Posted on March 16, 2025March 16, 2025 by Sgw32NC — Leave a comment

Introducing the New product – Pi1541-III USB-C: A Modern Take on Pi-1541-III

Retro computing enthusiasts know the struggle—finding the right peripherals to keep their Commodore 64 experience authentic while adapting to modern power solutions. That’s why we developed the Pi1541-III USB-C, a brand-new, improved version of the Pi1541-III by tebl (https://github.com/tebl/C64-Pi1541-III).

Why I Designed This Enhanced Version

While working with the original Pi1541-III, I noticed a common issue: powering the Raspberry Pi efficiently. Many users rely on USB-C power adapters for their devices, but the original design primarily used a 5.5mm barrel jack for +5V power. Good quality barrel power supplies are often expensive, whereas most people already have a reliable USB-C charger at home. So, I made the decision to add USB-C support while keeping the original barrel jack for flexibility.

Developed in KiCAD: Precision and Quality

The Pi1541-III USB-C main board was entirely redesigned using KiCAD, an open-source PCB design tool. I wanted a compact, efficient, and well-optimized circuit that would be easy to assemble while maintaining the best compatibility with Raspberry Pi 3 and 4. Most of the components are SMD factory-assembled, ensuring a reliable build and reducing the effort needed for manual soldering.

Key Features That Make a Difference

Pi1541-II USB-C bottom — USB-C connector and IEC, 5.5 power connector

Dual Power Options – Use USB-C or 5.5mm barrel jack for +5V power.
Plug & Play Design – Most components pre-assembled for convenience.
True Drive Emulation – Provides accurate cycle timing for better compatibility.
OLED Display & Encoder Controls – Easily browse and load disk images.
Supports SD Cards & USB Storage – Play your favorite C64 games effortlessly.
Includes an IEC Cable – No need for extra purchases.

Get Yours Today!

The Pi1541-III USB-C is a brand-new product designed to enhance your Commodore 64 experience. If you’re looking for a reliable, modern, and easy-to-use drive emulator, this is it!

Order yours now and enjoy seamless retro gaming!

Link to the product:

Pi1541-III USB-C powered for Raspberry Pi 3/4

(Raspberry Pi not included.)

Posted on March 16, 2025March 16, 2025 by Sgw32NC — Leave a comment

User manuals for Digifiz Replica and IV-Indicators

Digifiz Replica Gen1-3: Download PDF

IV-Indicators: Download PDF

Posted on October 3, 2024October 3, 2024 by Sgw32NC — Leave a comment

Macrosystem Vlab GAL dump

Thanks to Matze’s Galdurino (https://gitlab.com/MHeinrichs/galdurino) project I was able to dump one of GAL16V8 ICs in Macrosystem Vlab video digitizer

Before that, I connected it to my Amiga 2000 and used it to dump the picture from “composite” from A2000.

It worked OK with PiStorm(see picture)

Here you can check Zorro II id’s of VLab:

I was able to dump Lattice GAL16V8 by applying 17V on pin 2, however STs GAL16V8S were not able to be dumped. There were other boards with the same chips by Lattice. I’ll try to take one.

And here is a dump:

https://disk.yandex.ru/d/21Gx7jowB7cb4w

Posted on August 13, 2024August 13, 2024 by Sgw32NC — Leave a comment

Firmware update of IV-Indicators temperature sensor

First indicators were sent with limited indication on temperature channel.

Start from connecting of indicator USB flasher according to pictures:

Please be careful as programmer can be inserted incorrectly. USB socket should be on outer side.

Next, connect programmer using USB Type-C cable to your computer (newer smartphones cables fit well)

It should be recognized as COM serial port in Windows or serial device in Linux.

Flashing is done from a Chrome browser with serial port support.

To access flashing page, go to:

https://phol-labs.com/iv

To access flasher.

Here, press select port and select appropriate serial port.

Now go to settings and check if Access Modbus setting is unchecked:

And select 115200 baud rate, if any other is selected.

Now press connect and then, press Full erase flash,

Then click “Open file” and select the firmware supplied along with this file, and press Flash. After that, device is ready for use.

Posted on August 13, 2024August 13, 2024 by Sgw32NC — Leave a comment

IV-Indicators instructions

Abstract

IV-Indicators innovative gauge offers a multitude of functions, ensuring you stay informed about crucial vehicle metrics while adding a touch of modern sophistication to your interior, and preserving retro-tech look. The killer feature of this device is that it can be configured using Android phone to fit your own sensors.

