It's amazing how many configurations there can be for one little computer.  Over the years my system(s) have changed quite a bit.  Now as I relive my youth through my Classic TI-99/4A, I'm finding that I'm having much more fun the second time around!
 
Here is a walk down memory lane with photos...
 
 
My TI-99/4A in 1985

 
Notice the 300 baud acoustical modem?  Back then, when the BBS was busy, re-dialing was NOT fun! 
 
 
My TI's configuration in 1987

 
I had to 'downsize' a little so I built a hutch for my TI system with the monitor built-in and a nice lighted area for the dot matrix printer.  This setup had a floor-mounted switch and EVERYTHING came on at the same time.
 
 
My system in 1990 a few months before I 'moved on'.

 
Back around 1990 I was the only remaining TI user in the local area.  Everyone else had moved on to PC's, the TI had been long abandoned by Texas Instruments and I did not see the point (back then) of throwing more money at a box that had little going for it.  Yes, I was young and dumb!
 
My NEW  (to me) TI system in 2013

 
In 2013 an Atari Age member just 50 miles north of me got me back into Real Iron.  I decided to get myself a Nano-PEB, Super Cart and thought I'd be satisfied...
 
January 2014

 
After numerous 'issues' with multiple Nano-PEB's, I decided to get another P-Box.
 
February 2015

 
About this time I added the Lotharek HxC to my system and my enjoyment factor multiplied like when I added the F18A.
 
Around the middle of  2015

 
Adding the PS/2 keyboard and the matching Wico Trackball added that extra 'touch of class'.
 
January 2016

 
As you can see, I was NOT satisfied, I've gone a little nuts adding stuff after the 'TI BUG' bit down hard.  It seem's I'm always wanting SOMETHING for this box, but it's fun being able to do things I could only dream about all those years ago.
 
I wonder what changes the future will bring?

Being that 'necessity is the mother of invention', this project was inevitable...
 
NEED(s):  1) A way to toggle the interrupt line of my HDX.
         2) An easy way to reset the memory in the HDX.
         3) Wanting to know the P-Box's temperature since
            I cannot hear the whisper quiet fan.
 
REQUIREMENT(s):  1) Look good.
                2) Be functional.
                3) Not permanently desecrate my classic computers case.
                4) Not lose any storage capacity.
 
My final solution was to obtain an 'Evercool" PC storage box.  This box has a nice clean face plate and has holes in the 'right spots' for ease of installation into a 5.25" disk drive location.
 

 
To get things 'perfect' and in the right places, it's wise to 'plan ahead' and make a template...
 

 
Of course I learned this lesson the hard way on an earlier attempt, so if you want to reproduce this project, I highly recommend the PROPER CUTTING BIT, the one pictured below works great and can be purchased for your Dremel tool at Home Depot for under $10.00.
 

 
Once I had everything cut out, it was time to put the temperature display and switches in the box...
 

 
The worst part of this project was my schedule, I had to wait nearly a week to find time to install the unit...
 
THE FINISHED PROJECT...

 
The temperature gauge is really inexpensive << HERE >> which includes free shipping.
The storage drawer is an affordable item too << HERE >> but does not include free shipping. (Re-listed link)
The rocker switches are really insanely cheap << HERE >> and shipping is included.
 
 

We F18A users have enhanced video capability,
now we get to use it!
 
Until recently, having an 80 column menu loader (for the F18A), that actually displayed the menu selections in 80 columns, was a dream.  And while I doubted this day would ever come, I’m happy to have been wrong in this instance!  Sure we’ve had the legacy program called BOOT,(the program tweaked by Tursi a while back), and while I really like the BOOT program, it has a one major limitation… it does not show all that many selections at one time.
 
Fast forward to the present:  Tim (Insane Multitasker)  has changed the playing field!  Not only will you soon have a TRUE 80 COLUMN MENU that works with the F18A, this one displays 80 columns in all functions… and it’s 100% COMPATIBLE with the Extended BASIC 2.7 Suite GRAM loader routine!
 
This program is coming at a great time because as more people continue to expand their storage capabilities with modified floppy drive controllers, hard drives, HDX boards and new (hopefully) controller card, the menu space needed expanding.
 
When it’s released…”Try it, you’ll like it!”   After using this program it’ll probably take you F18A users less than a split second to retire the program you are currently using.  It doesn’t get much better than this folks!
 
All I can say is, "I LOVE IT and I doubt I could ever go back.  
 
Omega Rating: 10 of 10 
 

 
** UPDATE **
The program has now been released!
You can now download the 'functional beta' version << HERE >>  ENJOY! 
 

 
 

Sometimes one comes across a message thread that stands out from the rest.
This blog entry is designed to bring these awesome stand-out threads to the attention of people that either missed them the first time, or are new and have never seen them before. 
 
If you know of an excellent message thread that you believe belongs here, please post the link!
 
 
To get things started here are a few of my favorites:
 
0 - TI-99/4A Development Resources
    By: Retroclouds
 
1 - HOW TO replace PEB PSU with a new AT/LPX PSU
    By: Wyerd
 
This thread is very informative on how to replace the power supply in the TI's P-Box and 
has lot's of support pictures.  
 
2 - HOW TO replace the Obsolete Cassette Port with a VGA Connector
    By: Wyerd
 
3 - HOW TO prepare an AVR as an UberGROM
    By: Tursi
    Tursi wrote one of the best and most useful utilities EVER for the TI-99/4A, this shows you
    how to setup your own 512K UberCart so you can use it!
 
4 -.BIN Repository (Images for Burning Cartridges)
   Thread Started By: --- Ω ---
   I don't know if it's 'bad form' to choose a thread I've started myself, BUT a bunch of great TI guys
   came in and filled it chock full of so many TI cartridge goodies that I felt compelled to include it.
 
