A3000 16MB SIMM mod

[SpeedGeek]

Hi Crumb,

This mod for the A4000 (and why it won't work for the A3000) was already discussed on this thread:

https://www.amibay.com/showthread.php?t=28716

As I had mentioned, I was leaving it up to A4000 owners to follow up on but you could ask lostrego for a status update.

 

[SpeedGeek]

Magnific ... Awaiting the final version without any wires! :flamethrower:

Here is the version without any wires... It's a prototype for the final version and will be subject to some last minute changes. Unfortunately, my low cost supplier of PCB prototypes has recently sold out to a more expensive PCB manufacturer!

SIMMY A3K will cost about the same as standard ZIP to SIMM adapters but with a single 90 degree socket can work with full size accelerator cards! The GAL is only needed for 16MB so a low cost version (no GAL) can support 4/8 MB and then be upgraded to 16MB later by adding the GAL 10ns + 16 MB 70ns SIMM.

Note: The example PCB design SIMMY A3K was removed since it never built or tested.

 

[rkauer]

I will buy one unit once you have it!

 

[owlisen]

This looks really interesting!!!

Depending on the pricetag, i'd buy one from you.

 

[SpeedGeek]

In addition to the recent posts on this thread I received some PM inquiries about SIMMY A3K. So here is the current status of the project:

I'm still looking for a low cost prototype PCB supplier and I won't release the Gerber files until I have a working prototype. If I get some extra PCBs I may offer them for sale but you will have to source the other parts needed to complete the project.

I will probably have to order a larger quantity of PCBs or pay a much higher price for a small quantity so I am considering a REV. 2 design to make a smaller PCB. There are pros and cons for a smaller PCB as follows:

1) Lower cost (+)
2) PCB may be to small for 100% trace routing on a 2 layer board (-)
3) Closer ZIP connector spacing on a smaller PCB makes it harder to install correctly (-)

I guess the best thing to do is design the REV. 2 and make an overall comparison with the REV. 1 PCB.

 

[rkauer]

The simpler to solder, the best. The value of the board will be diluted when using a large order.

I still prefer a version that can be used with regular 60° SIMM holders.

 

[SpeedGeek]

I still prefer a version that can be used with regular 60° SIMM holders.

You can use any degree SIMM socket you want (or even a vertical socket) if you don't care about compatibility with full size accelerators.

 

[rkauer]

I wan to use it with a 3640 card.

 

[qq1975b]

Really nice card. It allows the installation of the A3640 and with that and fast 60ns simm modules it should work quite fast, shouldn't it?
I will be interested in one for sure

 

[Budgie]

I just found another solution http://www.amigaworld.de/hardware/simm-zip-ram-adapter/ Any good?

 

[AndyLandy]

I just found another solution http://www.amigaworld.de/hardware/simm-zip-ram-adapter/ Any good?

SIMM adapters have been around for some time. My A3000 has one of these in it: http://amiga.resource.cx/exp/simmfolie

 

[Buzzfuzz]

If you can buy them ...
That has been the problem up till now.
There are many projects, but once it comes down to a full release version assembled and ready to go, it's not possible.

 

[bwack]

Hi. Interesting project. It's not often one sees GALs used in designs. What does it do ? I understand it is programmable, but has it something to do with memory banking ? Just curious

 

[SpeedGeek]

The GAL essentially converts 4 banks of memory into 1 bank. GALs were used quite often in Retro designs but are seldom used in modern designs.

P.S. I have received quite a number of PMs in the past few years regarding the SIMM adapter I designed but never built or tested. Sorry, but the PCB design files won't be released exactly for this reason. Also, the design itself is really in need of some serious improvement which I simply don't have time to work on now. :roll:

 

[vibros]

Hello,

first of all, many thanks for this project! I have just a question about the jedec file attached to this thread. I have used it for my own adapter, to program GAL from LATTICE and all was fine; but now i have tried it to burn similar part from ATMEL. This parts are almost compatible with GAL 16v8 from LATTICE even the jedec file produced by many tools (like WIN-CUPL) is compatible with both devices. What is unsure is that, if GALer is compatible with ATMEL 16v8 part and/or if the access time of 10ns is determinant in this case with this part, because the GAL that i have used until today was 15ns labeled.

Thanks in advance.

Stefano

 

[SpeedGeek]

Hi Stefano,

The JEDEC to program any GAL16V8, PALCE16V8, and ATF16V8 is the same. But the program algorithm is proprietary so you need a programmer which supports the specific manufacturer's device. Unfortunately, some of the cheap programmers have problems with different manufacturer's devices.

Regards,
Kevin

 

[vibros]

Hello,

thanks for your reply!

Regards
Stefano

 

[vibros]

Hello,

i have now the Atmel part working on my adapter. I have programmed it as 'Lattice' and not as 'Atmel' and then, treated the unused pins as 'Lattice' suggests for his devices.

Regards
Stefano

edit ---

Sorry, it was not so, but an electrical problem. Atmel parts are ok, programmed as Atmel!!!