Hey, my Mac 512K is now working!
In fact, I'm using it to type this message.
Instead of going out hunting for more expensive connectors, I decided to
use a dead C64 for parts. I pulled a male 9-pin D connector out of there,
and while I was doing so, I also noticed that the C64 cartridge connector
might be useful for repairing my TS1016 memory cartridge for my Sinclair.
I don't think I'll go to hell for cannibalizing a C64. Besides, C64s are
cheaper than the useful salvageable parts inside.
Anyhow... I made a Macintosh to Amiga mouse adapter. I got the two
X-direction wires switched around the first time, but it's all working
now. I decided to use the lessons from the Laser 3000 and I poured hot
glue onto the wires after they were all soldered into place, so that the
thing is rigid, and then I wrapped it in electrical tape. :)
So my Macintosh is presently using a two-button 'Pregnant' Amiga mouse. I
should try the three-button optical mouse, but what would be the use of
having TWO useless buttons? :)
This is also giving me a chance to try out that old 1200bps Apple modem I
pulled out of the Goodwill a couple of months back. Obviously it works
pretty well! But I'm not used to this level of slowness anymore.
I'm also not used to using Pico without arrow keys. Who's idea was it to
use ^B, ^F, ^P, and ^N anyway? Couldn't they have at least arranged the
keys in some sensible manner?
It took me a couple of minutes to figure out how to configure the Option
key to work as Control, too.
I don't know what I'll do if I have to use ESC for anything.
Did Apple think they were doing someone a favour with this keyboard? :/
Anyhow, I'm glad to see this thing works. Eventually I'll get around to
fixing the real Macintosh mouse.
Now... my display appears to be squished slightly on the left hand side.
Can I fix that easily, without risk of electrocution?
And what about that MacSnap SCSI board? Do I need special drivers for it
or something? I can't get it to see my Zip drive.
Doug Spence
ds_spenc_at_alcor.concordia.ca
http://alcor.concordia.ca/~ds_spenc
Received on Tue Sep 01 1998 - 15:41:05 BST