[Coco] CoCo3 FPGA project analog boards

[Zippster]

Update…

Finally, I’m pretty much done with these.

Except for two boards waiting for some connectors to arrive, this run is built. This weekend I’ll be giving these their final bath, testing, packing, and begin getting them sent out.  These have already passed initial tests on the RAM, serial port, WiFi and RTC modules.  The joystick circuitry hasn’t been tested yet, but earlier test boards passed very well, and I don’t expect a problem there.

There were a number of challenges that had to be overcome in getting these made, including the new layout, having to custom make proper height connectors for the GPIO headers, determining and sourcing a proper hardware kit and other components, etc…  I had to use a lot of different suppliers, and get creative.

The FPGA code was being implemented for the analog board features during the build, but Gary was able to keep me supplied with updated builds as these went together in order to verify things would work.  Things were not quite as ready to go as I thought they were when I entered into this, but I believe we have gotten there. This will be a very nice step forward for the CoCo3FPGA project, which I’m glad to now be a part of.

So, it’s been an interesting little road I’m getting to the end of, over 10,000 solder joints later.  I’d guess there’s around 70 hours of labor in these not counting design or logistics, but hopefully it’s been worth it, they are quite nice.  Very labor intensive though. Next time I’m using stencils and reflow for sure.  :)

It’s been fun, but I’m looking forward to getting back to other projects.  People on the analog board list should expect an email from me in the next several days to arrange payment/delivery.

<https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B1sgl615FlGnaUJkT3BMMkIwNjQ>
<https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B1sgl615FlGnbTlhdkJiUU9FSFE>
<https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B1sgl615FlGnREs2YTdjeFJsWHM>

- Ed


> On Jun 8, 2016, at 11:49 AM, Marcelo Cannella <marcelo.cannella at gmail.com> wrote:
> 
> What a good new!
> Thanks, thanks and more thanks Ed!
> 
> 2016-06-07 21:43 GMT-03:00 Zippster <zippster278 at gmail.com>:
> 
>> Just to let everybody know, I've received all the remaining hardware for
>> the Analog Board kits,
>> and I have assembly on 30 boards in progress.
>> 
>> You'll each receive your assembled Analog Board, a new top plate, and a
>> full set of brass hex standoffs
>> to put it all together.  The only hardware you'll have to save from your
>> original DE1 setup will be the six
>> rubber feet, and the six phillips head screws.
>> 
>> Everything fits, and matches!  :)
>> 
>> <https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B1sgl615FlGnREs2YTdjeFJsWHM <
>> https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B1sgl615FlGnREs2YTdjeFJsWHM>>
>> 
>> It won't be too much longer now.
>> 
>> - Ed
>> 
>>