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Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Any interest in a Dual RS232 Daughter board I've printed? This is a pcb of the same footprint as the installed modem on the iO. With the modem removed, it picks up the standoffs used by the modem and plugs into the COM1 header row, along with a short ribbon cable to connect to COM2, and supplies two fully implemented serial ports. With the modem installed, it piggybacks on top of the modem and supplies a single COM2 serial port. The current version uses two MAX235 chips. I have the artwork ready to support a single chip implementation using the MAX245. I could make the artwork available for interested homebrewers who are capable of etching their own pcbs. I suppose these could be produced professionally for about $10 a board, shipping included. (cabling, chips, sockets extra of course). NO, I'm not interested in doing boards for mass consumption. Regards 12-31-2000 04:29:44

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) mp3boombox Profile | Email ? how are you going to sell these for $10 including shipping consideering the max chip's are $16 a piece??? a board to etch is just shy of a dollar, a socket for a chip $.50, a 10pin 2mm header connector is $2, cable is $2 for at least a few feet, a femal smd 12pin connector is at least $1.50, standerd IDE cable size going to a 9pin serial male adapter $1, male 9pin serial port conector $1.50 your looking at atleast $24.5 +shipping and you wonder why the serial mod's i make i sell for $40 + shipping due to manual laber of building the thing soldering all the wires ect, heh and didnt do any kind of a christmass deal becuase they cost so much to build. ? now that i think about it last week i spent $200 on max235 chip's just to keep up with demand. thats only 12 max235 chip's. and come monday i got to order an other 12. 12-31-2000 07:53:19

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) Millennium_Falcon Profile | Email I dont think you read his post very closely. He said the chips etc. were EXTRA. Yes, I am interested in the bare board for $10. 12-31-2000 08:49:52

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) BubbaDog56 Profile I'd be interested in the artwork, or the purchase of a unpopulated board. Is this a single sided board design? B'Dog 12-31-2000 10:30:35

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) JimF Profile Sounds like a good idea to me. Will the stacked modem and serial board fit under the standard RF shield? 12-31-2000 12:08:20

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Greets to the group: Correct, if you READ CAREFULLY, you will see that I am offering nothing for sale. I've done the board design for my own use, and etch them myself as needed. I simply offered my design/artwork for anyone interested in etching their own. It's pretty slick, fits sunggly on the modem posts, or stacks on top. The $10 price mentioned was simply an estimate of what it would cost to produce them in quantity. FYI, I did look into producing 50 boards, two sided, plated through holes. For that quantity the price comes in a little under $10. Obviously, the 'design' is trivial, as is the board layout. My Rev B board will be a single chip implementation using the MAX245, for a little more elegance. Rev B will likely be accomplished with a single-sided PCB...a little easier for the novice. I'm setting up Sat TV emulators with the iO's, all of which require the dual serial. The Rev A design can be more flexible for some users, since it allows the use of a single serial without the upfront cost of using a MAX245 in lieu of the MAX235. 12-31-2000 19:36:29

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) GinJa Profile I would be very interested! I have got the com2 mod working ok but cannot get the com1 (modem header cn13) mod to work at all. I removed the modem and used the cn13 header pinout posted by gaelic in the tech reference (moderated) section. Do you have a pinout for cn13 that you used for your daughterboard? Either I did something wrong or this pinout is wrong. Please, any info you can give would be greatly appreciated! Hack On and Happy New Year! 12-31-2000 21:31:33

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Wow, lot's of interest in the PCB to my email account. If I get enough, I'll offer to have the boards printed and shipped at cost. I'm dressing up the artwork, and will post to a location for common access for all interested parties. I'll post the link here when available. Email me, please, if interested, so that I can keep track of the interest. Turnaround time at the board house is less than a week. An order quantity of 50 covers the setup charges an results in a piece price of $10 ea. FYI, for those of you that don't know: The Maxim web site offers two free samples...convenient for the two MAX235's needed for this daughterboard :) Simply visit their site, hit the FREE SAMPLES link, fill out a short form, and wait about 10-14 days for delivery. Using these samples, one can get the double serial (Rev A) up and running for about $10. This assumes you etch your own board. As someone pointed out here, that only costs a buck or so, once setup. Hack ON! 12-31-2000 22:36:59

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) GinJa Profile The pinout shown in tech reference (moderated) section is correct. I got cn13 com1 mod working today But I am still interseted in your artwork to neaten up the project a bit. Thanks! 01-01-2001 17:56:36

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) D2tw4all Profile Just sent ya an email r_rl_z... I ordered the samples from Maxim, hopefully I'll get them at some point. In any event, reply to the email or post the site address you mentioned you might be making here. Either way keep us posted... Also any info you can give me on what total needs to be done for the mod would be greatly appreciated, perhaps it's better to post the info here for everyone's benefit... Thanks for the efforts! D2. 01-01-2001 22:42:01

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Greets Group :) Now I see what they mean when folks offering stuff here say they are flooded with email. Rest assured I will respond within a few days to all who have emailed. Several have mentioned they are IN for the fee samples from Maxim...HACK ON! There seems to be ample interest to support a run of the daughter boards. I'll run the numbers and post the details here. In the interest of complete disclosure, I do my boards through ExpressPCB. Interested parties may download their layout software at www.ExpressPCB.com :) They offer a sweet product: simple but capable layout software with competitive and rapid prototyping and production runs, wiht automatic piece-price quotations. I've done the more or less trivial double serial layout. While I'm not particularly interested in managing a group purchase and distribution of the boards, I will if no one else wants to. I'm retired...and lazy :) If anyone is interested in doing it, please contact me via email, and I'll give all the help I can, including supplying the artwork, and an email list of interested users who have contacted me. As I recall, in 50 count quantity the boards raw cost ran about $7. In 25 count they were about $10...not counting shipping, handling, and the asp agrivation factor ;) This is for a two-sided, plated through board without solder-mask or silk screen. For the folks counting costs: The single port implementation requires, in addition to the daughter board: a ribbon cable connection from CN12 to the DIP connection on the daughter board, 1 MAX235 (free)+ DIP socket, and a ribbon connection to a DB9 connector, mounted at the user's descretion. In this application, the daughter board is piggybacked on top of the modem. The double port implementation requires, in addition to the daughter board: the parts detailed above for COM2, 1 additional MAX235 (free) + socket, plus a ribbon connection from the daughter board to a second DB9 connector. This application requires the removal of the modem (to free COM1). The daughter board then mounts directly to the 4 modem posts and CN13. Yours in bit-bashing, r_fl_z PS: Some technical and ALL spelling errors are the result of late hours and excessive Tullamore Dew :P 01-02-2001 03:27:48

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) mp3boombox Profile | Email I am intresetd in the fact of how do you fit the board ontop of the modem? do you have any kind of barior between the board and the modem. due to the contacts which need to be solderd sticking out.??? I would think that even if you clip the pins your still going to be eather pushing aganced both boards with the contacts to contacts OR on the top with a spacer especialy with a 24pin dip socket. sence i dont have the means to make a pcb currently, i just played around with a pre perf pcb that you can get at rat shack thats just about the perfict size for this with different sized holes. I tryed fitting in one of my new shipments of 12max235 chip's and couldnt fit the contacts so that they wouldnt tuch the modem. and if i spaced it i couldnt screw it in? am i missing something or over looking something?? Also where are you getting your SMT 12pin 2mm header for the no modem dual rs232 implimatation and is it solderd on or is it upto the people to do the SMT soldering?? heh i wish i could get more of the free samples :( of these chip's BUT hehe i think you can only sample them about 2 or 3 times ;) befor you realy have to buy them. hehe. sucks having to purchse the chip's at $18 a pop just about. for every serial mod i'v been selling :( welp got to go to work chow 01-02-2001 04:09:00

