ATX backplane prototype...
Posted: Sun May 07, 2017 4:38 am
Here's a snapshot of my ATX backplane prototype.
It can take a 20- or 24-pin ATX PSU, using the 5v line to supply power to cards. +12v and -12v are also provided. A flying lead is provided if you want to provide 12v or 5v to the microdrive end of a QL mainboard. Aurora systems won't need it. (It is not shown in this pic.)
All signal lines are in a middle layer between two huge ground planes. There are two LEDs indicating power good and power on, a connection for the case power switch and reset switch and two local buttons with the same function, if you prefer to use the system outside of a case.
I will 3D print a mounting bracket in black plastic that will have guides for the QL and expansion cards. It will allow mounting either from behind or from the bottom, so you'll have choices about orientation. The entire system with QL requires 40cm x 12cm deep by 11cm high - which will fit inside most full size ATX cases and a few mini-ITX cases too. The expansion cards sit 21mm apart, and the lowest expansion card sits 35mm above the QL mainboard.
Here's your chance to give me some feedback! I want your opinions!
What changes can I make to this backplane to make it better than an AT-style backplane? Besides a new case and a fresh new PSU, what would you want to get from re-casing your system?
When the design is finalized I will order 25 PCBs and once they're gone, they're gone.
It can take a 20- or 24-pin ATX PSU, using the 5v line to supply power to cards. +12v and -12v are also provided. A flying lead is provided if you want to provide 12v or 5v to the microdrive end of a QL mainboard. Aurora systems won't need it. (It is not shown in this pic.)
All signal lines are in a middle layer between two huge ground planes. There are two LEDs indicating power good and power on, a connection for the case power switch and reset switch and two local buttons with the same function, if you prefer to use the system outside of a case.
I will 3D print a mounting bracket in black plastic that will have guides for the QL and expansion cards. It will allow mounting either from behind or from the bottom, so you'll have choices about orientation. The entire system with QL requires 40cm x 12cm deep by 11cm high - which will fit inside most full size ATX cases and a few mini-ITX cases too. The expansion cards sit 21mm apart, and the lowest expansion card sits 35mm above the QL mainboard.
Here's your chance to give me some feedback! I want your opinions!
What changes can I make to this backplane to make it better than an AT-style backplane? Besides a new case and a fresh new PSU, what would you want to get from re-casing your system?
When the design is finalized I will order 25 PCBs and once they're gone, they're gone.