Atari Vax's being moved....

[Curt Vendel]

Okay kiddies.... new office floor for the Atari Museum are being finished this week, electrical and networking will be terminated and test on our about the 2nd of 07' So tonight I'm shutting down Atari-1 and Mike (who I thought was Gawd, but is apparently Mike - but may still be Gawd because Mike was Gawd and Gawd was Mike.... nevermind, long story...)

 

Needless to say, I pulled off some interesting tidbits tonight going through some disk recoveries, here are some emails out of the HCD group.... I laughed when I got down to the email mentioned that Jack Tramiel had left Commodore and some commented "I wonder what industry he'll ruin next" Little did that know, huh!

 

 

Okay, here is a raw dump of some Vaxmails, have fun!

 

 

 

From: JIM 17-DEC-1982 08:38

To: SOVEY

Subj: RE: vax 750

 

That is certainly true. Shall we see how quickly we can fill up the disks?

 

From: TODD 10-JAN-1983 15:23

To: LARRY,PASCO,AJAY,ATESH,RASHID,SOVEY,JIM

Subj: futurenet work station demo

 

I have arranged a demo in our site for the FN DASH-1 engineering

workstation. This unit is based around a IBM PC... snicker snicker

 

 

Thursday morning at 10:am in the B conf. room

todd

 

From: SOVEY 28-JAN-1983 08:58

To: SOVEY

Subj: project numbers

 

 

Kenn, 1-28-83

 

With regard to project numbers, I have received the number for

the cost reduced and enhanced 1200 (the 1201 - 4P3083 right?).

But, I have not gotten the number for the international 1200

which will be a change to the current rev. A (old rev 13A)

board.

 

This project has already been started by my group but the

new project leader, in response to current policy, will be

John Protsman of the international group. I tell you this

since it may effect whether you want to issue a HCD number to

the project after all.

 

The current status of the project is that a schematic has been

completed and PCB design has started to implement the changes.

I don't currently plan any further activity on the project

except possibly as a subcontract from John. I don't think

this is likely since we have our hands full with the 1201.

 

Please send me the project number as soon as you decide

whether or not to issue one. Also, if there is a list of

active project numbers with descriptions around, a copy of

it would be useful and appreciated.

 

Thanks,

 

DAVID SOVEY

 

(system user name SOVEY)

 

From: TODD 11-FEB-1983 08:58

To: @DESIGN

Subj: thanks

 

 

 

 

 

Just a note of thanks... I wanted to say that I was happy

to have been able to spend several months working with you...

Its been good.

todd

 

 

 

From: FRANK 26-MAR-1983 19:53

To: SOVEY

Subj: VAX logon message reply

 

Thanks for the suggestion. Both are already started. If you look when you first logon it gives: "Last message change 10-MAR-1983" . The command

to allow you to see the different users and there user names will be

along sometime in the next two weeks. Thanks for the suggestions.

 

From: SOVEY 28-MAR-1983 14:56

To: SOVEY,FRANK

Subj: vax/800 archive utility

 

 

Frank,

 

Thanks for responding to the suggestions. As a matter of fact,

I have another suggestion that would make the system more useful.

 

A lot of diskettes are used by people to keep all their 800 files

backed-up. If there were an "archive" utility for the 800 that

would allow someone to access the VAX and transfer text or data

files either direction between the machines then the VAX could be

used as a central storage place for files and for file transfer.

Also, since the VAX has periodic backup on tape the problems of

data loss due to poor backup on the 800s could be minimized and

the expense for backup diskettes would be reduced as well.

 

If you think this might be a good idea lets talk about it.

 

Regards,

 

DAVID

 

From: SOVEY 28-MAR-1983 19:01

To: FRANK,SOVEY

Subj: tta1 printer ribbon

 

 

Frank,

 

Ijust noticed that the tta1 printer has come to the end of its

ribbon and has stopped printing a document in the middle.

 

I have dequeued the job that I had pending but the ribbon

needs to be replaced. I did not delete the job that is half

out of the printer.

 

A suggestion would be to keep a stock of ribbons close to the

printer for these situations.

 

Regards,

 

DAVID

 

From: FRANK 30-MAR-1983 09:36

To: SOVEY

Subj: Printers

 

Thanks for your sugestion. There is extra ribbons and paper

located in a locked cabinet in the print area. This cabinet just arrived

and has been on order for quit some time for just that purpose. The game

plan is to check this system daily for any problems. Later there will be somebody to check more often over these devices. Thank you again, for your

suggestion. In the event that you do have problems with the printer,

call me or page to that location.

 

Frank Flonnoy

 

From: OP 30-MAR-1983 15:30

To: @VAXUSERS

Subj: New command: "USERS"

 

I have added a new command called "USERS". This command will

allow you to find the name, username, and the default directory of

all the users currently on the VAX system. As new users start this

list will continue to grow. The format is as follows:

 

$ USERS <RETURN>

 

Current users on our system:

 

Owner Username Account

 

First Lastname USER ADMIN:[uSER]

 

etc .............................

 

If you have any questions please refer them to me by mail to "OP" or

"FRANK". Thanks for your cooperation.

 

From: OP 4-APR-1983 16:09

To: @VAXUSERS

Subj: Word-11 questions

 

In order to evaluate the Word-11 system, please send all

questions to "OP". If you have any problems even minor ones let

me review these with you. Any written documents are more than

welcomed. If there you would like to be on the list to evaluate

a new word processor please let me know, as I will be looking into

different systems. Thanks, Frank.

 

From: OP 6-APR-1983 12:02

To: @VAXUSERS

Subj: NEW PRINTER INFORMATION

 

I have added a draft quaility printer to the system if you wish

to have just rough draft printing done at a faster turn around time. This

brings on some different changes with the system. These are noted below

with an explanation of there location of the different printers:

 

$ PRINT (filename) - goes to the Printronix in print room

$ PRINT1 (filename) - prints to the new draft printer

$ LQ1 (filename) - prints on the Letter Quality Diablo

$ LQ2 (filename) - prints on the Letter Quality Diablo in

the printer room area

$ LQ3 (filename) - will be added and used by Lynn Bertka

(NOTE: this device is not connected)

 

These changes are in effect after 3:00pm 4/6/83. Word-11 users will

now use LQ1, or LQ2, eventually LQ3, for letter quality printing

only. If you have any questions, send all mail to "OP".

 

From: OP 6-APR-1983 14:10

To: @VAXUSERS

Subj: Update

 

Please take note of the different printers now on the system:

 

1) PRINT - PRINTRONIX PRINTER

2) PRINT1 - DECwriterIII PRINTER (P1 FOR WORD-11)

3) LQ1 - FOR LETTER QUALITY

4) LQ2 - FOR LETTER QUALITY

 

Item number (2) will now be located in the same area as the letter

quality printer. If you would like a draft printing select P1 when

in Word-11. Or, select LQ1 for letter quality printing. Thanks!

 

From: OP 21-APR-1983 13:12

To: @VAXUSERS

Subj: System Problems

 

To start, I apologize for the inconvience that may have been

caused by the system being down for a whole day. It was necessary for

a shutdown to expand the system, which caused more problems. Since

work was not completed there will be another shutdown tentativly

scheduled for May 6,1983 between 11:00am and 5:00pm. This work is needed

to provide additional users (managers, directors, supervisors etc .....)

on the system. If there are any problems that arise please give me a

call or write mail to 'OP'. Remember May 6th!

 

Frank Flonnoy - OP

 

 

From: SOVEY 27-APR-1983 19:32

To: FRANK,SOVEY

Subj: Users list

 

 

Frank,

 

I just notived on the users list accessed from the use command

that there are three "halves" to the list. One display says

" press return for second half " and the next display says

" press return for third half " . Just thought you would

like to know.

 

DAVID

 

From: FRANK 28-APR-1983 08:36

To: SOVEY,FRANK

Subj: Users list

 

Thanks Dave, it was an over sight!