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email I'll get photos up soon to show the install. As I've said, at this point I'm selling nothing, and doing no assembly. There is pretty strong interest in the board, at both the component level and fully assembled, but I'll wait until all costs are known before considering how to proceed. My initial offer was to simply make my PCB design available for free, I will still do this. I am changing my PCB layout a bit to allow the user access to the additional headers not used in the COM1. Originally, these were not easily usable. Once thats done I'll get the artwork up. I've used a neato design trick to allow the board to comfortably fit in place when the modem is in place. I'm not sure what you are doing, but the fully seated MAX235 in the socket is less than .3" off the PCB upper surface...plenty of room. 01-02-2001 20:40:34

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Daughterboard Update: No one expressed adequate interest in producing the daughterboard, so I will procede with offering a few myself. The prototype dual RS232 board is on order, and will be available shortly after testing. I plan to offer several options for interested parties. 1. The pcb artwork (double sided, plated through holes, no solder mask or silk screen) will be available for homebrewers. Estimated cost: FREE download from web site. 2. The bare board will be available for folks wanting to populate it themsleves. Estimated cost: $15-20 + shipping. 3. The populated board with all soldering completed (sans MAX235 chips) will be available. Estimated cost: $25-30 + shipping. 4. The Plug-and-play board will include a fully populated pcb with all soldering complete, two socketed MAX235 chips in place, and all required cableing including 1 2mm 10 pin C12 ribbon + connectors, and two cabled DB9 connectors for user mounting on the iO case. Estimated cost: $70 5. The smart-guy option includes all items listed above for the Plug-and-Play option, except NO max232 chips. This option is provided for smart guys who order two FREE max235 samples from Maxim Electronics (as previously described), and then plug them into the board. This results in two fully functional serial ports for an estimated total cost of $50. Since I will be stocking MAX232 chips, I will make them available seperately for interested users, at cost + shipping. Estimated cost: $10 ea. + shipping. All prices are preliminary, should be very close, and are more likely to be reduced than to increase. I'm in this for the fun, not profit, and will make all options available at very near cost. The first boards will be available in approximately, 3 weeks. All components will be shipped USPS 2-3 day priority mail, with delivery signature required. This protects all parties. It will help keep the initial costs low if I can accurately determine the level of interest in advance, allowing larger initial order volumes. The first 25 boards have been spoken for. Interested parties should email me at r_fl_z@hotmail.com. All constructive comments are welcomed. Regards 01-06-2001 19:32:29

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Prices are evolving a bit: Bare board: $15 + s/h Socketed board: $25 + s/h Smart Guy: $40 + s/h (two fully functional plug-and-play serials) Complete: $60 + s/h s/h should run (roughly) $5-7 for 2-3 USPS with delivery verification. I'm working hard to get the price as low as possible. A web site for current artwork, details, and project updates will be available within a week. 01-08-2001 09:49:55

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) no_nick Profile I've got the reverse question: I'd like to take the modem and turn it into a regular external modem for use on anther computer. A non-windows 56K modem can't be had for less than $50-$80 so this pays for half the I-O's cost right there. I've seen the posts about the COM1 and COM2 pinouts, but obviously by this post an others, it is not as simple as a one-to-one correlation between the 2mm headers and a 9-pin RS232 jack. Any ideas on how this could be done or pointers on where i should look. I suppose I'd have to buy a 5V power supply and case, but hey, could be a fun project. My folks are still poking along on my old 14.4K modem and could use a faster one! 01-08-2001 20:31:20

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email no_nick: 56K modems are available for less than the prices you mention. For instance, take a look at www.cyberrebate.com. I've gotten two 56k modems from them that were free after rebate. Good luck. 01-08-2001 22:11:06

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) Turbo3 Profile The only external serial port modem I found on that site was $49 after rebate and you had to pay $200 to get it. If they charge you sales tax on the $200 it costs even more. They had cheap $0.00 (after rebate) USB and PCI card modems but that is not what he is talking about making. Even the free ones want $200+ up front. Then there is also shipping costs to include or is shipping free? 01-09-2001 01:35:55

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Notice I didn't say there was one there now, but there are from time to time. Just giving an idea of the kind of places to look for one. Yes, at least at that particular site, you must pay up front and receive the rebate later, but thats no biggie. Also, they do run frequent specials giving free shipping, but that'll be hit and miss. Regards. 01-09-2001 01:58:16

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) mp3boombox Profile | Email Well to answer your question YES you can make the modem a true external. BUT your going to have to do some work. The RES232 part of it is fine. it should be a straight setup to a female DB-9 connector. But along with the db-9 your going to need a 5v source, which you can obtain from a 5v power brick at rat shack. But it has to be ratted correctly, less you want to chance frying your little modem. a power switch, heh thats prob the hardest thing to had ;). next you've got 2 audio lines on this modem. a line in/out both are MONO. With out doing some test's off hand I'm unshure if these audio lines are at line level or below. It's a modem so chances are prity dang good it's line level. The only thing your going to be lacking is the LED'S, and off hand heh i dont really know how to add them. BUT you may be able to tap the serial line if i rember correctly with some led's and a transister resister network. To do this would be easy, requiring nothing more then the control pin of a transister to be on the serial line. If the serial line is active the transister will close the gate, making the LED glow. the resisters are just to limate the current going into the led's. Heck, the best thing to use would be like an old 28.8 or less external USR modem. speaking of I'v got an external USR 9600 bps modem kicking around somewhere ;). Speaking of this mod any one know what that orignal 4 switch mini dip switch was for on the IO?? i believe it was for the modem setting modes like the regular external modem's have dipswitches in the back. 01-09-2001 04:04:06

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) cheaphack Profile r_fl_z, What is the exact difference between the #3 populated board and the #5 smart-guy board? reading the description, you only have to plug a couple of freebie max235's in each. Thanks, cheaphack 01-09-2001 07:13:51

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Cheaphack: Correct. The smart-guy option is for folks dilligent enough to get the Maxim free samples of the MAX235CPG chips. That lowers the cost by $33 if you get your chips at retail, by $20 if you buy them from me. I won't stock many, but for 6 mo or so I'll have them available at about $10. (exact cost to be determined after I get them in hand). 01-09-2001 14:06:15

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email PROJECT UPDATE: Jack at http://www.badflash.com has taken an interest in the project. Badflash.com will supply inexpensive 3 cable paks designed to be used with the iO Double Serial board. I will supply completed boards to Badflash.com, and the board options described above will be available through his fine company. We expect to meet the pricing given to date. Boards will be available through Badflash.com in approximately 2 1/2 weeks. We will get an informative web page up ASAP. On board support for the FAN has been added, as well as signal taps for the extra modem lines: RING, MIC, RST, and SPKR, preserving the users future hacking options. The board will now be two-sided, plated through, solder-masked, and silk-screened. Regards 01-09-2001 14:16:59

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) jackass Profile | Email >The board will now be two-sided, plated through, solder-masked, and silk-screened. Wow! You're going all out with this. I assume there is a lot of spare space on your serial board. Can you add huge pads/holes for +5v? The modifications like the audio amp addition require TTL power source and it'd be nice if we could get it off this board. Better yet, can you carve up some real estate on the board for population if people want to add an audio amp? 01-09-2001 21:47:24

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) Perplexer Profile Amen to jackass' suggestion: I'm all for a TL082 op-amp socket and a couple pads for +5V!! Man, a single board for 2 serial ports, fan support, op-amp support, and +5V pads would clean up the insides of my IO beautifully! 01-09-2001 23:06:48

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) D2tw4all Profile WOW this has come a long way in such a short time. Anyway, I'm still trying to figure out the difference between the populated board and the smart guy. I want to leave the modem in and only add 1 serial, I'm assuming the populated is the one I want? D2. 01-09-2001 23:31:56

