[Coco] Mutiipack

[Bruce W. Calkins]

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Darren A"

On Thu, Sep 6, 2012 at 2:41 PM, Luis Fernández wrote:
>
> Hello friends
> I need to understand some things.
> The Grey multipack can connect to the coco 1, 2 or 3
> The white multipack coconut can connect to the 1, 2 or 3
> 26-3029 controller can be used in the coco2 or 3? I think not
> The controller DISK DRIVE FD-500 can be used in coco1, and can use gray 
> disk drives?
>

All MultiPaks will work with all CoCos, but an upgrade may be needed
to use them with a CoCo3.  The older model (like the grey) needs only
a new PAL chip. The later model requires a more complicated upgrade.

All of the Tandy floppy controllers will also work with all CoCos.
However, the earliest model (26-3022) requires a 12 volt supply and
therefore requires either a MultiPak or 12v external power to be used
with a CoCo 2 or 3.

Darren

===================

Upgrading the earlier MultiPak requires that one find a programed PAL/GAL 
chip.  I have heard of piggybacking the PALs with a switch too for backwards 
compatability.  Upgrading the newer version MultiPak uses (IIRC) a 74LS10 
and a little effort soldering it on piggyback and running a few wires and 
cutting a trace.  I did not find it hard and at the time it was easier than 
finding a programed PAL for the older one.

Bruce W.