5 - Tips/Tricks Products Used In Restoration  
   Thread Started By: Guitarman
   While this thread is in the ATARI SECTION you might be able to glean a few hints suitable
   for working on your TI... especially you guys with beige models.
 
6 -  TI-99 - Resources & Lists (updated)
    Thread Started By: Schmitzi
    The #1 message in this thread has PDF listings covering all kinds of TI stuff.  It'll blow your mind.
    From a personal note, I like his style... it's so familiar somehow!
 
7 - TI-Cart Labels
    Thread Started By: dphirschler
     This thread covers cartridge label design and hints.  Good stuff for those making and designing
     their own cartridge labels.
   
8 - TI99/4A Beige Edition Retro-Brite Process
     Thread Started By: Majdachi
     This thread is a MUST for those with a yellowed beige model TI-99/4A console.
 
 

For little less than the price of some 'Homebrew' cartridges, one can purchase their own burner, download the free images << AVAILABLE HERE >> and make cartridges to suit their immediate needs.  Later as interests change, erase and re-burn!  Why not consider a burner and take your TI hobby to a new level?
 
A while back, some of the 'TI-gods' got together, envisioned, designed, debugged and built the truly amazing "Uber Cart".  The Uber Cart has been used for some really cool compilations, like the Extended BASIC 2.7 Suite cartridge developed by the late Tony (The Great Gazoo) Knerr.  More recently Atari Age user Asmusr has added some really neat gaming "mult-cart" images.  
   
If you think you might be interested in purchasing one of the really affordable MiniPRO TL866CS EEPROM programmers,
click << THIS LINK >> to check out some sources and pricing.
 
If you would like to buy an Uber Cart, they are sometimes available << HERE >>.  The site does not accept Pay Pal.
 
 
When I was a newbie I had some trouble programming chips with the cheap socket I *WAS* using.  I thought my programmer was defective, or that I had a batch of bad chips.  I figured I had nothing to lose, so I tried what you see in the video below.  Don't laugh, it worked!  Now the chips take programming even with a cheap socket!   
 

 
The video below shows the major on-screen process, and how quick it is, to program the little ROM chip with easily obtainable and free cartridge image files.
 

 
 
* Once you get a programmer, be sure to download the PDF files below.

  to the .BIN Repository BACKUP
                                                                        Notes:  RED, BLUE & YELLOW boards can use the same images
                                                                                         Items with a * denote newer 'homebrews'
 
IF DATA APPEARS TO WRAP TO THE NEXT LINE, HOLD DOWN THE "CTRL" BUTTON AND PRESS (-) MINUS UNTIL IT LOOKS PROPER                                                                                                                                    
Compilation Cartridges
Filename                        Author               Description                         Post Link
EducartsRom.bin                 Compiled by Gazoo    TI Education Cartridges             Message #28
Gamecart.bin                    Compiled by Gazoo    Many of the best games for the TI   Message #28
Gamecart2.bin                   Compiled by Gazoo    More games in the cartridge series  Message #28
Gamecart3CreepersFixed.bin      Compiled by Gazoo    More games in the cartridge series  Message #28
053015Gamecart4.bin             Compiled by Gazoo    More games in the cartridge series  Message #28
Games5.bin                      Compiled by Gazoo    More games in the cartridge series  Message #28
Games6-R3-NoDsk_2015-03-14.bin  Compiled by Gazoo    Last in his series of game cart.    Message #28
512kUtilitiesRom.bin            Compiled by Gazoo    Assorted utilities                  Message #28 
12kUtilitiesV2_2015-05-17.bin   Compiled by Gazoo    Assorted Utils (for 9938/58 VDP's)  Message #28 
2megGAMErom_09-18-2015.bin      Compiled by Gazoo    2048K Games 1 (For Yellow Board)    Message #28  
1megGames08312015.bin           Gazoo/Ksarul         1024K Games 3                       Message #28
ScrollingTrilogy3.bin           Rasmus Moustgaard*   Road Hunter/TI Scramble/Titanium    Message #11
Atarisoft-multicart-3.bin       Rasmus Moustgaard    Atarisoft Games                     Message #11
Atarisoft8.bin                  Rasmus Moustgaard    Atarisoft Games for the 256K chips  Message #150 
Atarisoft512K8.bin              Rasmus Moustgaard    Atarisoft Games for the 512K chips  Message #150 
Rasmus-8in1-cart-8.bin          Rasmus Moustgaard*   All 8 Rasmus Games in 1 cart!       Message #68   
 
 
Multi-Chip/Multi-Burn Cartridges
Filename                        Author                Description                        Post Link
Extended Basic Fun.zip          Anthony Knerr         XB2.7/XB256/TML                    Message #141 
ck-multi1v1-binonly.zip         ckoba/Tursi           Logo, Logo II, Multiplan           Message #118  
 