 

From: OP 29-APR-1983 09:30

To: @VAXUSERS

Subj: New Command

 

I have added a new command to the system. LOCK will let you

lock your terminal and walk away from it. This is not recomemded to

be used for anytime longer than 30 minutes. If you are going to be

gone longer then 30 minutes then logoff the system. This is only for

leaving the area a short time. Here is how you use it:

 

$ LOCK

** system responds ; **

What password shall I use:

** you type in any password you wish and push <RETURN>

** then it will clear the screen and display ; **

 

KEYBOARD LOCKED:

** to unlock press <RETURN> then type in the password

** that you chose earlier when it gives you the the

** prompt and says ; **

Password:

 

If you typed the correct password it will clear the screen and you

may continue on with your work. When a problem arises with using this

command please call me or send mail to 'OP'.

 

From: OP 18-MAY-1983 09:50

To: @VAXUSERS

Subj: System Shutdown

 

The system will be down today, 5/18/83 from 12:15 until 1:00

to bring up a new printer on the system. Please log yourself off

the system before you goto lunch.

 

From: OP 25-MAY-1983 14:01

To: @VAXUSERS

Subj: Monthly Backup

 

 

This is to inform you that logins for the VAX will be

disabled on tuesday May 31, 1983 from 8:00 to 10:00 for a mon-

thly backup. At the end of the backup logins will be enabled

and you will be notified of its completion.

 

 

From: SOVEY 27-MAY-1983 15:27

To: FRANK,SOVEY

Subj: Disappearance of WORD11 Spelling Dictionary

 

 

Frank,

 

I tried to use the WORD11 speeling checker and the silly dictionary

seems to have disappeared again. Is there any way that a vanilla

user can attach the default dictionary or define another dictionary?

What would be the procedure to do so? Is there some other solution

to the problem?

 

Thanks for your help,

 

DAVID

 

From: OPER1 1-JUN-1983 14:04

To: @ALLUSERS

Subj: INTRODUCTION

 

HI, MY NAME IS RENEE GONZALES AND OPER1 IS MY ADDITIONAL

ACCOUNT NAME. I AM NOW WORKING ALONG WITH FRANK AS A COMPUTER

OPERATOR. I KEEP TRACK OF THE DAILY BACK UP AND THE UP-KEEP

OF THE PRINTERS. PLEASE CALL ME, IF YOU SHOULD RUN INTO ANY

PROBLEMS WITH THE PRINTERS, AT X6594. I'LL BE HAPPY TO HELP

YOU IN ANY WAY I CAN. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!

 

From: SOVEY 1-AUG-1983 16:46

To: FRANK,SOVEY

Subj: S. Harding product specs

 

 

Frank,

 

I need to revise the product specs that Steve Harding put

into the system. To do that I need the account name and

PASSWORD that he used. Please send it to me when you

determine what they were.

 

Thanks,

 

DAVID

 

From: FRANK 2-AUG-1983 16:38

To: SOVEY

Subj: RE: S. Harding product specs

 

I cannot determine any users password at all. This is something

that is secret, and only the user knows. What I can do is change his

"AUTHORIZE" record to another password that you pick. Talk to me as soon

as possible.

 

Frank Flonnoy

 

 

From: SOVEY 3-AUG-1983 10:22

To: FRANK,SOVEY

Subj: Harding product specs

 

 

Please change the "AUTHORIZE" record of Steve Hardings VAX

account to user name "STEVE" and password "HARDING_SOVEY" to

allow me to access the product specs that he has in the machine.

 

THANKS,

 

DAVID

 

From: SOVEY 8-AUG-1983 11:03

To: MILLER,SOVEY

Subj: PBI spec revision

 

 

Steve,

 

What is the current revision and date of the PBI spec?

Please let me know by return mail by this afternoon.

 

Thanks,

 

DAVID

 

From: MILLER 8-AUG-1983 11:44

To: SOVEY

Subj: RE: PBI spec revision

 

 

David,

 

The Latest revision of the pbi spec is 3A. If you can get a

a copy from doc control #C061902 I can make you a copy of the

Master.

 

Steve..............

 

 

From: SOVEY 8-AUG-1983 14:40

To: MILLER,SOVEY

Subj: pbi spec

 

 

Steve,

 

Thanks for the info on the spec release.

 

DAVID

 

From: SOVEY 8-AUG-1983 17:33

To: MILLER,SOVEY

Subj: PBI spec

 

 

On checking in the doc center I find that the revision of the

spec that they have is 2A dated 6-1-83. Please advise if the

correct item is 2A or 3A and what the appropriate date is.

Thanks for your help.

 

DAVID

 

From: MILLER 8-AUG-1983 17:39

To: SOVEY

Subj: RE: PBI spec

 

 

Dave,

 

They mess up again it 3A dated jul 14 1983

 

Steve

 

From: SOVEY 11-AUG-1983 10:31

To: MILLER,SOVEY

Subj: pbi buffer box

 

 

Steve,

 

The internal address of the 1400/1450 is brought unbuffered to the

PBI interface of the machine. It is therefore my contention that

a buffer box is required for cable driving to the expansion box.

Is this the way that yopu understand the system? Please answer

at your earliest convenience.

 

Thanks,

 

DAVID

 

From: MILLER 11-AUG-1983 14:20

To: SOVEY,MILLER

Subj: reply pbi buffer box

 

 

Dave,

 

Yes the buffer box is used to drive the cable for all the

unbuffered signals.

 

Steve

 

 

From: PASCO 12-AUG-1983 08:59

To: SOVEY

Subj: Missing 1400x1a

 

I'd hate to think that nobody was doing anything to locate Astec's

missing machine because nobody could decide whether to call the police

or a private agency. Why not call both?

 

Rich

 

From: SOVEY 16-AUG-1983 06:18

To: PASCO,SOVEY

Subj: missing 1400

 

 

The security people have been contacted with all the information

available. They have notified the police and are working directly

with Astec.

 

DAVID

 

From: SOVEY 9-SEP-1983 09:17

To: MILLER,SOVEY

Subj: 8" disks

 

 

OOPS! I forgot the silly things again maybe tomorrow.

Sorry about that. If you have a source of inexpensive,

not CHEAP, disks a purchase might well be in order.

In the mean time I'll keep looking.

 

DAVID

 

From: MILLER 19-SEP-1983 14:40

To: SOVEY

Subj: sockets

 

 

YES

 

How do I get there????

 

 

 

From: SOVEY 19-SEP-1983 15:07

To: MILLER,SOVEY

Subj: sockets

 

 

Steve,

 

WW Components is located on Junction Ave. south of Brocaw Rd.

To get there you exit the packing lot onto Plumeria and turn

right. Go to Zanker and turn right. Go staight passing the

light at Trimble and a Stop sign and make a left and the next

light which is Brocaw. Proceed to the first light and turn

right. The store will be on your right about halfway down

the block. They accept checks, plastic or cash.

 

Good hunting,

 

DAVID

 

From: MILLER 19-SEP-1983 16:09

To: SOVEY

Subj: RE: sockets

 

 

 

Tanks.............

 

 

Steve

 

 

From: JIM 11-OCT-1983 14:41

To: SOVEY

Subj: 1200 Memory Map

 

If I write to the ROM address space in the 1200, say for example to

$E000, does the data get stored in the underlying ROM?

 

In other words, when the ROM is enabled for reading, is the RAM available

in write-only mode?

 

From: SOVEY 11-OCT-1983 17:31

To: JIM,SOVEY

Subj: 1200 Memory Map

 

 

Jim,

 

If you write to any ROM location while the ROM is enabled

the bits are sprayed into the ether never to return. The

only way to access the RAM below the ROM is to turn off

the ROM.

 

If there are any more questions please do not hesitate to

write, phone, or yell.

 

DAVID

 

From: JIM 12-OCT-1983 17:17

To: SOVEY

Subj: RE: 1200 Memory Map

 

Thanks.

 

I have modified DOS 2.0S to produce DOS 2.0XL.

