your USB Blaster is recognized by your system when plugged in<br /> # Attach your external power source to your ATW800/2<br /> #* A VME card can be supplied with power by using the unpopulated Mega-ST power connector (Silkscreen print &quot;MST_PWR)<br /> #* Mega-ST cards can be powered through their soldered-on power cable - e.g. by using the running Mega-ST while the card itself is removed.<br /> <br /> === Programming ===<br /> <br /> After installing, start Quartus Programmer and it should greet you with this screen:<br /> <br /> [[File:Quartus Programmer.png]]<br /> <br /> Take these steps to reprogram the ATW800/2 CPLD (&quot;Absinth&quot;):<br /> <br /> # Connect your USB Blaster cable to the ATW800/2<br /> # If everything is correctly configured it should be detected by Quartus Programmer and shown in its UI (1) - if not, click the &quot;Hardware Setup&quot; button and do a search there.<br /> <br /> # Click the &quot;Auto Detect&quot; button in Quartus Programmer (2), the name of used CPLD should be shown in the &quot;Device&quot; column as well as in the diagram below.<br /> #</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=File:Quartus_Programmer.png&diff=53 2025-06-27T10:11:31Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>Screenshot of Quartus Programmer</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=CPLD_programming&diff=52 2025-06-19T07:17:14Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> (Re)Programming/flashing the CPLD (nicknamed &quot;Absinth&quot;) should normally not be needed.<br /> If there should a currently unknown bug which inhibits the ATW800/2 from working properly or a new feature requiring a firmware change it might be necessary.<br /> <br /> The firmware is stored inside the flash memory build into the CPLD and requires special hardware, cable and software to reprogram it.&lt;br&gt;<br /> Also, you'll need to solder a 2x5 pinrow onto your ATW800/2 which is located at the front right corner of the card, the bus connector facing towards you. It has a silk-screen print &quot;JTAG&quot;.<br /> <br /> === Hardware ===<br /> <br /> This hardware is called '''USB Blaster''' and was originally made by Altera (now Intel), the manufacturer of the CPLD used on the ATW800/2. This programmer is still available but quite costly for a hobbist and especially for a &quot;one shot task&quot; like updating a firmware once every 2 years. <br /> <br /> So quite soon the market was swamped with cheaper clones and even cheaper know-offs. To make things worse, the clones all ''look'' the same! You can't tell them apart from just a photo, you need to see the inside. <br /> <br /> ==== The good ====<br /> As said, the original USB Blaster from Altera still available at Mouser and the like. Prepare for $/€250+. Even used ones are quite expensive still. <br /> <br /> [[File:BB orig.jpg|none|400px|This is what $250+ will get you: A 100% original.]]<br /> <br /> This original USB Blaster has a flex-cable attached to the case and ALTERA markings all over the place.<br /> <br /> ==== The bad ====<br /> <br /> Around 2005 the first clones appeared on the market. Initially they were 1:1 copies. Those obviously work fine but are hard to find now. Then they started to replace the original controller (EPM3032) with cheaper ones, which did the same job... somehow. YMMV. &lt;br&gt;<br /> All clones you can buy now do look more or less the same. <br /> <br /> [[File:BB clone.jpg|300px|The usual set you can buy on the internet these days]]<br /> <br /> With those clones, you usually get a ribbon cable (2x5 connectors) and and a Mini(!)-USB to USB-A cable to connect it to your PC.<br /> <br /> To make sure which version you're buying, you would need to open the case to have a look at the PCB inside. Here's my version (from ~2010) with works quite OK with the Altera tools:<br /> <br /> [[File:BB ok.jpg|none|400px|An early clone which works with Quartus]]<br /> <br /> You can spot 2 ICs and an oscillator. One IC is managing USB the other does the protocol handling with the CPLD/FPGA. But those are rare now.<br /> <br /> ==== ...and the ulgy ====<br /> <br /> As of today, most USB Blasters offered on Amazon or AliExpress are clones of clones of clones. Most of them are reduced to a single WCH CH552G microcontroller which is a clone of an 8051 which was used in earlier clones.