!! READ EVERYTHING BEFORE ORDERING !!
The F18A ONLY outputs a standard VGA (640x480 @ 60Hz) video signal via the on-board header! It does NOT generate the original video signals (composite or PbPrY), and it does NOT generate a 15KHz horizontal signal (it will NOT drive an "arcade" monitor, or what people like to call an "RGB" monitor).
PURCHASE INCLUDES
1x F18A video board
1x 15-pin IDC socket to DE-15 (High Density 15-pin D-SUB) VGA socket pig-tail connector (as shown in product photo)
SHIPPING
I will not make any false claims about the costs to avoid or reduce any possible import duty taxes. I know duty tax sucks, especially for hobby stuff like this, but there is nothing I can do about it.
I can only fit *THREE* F18A boards in the small flat rate box. If you want more than three boards, you will need to make separate orders in quantities of three or less.
I use USPS flat rate boxes for shipping world-wide. Although it does get expensive for people overseas, so far it is the cheapest method I have found.
ADAM COMPUTER
The ADAM "COMPUTER" (not the ADAM as an expansion module) requires an adapter board to move the F18A out of the way of the case. If you plan to install the F18A into the stand-alone ADAM Computer, MAKE SURE YOU CHOOSE THE ADAM ADAPTER from the system/pin-options selection.
KNOWN QUIRKS
Due to the technology used to make the F18A, it is not possible for the F18A to power-on as quickly as the original 9918A/9928/9929 VDP. In some instances when a system is turned on and comes out of power-on reset before the F18A is ready, the system may hang or not start correctly. Usually a simple power-off / power-on will correct the problem, or if your system has a real reset button, that should also remedy the problem. The F18A needs about 100 milliseconds to come ready after power is applied, compared to the original VDP's power-on requirement of only a few microseconds.
Most systems use an resistor and capacitor as an RC-time constant to control the power-on reset time, and in systems with known fast power-on reset times, a simple modification to make the resistor or capacitor lager will extend the reset time and make a more reliable power-on for the F18A enabled system.
Information will be available soon for systems where the power-on reset time might need to be extended.
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU KNOW WHAT YOU ARE BUYING!
The F18A is a pin-compatible replacement for the TMS9918A, 9928, and 9929 Video Data Processors used in classic home computers and game systems. The F18A has been tested in the following systems:
TI-99/4A Home Computer
ColecoVison Game Console*
ColecoVision ADAM Computer*
Toshiba HX-10 MSX1 Computer
Toshiba Pasopia-IQ MSX1 Computer
JVC Victor HC-7 MSX1 Computer
Yamaha CX5M MSX1 Computer
SpectraVideo 328 Computer*
Tomy Tutor*
SEGA SG-1000**
SEGA SC-1000II (replaced a TMS9118 VDP)
Telegames Personal Arcade
Powertran Cortex
Memotech 500 and 512**
* These systems are known to have the original VDP soldered directly to the system circuit board and will require desoldering and a socket installed. Make sure you have a means and the parts to perform this modification! The F18A does NOT come with a socket, although kits for various systems may be available in the future. Please make sure you have the means to replace your original VDP with a socket if necessary.
** The placement and orientation of the original VDP in these systems prevents the system case from being closed when the F18A is install.
The F18A CANNOT be "piggy backed" on to the original VDP. Do not try this, it will not work and will probably damage your system and the F18A.
The F18A is functionally compatible with the 9918A and works in both NTSC and PAL systems. In the case of PAL, your system interrupt will function at 60Hz with the F18A installed. 50Hz operation is not an option. The output is a standard 640x480, 60Hz, analog VGA signal. The composite output of your system will no longer be active.
AVAILABILITY
My goal is to try and continue to offer the F18A as long as people want it, however there are times when I run out and it takes a while to get them in stock again. If you want an F18A and I'm currently out, send me a message asking to be contacted when the F18A is back in stock.
UPDATES
Currently the F18A firmware can be updated via a JTAG programming cable, or via an in-system software update (TI-99/4A computer only). If a bug is found, an upgrade service is available for the cost of return shipping.
WARRANTY
Each board will be programmed and tested in a real computer system prior to shipping. If your board does not work, it can be returned for a replacement as long as there is no obvious physical or electrical damage due to mishandling or improper installment.
While I have done everything possible to ensure the F18A is 100% compatible with the original 9918A, I make no claims or guarantees that the F18A will work with every system or software where the original VDP works. It is possible I got something wrong and some software may not run properly. I will do everything I can to correct any bugs that are found after the boards are shipped.
Thank you!
You read everything. :-) If you have any questions at all, please ask before buying.