It is a simple hack to force DUP.SYS to be copied to the

hidden RAM the first time it is read from disk.

Subsequently, when it would normally be read, it is

merely copied from that hidden RAM to its normal

execution location.

 

 

[Curt Vendel]

Here is pt 2:

 

 

From: JIM 13-OCT-1983 09:42

To: PASCO,SOVEY,MILLER,CARL,ROBERTS

Subj: DOS 2.0XL

 

I have a hacked version of DOS 2.0S, which I have dubbed DOS 2.0XL,

which you may be interested in. It stores DUP.SYS "under" the

OS ROM in 64K XL computers the first time it is read from disk.

Subsequent "reads" then happen at warp speed. This is great if

you are tired of waiting for DUP.SYS to load if you are switching

between the editor and assembler a lot, or if you just want the

file manipulation functions while using BASIC.

Limitations: The current version will NOT work with MEM.SAV. If

there is any interest, it looks fairly straightforward to put

a psuedo-MEM.SAV under the OS ROM also, but since I never use

that feature...

If you would like a copy, please give me a diskette. This program

is offered without warranty, and I specifically disclaim any implied

warranties of fitness for any particular purpose.

 

From: JIM 1-NOV-1983 08:25

To: SOVEY,ROBERTS

Subj: WWV Toll Free

 

(800) 957 9999

Your Tax Dollar$ at work.

 

From: ROBERTS 7-NOV-1983 10:33

To: SOVEY

Subj: rtc

 

Godod morning Dave!!! The raeal time lcoclock lost 14sec. in 64 hours.

works out ototo 2.22Hz off. I tihinnk I found some trimmers from

[D

[Dnk i found some ink i I found some trimmers froom Murata.

will be getting samplesWill be getting samples today.

cheers.......gregGreg

 

From: JIM 9-NOV-1983 11:40

To: SOVEY,ROBERTS

Subj: WWV

 

The WWV 800 number has been canceled. They now have a 900

number so they can save some $$$.

 

From: SOVEY 9-NOV-1983 13:13

To: JIM,SOVEY

Subj: WWV

 

what is the new 900 number?

 

From: JIM 9-NOV-1983 13:45

To: SOVEY

Subj: RE: WWV

 

I don't know. It was in the Mercury News late last week.

You might try calling 900 information if there is such a

thing (900 555 1212).

 

From: SOVEY 9-NOV-1983 15:06

To: JIM,SOVEY

Subj: WWV

 

OK-Fine. Thanks for the info.

 

From: SOVEY 10-NOV-1983 14:21

To: MILLER,SOVEY

Subj: VAX commands

 

Hey Steve,

 

What were those two VAX commands that you showed me? One had to do with

what each user was currently doing and the other showed the ammount of

time the system spent doing each user's particular job. Please reply via MAIL.

 

Thanks,

 

DAVID

 

From: MILLER 10-NOV-1983 14:23

To: SOVEY

Subj: RE: VAX commands

 

dave,

 

one was FINGER shows current user status the other was

$MON PROC/TOPCPU displays top cpu users and proceeies<==sp?

 

 

From: SOVEY 6-DEC-1983 15:23

To: MILLER,SOVEY

Subj: ride home

 

Steve,

 

Do you need a ride home? If so what time?

DAVID

 

From: MILLER 7-DEC-1983 14:13

To: SOVEY

Subj: FUN

 

Dave,

If I set default [games]

I still can't get trek to run and it's not in the dir. Any Idea on what's wrong..

 

From: MILLER 7-DEC-1983 14:18

To: SOVEY

Subj: ah i found it

 

you can't do a dir but it will run.

 

From: JIM 12-DEC-1983 15:57

To: CARL,MILLER,SOVEY,ROBERTS

Subj: Tandy Model 2000 Computer

 

I played with a Tandy Model 2000 computer this weekend at the

local Radio Shack Computer Center. I was favorably impressed.

ID: An attractive white case with separate monitor and keyboard.

Speed: A subjective opinion is that it is significantly faster

(in user interaction speed) than an IBM PC.

Graphics: A very colorful display, with twice the IBM PC resolution.

Price: Significantly less than an IBM machine.

 

From: JIM 3-JAN-1984 09:30

To: CARL,MILLER,RASHID,SOVEY

Subj: What is MARKETING thinking? (RUMORS)

 

A source within marketing (Peter Freidman) claims that they

are discussing two new computer products. The first is the

ludicrous Zentec(h) modular computer. The second is some-

thing that they have internally dubbed the "1650" which is

a 68000 based sexy graphics machine (in the VERY CHEAP

category). At this point, Peter does not see any clear

consensus or direction.

 

Just thought you might want to hear the rumors...

 

From: SOVEY 3-JAN-1984 10:14

To: JIM,SOVEY

Subj: rumors

 

Thanks for the info. By the way, what is a luducrous Zentec(h) machine?

 

DAVID

 

From: MILLER 9-JAN-1984 15:21

To: CARL,SOVEY,JIM

Subj: Rainbow

 

 

News flash on rainbow........

The Silver chip which was in 2 microm NMOS with 12 object processers

uses 3 WATTS... The move is on to make it 3 micron CMOS with 8 object processorsmor delays and they have not done a breadboard of it yet...... I think we had

better look for something else for the next generation.

 

 

From: CARL 9-JAN-1984 16:47

To: MILLER,SOVEY,JIM

Subj: Rainbow

 

Three watts?!

 

From: SOVEY 11-JAN-1984 09:14

To: CARL,MILLER,JIM,SOVEY

Subj: rainbow

 

 

Well, they always said it would be a "HOT" system!!!

 

From: JIM 11-JAN-1984 09:28

To: SOVEY,MILLER,ROBERTS,RASHID,CARL,ATESH

Subj: Pasco Update

 

Rich Pasco's office phone number at IBM is 256-1863.

 

He is still (desparately) trying to sell his Mt. View house so he can move

to South San Jose. The police busted a fence in San Mateo and recovered

one television and a VCR that were stolen in his home burglary.

 

He is working on mainframe software tools for schematic capture through

gate array production. His test chip is a combined dynamic RAM controller

and memory management unit for video display generation.

 

From: JIM 12-JAN-1984 10:05

To: CARL,SOVEY

Subj: Sony SMC-777

 

This week's EETimes reports that Sony was expected to introduce

a $600 Z80A based computer that contains an integral micro-floppy

disk drive at CES. I'm impressed

 

From: MILLER 13-JAN-1984 11:20

To: SOVEY

Subj: DELAY LINES

 

Dave,

What is the tolerance on the delay line on the XL line.

I think it is +_ 5% right?????

 

 

From: MILLER 13-JAN-1984 13:25

To: SOVEY,MILLER

Subj: sockets.....

 

Dave,

 

CPU & MCU 1-40 1-24(skinny) 4-20 1-16 3-14

Key & CLK 1-40 2-16 3-14

Memory 10-28 2-20

Power 3-14

 

This is a guess should any of your Development team be caught or

killed the V.P. will disinvow any knowledge of your actions........

 

 

From: JIM 16-JAN-1984 13:32

To: @HARDWARE

Subj: Commodore Int'l

 

The president of Commodore Int'l (Jack Tramiel (sp?)) resigned

Friday in a suprise, but supposedly friendly move.

 

From: SOVEY 16-JAN-1984 15:54

To: JIM,SOVEY

Subj: Commodore

 

I wonder what industry he is going to ruin next/.

 

From: SOVEY 16-JAN-1984 15:57

To: MILLER,SOVEY

Subj: "portable" meeting

 

There will be a meeting of the portable computer hardware group

on Tuesday (1-17-84) at 3:30 PM in Grag Roberts office. Michel Eberton

will attend as a guest.

 

From: MILLER 16-JAN-1984 16:16

To: SOVEY

Subj: RE: "portable" meeting

 

Dave,

Is Michel Eberton a guest host or just a plain guest???