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Jackass: Actually, there is not alot of space left on the board, as it's a fairly small board and the MAX chips with sockets take up quite a bit of space. It's likely that the audio amp hack could be incorporated into the board. However, at this point my goal was to try to keep the price as low as possible, and likely it would add $5-7 to the board. If you would care to email the audio mod to me, to save the research time it would take me to dig it up, then I'll price it out. I forgot to mention, that in addition to providing plated through holes for the extra modem signals, I have included +5 and GND at the same location. These taps are designed for easy user addition of normal header posts for project interfaces. I have no use for them, but I assumed some talented hacker would eventually come up with a use for them. I have about 10 days before the bulk board order is let, so please send the audio schematic asap, if able. All changes will have to be incorporated by then. Regards 01-10-2001 01:07:02

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) Perplexer Profile r_fl_z: Schematics here: http://www.execpc.com/~theshoes/bentemp/i-opener%20audio.zip 01-10-2001 01:15:44

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email D2tw4all: The Smart-guy option consists of the fully socketed and soldered board. All connectors are installed. The only thing missing are the Maxim MAX235CPG chips. The fully populated board includes the Maxim chips. Both options will include the required 3 cables (1 2mm 10 pin ribbon for COM2/CN12 connection, and two DB9 connectors with cables) The idea of the Smart-guy option is that Maxim will supply painless FREE samples in limited quantity. They automatically send two samples...how convenient :) It'll take about 10-14 days to receive them. ORDER NOW, and you'll have them by the time the board is available. This option will lower your installed cost of the double-serial board by approx. $30 or more. I set this up, in true hacker style, because I expected to get some comments about a $60-70 board for a $99 computer. While it may seem expensive, it's simply the cost of doing business in relatively small volume. I don't think ANYONE could complain about a $40 installed price. Hope that helps. Regards 01-10-2001 01:17:24

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Perplexer: Hehehe, man that was FAST. I'm on it. At the very least, I can probably install support for the audio hack, allowing the user to install the parts himself. I'll lay it out and see how it looks. Thanks for your efforts. 01-10-2001 01:19:34

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email OK, it's a done deal. I've added the audio hack circuit on the PCB, with pads for the following user installed components, to complete the hack: two caps, 1 8 pin DIP op amp (socket optional), and one 6 pin SIP right-angle header on .10" centers. All component spacing is .10" (no surface mount), so most should have no difficulty soldering. Signals available at the header are: LIN, RIN, LOUT, ROUT, +5, GND. By keeping the components user supplied, no increase in the board cost is required. Thanks for the input. There is a little room left on the board...any more requests? 01-10-2001 03:27:40

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) D2tw4all Profile OK, I already ordered the MAX chips for the freebies, did that a week ago... By populated board I don't mean the full one I mean the one that's less than the smart guy, you called it the "populated" board in your original pricing. I don't want the whole board premade and I don't want to spend 50 bux if I can do more myself for less but I want to know just how much I will have to do myself is all... D2. 01-10-2001 10:04:10

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) jackass Profile | Email OK, it's a done deal. I've added the audio hack circuit on the PCB, with pads for the following user installed components, to complete the hack: two caps, 1 8 pin DIP op amp (socket optional), and one 6 pin SIP right-angle header on .10" centers. All component spacing is .10" (no surface mount), so most should have no difficulty soldering. Signals available at the header are: LIN, RIN, LOUT, ROUT, +5, GND. By keeping the components user supplied, no increase in the board cost is required. Thanks for the input. There is a little room left on the board...any more requests? This is great! I really don't have a need for rs-232 ports but I think I'll get one of these now just so I can have everything on one board. I'm working on making the amp work with V5 iopeners and if the op amp circuit works without modification it'll be cool-eee-o 01-10-2001 10:13:02

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) jackass Profile | Email Signals available at the header are: LIN, RIN, LOUT, ROUT, +5, GND. I'm assuming that you've attached +5 and gnd to the rs-232 circuitry so we don't have to draw them from elsewhere. Is that correct? Do you have the artwork online that we can take a look at? On another note, what software do you guys find to be the best for drawing schematics or designing boards? 01-10-2001 10:22:48

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email D2: Sorry, I didn't get your question before. The difference between the 'populated board' and the 'smart-guy' is that, while both come with all sockets and soldering complete, the smart-guy also includes the cable package. As far as completing the boards yourself, while you are welcome to do so, you will likely not do so at a cost savings...if you are buying your parts at retail and paying shipping. Obviously, which options are available may now be affected by BadFlash.com's participation in the project. Things should solidify during the next week or so, and the information web page, when available, will be the place to get information on the up-to-date offer. JackAss: Correct, both COM ports draw their power from their respective connectors: CN12, and CN13. This allows a single COM port to be used without the other. If only one COM port is required, then the second COM port doesn't require a MAX chip, saving a little money (and power) for single serial users. Audio power is bled of off CN12 as well. 01-10-2001 10:41:05

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Several have requested to see the board. Here it is: http://209.41.5.228/public/pcb1.gif (hope that works) This is a quick and dirty posting to satisfy interested parties curiosity. It consists of the layer 1 copper, layer 2 copper, and silk-screen. Both solder-mask layers are hidden for clarity. Disclaimer: This artwork is shown for reference only. It is not final. Prototypes based upon this design will not be tested for approximately one week. No attempt has been made to post images suitable for etching. High quality images for homebrewers will be posted upon verification. Regards 01-10-2001 20:30:44

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) KneuB_2 Profile | Email r_fl_z You asked for a wish list to be added to your board, well here goes; 1) Traces for a USB ethernet adaptor. 2) A pad for a 500K pot like this one (TR04H504) for the voltage core adjustments. (BTW this company also produces surface mount dip switches of the appropriate size for the i-opener....and they give samples ) Granted, putting the USB ethernet adapter traces on the board might be a bit much (it would be sweet) but the pad for the pot shouldn't be to hard. 01-11-2001 01:19:30

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Kneub_2: I'll consider anything up to the point that the fabrication order is let. As for the USB, I'm not sure what you are after. First, I don't think you'd be able to fit a USB connector on the board and still squeeze it beneath the RF shield. Also, the USB port signals are not available on the board, so it's unclear to me exactly what would be gained. The pot seems doable. I assume you are simply looking for a place to mount the pot, and the ability to run +5/GND to it? Email me if you'd care to discuss your needs, and thank's for your input. 01-11-2001 02:03:39

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) BadFlash Profile | Email Forget the core voltage adjustment. You only need to set 2V for the core to run the K6-III+ with the cooling resistor mod. I have found the pot mounted any distance from the voltage bridge to be unstable. You can use a single small resistor of the right value to get the core voltage you need. The values are published elsewhere in various threads. I will attempt to pull this stuff back together this weekend. 01-11-2001 14:15:41

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) D2tw4all Profile Hey, got my "samples" today. Anyway, only ordered one because I am going to keep the modem, what are my options with the board? D2. 01-11-2001 18:24:19

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email As I look into the audio hack, I see a couple of different versions. I've already included the one available at the link above, but would like to get some feedback on its use. Is this generally acknowledged to be the one we want on the board? Changes to the design may be incorporated for about another 10 days. All commnents would be appreciated. Status report: proof-of-design samples are inbound. ETA 9 days. D2tw4all: Well done. Only ordered one??? Advice for all: get both free samples, even if you don't plan on using both serials, you'll have a spare. At the very least, you may send your extras to ME :) Options for the board are given above. Hang tight for about two weeks. We should be delivering by then. 01-11-2001 22:53:29

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) D2tw4all Profile I thought I DID order two, but they show only one. Anyway, leaving the modem intact is the add in board going to be different/cheaper for the version for only ONE MAX and ONE serial cable/components. I would think it would be cheaper than the 2 port version. D2. 01-11-2001 23:41:30