<br /> <br /> [[File:BB fake.jpg|none|400px|A current clone which will BSOD your Windows]]<br /> <br /> This is a real one-chip-solution. They even spare the oscillator. And out of the box this will not work. Normally the will even give you a blue screen of death when you plug them into your Windows PC. They're a total rip-off...<br /> <br /> ...but thanks to Rob Brown, who reversed those useless pieces of electronics, you can flash their firmware to actually make them working. [https://www.downtowndougbrown.com/2024/06/fixing-a-knockoff-altera-usb-blaster-that-never-worked/ Rob described all steps in depth on his webpage].<br /> <br /> Of course the downside of this is: You need to some nerdy stuff... <br /> In a nutshell you do this<br /> <br /> * Open the case<br /> * force the board into bootloader mode, short the &quot;3V3&quot; and &quot;D+&quot; pins on the internal header together while plugging it into USB<br /> * Run a python tool called [https://github.com/MarsTechHAN/ch552tool ch552tool] on your computer to upload the new firmware<br /> * which you got from [https://github.com/dougg3/CH55x-USB-Blaster/releases/download/v1.1.0/usb_blaster.bin here].<br /> <br /> For the last 3 steps you have to act fast. The bootloader will time out fairly quickly.<br /> <br /> === Software ===<br /> <br /> The CPLD is long time EOL and so is the software needed to program that thing. The software is still available for free but it does not play well with recent OS versions. The most recent supported Windows is version 10, the Linux version comes in a ''huge'' (4GB) VM image incl. the Linux kernel etc. which is IMHO a total overkill for just programming the CPLD.<br /> <br /> That said, we recommend using a (virtual) Windows XP, 7, 8 or 10 installation with the programming tool provided in our public share, wich is a comparably mere 122MB, located in &quot;Firmware\CPLD_Absinth&quot;.</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=CPLD_programming&diff=51 2025-06-19T06:28:44Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> (Re)Programming/flashing the CPLD (nicknamed &quot;Absinth&quot;) should normally not be needed.<br /> If there should a currently unknown bug which inhibits the ATW800/2 from working properly, it might be necessary.<br /> <br /> The firmware is stored inside the flash memory build into the CPLD and requires special hardware, cable and software to reprogram it.<br /> <br /> === Hardware ===<br /> <br /> This hardware is called '''USB Blaster''' and was originally made by Altera (now Intel), the manufacturer of the CPLD used on the ATW800/2. This programmer is still available but quite costly for a hobbist and especially for a &quot;one shot task&quot; like updating a firmware once every 2 years. <br /> <br /> So quite soon the market was swamped with cheaper clones and even cheaper know-offs. To make things worse, the clones all ''look'' the same! You can't tell them apart from just a photo, you need to see the inside. <br /> <br /> ==== The good ====<br /> As said, the original USB Blaster from Altera still available at Mouser and the like. Prepare for $/€250+. Even used ones are quite expensive still. <br /> <br /> [[File:BB orig.jpg|none|400px|This is what $250+ will get you: A 100% original.]]<br /> <br /> This original USB Blaster has a flex-cable attached to the case and ALTERA markings all over the place.<br /> <br /> ==== The bad ====<br /> <br /> Around 2005 the first clones appeared on the market. Initially they were 1:1 copies. Those obviously work fine but are hard to find now. Then they started to replace the original controller (EPM3032) with cheaper ones, which did the same job... somehow. YMMV. &lt;br&gt;<br /> All clones you can buy now do look more or less the same. <br /> <br /> [[File:BB clone.jpg|300px|The usual set you can buy on the internet these days]]<br /> <br /> With those clones, you usually get a ribbon cable (2x5 connectors) and and a Mini(!)-USB to USB-A cable to connect it to your PC.<br /> <br /> To make sure which version you're buying, you would need to open the case to have a look at the PCB inside. Here's my version (from ~2010) with works quite OK with the Altera tools:<br /> <br /> [[File:BB ok.jpg|none|400px|An early clone which works with Quartus]]<br /> <br /> You can spot 2 ICs and an oscillator. One IC is managing USB the other does the protocol handling with the CPLD/FPGA. But those are rare now.