 

 

From: SOVEY 16-JAN-1984 16:19

To: MILLER,SOVEY

Subj: "portable" meeting

 

Steve,

Just a vanilla guest who has been invited so that anyone

who desires to do so can pick his brain on displays or

portables. Since has traveled in Japan extensively and

recently, it was thought that he would be able to help.

 

From: SOVEY 18-JAN-1984 10:13

To: MILLER,SOVEY

Subj: duplex

 

Steve,

Looking through thode magazines I told you about I found a

place that you might want to investigate. Come by when you

get a chance. Also, please bring back my NSC 800 book.

 

Thanks,

 

DAVID

 

From: MILLER 18-JAN-1984 10:17

To: SOVEY

Subj: NSC800

 

David,

Rashid has your NSC800 book.

 

 

From: MILLER 18-JAN-1984 16:20

To: SOVEY

Subj: CMOS RAMs

 

David,

If we use use th LP version of the 6264 the standby current is 100uA

 

 

From: SOVEY 19-JAN-1984 09:26

To: MILLER,SOVEY

Subj: CMOS RAMs

 

Steve,

 

Thanks for the info on the RAMs. It will certainly help the long term

battery drain due to the RAM data retention requirement.

 

From: JIM 19-JAN-1984 16:59

To: @HARDWARE

Subj: 16K CMOS RAM modules

 

EETimes reports (16Jan84,p46) that Electronic Designs, Inc. has

announced a 16K x 8 CMOS Static RAM in a 28 pin package available

in February. (Unfortunately they are about $160-170 ea in hundreds).

They expect 32K x 8 in about 60 days.

 

From: JIM 23-JAN-1984 09:26

To: @HARDWARE

Subj: Atari Alumni Association Luncheon

 

We are planning to have lunch Thursday, 26 Jan, at the Cathay House

on North First Street with some of the past and present Atari Computer

Group folk. If you are interested in attending, please let me know

within a couple of days so that I can warn them what size horde to

expect. Thanks.

 

From: SOVEY 24-JAN-1984 10:35

To: MILLER,SOVEY

Subj: status report

 

Steve,

 

For this month's status report I would appreciate a short (if you spend

5 minutes on it it's too long) bullet list of the things you have done

this month and your plans for next month. I need it by the end of the

day.

 

Thanks,

 

DAVID

 

From: MILLER 25-JAN-1984 09:32

To: SOVEY

Subj: Ajay

 

David,

Ajay was employed on the 21 so his will get his share of the patent

Cash...

 

Z

 

From: JIM 25-JAN-1984 11:18

To: SOVEY

Subj: Eskimo Keyboard Scanning

 

Did you decide on your preference for keyboard scanning?

As I recall we had 3 options:

(1) main processor does it

(2) 80C48 does it (and probably other I/O tasks)

(3) a keyboard scanner does it

 

From: SOVEY 25-JAN-1984 11:33

To: MILLER,SOVEY

Subj: Ajay

 

Steve,

 

Oh well. Good for him .....not so good for us. $333.33 will pay some

PG&E bills anyway

 

DAVID

 

From: SOVEY 25-JAN-1984 11:35

To: JIM,SOVEY

Subj: Eskimo Keyboard Scan

 

Jim,

 

The options you outline are correct. No, there has been no decision.

 

DAVID

 

From: JIM 30-JAN-1984 14:01

To: SOVEY

Subj: Rashid's Junk

 

Not only can't I find the two diskettes we were using to explore

the SALLY anomaly, but I can't find the SALT SE.02 cartridge either.

Do you perchance have it?

 

From: SOVEY 30-JAN-1984 14:59

To: JIM,SOVEY

Subj: Rashid's Junk

 

 

Jim,

 

The only stuff Rashid left me before he left was some documentation.

If the things you seek are not in his office or the lab I have no

idea where they might be.

 

Sorry about that,

 

DAVID

 

From: JIM 30-JAN-1984 16:48

To: SOVEY

Subj: RE: Rashid's Junk

 

bummer.... thanks

 

From: GROUP 31-JAN-1984 11:53

To: SOVEY,CARL,ROBERTS,RASHID

Subj: ESKIMO Memory and I/O Map

 

There is a (slowly) evolving memory and I/O map specification

for the ESKIMO portable computer in the GROUP's SPECification

account. Your comments, additions, and corrections are welcomed.

 

From: JIM 1-FEB-1984 09:29

To: CARL,SOVEY,LOUISE

Subj: Rashid's Missing Diskettes

 

I found them... Mike Wooding had the diskettes I could not

find... the SALT cartridge is replaceable.

Sorry to have troubled each of you.

 

From: JIM 2-FEB-1984 09:21

To: SOVEY, ROBERTS

Subj: Lunch

 

Lunch today (Thursday, 02Feb) at El Toritos near Bowers and 101 at

about 11:30.

 

From: JIM 2-FEB-1984 11:12

To: @HARDWARE

Subj: What's in a name? (continued)

 

To continue Rich Pasco's "What's in a Name?" series, here are

some new ones I learned this morning:

JAN 6507+TIA+6532 in a single chip

EILEEN 6502+6532(less RAM) in a single chip

ASG is developing both of the above, including redoing the 6502

design to circumvent the MOS Technologies patents. (Let's hope

they don't introduce too many new quirks).

2100 from context, this sounded like a cost reduced

2600 and is the reason ASG is developing JAN

(JAN has an input pin that allows it to be

strapped for different television standards).

 

From: JIM 2-FEB-1984 11:18

To: SOVEY,CARL

Subj: SALLY Meetings

 

ASG is going to look into the SALLY "CLC" instruction at high temperatures.

 

They want someone here to bless putting resistors in the data lines

of the 600XL. I suggested they talk to David. They are currently

planning to do a quick test of some popular software titles on a modified

800XL, and then start producing units overseas EARLY NEXT WEEK incorporating

resistors if there are no objections (speak now or forever hold your peace).

Incidently, I did not realize they are not doing it quite as Rashid had

originally suggested... (a) they are using 100 ohms instead of 91 ohms

because of procurement delays and (b) they are putting them outside the

point where the DATA IN/DATA OUT lines meet (instead of only in the DATA OUT

line) because of the difficulty in doing it the other way.

 

The next meeting of the SALLY Team is Thursday, 09 February, 10AM @ 1173.

 

From: CARL 2-FEB-1984 14:24

To: JIM,SOVEY

Subj: Infamous days in history

 

 

Just one year ago tomorrow we had our meetings with

Fred and Sammie Hassine. Here's lookin' at you, Chelco.

(Sound of raspberry in background.)

 

From: SOVEY 2-FEB-1984 14:26

To: CARL,JIM,SOVEY

Subj: Infamous days in history remark

 

 

 

E X A C T L Y ! ! !

 

From: JIM 3-FEB-1984 09:44

To: MILLER,@HARDWARE

Subj: Santa Cruz Computer Festival

 

(Look, Steve isn't even dead and yet he's already off the distribution list.)

 

Anyway, does anyone have any information on where the Santa Cruz

Computer Festival is being held, or the schedule of seminars?

 

From: SOVEY 3-FEB-1984 09:46

To: JIM,SOVEY

Subj: SCCF

 

Sorry, no info. (I didn't even know there was a SCCF!!!)

 

DAVID

 

From: JIM 3-FEB-1984 09:47

To: SOVEY

Subj: RE: SCCF

 

Yep... and it is this weekend... I just don't know the details.

 

From: SOVEY 3-FEB-1984 09:48

To: JIM,SOVEY

Subj: SCCF

 

If you find out anything more p[lease let me know.

 

Thanks,

 

DAVID

 

From: JIM 6-FEB-1984 08:58

To: LOUISE,CAROLYN,@HARDWARE

Subj: Social Calendar/Resignation Registry

 

Upcoming social events:

 

Greg Roberts' Last Day Luncheon

Friday, 10 February, 11:30 AM, El Torito's

 

Ray Bernardi

TBA

 

Remember! If you are planning a spring resignation, be sure to check

with our exclusive Resignation Registry so that we can be sure that

your choice of day and restaurant are not taken.