Device is shipped in 4 options:

IV-Indicators gauge 3xPack (all 3 indicators in one package)

IV-Indicators Voltmeter

IV-Indicators Barometer

IV-Indicators Thermometer

Upgrade your Golf or Jetta 2 with this versatile IV-Indicators Button Gauge, a must-have accessory for car enthusiast. This innovative gauge offers a multitude of functions, ensuring you stay informed about crucial vehicle metrics while adding a touch of modern sophistication to your interior,and preserving retro-tech look.

Package contents

Package includes:

Button-gauge(-s)
Socket for connection
Programming tool

Functional description

Equipped with default options to function as a voltmeter, oil pressure sensor, or temperature sensor, this gauge adapts to your specific monitoring needs with ease. Whether you’re keeping an eye on your vehicle’s electrical system, oil pressure, or engine temperature, this gauge has you covered.

What sets this gauge apart is its junction of retro and new technologies. Included with the gauge is a programmer that allows for easy configuration via your Android phone or computer using USB cable. With the ability to adjust the color of segments and backlighting, you can customize the gauge to match your vehicle’s interior or personal style effortlessly.

Not only does this gauge offer versatility and customization, but it also boasts calibration capabilities, allowing you to sync it with other sensors for precise and accurate readings. Say goodbye to guesswork and hello to confidence on the road.

Upgrade your driving experience with the Golf/Jetta 2 IV-Indicators Button Gauge and enjoy unparalleled functionality, style, and convenience.

Device is intended to be working with VAG pressure sensor p.No 03C906051A and temperature sensor Ossca 01176 or compatible for Golf 2.

Connection diagrams

IV-Conf Android pack

IV-Indicators are shipped with external programmer, which is connected as follows:

Use Type-C USB cable to connect it to your Android phone via USB-OTG. If your phone is not equipped with Type-C socket, you can use USB Hub and USB-A-USB-Type C cable.

App is in beta testing stage and is provided directly with shipped indicators.

Instructions:

Connect USB flasher to your phone and open App. Confirm and grant USB permissions to the app.

Press USB connect and wait until Connected text

On top of the app press 3 bars icon and go to Settings. Select some preset from the settings and press “Set parameters”, wait until transmission. You can also modify the settings according to your needs.

To set Dot mode, set checkbox, if use bar, leave it unpressed.

To set backlight and intensity, use the widget on the bottom of the page

To set gradient colors, select style to Gradient (default one), to select 4 color segments, select 4 segments and choose appropriate segments colors and position.

Please take in account that the app is in beta stage and will be constantly improved.

Posted on April 29, 2024April 29, 2024 by Sgw32NC — Leave a comment

Orders and website update

Website was updated and is now on .com zone.

The item number was re-stocked according to real stock. Many items were moved to “Old products”, consider contacting us if you need some of them.

The new revision of Digifiz Replica is still in development, old revision is currently(April 2024) out of stock.

A new revision of Digifiz is coming this summer.

For now take a look on our new product – multifunctional and multicolor gauges for Golf 2/Jetta 2 😀

Posted on August 9, 2023June 28, 2024 by Sgw32NC — Leave a comment

UVGEN Amiga Genlock Engineering

I bought this device on eBay and decided to make a replica of it.

An internal genlock for the Amiga which plugs into the video slot (OCS/ECS style). This genlock appears to have been developed for use with the A2000 clone called the Sneak Prevue, a system for broadcasting programming information. The genlock was used to supply video from the Laser Disc Player. (https://bigbookofamigahardware.com/bboah/Product.aspx?id=440)

I bought this device on eBay and decided to make a replica of it. I did not found any other open source genlocks for Amiga so it would be nice to have something in this niche.

First of all, WARNINGS:

1) The project is completely untested. I plugged in the original card, but it is not a correct test. This project may not work at all, because there are many copper traces.

2) UVGEN Genlock works on A2000 NTSC machines only, you need to modify circuit for PAL(and I am not sure it is possible to do that)

3) FPGA onboard has its own ROM and it was dumped. EEPROM dump is provided only for home and non-commercial usage. If you want to sell this – write your own ROM for XC2018.

4) Of course, I am not responsible for any loss, damage, or other things caused by this project to your expensive Amiga desktop.

5) If you successfully managed to start up this card – please tell me, if I need to do any changes in the project files. Your help will be much appreciated.

