February 17th, 2018
TI99/4a (#1): Unknown condition.
This was a relatively quick and dirty test. I only have the console, no cables or official controllers. First I removed an ATX connector off a dead 2000's computer mobo. Modded the connector to trick a ATX psu to turning it on and staying on. Then I salvaged a cable from a dead colecovision psu. They have the same 4 pin connector the TI99/4a uses. I then used this to connect to a verified working ATX psu. Later on I will mod this ATX psu inside the housing to operate as a test bench psu.
Inside the system. The wires leading from the case to the internal power supply connector. I removed those three cables connected to the internal psu. Then I installed a 4th cable to the power connector on the case. These four wires are then reconnected to the solder side of the molex connector on the internal psu. +5v, -5v, gnd and 12v to be more precise (Not in that order). This will disconnect the use of the power switch on the internal psu. Meaning, I have to use the switch on the ATX to power up the unit. Note: I can no longer use an original psu on this unit, as it would fry the unit. I need to make a label to notify myself or future owners of this mod.
I then routed the composite and audio to RCA panel mounted jacks. I could have used a 5pin din a/v cable for a commodore. Though, I don't have any on hand.
Upon powering up. The composite signal came out clear. No audio. All keyboard buttons work. Cartridge slot works.
Remaining items to check or mod: Controller ports, and check the audio source. Install a 3 pole single throw switch, to control the power on the unit. Replace the power supply plug to prevent the wrong (original) psu from being plugged in the future. Label said connector as well.
TI99/4a (#1): Unknown condition.
This was a relatively quick and dirty test. I only have the console, no cables or official controllers. First I removed an ATX connector off a dead 2000's computer mobo. Modded the connector to trick a ATX psu to turning it on and staying on. Then I salvaged a cable from a dead colecovision psu. They have the same 4 pin connector the TI99/4a uses. I then used this to connect to a verified working ATX psu. Later on I will mod this ATX psu inside the housing to operate as a test bench psu.
Inside the system. The wires leading from the case to the internal power supply connector. I removed those three cables connected to the internal psu. Then I installed a 4th cable to the power connector on the case. These four wires are then reconnected to the solder side of the molex connector on the internal psu. +5v, -5v, gnd and 12v to be more precise (Not in that order). This will disconnect the use of the power switch on the internal psu. Meaning, I have to use the switch on the ATX to power up the unit. Note: I can no longer use an original psu on this unit, as it would fry the unit. I need to make a label to notify myself or future owners of this mod.
I then routed the composite and audio to RCA panel mounted jacks. I could have used a 5pin din a/v cable for a commodore. Though, I don't have any on hand.
Upon powering up. The composite signal came out clear. No audio. All keyboard buttons work. Cartridge slot works.
Remaining items to check or mod: Controller ports, and check the audio source. Install a 3 pole single throw switch, to control the power on the unit. Replace the power supply plug to prevent the wrong (original) psu from being plugged in the future. Label said connector as well.