 

From: JIM 6-FEB-1984 09:35

To: SOVEY,CARL

Subj: SALLY problem(s)

 

I now am fairly sure that the "7% Synertek" Mathloop problem is indeed

a chip problem and is somehow a function of the CLC instruction occasionally

failing.

Are there any additional software tests that either of you would like me

to do on either the Rockwell (Screen Memory) or Synertek (Mathloop)

problems/investigations?

 

From: JIM 7-FEB-1984 10:49

To: CARL,ROBERTS,SOVEY

Subj: Lunch

 

I'm having lunch with Rich Pasco at the Atari Coin-Op cafeteria

today at 12:10... if anyone is interested in joining us, please do.

 

From: JIM 8-FEB-1984 10:46

To: SOVEY

Subj: 600XL/1064

 

I now have the 1064's that Bill Whatam sent to Rashid

for testing with the 600XL and the SALLY undershoot

problem. I have not gotten them to fail (yet). I do

measure about 1.2 volts of undershoot at SALLY's data

bus.

Oh well, whatever... they are yours to do with as you

wish.

 

From: JIM 8-FEB-1984 15:50

To: SOVEY,CARL

Subj: SALLY Meeting Reminder

 

A brief reminder that the next SALLY Problem Meeting is:

Tomorrow, Thursday 09Feb84, 10AM @ 1173.

 

From: JIM 9-FEB-1984 11:35

To: CARL,SOVEY,JIM

Subj: SALLY Problems (Will they never end?)

 

The next meeting of the SALLY Problem Group will be next Thursday,

10AM @ 1173.

 

The "Mathloop" problem is turning up in more International units. Whether

this is because they test them more thoroughly or the problem is actually

more prevelent is unclear. Atari Germany is now opening every single 800XL

they receive, applying a heat gun ("that won't go above 60 degrees C") to

SALLY and running a BASIC loop. If it fails, and large numbers (10%-30%) do,

they replace the Synertek CPU with an MOS Technology SALLY. Atari Wong,

apparently the only manufacturer of International units, is being instructed

immediately to NOT USE Syntertek parts in International XLs.

 

Some old parts (November) were finally data logged. The results on this

extremely small sample (i.e. 3 bad, 1 good), are that the bad chips have

minimum clock periods of about 490-495 nS which is very close to our spec

of 500 nS (and my calculator suggests that 1/1.79xx is about 560 nS). The

one "good" chip tested worked up to a clock period of 285 nS.

They are planning to write a sorting program for the LSI tester that grades

CPUs into <350nS, 350-450nS, and 450-500nS, build

100 units of each, and see how many fail (all in Hong Kong, we should probably

all go over to monitor the tests, right Carl?)

 

From: JIM 9-FEB-1984 11:42

To: CARL,SOVEY,JIM

Subj: SALLY Problems (cont'd)

 

 

Old Business: Monday, a "deviation" was issued by Bill Whatam to insert

100 ohm resistors in the data lines of the RAM chips (after DI/DO have joined)

on all 800XLs built at Atari Wong. They have not told Chelco anything except

don't use Rockwell CPUs. They don't want Chelco to charge us more, or to

do any sloppy reworking of the boards until a revised PCB is available that

incorporates the resistors.

 

Back to the Mathloop problem: Carl Neilson, ASG, believes it is a system

problem. He blames noise on the bus. (Aside: It seems odd that it only

seems to affect one instruction, at least that's all we've found so far,

there admittedly could be others.) He is planning to put some high speed,

low conduction voltage diodes on some units to "cure" the problem.

 

The Atari burn-in cartridge and the SALT cartridge have both been modified

to execute the CLC, BCS FAIL sequence of instructions in a tight loop. The

burn-in ("Pratt Test"?) cartridge used to allow 3 failures per unit before

the unit is marked "DEAD". The new cartridges will allow only one failure

of the CLC or OS Checksum. They are going to try some units to make sure

this does not cause the failure rate to skyrocket.

 

From: JIM 9-FEB-1984 11:52

To: CARL,SOVEY,JIM

Subj: SALLY Problems (cont'd)

 

Paul Comfort, Computer Component Test, has not been able to duplicate the

CLC, BCS failure mode. Fortunately for my conscience, the group in

Test Engineering has (see above description of new Burn-in cart).

 

Test Engineering is also changing the burn-in test to require less expensive

stations in the oven. Currently each station costs about $300, changes are

supposed to reduce it to $50. They will take out the elevated temperature

test of the Asynchronous Communications, Voltage Level Checks, and the

LED failure indicators.

(whoopie)

 

There is still concern that bus contention problems exist in the system.

 

From: JIM 9-FEB-1984 11:57

To: CARL,SOVEY,JIM

Subj: SALLY Problems COMMENT

 

This problem doesn't seem to be going away.

I am not convinced about the technical competence of the people trying

to handle it.

 

From: JIM 10-FEB-1984 09:05

To: CARL,SOVEY

Subj: SALLY Problems (update)

 

Component Test Engineering (Paul Comfort) now believes the problem

is related to either:

(a) screen color

or (b) attract mode

He has not been able to duplicate my CLC failure. I did not notice a

significant difference in failure rate that was obviously related to

attract mode. There could be two problems. (The "problem" could

also be something very flakey that is noise induced that manifests

itself in several different ways.)

 

From: JIM 13-FEB-1984 15:34

To: CAROLYN,LOUISE,@HARDWARE

Subj: Bulletin Board Yours for the Asking

 

Shirley (R.I.P.) ordered a cork bulletin board for her wall a LONG

time ago. It is still sitting unused (and unopened) in my office.

If anyone can use it, please take it.

 

From: CARL 14-FEB-1984 09:01

To: JIM, SOVEY

Subj: Today's quiz

 

The president of the palindrome society is a pastry chef.

Where does he work?

 

From: JIM 17-FEB-1984 17:59

To: CARL,SOVEY

Subj: Nuts. Beaten by Radio Shack

 

Radio Shack now has a $799 box available for the Model 100

that provides CRT/TV output (24x80 I think) and a 5 1/4" disk

drive (with an optional second drive). Theirs does not run

CP/M (since it doesn't seem to change the memory map of their

machine which has ROM in the lower 32K) and is rather expensive

but basically fills the gap I had hoped we could fill with

a 3.25" disk box and CP/M on the Notebook.

 

From: JIM 17-FEB-1984 18:00

To: CARL,SOVEY

Subj: IBM Portable (Transportable) Computer

 

IBM announced a $2795 Compaq-like portable today in New York

that runs PC software.

 

From: JIM 21-FEB-1984 10:33

To: CARL,SOVEY

Subj: lap computer processor

 

I really think we need to convince ourselves (oh, alright, convince me)

that a 16 bit processor unnecessarily increases the cost of a notebook

computer in the time frame of interest. Especially in the prototype

stages, there are obvious software development advantages to having

a powerful processor environement.

 

From: JIM 21-FEB-1984 11:39

To: CARL,SOVEY,ATESH

Subj: 3600 Keyboard

 

I talked with Alan Hodgkinson of General Computer a bit last week and

thought you might be curious about what they are doing.

 

They are planning to make the keyboard attachment Atari SIO compatible.

They are writing their own operating system however since they are using

a different graphics chipset. It sounds like they will only have the

peripheral interconnect (hardware) compatiblity (only Atari loyalty

keeps me from suggesting better interconnection schemes).

 

From: JIM 21-FEB-1984 17:17

To: CARL,SOVEY

Subj: NOTEBOOK Audio

 

I notice that some of the new "smart" modems (not to be confused with

SmartModems tm) have circuitry incorporated in them to detect ringing

and busy signals after they have dialed a number. If you would like

to incorporate such circuitry in Notebook, the need for the audio

reproduction of the transducer is significantly ameliorated.

If the Notebook has an internal microcassette, I think it is important

that it be able to record voice as well as data. In that case the audio

output transducer has just gone back to a speaker.