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email D2tw4all: Curious, since they normally send two of each chip requested. I guess your order just fell through the cracks. Lucky that you only needed one! Regretfully, we will only produce one version of the board with components, and it will be fully populated. Since we are trying to provide a reasonable board at low cost, it's not worth messing with special orders. You wouldn't save much by eliminating the DIP socket and header rows for COM1. It's of much greater potential value to have the option later of making the second serial (COM1) available. 01-13-2001 09:27:39

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) YouBecha Profile I just got my 2 chips, and will also keep the modem installed. I assume the board will work fine with the modem installed, or do I have to leave the second max chip off to enable the modem port? http://www.geocities.com/mr_bubba_zanetti/ 01-13-2001 20:48:14

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email YouBetCha: You are correct, the board works fine with the modem installed or not. With the modem installed, the COM1 circuit is unpowered. You may leave the unused MAX235 installed on the board or remove it. 01-14-2001 02:13:42

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) SirDag Profile When is this board going to be available to order? Has the price settled down? Will it work with the io 2001? Tx It is going to be a "MUST HAVE"..... 01-14-2001 09:53:34

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) mp3boombox Profile | Email Just a reminder to all you hacking fanangins ;). This is also because I'm sick and tired of answering the same quesion over and over via email. between audio/serial mods from me and general quetsion's question's. Using this serial mod as aposed to mine or any one elses who uses the MAX 205, 235, and or 245 chips WILL NOT GET ANY NEW DEVICES working that mine and a few other people's DONT support due to the low voltage, I.E. 5v on a 12v serial device. any thing that uses more then a 5v source WILL NOT work on the IO serial with any of the max chip mods using the parts i listed. unless it has its own power supply. PLEASE stop emailing me with this question. Of the 396 email's i got from you guys out there over the course of the past week and a half about 30-45 of the email's had this same question. Thank you and HACK ON. 01-14-2001 15:31:50

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email SirDwag: The status of the board, as detailed in the thread above, has not changed. Proof-of-design prototypes will be in-hand this week, with production boards available with two weeks through BadFlash.com. Updates will be posted here. Thanks for your interest. Regards 01-15-2001 05:46:19

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Most of MP3boombox's comments are correct. The board I am producing is simply a little more elegant solution, in that it piggybacks onto the modem in order to support both serials. The circuit for COM2 is likely identical to what he is producing. Though not necessary, I did follow the COM2 pinout known as Prefects. This pinout is somewhat arbitrary, but it's popular, so I used it on COM2 for my board in the interest of easy documentation for users. My board simply offers TWO serials, a fan connection, and one form of the audio mod. As for RS232, the standard does not specify +/- 12v, but rather a wide range of bi-polar voltages from +/- 5-12V. As a result, while many devices have problems with TTL level serial implementations, very few will have difficulty with the MAX235 serial ports. That, of course, is why Maxim produces them by the millions. As I've explained to MP3 via email, it was never my intention to enter into competition with his serial (or audio) product. I even delayed my offering for several weeks to avoid that appearance. I also offered my design for FREE to anyone interested in making a few bucks on it, however no one showed serious interest. Despite the startup costs in excess of $2000 (for 100 boards), I'm trying to offer the board at virtually no profit, and judgeing by the interest, there seems to be a need. I salute your efforts MP3. You've done a nice hacking job with your products. :) 01-15-2001 11:17:44

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Added .025" square header pads to allow easy access to the all of the TTL level serial lines from CN12 while the board is in use. This will allow convenient access to both RS232 and TTL serial hacks. 01-22-2001 13:53:41

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) D2tw4all Profile HAHA weird, got my OTHER MAX235 the other day, strange they shipped BOTH but in separate packages and 2 WEEKS apart! At least I have them both now though, I KNEW I ordered 2. D2. 01-22-2001 14:21:29

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Heh, cool. Now you can send that spare to me ;) Board image has been updated to near final version: http://209.41.5.228/public/pcb1.gif Prototypes should be in-hand this next week. 01-23-2001 17:35:47

Got Maxim literature (catalog, newsletter) but no chips (modified 0 times) NormConquest Profile | Email Is it normal for paperwork and chips to ship separately? Would they send catalogs and burn me on promised samples? Bad business idea, eh? Probably a little late to think of this, but what parts are needed for audio? 01-23-2001 18:25:58

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email NormConquest: I would hold off procuring parts, other than the MAX235's, until the prototype is tested and the level of completion of the final product has been determined. We are still considering what forms of the board will be offered. Likely, one with the audio amp completed will be one form. Also likely, is a kit form for guys willing to solder the components themselves, who want to save $10 or so. To answer your question: 2 10V+ 100uF electrolytic caps, 1 TL-082 dual opamp, and one 6 pin .10" pitch right angle single row header are the minimum components required. I should have photos up of the prototype bare board, stuffed board, and installation by next weekend. 01-23-2001 23:11:52

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) BubbaDog56 Profile Norm, Be patient, your parts will come. During the two weeks I waited for my samples to arrive, I received two separate CD-ROM catalogs in the mail. r_fl_z, When the fab is ready, want to swap a bare fab for a couple USB mod kits? Email me off the board at BubbaDog56@ev1.net, thanks. B'Dog 01-24-2001 07:05:21

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) Millennium_Falcon Profile | Email I got my chips in the mail yesterday. Now where do I find the board layout? I have the smaller chips since I only want to add Com 2 and retain the modem as is on com 1. 01-27-2001 08:50:04

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Project Update: The prototypes have been received, and they look good. I'll be sending a populated board to Jack at BadFlash.com in two days for him to evaluate. We should be in a position shortly thereafter to fix options and pricing. Once that's done, I'll order the production boards...with delivery within 9 days of order. Thanks to all for their patience. We're working hard to get this out as quickly as possible. Taking a little more time will result in a better product at a lower price. In an attempt to fend off all the questions I'm getting on the project, I've uploaded some quick-and-dirty photos to http://209.41.5.228/public showing the design. Of particular interest to many is "how the hell are you getting this thing to fit?" and "can't you count?? You have 8 holes and there are only 4 needed!" hehe. The pics should answer these questions. I've shown photos of the front and back of the bare board, front and back of the populated board, and configurations showing installation with and without the modem. I've also got a shot showing how the boards 'stagger' to allow both the modem and the serial board to be installed at the same time. I hope this helps a little. Keep in mind, the photos are of the PROTOTYPE. It does not show the FAN headers installed, the CAPS will be smaller, and the boards will be silkscreened and solder-masked in the production version. DISCLAIMER: I know, I know, the photos are way too high-res and take way too long to download. As I said, these are VERY quick and dirty. I'll get better photos that download much faster shortly. I've just not had time to do it yet, and figured folks would rather see a slow something than a very fast nothing :) Keep on Hackin 01-27-2001 21:59:28

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Since I'm still getting emails about this installation issue, obviously I wasn't clear enough. I'll attempt to clarify: The 'stagger' refers to the ability of the modem to be installed in two positions. One position uses 4 of the holes when serial board is piggy backed on top of the modem. This results in 1 COM port being added (plus the FAN and AUDIO support). In this position, the 2mm dip connector on the bottom of the serial board is 'staggered' to avoid interference with the installed modem board, thus allowing clearance inside the RF shield. The other position uses the other 4 holes when the serial board is NOT installed on top of the modem. This is used when the modem is removed, resulting in 2 COM ports being added (plus the FAN and AUDIO support). In this position, the 2mm dip connector on the bottom of the serial board is NOT 'staggered', and installs just like the modem...picking up the 2mm dip connector (CN13) that the modem usually uses. Hope that clarifies things. If you're not a HACKER, your're a SLACKER! 01-27-2001 23:47:28