Single Image Files
Filename                        Author                Description                        Post Link
banktest.zip                    Tursi                 Bank Test                          Message #23
Cortex_BASIC_Bin.zip            Stuart Conner         Cortex BASIC for 64K Guidry Cart   Message #01
CBASIC80_040_512K.zip**         Stuart Conner         Cortex BASIC for 512K Carts        Message #30 
Crossfirebin3.BIN                                     Crossfire Game                                               Message #43
EditorAssembler.zip             Tursi                 Editor/Assembler Complete          Message #23
fbForth200_20151109.zip         Lee Stewart           TI Forth with file-based Block I/O Message #01
Hide & Seek                                           Hide & Seek Game                   Message #43
HyperRacer Crap Entry.zip       Tursi                 Entry for the Crap contest         Message #23
Jsw3.bin                        Rasmus Moustgaard*    Jet Set Willy                      Message #11
Mine.bin                        Sometimes99er         Minesweeper                        Message#139
nonoc.bin                       sometimes99er         Nonogram V1.0                      Message #97 
RoadHunter3.bin                 Rasmus Moustgaard*    Road Hunter (Racing Game)          Message #11
Sabrewulf3.bin                  Rasmus Moustgaard*    Sabre Wulf                         Message #11
snakec.bin                      Sometimes99er         Snake Plissken                     Message #12                                       
snake512.bin                    Sometimes99er         Snake Plissken for 512K chip       Message #26
Sports3.bin                     Rasmus Moustgaard*    Sports (Foot Racing game)          Message #11
stranger3.zip                   Tursi/Upd: Retrospect Text Based Adventure               Message  #26
Multiple Versions (off-site)    Stuart Conner         TI-99/4A Internet Browser          Message #178 
Titanium3.bin                   Rasmus Moustgaard*    Titanium (Space Shooter)           Message #11
Tiscramble3.bin                 Rasmus Moustgaard*    TI Scramble (Space Shooter)        Message #11
tiworkshop379.zip                                     TI Workshop                        Message #23
ZombMotif.zip                   Codex, Tursi, Owen    Zombie MOTIF                       Message #23
 
** (Image by jedimatt42) 
UberGROM Images (specialized images for the prepared Atmega 1284P)
Filename                        Author                Description                        Post link
ckmulti1v1.zip                  ckoba/Tursi           Logo, Logo II, Multiplan           Message #116 
XBv27 060315.zip                Anthony Knerr         Extended BASIC 2.7 Suite           Message #496 
 
RXB2015Flash.bin      (A)*      Rich Gilbertson       Rich Extended Basic                Message #558
RXB2015EEprom.bin     (B)*      Rich Gilbertson       Rich Extended BASIC                Message #558
RXB 512kROM.bin       ©*      Rich Gilbertson       Rich Extended BASIC                Message #10
All three files are required*                     
 
NOTE: If you plan to create an XB2.7S cartridge 'from scratch' you'll need to prepare the AVR.
      Check out << THIS THREAD >> by Tursi, our resident expert in this procedure.
      If you have a MiniPRO TL688CS programmer << DOWNLOAD THIS FILE >> for perfect and easy
      to follow directions.
 
Images for Hardware Based Projects
Filename                         Author               Description                        Post Link
HFDCv14-floppy_only.BIN          Anthony Kneer        HFDC as floppy only                Message #1
 
 
EXAMPLES OF CARTRIDGE BOARD STYLES
 

28 or 32 pin - 128K addressable.
Space for two switches for four 128K "banks"
Uses: 2764, 27128, 27256, 27512, 27C010, 27C020 or 27C040
Black cartridge uses same chips as RED cartridge, which is available for downloading below. 
 

28pin - Hackable to 128K
Uses: 2764, 27128,27256 or 27512
Datasheets for GREEN cartridge available for downloading below.
 

Atmel 1284P - Used for GROM based software and extended features.
Also uses: 49F040 for 512K ROM 
Datasheets for BLUE cartridge available for downloading below. 
 

28 or 32 pin - Fully addressable to 512K
Uses: 2764, 27128, 27256, 27512, 27C010, 27C020, 27C040
Datasheets for RED cartridge available for downloading below. 
 

Up to 2M
Uses: 27C1100, 27C2100, 27C4100, M27C400,M27C800 AND M27C160
Datasheets for YELLOW cartridge available for downloading below.
 
NOTE(s):
1) This 'backup' will not be an exact replica of the pinned thread In another section of Atari Age
2) Some smaller 'single' images will be absent,
3)As time allows there will be links to datasheets and other technical documentation that don't fit into the confines of that threads stated purpose.
4) My intent that this will evolve into a series of 'linked' blog entries.
 
If you do not already have a burner, and think you may be interested in obtaining one,
please click on:  << THIS LINK >>

This is not my usual blog entry.  This is more of a CHEAT SHEET to links that can be hard to find of downloadable books, manuals, keyboard strips, reference cards, etc.
 
Clicking on the links will take you to the message where the item is available for download.
All the links listed are for items that reside on, or linked from Atari Age.
 
 
 
 
 
  
3D PRINTER FILES CATEGORY  
 
CartShells
 
 
KEYBOARD STRIPS
 
Disk Manager 1000, Graphx, Disk Assembler, GRAM Kracker, TI-Calc, P-Code
Editor/Assembler & Terminal Emulator II
Miller's Graphics Explorer
Submarine Commander
Telco
TI-Writer, Multiplan & Video Chess
BEIGE Disk Assembler, BEIGE TI-Writer, BEIGE Graphx, BEIGE P-Code 
BEIGE 99/8 BASIC, BEIGE 99/8 TI-Writer, BEIGE 99/8 BASIC, BEIGE 99/8 P-System
 
PS/2 Console (single row)
PS/2 Console & BA-Writer (three row)
 
QUICK REFERENCE CARDS
 
TI-Editor/Assembler Reference Card
TI-Extended BASIC
TI-Writer, Multiplan & TI BASIC
Willey Quick Reference Guide for TI-BASIC
 
BINDERS & COVERS
 
Editor/Assembler - Spine
Old Style Manual Cover Templates
SHIFT838 Newsletter Binder
TI - Binder Covers for Multiplan and TI-Writer
 