 

Opinions? Mail to me or GROUP (we will not delete GROUP's mail so

everyone can check an on-going dialog).

 

From: GROUP 21-FEB-1984 17:23

To: CARL,SOVEY

Subj: Touch Panel

 

Also, what is the feeling about an integral touch panel

in/on the Notebook? Can it be non-destructively overlayed

on the LCD panel? Is it worth-while? Do we just want a small

"finger-mouse"?

 

From: JIM 22-FEB-1984 11:23

To: CARL,SOVEY

Subj: Tandy Model 100 Plus

 

The InfoWorld rumor monger says to watch for the Radio Shack

Model 100 Plus in June. Its big advantage: 80 char x 8 line

LCD panel.

 

From: JIM 23-FEB-1984 14:51

To: CARL,SOVEY

Subj: Resignation Registry Update

 

Mark Rustad has resigned.

 

From: GROUP 28-FEB-1984 09:42

To: CARL,SOVEY

Subj: Name for the Home Computer (ex-House-Frame)

 

We need a better name for the House-Frame. I have excised all

references to the MegaPort, but I think the home video interface/mass

storage box needs to be mentioned in the Notebook description so that

it is obvious to the uninitiated that we are considering building a

"system." What do we call that home box? (That ideally is also capable

of recharging the batteries in the Notebook when they nestle together

at night.)

 

From: CARL 28-FEB-1984 16:24

To: JIM,SOVEY

Subj: Macintosh

 

It's in my office. Software 'n stuff is in the right top and bottom

drawers of my desk.

 

From: JIM 1-MAR-1984 08:40

To: CARL,SOVEY,ATESH

Subj: Computer Shows this Weekend

 

Starting tomorrow, at the San Jose Convention center, is the computer

show sposored by Computerland.

 

One that will probably be even better is the First Annual Gilroy Computer

Festival on the 4th. I was sure you would want to know about this one.

 

From: JIM 1-MAR-1984 08:41

To: SOVEY

Subj: Hello from Greg

 

Greg left a message on the Atari Alumni BBS and asked that I

say hello to you. Consider it said.

 

From: GROUP 5-MAR-1984 11:45

To: CARL,SOVEY,JIM,RASHID

Subj: Eskimo/Notebook II Memory Map

 

The new memory map is taking shape in GROUP. Please add to it.

 

From: CARL 8-MAR-1984 16:07

To: SOVEY

Subj: Block detector

 

Tonight's the night. This time, for sure, I'm supposed to

have the evening to myself. Maybe I'll have a brainstorm.

 

From: SOVEY 8-MAR-1984 16:54

To: CARL,SOVEY

Subj: BLOCK DETECTOR

 

Here's hoping for thunder and lightning!!!

 

\_

\_

\

B O O M ! ! !

 

From: CARL 9-MAR-1984 13:58

To: SOVEY

Subj: Block detector

 

How quickly must you know that a train has entered a block?

1 microsecond, 1 second, 1/2 second, etc.?

 

From: SOVEY 9-MAR-1984 14:07

To: CARL,SOVEY

Subj: Block Detector

 

The current plan is to scan the entire railroad once every 0.1 seconds.

The detector output should therefore transition in less than that.

The time required to detect that a the block status has changed from

unoccupied to occupied could be as long as 1 second. The change in

status from occupied to unoccupied show not be reflected for at least

1 second to prevent dirty wheels/track from generating false indications.

 

From: CARL 12-MAR-1984 13:56

To: SOVEY

Subj: Capital equipment

 

I'm doing an emergency budget for Chris Jeffers and it must be

finished by 4:00 today! Do you have any specific Capital Equipment

requests that you can think of in the next ten minutes?

 

From: SOVEY 12-MAR-1984 14:04

To: CARL,SOVEY

Subj: CAPITAL EQUIPMENT

 

The only things that come immediately to mind are a logic analyser

($15,000), if we do not and maybe even if we do have access to one,

and a 68000 ICE with development system ($??,000). If there are tools

available on the VAX that might serve but I suggest you ask Jim's

opinion. Otherwise, 'scop

'scopes and such are plentiful. This list does not include finished

goods requests.

 

From: CARL 12-MAR-1984 16:00

To: JIM, SOVEY

Subj: Budget

 

Another day, another budget. It's only money.

I've just reopened for business

 

From: CARL 12-MAR-1984 17:14

To: SOVEY

Subj: 68000

 

I was just reading through the 68000 data sheet and discovered

that some of the timing changes by a clock cycle depending upon

which mask set the part was made from! I hope it's trivial.

At least they tell you about it (unlike Zilog).

 

From: SOVEY 12-MAR-1984 17:19

To: CARL,SOVEY

Subj: 68000

 

Yeah. Its the same compaibility trap into which ATARI gets caught.

And I certainly agree with the comment about Zilog. At least they

bite the bullet, fix the problem AND tell you about it.

 

From: CARL 13-MAR-1984 13:43

To: SOVEY

Subj: Tape Machine

 

I'm a video amateur. What's a 3/4 inch tape machine?

 

From: CARL 13-MAR-1984 13:58

To: SOVEY

Subj: 68000 trainer

 

Do we want to get another one to have in reserve?

 

From: JIM 14-MAR-1984 11:00

To: CARL,SOVEY,KAHN

Subj: Commodore

 

Commodore has obtained the right to manufacture 8088's! They also

have the rights to manufacture the Hyperion PC (compatible).

The whole world is going IBM PC!

 

From: JIM 14-MAR-1984 13:31

To: CARL,SOVEY,KAHN

Subj: Kaypro IBM PC Compatible Portable

 

Lots of interest in this week's EETimes I guess. To wit:

 

Kaypro to Sell Notebook Model

An IBM PC with 80x16 LCD manufactured by Mitsui Electric Co.,Ltd.

using 80C88 and 256 to 380 kb of non-volatile CMOS RAM. Also has

a "base station" that provides video and 5.25" disk...

Price for portable and base station is expected to be $2000 to $2300.

 

Sigh... just what I wanted, a two component system.

 

From: CARL 14-MAR-1984 16:14

To: SOVEY

Subj: VAX terminals

 

Did Greg have a VAX terminal in his office?

 

From: CARL 14-MAR-1984 16:18

To: SOVEY

Subj: RE: VAX terminals

 

Thank you.

 

From: CARL 14-MAR-1984 16:27

To: SOVEY

Subj: RE: Vax terminals

 

Thanks (again).

 

From: CARL 15-MAR-1984 12:57

To: SOVEY

Subj: TV resolution

 

About how many dots can be resolved horizontally on your basic

no-frills TV set?

 

From: JIM 19-MAR-1984 16:45

To: CARL,SOVEY,KAHN

Subj: Mindset Review

 

There is a favorable (front page) story reviewing the

new Mindset computer in the April issue of Popular Computing.

 

From: JIM 20-MAR-1984 08:49

To: CARL,SOVEY,KAHN

Subj: 1064 Competition

 

There is a new product blurb in this week's Infoworld mentioning

a 64K RAM expansion module for the 600XL from a company

called Microbits (Oregon). $149 suggested retail.

 

From: JIM 21-MAR-1984 13:12

To: CARL,SOVEY

Subj: Trains

 

Great Railway Journeys of the World last night was a trans-USA (mostly)

Amtrak trip. The narrator couldn't believe the state of the railways.

He compared the 11 hour San Fransisco-Los Angeles run to the

equal distance Edinbourough-London run which takes 5 hours.

Lots of shots of Chicago, and its defunct Santa Fe station (Dearborn St?).

 

From: CARL 23-MAR-1984 10:57

To: SOVEY

Subj: Faire

 

Are you here, or did you go to the faire?

If you went to the faire, don't bother to answer.