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Greetings all: I'm VERY impressed with the Eagle-eyes out there. Several folks noticed that I had the serial board in the pics piggy-backed on the modem AND I had two DB-9 cables installed. Apologies. I was just showing how the various cables would connect. If the modem is installed (using COM1), then only 1 DB9 would be supported. The modem must be removed to support the dual serial configuration shown. Also, the 4 pin SIP connector shown on the 6 pin audio header leaves 2 pins open (on the header). These pins are available for connection to the sound chip on the motherboard. Since I've not done this hack, I didn't make the connection there. I expect that the cableing will support 6 lines from this connector, assuming user installation of the two 'free' lines to the sound chip. Next, the 6 pin SIP with no connection, on the lower right hand side of the board, supports the extra modem lines: RST, RING, MIC, and SPKR. These are made available for someone to do a future SUPER-HACK that can't even concieved of yet! A couple of folks asked if these were the promised TTL level signals from COM2. They are not. The TTL lvl signals are available through 8 holes toleranced to accept .025" square header posts. These standard posts will allow easy access to these lines if required for TTL lvl GPS, etc. Finally, YES, the grip length of the 4 modem screws HAS been altered, but I expect to be able to include both the required spacers and the longer screws with the various board offerings. PHWEEWW...I need a nap. HACK...see definition of EXPLOITATION :) 01-28-2001 00:23:10

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Mellennium_Falcon: Smaller chips? Email me to discuss what you have, and what you are planning. The board is designed to use the MAX235s, and while a few other MAX variations will work, most will not. Any with a different footprint (smaller) will likely not, without significant board work. Artwork for homebrewers will be posted once the production order is sent. Jack at BadFlash.com has the prototype for evaluation, and I don't want to post artwork until the board is signed off. The serials work great. We want to be sure that we are happy with the audio hack's performance before we sign off on the design and put it into production. Hack until you puke. 01-31-2001 22:48:27

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) Fatal Profile | Email Is there any ETA on when the boards will be available at Badflash? 02-01-2001 15:03:39

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Fatal: Adding the audio hack at the last minute has delayed us a bit. We want to ensure that the sound quality is acceptable before committing to the final production order. Jack has the prototype for testing at this time so.....if we could get EVERYONE who is interested in a borad to FLOOD badflash.com with inquiries, things will get done FAST! :o Just kidding, don't do it. I would estimate Jack should be accepting order within a week. 02-01-2001 17:17:16

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) jackass Profile | Email I'd just like to say "Thank you" for taking up this project. From what I've seen so far it looks like you have spent quite a lot of time, effort, and your own money on this project without knowing if you're going to profit from it. Thanks! On a seperate note... what are you using to do your schematics and your board layout? I'm looking for a good piece of software and I'm not very impressed with Eagle Layout. 02-01-2001 18:30:52

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Jackass: Thanks for the pat on the back. It's been a fun project, that has led to a couple of others, so that makes it worth it. If the project will cover it's own costs, and not leave me with 100 serial boards sitting in my closet, then I'll be happy :} Interest has been strong though, with half of the initial production run already spoken for, so I don't see that happening. I mentioned way back at the start of this thread, that I use ExpressPCB's free downloadable software for most of my boards. I route most stuff by hand, so EPCB is quick and dirty...just my style. While I have access to PADS, ORCAD, and CircuitMaker/TraxMaker Pro packages, I still use mostly EPCB. There is virtually NO learning curve. You can go right to work. The downside of EPCB is that they pretty much tie you into using their board service, which is excellent and fairly inexpensive, but inconvenient when you want to etch your own boards. They print a grid on all 1:1 artwork, and enlarged prints are not scale specific (avoiding the obvious workaround). I assume they do this to foil homebrewers. If you find them to be out of your price range, or if you are a dedicated etcher, then I can recommend CircuitMaker/TraxMaker Pro. 02-02-2001 16:50:11

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) Kudzu Profile And on that note, I'd like to point out the student version of CircuitMaker, available free for download. The CircuitMaker Student Version is the same as CircuitMaker Version 6, with the following limitations: - Maximum of 50 devices per design (any type); - Device library limited to 1,000 models; - Symbol editor and Macro feature disabled; - PCB netlist export limited to TraxMaker format; - Technical support limited to fax and email only. http://www.microcode.com/downloads/student.htm 02-02-2001 17:48:28

Daughter Board Audio - V5? (modified 0 times) eddavis Profile Will the audio portion of the board work in a V5? 02-02-2001 17:53:53

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) mp3boombox Profile | Email heh if you read thew this thread you'd find the answer ;). as for supporting, this hack is based on the yamaha audio hack not the V5 audio card. 02-02-2001 18:38:14

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email EdDavis: At this point, we cannot confirm that it will work with a V5. The hack, included at the last minute from a user request, is the so-called TL082, popular for non v5 machines. I will test a v5 machine with our board prior to shipping, but I've not done it yet. It's possible that it will work as is, and it's possible that it will not. I'm not up to speed on the state-of-the-art in audio hacks, but it doesn't seem like rocket science to get a V5 hack going as well. I started looking at the data sheets today to see if v5 support can be included. 02-03-2001 00:16:04

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) GWIZAH Profile | Email r_fl_z: Hey, I just wanted to let you know how much we appriaciate the effort and hard work you've put into this. I know its been saod before, I just wanted to add my $.02. Good job! 02-03-2001 06:16:32

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) eddavis Profile boom, I did a search on v5 and Yamaha in this thread, and read most of it. There's a possibility it could work with a v5, and jackass said he's looking into it, but never got back with a result. If you see some other info in this thread, feel free to point it out. r_fl_z, thanks for investigating the possibility, I look forward to good news (even if I'm not expecting it). 02-03-2001 11:27:54

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) jackass Profile | Email I'm sorry. You're right. I was looking into getting V5 audio out. I lost steam when someone said the had just hooked the RCA jacks directly to the output pins on the V5 audio chip. If that gives the desired result then why go through an amp circuit. 02-03-2001 11:48:08

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) mp3boombox Profile | Email for some reason i dont believe that the guy could have just hooked it up with out any problems unless he had some cretian braind of sterio or something that liked the input? Reason being is becuase the way the v5 audio is designed it may drop off or a number of other problems due to not haveing extra hardware attached to the low level output from the CHIP. If you do a hardware search you'll notice that the signal/power level outputs are different or vary from that of the yamaha audio chip. There for the tl082 may work find or it may work portly or not at all. its a chance all around regardless. I'd have had this audio hack built already but first i dont have a V5 and second i'm haveing major money problems right now and my car has finaly died on me. My new car i'm in the works of getting but things take time. Dam thing is running fine but now i'v yet to recive the tidle from my grammy. And even then it needs new tires and a little bit of a front end alinement. (just slightly) /---+---| yep just slightly. But for sitting in the front yard for 2 years not running I was amazed that when we put a new battery in it today. it started right up on the first try PEIROD. i was like WAAAAA. (ford escort LX 93) 80k on it. Oh then just because where i live ALL THE COP'S ARE PRICKS. I was turning the car around so the sun would worm it and get rid of most of the ice. first one cop drove by. Then when i was turning around 2 cops drove buy and where trying to arest me for turning the car around. (granted it DOES have no plates on it but i mean jesis) just turning it around?? back out. turn back up drive foward back up pull in backwords. and they wanted to arrest me????? dam i hate this town. 02-03-2001 13:10:58

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) GWIZAH Profile | Email <off-topic> LOL! Where do you live man? Thats funny, I remember driving a car that was parked at home all over to do errands and stuff, To the market, to the laundry etc. I just slapped n old plate on it and drew in the numbers on the sticker. I never got stopped, and it was a crate..... </off-topic> 02-03-2001 14:53:44

