How do you access the selft test on the 800XL?

[Ross PK]

When the ready screen is on I press 'Help' as I'm sure that's what I remember doing to access the self test screen, but it doesn't do anything.

 

I've noticed though that when I get onto the self test screen because of a load error and put on the 'keyboard test' that the help key is actually functioning.

[deathtrappomegranate]

Just type BYE from within BASIC, and press return.

[Ross PK]

Okay thanks.

 

So help isn't supposed to access the self test then?

[kenfused]

When the ready screen is on I press 'Help' as I'm sure that's what I remember doing to access the self test screen, but it doesn't do anything.

 

I've noticed though that when I get onto the self test screen because of a load error and put on the 'keyboard test' that the help key is actually functioning.

Hold OPTION when turning the computer on (and any disk drives off).

You don't use HELP to get to the self test but it is used some when you are in it.

You can also type BYE from BASIC, but the memory test will show 8K less RAM

 

--Ken

[Urchlay]

Maybe you're remembering using a 1200XL?

 

On the 1200XL, if you boot with no cartridge/disk/tape, you get an Atari logo screen. To run the self-test, you press Help while the logo screen is showing.