<br /> <br /> ==== ...and the ulgy ====<br /> <br /> As of today, most USB Blasters offered on Amazon or AliExpress are clones of clones of clones. Most of them are reduced to a single chip named CH552 which is a clone of an 8051 which was used in earlier clones.<br /> <br /> [[File:BB fake.jpg|none|400px|A current clone which will BSOD your Windows]]<br /> <br /> === Software ===<br /> <br /> To make things worse, the CPLD is long time EOL and so is the software needed to program that thing. The software is still available for free but it does not play well with recent OS versions. The most recent supported Windows is version 10, the Linux version comes in a ''huge'' (4GB) VM image incl. the Linux kernel etc. which is IMHO a total overkill for just programming the CPLD.<br /> <br /> That said, we recommend using a (virtual) Windows XP, 7 or 10 installation with the programming tool provided in our public share, wich is a comparably mere 122MB, located in &quot;Firmware\CPLD_Absinth&quot;.</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=File:BB_clone.jpg&diff=50 2025-06-19T06:20:39Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>The usual set you can buy on the internet these days</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=File:BB_orig.jpg&diff=49 2025-06-19T06:11:13Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>The most recent original USB Blaster from Altera</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=CPLD_programming&diff=48 2025-06-19T06:09:26Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> (Re)Programming/flashing the CPLD (nicknamed &quot;Absinth&quot;) should normally not be needed.<br /> If there should a currently unknown bug which inhibits the ATW800/2 from working properly, it might be necessary.<br /> <br /> The firmware is stored inside the flash memory build into the CPLD and requires special hardware, cable and software to reprogram it.<br /> <br /> === Hardware ===<br /> <br /> This hardware is called '''USB Blaster''' and was originally made by Altera (now Intel), the manufacturer of the CPLD used on the ATW800/2. Sadly this programmer is not available in its original version anymore. Later the market was swamped with cheaper clones and even cheaper know-offs. To make things worse, they all ''look'' the same! You can't tell them apart from just a photo, you need to see the inside. <br /> <br /> ==== The good ====<br /> As said, the original USB Blaster from Altera is not available anymore. Used ones are still very expensive (&gt;$/€200).<br /> <br /> ==== The bad ====<br /> <br /> Around 2005 the first clones appeared on the market. Initially they were 1:1 copies. Those obviously work fine but are hard to find now. Then they started to replace the original controller (EPM3032) with cheaper ones, which did the same job... somehow. YMMV.<br /> <br /> [[File:BB ok.jpg|none|400px|An early clone which works with Quartus]]<br /> <br /> ==== ...and the ulgy ====<br /> <br /> As of today, most USB Blasters offered on Amazon or AliExpress are clones of clones of clones. Most of them are reduced to a single chip named CH552 which is a clone of an 8051 which was used in earlier clones.<br /> <br /> [[File:BB fake.jpg|none|400px|A current clone which will BSOD your Windows]]<br /> <br /> === Software ===<br /> <br /> To make things worse, the CPLD is long time EOL and so is the software needed to program that thing. The software is still available for free but it does not play well with recent OS versions. The most recent supported Windows is version 10, the Linux version comes in a ''huge'' (4GB) VM image incl. the Linux kernel etc. which is IMHO a total overkill for just programming the CPLD.<br /> <br /> That said, we recommend using a (virtual) Windows XP, 7 or 10 installation with the programming tool provided in our public share, wich is a comparably mere 122MB, located in &quot;Firmware\CPLD_Absinth&quot;.</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=CPLD_programming&diff=47 2025-06-19T06:04:06Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> (Re)Programming/flashing the CPLD (nicknamed &quot;Absinth&quot;) should normally not be needed.<br /> If there should a currently unknown bug which inhibits the ATW800/2 from working properly, it might be necessary.