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) mp3boombox Profile | Email I live in hicks vill, MAINE. in a town called ellsworth. yep i'm a mainer. been ta banga (bangor) latly?? 02-03-2001 18:45:33

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Update: The serials work fine, and the audio hack couldn't sound better. Pricing, options, and delivery information will be available this week. Regards 02-06-2001 08:28:40

Output from audio hack? (modified 0 times) NormConquest Profile | Email Apologies if I overlooked this answer in any posts above, but: What do I add to complete the audio hack -- stereo mini-jack for PC spkrs? A pair of RCAs for a stereo system? Or what? 02-06-2001 16:13:44

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email NormConquest (great nick): That info is above, but who could find it? lol I'm anxious to begin deliveries so we can let this excessively long thread die. The audio hack uses two 100uF electrolytic caps, 1 TL082 dual op amp, a 6 pin header row, and of course a cable to connect to the outside world. We will offer (at least initially) boards with the audio installed, as well as boards without it. The cable package ( \BadFlash.com ) will include the stereo connector to the real world. The final details of the offering will be worked out this week. Watch this thread for more info in a few days. 02-06-2001 19:19:03

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) BadFlash Profile | Email I will finalize the torture tests on the board this weekend before I put on the BadFlash Seal of Approval, but so far I gotta hand it to r_fl_z. This thing is slick. With the modem removed it handles both RS-232 ports as advertised. Sound is good so far, but I want to bang it around while running my serial printer and be sure we don't get any noise. For you folks that want to keep your modem r_fl_z has devised a very slick stagger approach where the board is mounted with spacers on top of the modem. In any event, we are very close here. Cables are ready to go and we'll be announcing a price and taking pre-orders shortly. There won't be any discount, but it will assure you that you get a board. 02-08-2001 20:16:36

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) PhotonWarrior Profile r_fl_z So the audio works OK, were you able to test it on a V5 as well? Also, In ordering samples from Maxim in note they will sample up to 8 part numbers. Anyone out there use other Maxim parts in their hacks? I-Opener, Websurfer, Webplayer, you name it. I'm just not sure what other Maxim chips might be useful. Are Max235 and Max235CPG the same thing> I have seen both mentioned, but am guessing it is the same chip. Thanks for all your work on this! -Photon 02-09-2001 20:04:25

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email PhotonWarrior: The MAX235CPG is the full part number. MAX235 doesn't fully secify the chip (see the online Maxim documentation, if interested). I've just not had time to break out a v5, hack it, and see about the audio boards compatibility with it. Therefore, the board will be released without promising that it will work with the v5, although I am convinced that there are compatible signal levels available at the sound chip in the v5. I will work to resolve that issue in the next few weeks. The audio rocks with non-v5 versions. I'm very impressed with the sound, with cudos going to the guys who put together the hack, as I had nothing to do with it except to put it on the board. 02-10-2001 14:16:04

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email The Offer: The Dual RS-232 Serial Board with Audio (non-v5 at this time) and Fan support is now available, in the following forms: 1. Bare Board model. A two-sided, solder masked board with plated through holes, including parts list with sources. Price: $20 + S/H (cables available seperately from Jack@BadFlash.com for only $10) 2. Hacker-Special model. Includes the board described above, professionally wave soldered with all components EXCEPT the MAX235CPG chips. It is assumed that the buyer will take advantage of the FREE samples available from Maxim to obtain the MAX235 chips, http://dbserv.maxim-ic.com/sl_requests2.cfm Onboard sockets allow the user to simply plug-and-play with their chips. This board comes complete with the 6 cables required to fully utilize all features of the board (both serials, and the audio), along with 4 adjusted grip length fasteners with spacers to allow the board to be stacked with the modem. Price: $45 + S/H 3. Pay-and-Play model. This version includes all features of the Hacker-Special model described above, INCLUDING the MAX235CPG chips. This is offered for individuals who have more money than time, and would prefer to simply order the completed ready-to-run board. Price: $68 + S/H (The retail price of two MAX235CPG chips is $32, so this is still a bargin) The boards may be preordered now from Jack@BadFlash.com with deliveries beginning in approximately 12 business days. Cudos go to Jack for supporting the board offering, for testing the prototype, and for working very hard to produce a 6 cable package for a VERY reasonable price of only $10. His efforts have contributed significantly to allowing the price of the board to remain low. The board uses a unique staggered stacking arrangement, allowing it to be stacked safely on top of the existing modem board, with no R/F shield trimming required. For dual serial operation, the modem must be removed to free COM1. For single serial operation, the modem may remain in place and in use. For single serial operation, only one MAX235CPG chip is required. The audio is functional for all installations. Power connections are provided to support the fan. Header pads are provided for user-installed header posts to allow the use of TTL level lines from COM2, as well as the RING, RST, MIC, SPKR, GND and +5 lines not used from COM1. Please refer technical questions to r_fl_z@hotmail.com and order questions to Jack@BadFlash.com We have tried to keep the prices low to cover our costs and to have a little fun, however these prices may be adjusted up :( or down :) depending on interest, inflation, and the performance of Jacks international investments ;) 02-10-2001 16:57:11

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Also... We'll have a website available soon detailing the board and it's installation. 02-10-2001 17:04:46

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) GWIZAH Profile | Email so does this mean the audio-out will work in a V5? 02-10-2001 20:52:38

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email GWIZAH: We've not investigated the v5 issue yet. We will soon. For now, there is no promise the included audio hack will work with the v5. 02-10-2001 21:05:02

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) Automator Profile I ordered some samples from Maxim last week, including (2) MAX235CPG, (2) MAX233CPE, and (2) MAX232A. They only sent the 232A chips, is it possible they will be sending the others later or have they rejected my request? Wonder if there has been a noticeable amount of sample requests for the 235's for this board? Also, it occurs to me too late as a feature request, but this board seems like a logical place for a thermostat to control the CPU fan since it has the fan power header on it. I leave my IO on all the time and the Tennmax fan is too loud, I'd like it to shut off when unit suspends and CPU cools. 02-12-2001 21:25:59

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Automator: Sorry, but the board is in production now, perhaps Rev A :) Based on past experience, I would doubt you will see your other chips, though it's possible. I'd suggest you re-request with a different address and name, and request only the MAX235s. Fyi, there are a few manufacturers of interchangable *235CPG chips, and I would imagine that they too offer free samples. Almost everyone does. 02-13-2001 02:01:28

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email I've had a few inquires regarding sources for the *235CPG interchangable chips which may be used in place of the MAX235CPG chip from Maxim. Without too much difficulty I located this link http://www.sipex.com/products/samples.cfm for the Sipex SP235CPG free samples. 02-13-2001 04:37:39

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) Automator Profile I spoke too soon. My other sample chips arrived today. I requested 3 part numbers and they came in 3 different envelopes. They sent Max235EDG chips instead of MAX235CPG, and MAX233EPP instead of MAX233CPE. Should be OK, the EDG is ceramic instead of plastic and has greater temp range, but packaging is still wide 24 pin. Since you brought it up, what would rev A of the board entail? 02-13-2001 17:34:20

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email There is no definite plan for a Rev A board at this time. 02-17-2001 12:58:23

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) El_Kabong Profile | Email Not even one with a smart card programmer for DSS? 02-18-2001 12:22:10

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email ElKabong: There is a SC programmer/emu board in development at this time, but this will not be a revision to the serial daughterboard, rather it'll be a second product. The serial daughterboard meets the need for folks that already own their programmer and emu units. Watch for details on http://www.iOemu.com in about a week. 02-18-2001 14:41:38

Dual RS232 daughter board Artwork? (modified 0 times) KneuB_2 Profile | Email Now that production is in the sustaining mode can we see the long awaited artwork? 03-05-2001 21:56:33

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) spincycle Profile Dying to see the IOemu website! I know you are bust though. r_fl_z, you came onboard in December, and in that short period of time have been a great asset to the board. We appreciate it! Thanks. 03-08-2001 03:18:30

