Hello from Venice, Florida
Posted: Sat Aug 03, 2019 8:43 pm
Thanks for putting together such a great Forum. I have lived in the USA for 30 years, but grew up in the UK. In 1982 I entered the world of computing with a Sinclair ZX81 which introduced me to BASIC programming and of course a network of friends with tapes to swap. I had actually held on to that ZX81 over the years, and recently read about how to perform a composite mod, so that combined with purchasing a SCART / Composite to HDMI scaler, I had my old ZX81 running on my modern monitor.
https://youtu.be/aTEs5f5QICY
In 1984 my parents bought me a Sinclair QL as a Christmas gift. I initially wasn't sure what to make of it, because I was hoping for a ZX Spectrum. However, I soon realized what a great machine is was and didn't regret it one bit. I learned a lot from SuperBasic and had quite a collection of programs and games. I sold it all in 1989 when I moved to the USA - thinking it wouldn't work.
Recently, after my success getting the ZX81 to work, I thought I would take a risk and expand my "Retro" computer collection. So I looked around eBay and found a good deal on a complete QL in the original box with manual, power supply, Psion suite, and 4 additional blank microdrive cartidges. It survived the trip from the UK, and is in great shape. It has the JM ROM which strangely is what my old QL had. I've opened it up and given it a good clean, looks fine on the inside too, both Microdrives work. The power supply is putting out the right voltages, and looks OK inside, but it buzzes. I seem to remember they always did.
After reading the recommendations on this forum, I purchased a QL RGB to SCART cable from Retro Computer Products. That produces a great picture! Better than I ever got on my old QL connected to a TV. I also learned the art of re-felting Microdrive Cartridges - I found my local Target store sells adhesive backed felt which I could cut to size - works great.
Next up, I have a vDrive QL on the way from New Zealand, so I'll see if I can figure out how to download some more QL software to SD card. Looks like a neat device.
https://youtu.be/aTEs5f5QICY
In 1984 my parents bought me a Sinclair QL as a Christmas gift. I initially wasn't sure what to make of it, because I was hoping for a ZX Spectrum. However, I soon realized what a great machine is was and didn't regret it one bit. I learned a lot from SuperBasic and had quite a collection of programs and games. I sold it all in 1989 when I moved to the USA - thinking it wouldn't work.
Recently, after my success getting the ZX81 to work, I thought I would take a risk and expand my "Retro" computer collection. So I looked around eBay and found a good deal on a complete QL in the original box with manual, power supply, Psion suite, and 4 additional blank microdrive cartidges. It survived the trip from the UK, and is in great shape. It has the JM ROM which strangely is what my old QL had. I've opened it up and given it a good clean, looks fine on the inside too, both Microdrives work. The power supply is putting out the right voltages, and looks OK inside, but it buzzes. I seem to remember they always did.
After reading the recommendations on this forum, I purchased a QL RGB to SCART cable from Retro Computer Products. That produces a great picture! Better than I ever got on my old QL connected to a TV. I also learned the art of re-felting Microdrive Cartridges - I found my local Target store sells adhesive backed felt which I could cut to size - works great.
Next up, I have a vDrive QL on the way from New Zealand, so I'll see if I can figure out how to download some more QL software to SD card. Looks like a neat device.