AFTERMARKET / SCANNED and UPDATED MANUALS
 
4A Flyer scan
B-1 Nuclear Bomber
Barrage scan 
Beyond Parsec scan 
Boot, Remind Me!, Road Hunter
Boxer, Qmaze,Spot Shot, Star Runner
Centipede scan
Computer War
Defender scan
Dig Dug scan
Disk Manager 1000-6
Disk Utilities 4.20 (Formatting slightly off)
Donkey Kong scan
fbForth Manual
Frogger scan
Junkman Jr. scan
Killer Caterpillar
Midnight Mason
Micro Pinball
Mine Sweeper original document
Micro-Tennis scan
Moon Patrol scan
Ms. Pacman scan
Munchman scan
Mini Memory Line-by-Line Assembler
Mini Memory Module
Peripheral Expansion System - Theory of Operation
Picnic Paranoia scan
Pole Position scan
Protector II scan
Rich Extended BASIC Manual
Shamus
Strike Three! scan
Submarine Commander revised remake
Telco, TI-Lander, TI-Runner, TI-Scramble remakes
TI BASIC Support Module Documentation restored 
MAD-HUG - Teach Yourself TI BASIC
Q-Bert scan
Tunnels of Doom scan
 
 
CARTRIDGE LABELS
 
Alex Kidd
Atarisoft Labels 
Cartridge Label for Atarisoft Compilation
8K Super Cart
Cortex BASIC ⁸⁰
Crossfire
Disk Manager 2000
E.T. The Extra Terrestrial
E.T. In His Adventure on Land
E.T. In His Adventure at Sea
fbForth Labels  (Not the ones the author / creator uses on his cartridges for sale)
FlashROM 99  
Hide & Seek
Mr. Chin
Myarc Extended BASIC II
JetPac (Powered By TURBOFORTH) 
Perfect Push
Postscript/PDF Labels (assortment) 
Rasmus' 8-N-1 Arcade
Rasmus 8-N-1 Arcade (Old School Version) 
Scrabble
Snake Plissken
Space Station Pheta
Stuart's Internet Browser 
Submarine Commander & River Rescue
TurboForth and Development Cartridge Labels
Tutankham cartridge label 
 
A method for printing, preparation and attachment of the cartridge labels is  << HERE >>
 
DISKETTE LABELS
 
Panzer Strike
 
MISCELLANEOUS WORKSHEETS
 
NanoSheet
 
MISCELLANEOUS TECHNICAL MATERIAL
 
Horizon RAM Disk Construction Guide
TI RS-232 Schematic
Disk Drive Operating and Service Manuals
 
 

 
This is just the start, please message me with links that I've obviously missed.  
 

If a picture is worth a thousand words, how many words is a video worth?  
 
 
Back in the Day, most cartridge labels made at home by people looked pretty "amateur".  Back then I saw Dymo^tm stick on strips, plain paper with typewriter text, rub on dry transfer lettering among other stuff.  Now days with modern PC's we can make labels at home that look BETTER than the original labels made by Texas Instruments.
 
Now it's EASY to print up your own!  Even if you don't have the graphic skills to design your own, you're in luck, there are many people here on Atari Age that have designed and uploaded their own creations.  You can take a quick short-cut to the various labels << HERE >> in a previous blog entry.
 
Below is a short video on how I make mine.  I hope you like it.

 
All you need besides a computer and printer...
 
1) An X-acto knife...
2) a steel ruler...
3) some glossy printer paper...
4) some rub on lamination sheets...
5) and a glue stick.
 

_{The NEW}
FlashROM 99
 
The new FlashROM 99 that came out in May of 2016 is a definite paradigm shift in cartridge technology for the TI-99/4A.  In the past, if one wanted a ROM based program in a cartridge they either had to buy an EEPROM programmer, like the MiniPRO TL866CS, and some chips, and do it themselves, or pay someone else to do it.   
 
With the old method of getting things on cartridge, there were a ‘few’ things one had to learn first, especially when making their own compilation cartridges.  With this new cartridge, if you can “drag & drop” you can do it too!  Nothing could be easier.
 
 
As time goes on, there WILL be more verified programs that work with this cartridge, and there WILL be at least one place (probably more) where you can obtain the binary files or “.BINs” for free.
 
This cartridge is the perfect solution for so many different types of TI user…
 
1              The returning user with limited equipment
                No memory expansion?  No P-Box?  NO PROBLEM!  This cartridge with run many programs
                that don’t require all the extras.
 
2              The dedicated gamer
                If you just want to play games, on the ‘REAL THING’, but not buy a bunch of expensive
                hardware, this cartridge is a must.
 
3              The user on a budget
                This cartridge can get you into the TI painlessly from a financial viewpoint.  Start having
                fun now, worry about expanding later…if you decide/want to. 
 
4              The user without the time
                Some people have limited time, and either can’t or don’t want to invest a lot of it learning
                 a bunch of convoluted steps to just program in a game or two every ‘now and then’.
 
5             The limited space user
                For those needing an option for a small affordable storage device for ‘Real Iron’.
 
 
FlashROM 99 Downloads
                                                         
The creator of this amazing little device has ready to download and play images available in ZIP format at the WHTECH site known to so many TI'ers.  << JUST CLICK HERE >>
 
 
 
UPDATE 06/06/2016
If the photo below piques your interest, you can thank Jedimatt for making the conversions to
FlashROM 99 format!
 
Matt used Tursi's incredible Classic99 and also the bank invert program by Rasmus to make these really neat and useful images.

 
 
Update 06/15/2016
There is a thread in the TI-99/4A section << HERE>> where all the new cartridge images are currently being maintained.
 
Some of the major early conversions by Matt are attached below, but these will be moved to the thread mentioned above in the future.
 
Update 07/12/2016
Access the blog entry on the available case by << CLICKING HERE >>

The past couple of months have been exciting times for users of the classic TI-99/4A "Home Computer". We've been lucky enough to get not one, but TWO new goodies!  The first was the << FlashROM 99 >> and the second is the new 3D printed case.  It didn't take long for this thing to hit the market either.  The reason?  A new Atari Age user who goes by <<  c0d3m4st4 >>  designed, printed and released this thing in record time.
 