6) Inductor values should be inspired from the datasheet

UVGEN genlock consists of video overlay IC MC1378P. See its datasheet: https://pdf1.alldatasheet.com/datasheet-pdf/download/168761/MOTOROLA/MC1378P.html

This IC is controlled by FPGA with OEM ROM which makes all the necessary signals. There are also 4 switches(and thus 16 modes) of Genlock. I do not know how it works. From what I’ve seen on a screen – it chooses signals from Amiga for gen-locking and overlaying.

HOW IT WAS USED:

– To add Teletext to videos + some effects

– To add captions and credits list

– To make music videos

Original UVGEN Genlock was used for Sneak Prevue TV broadcasting system.

IDEAS ON HOW TO USE IT:

1) Make retro wave videos using composite Amiga video and other video source

2) Make original and 90s-like video clips for music

3) Output composite video from new Amiga 2000s, Amiga 2000 EATX (from jasonbeer, my respect)

I’ll share the original files within several months but first I want some orders to appear from PCBWay to generate some income from my work. Next, I’ll share original schematics and board files too. Please support my work.

I also plan to make a small SMD-based board with the same functions.

Source and ROMs:

https://github.com/Sgw32/UVGEN_Genlock_Replica

Posted on August 9, 2023March 16, 2025 by Sgw32NC — Leave a comment

Manufacturer info page for Digifiz Replica v1-v2.5 for VW mk2

This post will be extended and improved while there is more info

As we sold many Digifiz Replica units on behalf of Duplux Production (https://www.instagram.com/duplux_production/) there are many common questions and corresponding answers should be. There will be some more info regarding the device.

As a Russian development, the original page of Digifiz Replica is on the Russian social network VK, here:

https://vk.com/digifiz

Also, I’ve created a Telegram page of Digifiz Replica some time ago:

https://t.me/digifiz

Currently, here is an official Manual for Digifiz Replica on English:

https://disk.yandex.ru/d/JSVqGUKjwCQQrQ

Posted on August 9, 2023August 9, 2023 by Sgw32NC — Leave a comment

UltiSID is released

UltiSID is released publicly and is now tested:

https://github.com/Sgw32/UltiSID

You can also order PCBs almost assembled using JLCPCB order files provided in the repository.
New UltiSID is highly inspired by Kung Fu Flash – and commonly, it is a Kung Fu Flash with a special firmware(Kung Fu SID, included as a submodule)

Video:

https://youtube.com/shorts/YMMjhMZqSjQ?feature=share – small video of new hardware and software working on a real C64.

By the way, I have 4 extra chips and I can send/sell them somewhere if someone wants to check them out.
As it was declared initially, UltiSID is completely free and open-source even for commercial purposes (GPLv3 license)
I will be happy if someone will improve the project or add some new functions to it. It still lacks paddles, but new hardware supports it.
As well, there is an OpAmp on output cascade, and output is completely generated by DAC, not PWM as on SwinSID – which ensures smooth and good generation of sound. I still need some optimization of code.

There are no hard flaws as it was before on the previous revision of the hardware. It processes data and it is possible to read it back, it works stable.

I would also be happy for any donation:
PayPal is unfortunately banned in Russia, as Russia resident I am unable to use it, even if I’m not in Russia actually(as it is)
0xeDc17cb23241eACe19DF3617291aa7d2d92E62DC – USDT/ETH ERC20
TKSPmVWoCgQky8umDUcR7oivJKNzAXueSB – USDT TRC20
0x77c411fdedc72b034432571ae9aee10330b72d6c – USDT BSC20
https://www.cgtrader.com/u2606411 – or buy something here(my 3d models of C64 for 3d printing)

Posted on August 9, 2023August 9, 2023 by Sgw32NC — Leave a comment

Top 10 things from Aliexpress for Retro-engineer

1. Xgpro(MiniPro) TL866II/TL866-3G programmer

XGpro T48 is a better version and is available here:

http://alii.pub/6i5jff

2. Gotek Floppy emulator

Gotek can be modded to add I2C display and buzzer.

Most of new revisions come with STM32 clone – AT32, can be flashed using USB cable.

http://alii.pub/6i5jpx

3. Joysticks

http://alii.pub/6i5kny – SNES joystick

http://alii.pub/6i5k01 Atari-compatible joystick

This joystick will help to work on Commodore 64/Amiga/Atari machines, but it can be rewired for any other machine (MSX, ZX Spectrum).

4. GBS8200 and GBSC upscalers/scandoublers

This thing is very useful if you want to have a good quality of your image and use your primary monitor while working with retro computer. Personally I’ve tested it on Commodore Amiga.

http://alii.pub/6i5k9d – GBSC

http://alii.pub/6i5k9y – GBS8200