 

From: JIM 27-MAR-1984 10:55

To: CARL,SOVEY,KAHN

Subj: EEPROM

 

How much of a cost premimum will we be paying in the "Next Generation"

time frame for EEPROM? I can envision a couple of neat uses:

(a) battery-less SmartCards that are used only at the

beginning and end of a session (write rarely)

(b) applications software inside the portable Personal

Component permitting a high degree of customization by the

user... even to the extent of allowing him to slant the

applications emphasis toward his/her particular interest,

while keeping the overall memory size relatively small

(i.e. not everyone will need a list manager, some will

want only trivial wordprocessing but a more powerful

spreadsheet, etc.)

 

From: JIM 27-MAR-1984 14:54

To: SOVEY

Subj: Train Dispatcher

 

What happens if you use DOS L to load the trains.OBJ file using

the /N (no run) switch, and then use M (run at address) and

specify $7530 (alias 30000.)? Does it work?

 

From: CARL 28-MAR-1984 17:51

To: JIM, SOVEY, KAHN

Subj: Tom Hogg's activities

 

We'll meet wit Tom Hogg and his group on Monday for an informal

show and tell. Details will follow tomorrow.

 

From: CARL 29-MAR-1984 15:05

To: SOVEY

Subj: 1173 lab space

 

When you have a chance, you might stop in my office and

make some comments about what I'm about to do to us in

Building 1173.

 

From: CARL 30-MAR-1984 15:07

To: JIM, SOVEY

Subj: DOS IV

 

Mike Barall will be starting on Monday, and Rick will point him

in the right direction.

 

From: CARL 2-APR-1984 13:56

To: SOVEY

Subj: Block Detector

 

I may have just made the intellectual leap to the

simplified block detector. Do you want two or

three leads to indicate direction and occupancy?

 

From: CARL 3-APR-1984 09:00

To: JIM, SOVEY

Subj: Donuts

 

Free donuts at Louise's desk.

 

From: CARL 3-APR-1984 09:43

To: JIM, KHAN, SOVEY

Subj: AMIGA chip set

 

I Have the AMIGA information...it's about half a ream of paper and

appears to be fairly complete. Do we need extra copies?

 

From: CARL 3-APR-1984 09:45

To: JIM, KHAN, SOVEY

Subj: OMNI CHIP SET

 

I also have the data on PENNY, VIVIAN, AND HEATHER. It's not

quite as complete as that for AMIGA.

 

From: CARL 6-APR-1984 11:42

To: SOVEY

Subj: LCD's

 

Just talked with the Optrex rep. (Asahi/Mitsubishi) and he's

quoting approx $130 for a 640 X 200 display. Looks like prices

are on the way down. He'll bring a technical guy in ASAP.

 

From: SOVEY 6-APR-1984 11:43

To: CARL,SOVEY

Subj: LCDs

 

Is that price with or without controller?

 

From: CARL 9-APR-1984 09:16

To: SOVEY

Subj: RE: LCDs

 

I don't know. The Rep will be calling back this week

and I'll ask him them.

 

From: CARL 9-APR-1984 09:28

To: SOVEY

Subj: decals

 

The Train Shop had South Shore decals!

 

From: CARL 9-APR-1984 17:30

To: SOVEY

Subj: 1450

 

Have you found any further disasters?

 

From: SOVEY 12-APR-1984 10:44

To: CARL,SOVEY

Subj: Yet another 800 incarnation

 

Well it looks like they are at it again. A cost accounting type person

came into the office today and asked for a cost estimate of an 800XL

(instant design!) that included KERI, EILEEN, FREDDIE, and a combined

OS and BASIC ROM. I first told him that it was not reasonible to expect

instant design with components that have never been seen. I then said

that it would probably cost more to continually reinvent something

and continually throw manufacturing into turmoil for an effective

tool life of 6 months. I also said that it was probable that the new

chips were incompatible (from his thumbnail description) with the

current software. Finally I gave him a 60% confidence estimate of

the components that could be removed assuming best case (ie. the

ASG chips work).

 

When the devil are going to quit redeveloping the wheel!?!?!?!?

 

I understood that this is another of Stubben's ideas, at least in part.

 

From: CARL 12-APR-1984 13:06

To: SOVEY

Subj: RE: Yet another 800 incarnation

 

As far as I can tell, it's just another wet dream that Ken

Ashton and his people will have to contend with. Don't worry

about it.

 

From: JIM 7-MAY-1984 10:54

To: CARL,KHAN,SOVEY,REA

Subj: IBM PC Technical Reference Manual

 

Someone in Tom Hogg's group wants to borrow the Technical Reference Manual

for the IBM PC. I lent it to Taian Su, but I don't see it in his old office.

Has anyone perchance seen it wandering around here?

 

From: JIM 8-MAY-1984 15:04

To: CARL,KHAN,SOVEY

Subj: Pick Operating System

 

I keep reading about what a great (and small) system Pick is, and about

how it is growing in popularity. Unfortunately, I know nothing about

Pick itself... Do any of you have any information about it?

 

From: CARL 8-MAY-1984 16:25

To: SOVEY

Subj: CES

 

Do you have any interest in attending CES in Chicago

from June 3rd to 6th?

 

From: JIM 11-MAY-1984 08:19

To: CARL,SOVEY,KHAN

Subj: FYI: Sears Announces Color TV/Video Monitor

 

Sears is now selling a $340 color TV that also serves as a video

monitor. It has both composite and RGB inputs. It even has a

switch to kill red and blue for monochromatic "green screen"

displays. I hope this is a trend.

 

 

From: JIM 11-MAY-1984 13:52

To: CARL,KHAN,SOVEY

Subj: 1200 baud modems for the personal and entertainment components

 

I don't know which of you is worrying about the modem, so you all get this.

 

-----

 

I checked with Jose Valdes about 1200 baud modems. He has samples of the

TI single chip modem, they go for about $40 each.

 

Atari LA claims to be able to do one for $10, but nobody believes them

(but it might be worth checking out at least).

 

 

From: CARL 17-MAY-1984 13:06

To: JIM, SOVEY

Subj: Free Software

 

APEX is giving employees free software today. Do you/we

want or need any of that stuff? Louise is finding out

where it is.

 

From: CARL 17-MAY-1984 13:09

To: JIM, SOVEY

Subj: Free Software

 

It's at 1346 Bordeaux, today from 1 to 4.

 

From: SOVEY 21-MAY-1984 11:58

To: CARL,KHAN,JIM,ATESH,SOVEY

Subj: Lunch with Greg Roberts

 

Greg is coming by for lunch at the pizza place in Milpitas on Wednesday

5-23-84 at 11:30. All of us are invited. (No he isn't buying).

 

From: JIM 21-MAY-1984 13:12

To: SOVEY

Subj: RE: Lunch with Greg Roberts

 

Thanks, but I shall not be able to attend (that is the day

of Dennis Smith's Going Away Picnic).

 

From: CARL 21-MAY-1984 13:44

To: SOVEY

Subj: RE: Lunch with Greg Roberts

 

Shucks...I was hoping for a free lunch.

 

From: JIM 29-MAY-1984 09:53

To: SOVEY

Subj: Steve Miller

 

W (415) 887 7777 x6191

H (408) 251 7793

 

From: JIM 29-MAY-1984 11:05

To: CARL,KHAN,SOVEY

Subj: AT&T

 

Did everyone see the AT&T television ads this weekend showing

their new micros? All with page displays too, I'm impressed.

 

From: JIM 29-MAY-1984 11:09

To: CARL,SOVEY,KHAN

Subj: Lunch at La Taqueria Wednesday

 

I'm having lunch with Larry Plummer, Bill DeMeulenaere, and

(possibly, tho' probably not) Ajay Chopra Wednesday at

La Taqueria. If anyone wants to join us, meet in our lobby

just before 11:30.

 

From: SOVEY 30-MAY-1984 09:36

To: JIM,SOVEY

Subj: STEVE MILLER

 

THANKS FOR THE PHONE NUMBERS ... NOW IF HE ONLY CAN BE REACHED.