There are two ways to purchase one at the current time, the first method saves 10% and that is just by sending c0d3m4st4 a << PM >> here on Atari Age.  The second way is by Ebay << HERE >>.
 
So check out my video below, and if you like what you see, and I think you will, buy one of these to protect your FlashROM 99 investment.
 
Besides the different colors of neon green and orange, you can also get the cartridge printed up with some embedded text or even the TI logo as shown in this photo by the creator.
 

 

 
NOTE: The cartridge label does not come with the case.  That was just something I made for mine and decided to share with others.  If you would like to download the graphic, it's attached below for downloading.
 
The creator of the FlashROM 99 case created a couple of photos for ease of understanding when it comes to assembly and height adjustment on the included buttons.
 
#1 Cartridge Assembly

 
#2 Button Modification

 
 
If you want that nice shiny professional look on the printed label, my secret method of accomplishing that has been revealed << HERE >> 

Sometimes one comes across a message thread that stands out from the rest.
This blog entry is designed to bring these awesome stand-out threads to the attention of people that either missed them the first time, or are new and have never seen them before. 
 
If you know of an excellent message thread that you believe belongs here, please post the link!
 
 
To get things started here are a few of my favorites:
 
 0 - TI-99/4A Development Resources
    By: Retroclouds
 
 1 - HOW TO replace PEB PSU with a new AT/LPX PSU
     By: Wyerd
 
 This thread is very informative on how to replace the power supply in the TI's P-Box and 
 has lot's of support pictures.  
 
 2 - HOW TO replace the Obsolete Cassette Port with a VGA Connector
     By: Wyerd
 
 3 - HOW TO prepare an AVR as an UberGROM
     By: Tursi
     Tursi wrote one of the best and most useful utilities EVER for the TI-99/4A, this shows you
     how to setup your own 512K UberCart so you can use it!
 
 4 -.BIN Repository (Images for Burning Cartridges)
    Thread Started By: --- Ω ---
    I don't know if it's 'bad form' to choose a thread I've started myself, BUT a bunch of great TI guys
    came in and filled it chock full of so many TI cartridge goodies that I felt compelled to include it.
 
 5 - Tips/Tricks Products Used In Restoration  
    Thread Started By: Guitarman
    While this thread is in the ATARI SECTION you might be able to glean a few hints suitable
    for working on your TI... especially you guys with beige models.
 
 6 -  TI-99 - Resources & Lists (updated)
     Thread Started By: Schmitzi
     The #1 message in this thread has PDF listings covering all kinds of TI stuff.  It'll blow your mind.
     From a personal note, I like his style... it's so familiar somehow!
 
 7 - TI-Cart Labels
     Thread Started By: dphirschler
     This thread covers cartridge label design and hints.  Good stuff for those making and designing
      their own cartridge labels.
   
 8 - TI99/4A Beige Edition Retro-Brite Process
      Thread Started By: Majdachi
      This thread is a MUST for those with a yellowed beige model TI-99/4A console.
 
 9 -  FlashROM 99 Image Repository
       Thread Started By:  --- Ω ---
       Due to overwhelming support and activity, this one needed to be included.
       It's a shortcut to ALL known images for the FlashROM 99 Device
 
10 - How to mount 2 Half Height Drives in a PEB WITHOUT DRILLING
       Thread Started By: Wyerd
        Another project complete with instructions and photos.  Excellent for newbies.
 

This is not my usual blog entry.  This is more of a CHEAT SHEET to links that can be hard to find of downloadable books, manuals, keyboard strips, reference cards, etc.
 
Clicking on the links will take you to the message where the item is available for download.
All the links listed are for items that reside on, or linked from Atari Age.
 
 
 
 
 
  
3D PRINTER FILES CATEGORY  
 
CartShells
 
 
KEYBOARD STRIPS
 
Disk Manager 1000, Graphx, Disk Assembler, GRAM Kracker, TI-Calc, P-Code
Editor/Assembler & Terminal Emulator II
Miller's Graphics Explorer
Submarine Commander
Telco
TI-Writer, Multiplan & Video Chess
BEIGE Disk Assembler, BEIGE TI-Writer, BEIGE Graphx, BEIGE P-Code 
BEIGE 99/8 BASIC, BEIGE 99/8 TI-Writer, BEIGE 99/8 BASIC, BEIGE 99/8 P-System
 
PS/2 Console (single row)
PS/2 Console & BA-Writer (three row)
 
QUICK REFERENCE CARDS
 
TI-Editor/Assembler Reference Card
TI-Extended BASIC
TI-Writer, Multiplan & TI BASIC
Willey Quick Reference Guide for TI-BASIC
 
BINDERS & COVERS
 
Editor/Assembler - Spine
Old Style Manual Cover Templates
SHIFT838 Newsletter Binder
TI - Binder Covers for Multiplan and TI-Writer
 
AFTERMARKET / SCANNED and UPDATED MANUALS
 
4A Flyer scan
B-1 Nuclear Bomber
Barrage scan 
Beyond Parsec scan 
Boot, Remind Me!, Road Hunter
Boxer, Qmaze,Spot Shot, Star Runner
Centipede scan
Computer War
Cortex BASIC 80 (manual in 'starter kit)  F18A, FR99 compliant
Defender scan
Dig Dug scan
Disk Manager 1000-6
Disk Utilities 4.20 (Formatting slightly off)
Donkey Kong scan
fbForth Manual
Frogger scan
Junkman Jr. scan
Killer Caterpillar
Midnight Mason
Micro Pinball
Mine Sweeper original document
Micro-Tennis scan
Moon Patrol scan
Ms. Pacman scan
Munchman scan
Mini Memory Line-by-Line Assembler
Mini Memory Module
Peripheral Expansion System - Theory of Operation
Personal Record Keeping
Picnic Paranoia scan
Pole Position scan
Protector II scan
Rich Extended BASIC Manual
Shamus
Strike Three! scan
Submarine Commander revised remake
Telco, TI-Lander, TI-Runner, TI-Scramble remakes
Terminal Emulator II Manual
TI BASIC Support Module Documentation restored
TI Extended BASIC Manual  Features Linked Index
MAD-HUG - Teach Yourself TI BASIC
Q-Bert scan
Tunnels of Doom scan
 