<br /> <br /> The firmware is stored inside the flash memory build into the CPLD and requires special hardware, cable and software to reprogram it.<br /> <br /> === Hardware ===<br /> <br /> This hardware is called '''USB Blaster''' and was originally made by Altera (now Intel), the manufacturer of the CPLD used on the ATW800/2. Sadly this programmer is not available in its original version anymore. Later the market was swamped with cheaper clones and even cheaper know-offs. To make things worse, they all ''look'' the same! You can't tell them apart from just a photo, you need to see the inside. <br /> <br /> ==== The good ====<br /> As said, the original USB Blaster from Altera is not available anymore. Used ones are still very expensive (&gt;$/€200).<br /> <br /> ==== The bad ====<br /> <br /> Around 2005 the first clones appeared on the market. Initially they were 1:1 copies. Those obviously work fine but are hard to find now. Then they started to replace the original controller (EPM3032) with cheaper ones, which did the same job... somehow. YMMV.<br /> <br /> [[File:BB ok.jpg|thumb|An early clone which works with Quartus]]<br /> <br /> ==== ...and the ulgy ====<br /> <br /> As of today, most USB Blasters offered on Amazon or AliExpress are clones of clones of clones. <br /> <br /> [[File:BB fake.jpg|thumb|A current clone which will BSOD your Windows]]<br /> <br /> === Software ===<br /> <br /> To make things worse, the CPLD is long time EOL and so is the software needed to program that thing. The software is still available for free but it does not play well with recent OS versions. The most recent supported Windows is version 10, the Linux version comes in a ''huge'' (4GB) VM image incl. the Linux kernel etc. which is IMHO a total overkill for just programming the CPLD.<br /> <br /> That said, we recommend using a (virtual) Windows XP, 7 or 10 installation with the programming tool provided in our public share, wich is a comparably mere 122MB, located in &quot;Firmware\CPLD_Absinth&quot;.</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=CPLD_programming&diff=46 2025-06-18T17:16:44Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> (Re)Programming/flashing the CPLD (nicknamed &quot;Absinth&quot;) should normally not be needed.<br /> If there should a currently unknown bug which inhibits the ATW800/2 from working properly, it might be necessary.<br /> <br /> The firmware is stored inside the flash memory build into the CPLD and requires special hardware, cable and software to reprogram it.<br /> <br /> === Hardware ===<br /> <br /> This hardware is called '''USB Blaster''' and was originally made by Altera (now Intel), the manufacturer of the CPLD used on the ATW800/2. Sadly this programmer is not available in its original version anymore. Later the market was swamped with cheaper clones and even cheaper know-offs. To make things worse, they all ''look'' the same! You can't tell them apart from just a photo, you need to see the inside. <br /> <br /> ==== The good ====<br /> As said, the original USB Blaster from Altera is not available anymore. Used ones are still very expensive (&gt;$/€200).<br /> <br /> ==== The bad ====<br /> <br /> Around 2005 the first clones appeared on the market. Initially they were 1:1 copies. They obviously work fine but are hard to find now.<br /> <br /> ==== ...and the ulgy ====<br /> <br /> asdas<br /> <br /> === Software ===<br /> <br /> To make things worse, the CPLD is long time EOL and so is the software needed to program that thing. The software is still available for free but it does not play well with recent OS versions. The most recent supported Windows is version 10, the Linux version comes in a ''huge'' (4GB) VM image incl. the Linux kernel etc. which is IMHO a total overkill for just programming the CPLD.<br /> <br /> That said, we recommend using a (virtual) Windows XP, 7 or 10 installation with the programming tool provided in our public share, wich is a comparably mere 122MB, located in &quot;Firmware\CPLD_Absinth&quot;.</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=File:BB_ok.jpg&diff=45 2025-06-18T17:08:18Z

<p>Geekdot: USB Blaster clone which is working with Altera software</p> <hr /> <div>== Summary ==<br /> USB Blaster clone which is working with Altera software</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=File:BB_fake.jpg&diff=44 2025-06-18T17:07:35Z