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) Millennium_Falcon Profile | Email Ok, I ordered the board and am looking at it now. It looks like I can leave off everything to the right of the center of the board if I am mounting this above the Modem. Right??? Also it looks like the extra set of holes realy isnt needed because if you are leaving the modem installed then you dont need the plug on the bottom which would have interfered. So either set of holes will work for mounting. So why is the second set of holes there????? Did I miss something? Finaly, where does the R In and L In come from on a V1 machine? Jim 03-20-2001 14:48:44

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Millennium_Falcon: Thank you for your support! :) You are correct. IF you are only going to use COM2 on the board, you may leave all of the COM1 components off. As for the holes: if you plan on installing the board with the modem in a single configuration utilizing only COM2, then the extra holes are not required. However, if you are like me, and are constantly changing the configuration of the system from single serial with modem to dual serial without the modem, then the staggered hole mounting option is nice to have. The idea was to produce a universal design that would attempt to meet the majorities (translation: my) needs, with a single board. I figured most would simply build up the entire board, resulting in a universal board that would work for whatever. As for the LIN/RIN connections to the audio hack: I apologize for being way behind schedule with the web work to support the boards. 'insert pitiful excuse here' Until I get the site up (soon, I promise), kindly look here for details on the audio hack: http://www.execpc.com/~theshoes/bentemp/i-opener%20audio.zip Credit for this link does not go to me, and I thank both the individual who steered me to it in the thread above, and whoever supports the site. 03-20-2001 20:58:15

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email I neglected to include information on the required spacers and fasteners, for piggybacking the board with the modem, in the bare board documentation, so here it is. A .125" - .150" spacer works well, and allows the board to fit within the RF shield without problems. The .125" are commonly available at local hardware stores. I'd recommend a nylon type. A 2.5 x 12 mm metric screw replaces the existing fasteners nicely. It's actually a little longer than required, but it's also available at the local hardware stores. These items are included in the populated boards, and if you bare board boys care to email me with your address, I'll send a set to you for nuttin! 03-20-2001 21:55:06

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) Clueless Profile | Email Millennium_Falcon, when and where did you order your board? I sent Jack @ badflash funds for 2 sets over 3 weeks ago and haven't seen anything yet. I'd really like to get on with the project I have going... r_fl_z, I'd like to get a look at you schematics for your IOEmu if you have time to send them to me. Best use I can think of for the extra IO I have sitting ontop of my TV. Keep up the good work.. Chaos, panic, and disorder... My work here is almost done... 03-25-2001 16:58:23

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) BadFlash Profile | Email The boards Have Arrived in my Shop as of today! Shipping will start tomorrow! If you ordered an IMOD3 with your order I will be contacting you to see if you want to cancel the IMOD3 (as they are on back order now), hold your order until I get more, or have you send me another $4.50 to cover the extra shipment. I know some will see this as grossly unfair because you have waited so long and so well, but I just can't afford to take the hit. My mark-up on these is VERY slim and I would be taking a loss on each one I had to ship separately. All we can do is our best and there are many things on a hacker project that are under the control of Murphy's Laws. 03-26-2001 15:23:14

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Clueless: Millennium_Falcon ordered the bareboard. Obviously, those were shipped out first. I can only apologize for the incompetence of others who's unmet deadlines have caused me to fail to meet mine...sorry about that. My fault was in promising the completed boards before they are in my grubby little hands. The boards are shipping now from Badflash.com I can't thank the community enough for your patience and understanding. As for the iOemu schematics: well, due to the lesson learned above, I am keeping a low profile on that board until I have the production versions in-hand. The current estimate is 30 days, but that could change. If I release the schematic, it won't be done until the board is proven. Adding Black Sunday support to the project has complicated things a bit. 03-27-2001 14:48:48

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) Clueless Profile | Email r_fl_z: Not a problem. I can understand wanting to get everything settled and working before releasing anything prematurely. Still looking forward to seeing what you have cooked up for the IOEmu... The logo for the bios is great! heheh. Thanks again for the hard work!! Just getting ready to do some more modifiying of some hardware to do what I want it to!!! Chaos, panic, and disorder... My work here is almost done... 03-27-2001 19:46:43

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) GWIZAH Profile | Email Wow, this thread Has hit the 100 mark! I salute you r_fl_z, You've become a great asset to this bbs! Hats off to r_fl_z!! 03-27-2001 21:10:42

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) Enduser6 Profile Got the max chips (2) and ordered the RS-232 kit from badflash. While I am waiting for the RS-232, been checking into where everything goes and it looks straight forward. I do have one quick question for anybody you can add in, the audio hack incorporated into the RS-232 kit, the RIN and LIN inputs is coming from the YMF715E pin 77 & 78 (VOCOL & VOCOR respectively) right? I downloaded http://www.execpc.com/~theshoes/bentemp/i-opener%20audio.zip and it looks like its at the cap C105 (LIN) and C114 (RIN) tie points we get this inputs from. Appreciated if anybody can put their blessing on this before I attempt to solder a wire into this points. Also does anybody know why we using Voice Outputs instead of OutputR/OutputL of the Yamaha chip? 04-02-2001 07:02:56

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) Perplexer Profile OutputL and OutputR were shown to not be good outputs because they mix the L&R channels together. The voice outputs produce separate left & right signals. The only thing they don't output is MIDI, which can be fixed via software or a win9x audio setting. (But who listens to MIDI on their stereo equipment anyway?) 04-02-2001 10:18:46

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) Perplexer Profile Found the original thread: http://www.linux-hacker.net/cgi-bin/UltraBoard/UltraBoard.pl?Action=ShowPost&Board=technical&Post=1162 04-02-2001 10:22:59

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email As we approach the sellout of the first production run of serial boards, we plan on discontinuing the bare board offering within the next couple of weeks. This notice is fair warning for any folks that may want one, but have not gotten around to ordering. Both of the assembled versions will continue to be available at http://www.BadFlash.com Thanks for all the interest in the project. 04-02-2001 16:13:07

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) SirDag Profile Audio dudes..... excuse my ignorance on the subject, but i have a io-v5 and have looked at the schematics for the sound chip. The question is... why would it be a bad thing to use the wires going to the speakers to hook to the audio amp on the rs-232 board? I TOLD you i didn't know!!! reguards SirDag 04-02-2001 16:47:04

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) El_Kabong Profile | Email Well, I got my Hackers Special kit yesterday. Opened the FedEx bag and was surprised to find all kit parts in seperate, sealed plastic bags. The multi function board itself was in an anti-static bubble wrap bag. Nice layout. Well made board. All parts needed are included. Spacers, bolts, cables and more. All I had to use was a soldering tool, solder, a drill for the included headphone jack (placed on the RAM door) and pliers to tighten the jack's nut. Very nice. I did the whole shebang with audio, fan and COM Port-2 at one time. Couldn't resist temptation. Powered up the IO. Fan runs! Windows98 found the new port, asked for new COM port driver. I told it to look in C:\windows\system and not on the CDROM drive that I don't have. Worked. Tried the audio hack with headphones, Sonique and an Aerosmith MP3. Jumping catfish, this thing sounds good. Not just for a computer good, but GOOD! So far so great. Next the COM port test. Oops! No joy. The radio I tried to program failed. Check settings. Check the cables. Ahh, red stripe goes to pin 1 of CN0! Missed the little hidden "1" the first time. (The Sun was going down.) Reversed the cable. Same results. Picky radio perhaps? Maybe. (It's an MR8100.) Or I toasted the MAX235 chip the first time. Need further tests. Will get back to you with my results. So, my opinion is that the kit is great and well worth the price. My one issue is that one color picture of a finished setup would have hepled me quite a bit. MD 04-05-2001 12:33:54