 
CARTRIDGE LABELS
 
Alex Kidd
Atarisoft Labels 
Cartridge Label for Atarisoft Compilation
8K Super Cart
Cortex BASIC ⁸⁰
Crossfire
Disk Manager 2000
E.T. The Extra Terrestrial
E.T. In His Adventure on Land
E.T. In His Adventure at Sea
fbForth Labels  (Not the ones the author / creator uses on his cartridges for sale)
FlashROM 99  
Hide & Seek
Rock Runner  
Mouskattack 
Mr. Chin
Myarc Extended BASIC II
JetPac (Powered By TURBOFORTH) 
Perfect Push
Postscript/PDF Labels (assortment) 
Rasmus' 8-N-1 Arcade
Rasmus 8-N-1 Arcade (Old School Version) 
Scrabble
Snake Plissken
Space Station Pheta
Stuart's Internet Browser 
Submarine Commander & River Rescue
TurboForth and Development Cartridge Labels
Tutankham cartridge label 
 
A method for printing, preparation and attachment of the cartridge labels is  << HERE >>
 
DISKETTE LABELS
 
Panzer Strike
 
P-BOX CARD LABELS
Myarc RS-232 Interface Card Label
Myarc DDCC-1 Floppy Controller Label
P-CODE VER4.0 Label
TI 32K Memory Expansion Label
TI Disk Controller Label
TI RS-232 Interface Label
 
MISCELLANEOUS WORKSHEETS
 
NanoSheet
 
MISCELLANEOUS TECHNICAL MATERIAL
 
Horizon RAM Disk Construction Guide
TI RS-232 Schematic
Disk Drive Operating and Service Manuals
Terminal Emulator II Protocol Manual
Zeno Board Schematics & Technical Information
 
UNAUTHORIZED UPDATES TO OUTDATED MANUALS
 
nanoPEB Documentation V1 & V2  
 
 

 
This is just the start, please message me with links that I've obviously missed.  
 

_The
FlashROM 99
 
The FlashROM 99 that came out in May of 2016 has proven to be a definite paradigm shift in cartridge technology for the TI-99/4A.  In the past, if one wanted cartridge based programs they either had to buy an EEPROM programmer, like the MiniPRO TL866CS, and some chips, and do it themselves, or pay someone else to do it. 
 
With the old method of getting things into a cartridge, there were a ‘few’ things one had to learn first, especially when making their own compilation cartridges.  The required learning curve, combined with the  added expense, introduced a limiting factor to this formats development.  Now with this new cartridge format, if you can “drag & drop” you can do it too!  Nothing could be faster or easier.
 
There has been a literal explosion of programs converted to work with the FlashROM 99.  Thanks to Atari Age users like JediMatt42 and to Static1701 who has devoted a considerable amount of time into making the lives of FlashROM 99 users more enjoyable.
 
The thread to access all of those excellent conversions is:  << HERE >>
 
Justifying your investment 
 
This cartridge is the perfect solution for so many different types of TI user…
 
1              The returning user with limited equipment
                No memory expansion?  No P-Box?  NO PROBLEM!  This cartridge with run many programs
                that don’t require all the extras.
 
2              The dedicated gamer
                If you just want to play games, on the ‘REAL THING’, but not buy a bunch of expensive
                hardware, this cartridge is a must.
 
3              The user on a budget
                This cartridge can get you into the TI painlessly from a financial viewpoint.  Start having
                fun now, worry about expanding later…if you decide/want to. 
 
4              The user without the time
                Some people have limited time, and either can’t or don’t want to invest a lot of it learning
                a bunch of convoluted steps to just program in a game or two every ‘now and then’.
 
5             The limited space user
                For those needing an option for a small affordable storage device for ‘Real Iron’.
 
  
Update 07/12/2016
There is a 3D printed case available for the FlashRom 99!
To access the blog entry on the available case by << CLICKING HERE >>              
 

The months of June & July of 2016 were exciting times for users of the classic TI-99/4A "Home Computer".  We were lucky enough to get not one, but TWO new goodies!
The first was the << FlashROM 99 >> and the second was the new 3D printed case.  It didn't take long for this thing to hit the market either.  The reason?  A new Atari Age user who goes by
<<  c0d3m4st4 >>  designed, printed and released this thing in record time.
 
There are two ways to purchase one at the current time, the first method saves 10% and that is by sending c0d3m4st4 a << PM >> here on Atari Age.  The second way is by Ebay << HERE >>.
 
So check out my video below, and if you like what you see, and I think you will, buy one of these to protect your FlashROM 99 investment.
 
Besides the different colors of neon green and orange, you can also get the cartridge printed up with some embedded text or even the TI logo as shown in this photo by the creator.
 

 

 
NOTE: The cartridge label does not come with the case.  That was just something I made for mine and decided to share with others.  If you would like to download the graphic, it's attached below for downloading.
 
The creator of the FlashROM 99 case created a couple of photos for ease of understanding when it comes to assembly and height adjustment on the included buttons.
 
#1 Cartridge Assembly

 
#2 Button Modification

 
 
If you want that nice shiny professional look on the printed label, my secret method of accomplishing that has been revealed << HERE >> 
 
As collectors, some people like storage cases for display purposes, while others want a case to protect their item over the decades and still others simply to ensure the item will sit on the shelf properly.  The storage case of another obsolete technology, Digital Linear Tape has been found to be the perfect fit for the new FlashROM 99.
 