<p>Geekdot: Chinese USB Blaster mock-off</p> <hr /> <div>== Summary ==<br /> Chinese USB Blaster mock-off</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=CPLD_programming&diff=43 2025-06-18T16:49:39Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> (Re)Programming/flashing the CPLD (nicknamed &quot;Absinth&quot;) should normally not be needed.<br /> If there should a currently unknown bug which inhibits the ATW800/2 from working properly, it might be necessary.<br /> <br /> The firmware is stored inside the flash memory build into the CPLD and requires special hardware and cable to reprogram it.<br /> <br /> This hardware is called '''USB Blaster''' and was originally made by Altera (now Intel), the manufacturer of the CPLD used on the ATW800/2. Sadly this programmer is not available in its original version anymore. The market was swamped with cheaper clones and even cheaper know-offs.<br /> <br /> To make things worse, the CPLD is long time EOL and so is the software needed to program that thing. The software is still available for free but it does not play well with recent OS versions. The most recent supported Windows is version 10, the Linux version comes in a ''huge'' (4GB) VM image incl. the Linux kernel etc. which is IMHO a total overkill for just programming the CPLD.<br /> <br /> That said, we recommend using a (virtual) Windows XP, 7 or 10 installation with the programming tool provided in our public share, wich is a comparably mere 122MB, located in &quot;Firmware\CPLD_Absinth&quot;.</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=Hardware_compatibility&diff=42 2025-06-03T14:51:58Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> === Hardware successfully tested with the ATW800/2 ===<br /> <br /> As for now we positively tested the ATW800/2 against these accelerators:<br /> <br /> * AdSpeed<br /> * Turbo25<br /> * PAK68 <br /> * PAK68/2<br /> * PAK030 (Set your ATW800/2 ROM to TOS1.04)<br /> * TerribleFire 536<br /> * SpeedyTT<br /> <br /> Also those devices seem to work OK up to now (more in-depth testing needed):<br /> <br /> * Lightning ST <br /> * Cloudy(-Storm) ST (Remove your ATW800/2's ROM chips)<br /> * Thunder TT &amp; Storm TT<br /> * Magnum ST (Most alternate RAM solution should work)<br /> * c´t IDE Interface (needs patched GALs available in the ATW800/2 fileshare)<br /> <br /> === Known issues ===<br /> Speeding up your system bus (i.e. beyond the standard 8 or 16Mhz) might result in pixel errors.<br /> <br /> An accelerator known for doing this is the '''DSTB1'''.<br /> <br /> <br /> To be continued...</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=Software_compatibility&diff=41 2025-05-18T09:23:09Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> == These software packages were sucessfully tested with the ATW800/2 ==<br /> <br /> Generally, non-conformant GEM applications have a high possibility of not working properly.<br /> <br /> ===== Tested alternative OSes/Desktops/GDOS =====<br /> <br /> * Magic (with Ease &amp; Jinnee)<br /> * Mint (with XaAES)<br /> * Gemini<br /> * Teradesk<br /> * Thing 1.50<br /> * SpeedoGDOS 5.20 (in tandem with xVDI)<br /> <br /> ===== Popular software packages =====<br /> <br /> * Cubase 3.01, 3.1 and Logic<br /> * Cubase Score 2.07<br /> * Calamus SL (Lite) works with the xVDI driver under 256 colors. Otherwise it requires TrueColor, so 16bit is not possible. <br /> * Calamus 1.09N (in monochrome)<br /> * Cab<br /> * Texel<br /> * Papillon<br /> * ArtWorx<br /> * Pagestream (up to 1280x1024!)<br /> * Phoenix<br /> * Pure C<br /> * Script<br /> * Papyrus 5.55<br /> * QED<br /> * DynaCADD<br /> <br /> ===== Emulators =====<br /> * Basilisk (woohoo, look it's a Mac!)<br /> <br /> <br /> To be continued...</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=Software_compatibility&diff=40 2025-05-18T09:19:03Z