 

From: TITTSLER 8-AUG-1984 10:43

To: SOVEY,ATESHIAN

Subj: Lunch w/Carl Goy

 

Carl will be by for lunch about 11:45 today if you are interested.

 

From: TITTSLER 20-AUG-1984 08:57

To: ATESHIAN,SOVEY

Subj: Lunch with Ramish (Rashid)

 

I am having lunch today with the late Ramish at El Toritos, Santa Clara,

@ 11:45. Anyone else interested?

 

From: TITTSLER 27-AUG-1984 09:41

To: SOVEY

Subj: Lunch

 

Okay fine.

 

Just saw an impressive graphics chip demo from XTAR. Wow!

 

From: TITTSLER 29-AUG-1984 09:19

To: SOVEY

Subj: Ateshian

 

Fred just called. It is Peter's birthday today. Give him a hard time.

[Curt Vendel]

Once the Vax's are moved into the new office space, next and most important will be the new addition to the Atari Musuem's original Atari Vax's which is QuickWit which was a Vax 11/750. Its been in storage for about a year now since finding it out in Seattle, that will be brought into the new office and the CDC-9766 hard drive system will be connected to it and thats where the REAL fun will begin this spring - 22 300MB platters of Atari HCD archives to restore. There are also some Tandem disks as well, yet Ken V and I cannot find any record of Atari owning anything outside of PDP 11's, Vaxs and some Data General Eclipses. However, we shall see! Going to be some very interesting historical restoration work this spring, hopefully it'll yield a bounty of great new information and code to share with all.

 

G-night....

 

 

 

 

Curt

[carmel_andrews]

hello there big C...nicve to see you bk on the A8 forum

 

interesting compilation of articles there...esp. the higher end planned chip sets...any idea whatever happened to them, apart from amiga and silver

 

Any data/schematic of tech info on them

 

Also, any idea on what keri and eileen could have being (i am assuming that freddie refers to the MMU of the XL-F and XE's)...and also, PENNY, VIVIAN, AND HEATHER (or was that the atari version of Paula, Agnes and denise (Amiga/lorraine)

[doctorclu]

An interesting read. Thanks Curt! Merry Christmas to you!

[Thomas Jentzsch]

Interesting read, especially about the temperature problems (Germany!). Thanks!

[Clint Thompson]

That's awesome... thanks for sharing Curt! =)

[Curt Vendel]

Hi Carmel,

 

I have an 800XLK which has a Keri chip on it, plus I have a Keri Test rig as well. I have most of the GDS chip plots for Keri, Eileen, Silver, AMY and several others. Penny, Wendy and Vivian - I have some initial test data and block information, but I haven't found any GDS tape outs or hardcopy schematics - yet.

 

As for as the Amiga chips, Amiga did not deliver the chip materials to Atari on June 30th, 1984 so Atari didn't have any of those materials, I do have some minor documents on "Mickey" some bus descriptions and some other docs, but nothing detailed or relevant.

 

I was VERY disappointed when I pulled out a folder marked "Atari 1600XL" to find it had been raided and empty :-( I do have significant data from Jim Tittsler and Rich Pasco on the Atari IBM Compatible system which will get posted in the coming months.

 

 

@ Clu - Merry Christmas to you as well my friend!!!!!!!! :-)

 

 

 

Curt

 

 

 

hello there big C...nicve to see you bk on the A8 forum

 

interesting compilation of articles there...esp. the higher end planned chip sets...any idea whatever happened to them, apart from amiga and silver

 

Any data/schematic of tech info on them

 

Also, any idea on what keri and eileen could have being (i am assuming that freddie refers to the MMU of the XL-F and XE's)...and also, PENNY, VIVIAN, AND HEATHER (or was that the atari version of Paula, Agnes and denise (Amiga/lorraine)

[carmel_andrews]

hello again big C...

 

Going over the article again and all the 'inter office' communication

 

It would appear that the peeps concerned with hardware were only concerned about themselves and also what there competition were doing and not enough about what atari were upto (i'm guessing that it's atari related 'inter office' communication)

 

The cpu issue, wasn't much of an issue, according to a techie bod i knew in wales way back when, he mentioned in twaugs 'mapping the xl/xe' that it only affected less then 10 p/c of all A8's and also you'd have to leave your machine on for at least 20 hours and that it only affected screen ram and the lower end of the basic or rom area (i.e. going towards the cxxx area of mem)

 

I find it strange that Atari went after MOS modded b's and c's (i.e 6502b/800, 6502c/xl's and xe's) I thought that MOS only did the plain vanilla flavoured 6502 and 85xx family

 

Have a nice one big C...and hopefully speak again in 2k7

[+warerat]

 

I find it strange that Atari went after MOS modded b's and c's (i.e 6502b/800, 6502c/xl's and xe's) I thought that MOS only did the plain vanilla flavoured 6502 and 85xx family

 

 

The 6502 CPUs used in the 400/800 are standard parts, not modified in any way.

 

A stock 6502 was rated at 1 MHz. A "6502A" was rated at 2 MHz. A "6502B" was rated at 3 MHz. I have a *stock* 800 CPU board with a Synertek 6502A. Yes, a "6502C" was an Atari customized CPU with tri-state buffers on the address lines for the ANTIC HALT.

 

With a little research and you'll see the A and B nomenclature for the standard 6502 MOS and Synertek parts are speed ratings, not Atari modified, except for SALLY.

[mos6507]

Interesting info on their plans for a pre-crash laptop. It really seems like there was a sea of R&D going on but not a lot of focus.

[carmel_andrews]

I still can't understand why tramiel decimated R&D and put in his own crap (or should that be cack) team there

 

Perhaps the warner's idea behind R&D was similar to Bushnell's idea after he quit atari

 

Namely to have lots of project's going on, making sure the technology worked and the product sewn up, then like bushnell's 'catalyst' venture...create lot's of mini/little 'ATARI' alike companies to flood the market with the technology and the product

 

Atari would have benefited as it would have proved whether the technology or the product worked or not and if it worked to incorporate the technology into the computer/gaming platforms

 

Now, they say that tramiel came into Atari from a position of strenght (i.e. he already knew about the computer industry and about marketing, producing and selling computer technology), if he did have that experience he should have used it to take Warner's R&D plans to the next stage (since warners were still part owners of Atari corp)

[danfan521]

I'd love to see this place. that must be my old 750? Did you find a VAX 11/730, by any chance?

[ijor]

Very interesting stuff.

 

ASG is developing both of the above, including redoing the 6502 design to circumvent the MOS Technologies patents.

 

ASG stands for Atari System Group?

 

If so how they were going to make a 6502 compatible chip? Did they have access to the original schematic? If so I guessed they signed an NDA. Or were they making a compatible chip from scartch? If so, it would probably have some incompatibilities with the illegal opcodes. And I guess everybody was aware about them at that point.

 

Who designed Sally at all? MOS Technologies/Atari? I was under the impression that Sally was never manufactured by MOSTEC. Only by Synertek and Rockwell. But I see I was wrong.

[+kheller2]

the REAL fun will begin this spring - 22 300MB platters of Atari HCD archives to restore.

 

 

 

Curt

 

Curt,

 

I would be interested in any more emails and or documents you might have found on the recovery of those platters. I hope you got a chance to do that. I'm interested in putting a timeline together of hardware projects from 82 to 84. (What did Atari do in 81?) Going through a lot of old notes, Engineering logs etc.. I noticed, and I'm sure most people know this by now, but the "1400" was "cancelled" by 12/6/83, (the 1450 in limbo), By 2/7/84 there were design changes to the "1450XLD" in that it would now be using the "SC02" and not SC01 voice chip. This was the future TONG board which used the SSI-263 voice chip (BOM from 3/28/84). "Final Sample" power supplies for the 1450XL were delivered 7/6/84 (From Jerry Jessop's notes) .. Engineering notes show supplier issues for these bricks 11/29/83.

[JohnBuell]

Wow. The message dumps are just...wow. More fuel for the what might have been fires. Ah well. Very cool though. Thanks Curt!