 

You want to use your F18A enhanced computer, vintage game machine or other VGA equipped classic computer on your fancy new big screen television set?  Think again, most new TV’s no longer support VGA or S-Video inputs.   Don’t you just love planned obsolescence and cost saving methods?  What’s a hobbyist to do?
 
There are many different VGA to HDMI converters available for sale.  The Sewell Hammerhead is on the upper end of the price scale, but there are other more reasonably priced devices that will not ‘break the bank’ and still do the job quite well. 
 
 
 
 
 
Items that you will need
 
1)    VGA to HDMI converter (comes with power cable)
2)    HDMI video cable
3)    Optional power supply if you don’t use the USB power on the TV.
 

 
There are numerous lower priced knock-off units out there, some in the $6.00 -$11.00 range.  I cannot guarantee results with any of those as I do not have any first-hand experience with them.   The one I purchased was listed in this link as a
<< “Vic Tsing” VGA to HDMI  >>.  This unit sells in the $20.00 range and is confirmed to work quite well with the F18A in my TI-99/4A.  Thanks to Atari Age user JediMatt42 for bringing this specific unit to my attention.
 
If you do not already have an extra HDMI cable, you’ll probably want to purchase one at the same time.
 
Be aware that if your VGA output is only 640 X 480, like with the F18A, you’ll have to adjust the setting on your TV to display it at the full or proper size.
 
 
 
This thing is a snap to install, however the audio output on many different devices varies, so no matter what converter you end up purchasing, you may have to purchase or make your own converter for the audio plug.
 
INPUT WANTED
If you end up purchasing a device in the under $10.00 price range, I'd like to read your comments and a review.  Thanks.
 
In the event you want to print this up, a PDF version of this blog entry is attached below.     
 
 

For decades, graphics on the TI-99/4A sucked by contemporary standards.  As time marched on, so did the world of static images, leaving the aging TMS9918 all but abandoned for active work. Working with graphics on the TI became slow and cumbersome, compared to modern machines. This 'dual combo' is real easy to use together, and makes using graphics on the TI a viable alternative again.  Click on the video for a short example. 
 

 
 
CONVERT9918
 
The last two video modes in Tursi’s Convert9918 program take advantage of the F18A video enhancement by Matthew Haggerty.  This VGA card can display graphics never before possible on the TI… photos that can actually be recognized for what they are!
 
If you don’t care to use the Slideshow99 program with an F18A, you can still easily use this program to obtain graphics off the Internet for use in older programs like TI-Artist, Page Pro 99 and others.
 
SLIDESHOW99
 
Features:
 
Supports any file device real or emulated, up to 12 paths allowed, as long as it can give a directory.  For instance you can load all your floppy drives with images for a larger slideshow, or use the HDX, or a CF device, or whatever comes next.
 
Number of images allowed is very large, 65,000 per path and 65,000 total.    
It would be slow with that many pics to sift through though.
 
It supports three modes on the standard TMS9918A:
- 2 color monochrome bitmap
- 15 color standard bitmap
- 225 color half-multicolor (flicker)
 
It supports two modes on the F18A:
- 16 color paletted bitmap
- 3072 color scanline paletted bitmap (16 colors per line)
 
It automatically detects each image as it's loaded, so feel free to mix and match.
 
 
IN CLOSING
 
Some of you guys might have wives that don’t relate to our little black & silver object of desire.  One might actually hear, “Oh, more crap from eBay” when they see your latest addition(s).   Well, the Slideshow99 program might change their feelings.  Imagine what your honey will say when she walks into the room and sees photos of the children, grandchildren, your wedding photos or even… her parents cycling through on the TI's screen!  She just might warm up to the old TI once and for all!  Now even, if you personally think you have no use for graphics, try this program anyway, just to please the 'old lady'.
  
LINKS
 
Tursi’s “Slideshow99” is available at :  << THIS LINK >> TI program
Tursi’s “Convert9918” is available at:  << THIS LINK >> PC program
Tursi’s orginal writeup on the slideshow program is viewable :  << HERE >>
For more information on the F18A video enhancement go :  << HERE >>
 
 

Sometimes one comes across a message thread that stands out from the rest.
This blog entry is designed to bring these awesome stand-out threads to the attention of people that either missed them the first time, or are new and have never seen them before. 
 
If you know of an excellent message thread that you believe belongs here, please post the link!
 
 
To get things started here are a few of my favorites:
 
 0 - TI-99/4A Development Resources
    By: Retroclouds
 
 1 - HOW TO replace PEB PSU with a new AT/LPX PSU
     By: Wyerd
 
 This thread is very informative on how to replace the power supply in the TI's P-Box and 
 has lot's of support pictures.  
 
 2 - HOW TO replace the Obsolete Cassette Port with a VGA Connector
     By: Wyerd
 
 3 - HOW TO prepare an AVR as an UberGROM
     By: Tursi
     Tursi wrote one of the best and most useful utilities EVER for the TI-99/4A, this shows you
     how to setup your own 512K UberCart so you can use it!
 
 4 -.BIN Repository (Images for Burning Cartridges)
    Thread Started By: --- Ω ---
    I don't know if it's 'bad form' to choose a thread I've started myself, BUT a bunch of great TI guys
    came in and filled it chock full of so many TI cartridge goodies that I felt compelled to include it.
 
 5 - Tips/Tricks Products Used In Restoration  
    Thread Started By: Guitarman
    While this thread is in the ATARI SECTION you might be able to glean a few hints suitable
    for working on your TI... especially you guys with beige models.
 
 6 -  TI-99 - Resources & Lists (updated)
     Thread Started By: Schmitzi
     The #1 message in this thread has PDF listings covering all kinds of TI stuff.  It'll blow your mind.
     From a personal note, I like his style... it's so familiar somehow!
 