<p>Geekdot: </p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> == These software packages were sucessfully tested with the ATW800/2 ==<br /> <br /> Generally, non-conformant GEM applications have a high possibility of not working properly.<br /> <br /> ===== Tested alternative OSes/Desktops/GDOS =====<br /> <br /> * Magic (with Ease &amp; Jinnee)<br /> * Mint (with XaAES)<br /> * Gemini<br /> * Teradesk<br /> * Thing 1.50<br /> * SpeedoGDOS 5.20 (in tandem with xVDI)<br /> <br /> ===== Popular software packages =====<br /> <br /> * Cubase 3.01, 3.1 and Logic<br /> * Cubase Score 2.07<br /> * Calamus SL (Lite) works with the xVDI driver under 256 colors. Otherwise it requires TrueColor, so 16bit is not possible. <br /> * Calamus 1.09N (in monochrome)<br /> * Cab<br /> * Texel<br /> * Papillon<br /> * ArtWorx<br /> * Phoenix<br /> * Pure C<br /> * Script<br /> * Papyrus 5.55<br /> * QED<br /> * DynaCADD<br /> <br /> ===== Emulators =====<br /> * Basilisk (woohoo, look it's a Mac!)<br /> <br /> To be continued...</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=Software_compatibility&diff=39 2025-05-18T09:17:05Z

<p>Geekdot: /* These software packages were sucessfully tested with the ATW800/2 */</p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> == These software packages were sucessfully tested with the ATW800/2 ==<br /> <br /> Generally, non-conformant GEM applications have a high possibility of not working properly.<br /> <br /> ===== Tested alternative OSes/Desktops =====<br /> <br /> * Magic (with Ease &amp; Jinnee)<br /> * Mint (with XaAES)<br /> * Gemini<br /> * Teradesk<br /> * Thing 1.50<br /> <br /> ===== Popular software packages =====<br /> <br /> * Cubase 3.01, 3.1 and Logic<br /> * Cubase Score 2.07<br /> * Calamus SL (Lite) works with the xVDI driver under 256 colors. Otherwise it requires TrueColor, so 16bit is not possible. <br /> * Calamus 1.09N (in monochrome)<br /> * Cab<br /> * Texel<br /> * Papillon<br /> * ArtWorx<br /> * Phoenix<br /> * Pure C<br /> * Script<br /> * Papyrus 5.55<br /> * QED<br /> * DynaCADD<br /> <br /> ===== Emulators =====<br /> * Basilisk (woohoo, look it's a Mac!)<br /> <br /> To be continued...</div>

Geekdot https://wiki.geekdot.com/index.php?title=External_Link_interface&diff=38 2025-05-17T13:13:48Z

<p>Geekdot: Created page with &quot;Category:ATW800/2 The external buffered interface is not fitted by default. The buffering of the external link interface allows longer cables to an external Transputer farm (max. 2 meters). To use it you will need to add some extra components to the bottom side of the card: * one 5V, TSOP48, 74xx162245 buffer (IC5) * 4x 0603 100nF caps (C19/21/22/23) * 2x6 90° Pinheader to the edge of the card * a 10k resistor * a shottky diode Due to a f-up by the idiot who d...&quot;</p> <hr /> <div>[[Category:ATW800/2]]<br /> <br /> The external buffered interface is not fitted by default. The buffering of the external link interface allows longer cables to an external Transputer farm (max. 2 meters).<br /> <br /> To use it you will need to add some extra components to the bottom side of the card:<br /> <br /> * one 5V, TSOP48, 74xx162245 buffer (IC5) <br /> * 4x 0603 100nF caps (C19/21/22/23)<br /> * 2x6 90° Pinheader to the edge of the card<br /> * a 10k resistor <br /> * a shottky diode<br /> <br /> Due to a f-up by the idiot who designed the card (forgot his name), you need to do some fixing:<br /> <br /> * Do not solder '''pin 32''' of the 74xx162245 to the PCB but lift it a bit upwards from the PCB (BLUE ARROW)<br /> * (optional but recommended) cut the trace leading to pin 32 (RED mark)<br /> * Solder the resistor and the diode in parallel to the &quot;ERROR&quot; pin of the nearby TRAM socket. (YELLOW mark)<br /> * The cathode (that's the end normally marked with a white stripe) of the diode need to be connected ''towards pin 32'' of the buffer<br /> <br /> This solder stunt is not for the fainthearted - don't drink too much coffee before doing this. Shaky hands won't help here.<br /> A microscope will help ''dramatically'' and you might need a ''very'' thin wire to be soldered to that pin.<br /> <br /> Here's a piccy of the whereabouts...<br /> [attachment=0]External-Fix.jpg[/attachment]<br /> <br /> Sorry for this, but I was assuming that out of the 50 1st batch owners 1 or max. 2 will actually own an external Transputer farm to be attached to the ATW800/2. <br /> <br /> ==== A simpler solution ====<br /> <br /> Another more crude but simpler solution would be to directly connect an external TRAM to the TRAM socket of the ATW800/2.<br /> The cable would be limited to roughly 30-50cm but all you'd need would be 5 cables (given there's external 5V provided):<br /> * Link0 in<br /> * Link0 out<br /> * Analyze<br /> * Reset<br /> * Error</div>

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