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) BadFlash Profile | Email Try removing the com ports in device mangler, then reboot and let windows re-install. Be sure you are plugged into the right com port if you are still using the modem. We'd love some specific feedback to improve the instructions. They are a work in progress. 04-06-2001 09:52:51

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) mp3boombox Profile | Email If your using the comport under the the modem you shouldnt be findin a new com port period. its al ready installed. same with the second comport you shouldnt ever find a new comp port. The max chip is like the key for the DOOR that is locked. the door is there you just got to unlock it so its usable. as to why you found a new comport that baffls me!! 04-06-2001 14:34:36

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) 02U2 Profile El_Kabong, Is that a Uniden MR8100? Awesome unit! Although I've had mine packed away for 2 years now...due to having an intermittent thermal problem. Let it set in the sun a little to long mounted on the dashboard during hot summer days. Even fabbed a fiberglass/resin molded sun shroud with large fan in it for cooling but it still got a bit too hot from the sun. Haven't seen another MR8100 in ages. Even parts are no longer available... 04-06-2001 18:05:31

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) El_Kabong Profile | Email O2U2: Yup that's the radio. Only scanner built like a battleship. I've heard they're very tricky to disassemble. Like a small claymore, but with springs! If you ever decide to use yours again get the new shareware "mr8100.exe" to program it. Much less pain involved. That "scan.exe" was written by sadists. I also hear that Uniden's factory will still fix the 8100, if they have the parts. As for my COM port issues, no luck. I swapped the two MAX chips in hopes that I'd just cooked the COM2 chip. No change. Removed the COM1 chip entirely to reduce current demands. This made slightly less hiss when playing MP3's. I say slightly as there was darn little to start with. Back to scratching my head. MD 04-06-2001 18:38:40

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email El_Kabong: I'm back from fly fishing....got your email. Follow the steps I sent you, and we'll get you going. 04-07-2001 21:41:38

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) BigDog Profile | Email Great RS232 board, Badflash & r_fl_z !! I have had mine for I couple of weeks, just got it installed tonight, works great! Now I can put my IO in my truck for GPS, The Rand McNally NEMA GPS receiver works a lot better with a real RS232 rather than the Belkin USB serial converter I was trying to use. (Too bad I don't have my IMOD3 yet!! I had to make a HD mount out of the heat sink) I will have to get pictures out, I Dremel'ed out mounting holes to the right of the memory door, looks good! Now if someone can find easy pads on the V5 to connect the audio out other than the micro connections on the audio chip it's self. The only question I have is how would I connect the board to the modem if I wanted to keep the modem ? I assume a person would need longer screws and plastic stand offs ? 04-16-2001 22:59:15

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) ttn1 Profile | Email BigDog, you can find longer screws at http://smallparts.com . For standoffs I used rubber grommets that come in an assorted bag at Radio Shack. If you cut the smallest ones in half they work great. As for the board, great job r_fl_z. I'm in the process of putting the modem back in. I'm using one phone jack for the modem and one for the GPS. It is working out nicely. ttn2 04-17-2001 04:14:16

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) ttn1 Profile | Email I used the M2.5x12 screws. I used part # MMPX-25/12 from smallparts. They also work great for adding a different mounting bracket to the back of the IO. ttn2 04-17-2001 04:19:03

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Thanks for the board comments :) As for the fastener comments: I have offered a free fastener and nylon spacer pak to purchasers of the bare boards, and all other versions of the boards come with the fastener pak included. Let me know if you need one. Exercise caution if substituting your own spacers to ensure you properly seperate the boards. Minimum thickness must be at least .125". Bigdog: To use the modem with the serial board, install the modem normally...don't forget the two lead modem wire. Use the supplied fastener pak with the longer screws and spacers to stack the serial board on top of the modem. Use the hole pattern marked "M" (for modem, as printed on the board in the silk screen). This position allows the board to stagger so that the 2mm com1 board connector on the bottom of the serial board clears the modem. Com1 obviously cannot be used at the same time that the modem is installed, since both use the com1 connection. Email if you need more info. 04-17-2001 11:46:52

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) BigDog Profile | Email The P&P version I got didn't come with a "fastener pak" with any screws or spacers, mine just came with the board, the audio cables/jack, 2mm ribbon cable connecter for COM2 and a pair of regular RS232 "out" cables w/t PC brackets. 04-17-2001 13:28:19

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email BigDog: Ahhhh...well you got SCREWED (pun intended)! hehe Our huge international order fullfillment facility must have made an error (ie, wife forgot to put them in the package). Email me if you still need them, I'll send you some. 04-17-2001 15:22:44

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) BigDog Profile | Email Actually, Since I didn't get them with mine, I really DIDN'T get SCREWED ?? 04-18-2001 18:56:16

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) JohnQPyro Profile I recieved my RS232 Dauterboard a few days ago, and have been chomping at the bit untill tonight. My Hat is off to r_fl_z, BadFlash, and everyone else who had a hand in this. If I may, I have just a few questions.... The modem is still installed, and I have one MAX235CPG Installed setup for Com2. Whenever I attempt to plug in the 10pin Dip cable from CN12 to CN0, My IO will not powerup ?? If I disconnect the cable the IO powers up fine. I had removed SW3 for use with the PowerTrends Hack, could that have something to do with it..?? Any help would be appreciated !!! Thanks JohnQ 04-18-2001 21:25:38

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email JohnQPyro: First, check the 10-pin ribbon cable pin-for-pin to be sure it's good. When you check it, make sure you check each adjacent pin for each pin, to ensure that no lead is connected to more than one pin. Hint: pay particular attention to the +5/GND leads, as shorting these will prevent booting. Next, check the DB-9 cables. One user of the board reported your same inability to power up, which turned out to be a bad DB-9 cable. The easy way to test this is to remove it and attempt to power up. If it boots you've got a bad cable. I don't think the PowerTrends mod should be a factor. If you can't figure it out, email me and I'll try to get you going. 04-19-2001 01:44:59

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) BadFlash Profile | Email If there is a problem with the cable E-Mail me and I'll get a replacement out to you. 04-19-2001 13:31:20

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) JohnQPyro Profile OK, First I have to say HELL YES !!! to r_fl_z and BadFlash. The board is in/up/and running like a champ. All I have to do now is tackle the audio issues, and I can button this thing up for good... Thanks guys... JohnQPyro 05-07-2001 22:47:57

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) northstar Profile | Email Are these going to be available again? 06-03-2001 17:52:54

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Yes, they should be available in just a few days. I'll post here when they are. Sorry for the delay, I'm pedaling as fast as I can :) 06-04-2001 10:55:45

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) h2oboxer Profile Have any changes been made for audio on V5 units. Unless I'm wrong, it was my understanding the audio portion of this board did not work on a V5. Thanks 06-04-2001 12:55:13

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) BadFlash Profile | Email The problem is not that the board will not support it, it is that we have not figured out a good way to implement the connection. The only way so far is to solder directly to the sound chip. These legs are SOOO tiny I would not even suggest you do it. Keep in mind, this is an RS-232 board with an oh-by-the-way pretty damn good sound chip, not the other way around. 06-05-2001 09:11:58

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) northstar Profile | Email r_fl_z, Any status on the next shipment of these? I have my order in at badflash and am just waiting to finish this project. Thanks 06-14-2001 18:55:11

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Update: Production problems at the assemblers has delayed delivery. According to the UPS tracking number, the boards have arrived locally, and should be in my hands within a day or so. I'll FedEx them to Jack on Monday. Not guilty, but responsible :} 06-15-2001 12:05:16

RE:Dual RS232 daughter board (modified 0 times) r_fl_z Profile | Email Update: The serial boards have arrived, and will be at BadFlash.com in two days. 06-19-2001 21:04:56

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