 7 - TI-Cart Labels
     Thread Started By: dphirschler
     This thread covers cartridge label design and hints.  Good stuff for those making and designing
      their own cartridge labels.
   
 8 - TI99/4A Beige Edition Retro-Brite Process
      Thread Started By: Majdachi
      This thread is a MUST for those with a yellowed beige model TI-99/4A console.
 
 9 -  FlashROM 99 Image Repository
       Thread Started By:  --- Ω ---
       Due to overwhelming support and activity, this one needed to be included.
       It's a shortcut to ALL known images for the FlashROM 99 Device
 
10 - How to mount 2 Half Height Drives in a PEB WITHOUT DRILLING
       Thread Started By: Wyerd
        Another project complete with instructions and photos.  Excellent for newbies.
 
11 - TI-99/4A Beige Consoles?
       Thread Started By: Muzz73
       This thread is packed with information & photographs of a lots of different TI consoles.
       
12 - Slot Car Computer Control with a TI-99/4A
       Blog Entry By: Vorticon
       So far this is the first and only blog entry to make it into the list.  Check this out, it's awesome!
 

For decades, graphics on the TI-99/4A sucked by contemporary standards.  As time marched on, so did the world of static images, leaving the aging TMS9918 all but abandoned for active work. Working with graphics on the TI became slow and cumbersome, compared to modern machines. This 'dual combo' is real easy to use together, and makes using graphics on the TI a viable alternative again.  Click on the video for a short example. 
 

 
 
CONVERT9918
 
The last two video modes in Tursi’s Convert9918 program take advantage of the F18A video enhancement by Matthew Haggerty.  This VGA card can display graphics never before possible on the TI… photos that can actually be recognized for what they are!
 
If you don’t care to use the Slideshow99 program with an F18A, you can still easily use this program to obtain graphics off the Internet for use in older programs like TI-Artist, Page Pro 99 and others.
 
SLIDESHOW99
 
Features:
 
Supports any file device real or emulated, up to 12 paths allowed, as long as it can give a directory.  For instance you can load all your floppy drives with images for a larger slideshow, or use the HDX, or a CF device, or whatever comes next.
 
Number of images allowed is very large, 65,000 per path and 65,000 total.    
It would be slow with that many pics to sift through though.
 
It supports three modes on the standard TMS9918A:
- 2 color monochrome bitmap
- 15 color standard bitmap
- 225 color half-multicolor (flicker)
 
It supports two modes on the F18A:
- 16 color paletted bitmap
- 3072 color scanline paletted bitmap (16 colors per line)
 
It automatically detects each image as it's loaded, so feel free to mix and match.
 
 
IN CLOSING
 
Some of you guys might have wives that don’t relate to our little black & silver object of desire.  One might actually hear, “Oh, more crap from eBay” when they see your latest addition(s).   Well, the Slideshow99 program might change their feelings.  Imagine what your honey will say when she walks into the room and sees photos of the children, grandchildren, your wedding photos or even… her parents cycling through on the TI's screen!  She just might warm up to the old TI once and for all!  Now even, if you personally think you have no use for graphics, try this program anyway, just to please the 'old lady'.
  
LINKS
 
Tursi’s “Slideshow99” is available at :  << THIS LINK >> TI program
Tursi’s “Convert9918” is available at:  << THIS LINK >> PC program
Tursi’s orginal writeup on the slideshow program is viewable :  << HERE >>
For more information on the F18A video enhancement go :  << HERE >>
 
UPDATE: 10/05/2016
Atari Age user Shift838 converted the program for use in the FLASHROM 99!
You can get that version:  << HERE >>   THANKS CHRIS! 

Back in the day there were a ton of TI-99/4A consoles released into the wild, most of them went 'unexpanded', many ended up in the back of a closet never to see daylight for decades.  Why?  Because the system add-ons were very expensive, so by the time prices came down, TI had abandoned the home computer market and people had moved on to newer, faster and more powerful computers.  An unexpanded TI was very nearly worthless, it still is, but now with this affordable and easy to use 32K device, almost anyone can enjoy the latest and greatest games for the computer at a very affordable price.
 

 
 
* This blog entry will be updated next week when I have more time.

For little less than the price of some 'Homebrew' cartridges, one can purchase their own burner, download the free images << AVAILABLE HERE >> and make cartridges to suit their immediate needs.  Later as interests change, erase and re-burn!  Why not consider a burner and take your TI hobby to a new level?
 
A while back, some of the 'TI-gods' got together, envisioned, designed, debugged and built the truly amazing "Uber Cart".  The Uber Cart has been used for some really cool compilations, like the Extended BASIC 2.7 Suite cartridge developed by the late Tony (The Great Gazoo) Knerr.  More recently Atari Age user Asmusr has added some really neat gaming "mult-cart" images.  
   
If you think you might be interested in purchasing one of the really affordable MiniPRO TL866CS EEPROM programmers, click << THIS LINK >> to check out some sources and pricing.
 
If you would like to buy an Uber Cart, they are sometimes available << HERE >>.  While arcadeshopper.com does not list Pay Pal as an option, Greg will be more than happy to make arrangements with you if that is the way you need to pay.  You can contact him directly by clicking
<< HERE >>.  (Must be signed into Atari Age)
 
 
When I was a newbie I had some trouble programming chips with the cheap socket I *WAS* using.  I thought my programmer was defective, or that I had a batch of bad chips.  I figured I had nothing to lose, so I tried what you see in the video below.  Don't laugh, it worked!  Now the chips take programming even with a cheap socket!   
 

 
The video below shows the major on-screen process, and how quick it is, to program the little ROM chip with easily obtainable and free cartridge image files.
 

 
 
* Once you get a programmer, be sure to download the PDF files below.