3 Jan
2007
3 Jan
'07
6:59 p.m.
At 04:38 PM 1/3/2007, you wrote:
It would only prove anything if all the 8800 basics have different finger
prints. The disk basics could have the same fingerprint and we wouldn't
care about that, I think. This doesn't rule out bug fixes in all non math
areas...
At this point, I would just use the cassette version,
unless I needed the
extra memory. I would be tempted to patch the ID text. I might change
"VERSION" to "VER PT " and "VER CT ". It's not original,
but could avoid
confusion.
Is it not possible that the only difference between the paper tape and
cassette is the CSAVE and CLOAD commands? (as well as --KCACR-- in the
opening text) I think we need a memory image of unloaded paper tape and
unloaded cassette basic to compare. Hopefully it is "patched" in a way
that makes few differences. Or maybe the commands were just activated...
Next, I would build a BASIC version timeline based on
reading all issues of
Computer Notes in chronological order. That would be a good time to make
hardware timelines and copy info about software and hardware changes.
Now you see why I collect the newest Altairs. I can assume I have the most
powerful debugged MITS products. I wasn't in a hurry for the 680 because I
always needed drives for development and business software. As a collector,
I appreciate the weight and size and the opportunity to learn the M6800 at
the bit and ASM level.
So far I only have two software applications for the 680. Even if they are
the same except for two commands. ; )
The KCACR doesn't seem very popular.
I need a better timeline on the 680 and Pertec acquisition. After looking at
some issues of Computer Notes, I see that the 680 was around for awhile.
Pertec purchased a lot of problems when the bought MITS. They may have
killed the 680 just as the KCACR was finished. The documentation was not
updated and few people got new KCACR. Some 680 owners may be industrial and
not interested in cassettes. Much of my stuff and a lot from eBay auctions
came from Albuquerque after MITS closed. The component or product may not
have reached many MITS customers.
The KCACR is popular with me. I have two and a new reason to use the 680.
I've avoided cassettes on the 8800. Now I have a smaller platform to use for
learning. The 680 may lack software, but BASIC makes it easier write more.
There are good books on the 6800 with small code examples. A 33K 680 with
BASIC and switches with lights could keep someone busy for awhile.
What could we do to determine if the basics are
the same? This would tell
us the math function similarity...
I think that is too much detail for now. I'd just use the newest version
that would fit in memory with my application. I could run the
forensics on the Altair32 emulator and on both versions of
the 680 basic. If it matches up with any of the 8080 basics then we've
found the "version" of 8080 basic used as a starting point.
Interesting idea. I'd start with Reading Computer Notes. I hope you find someone with additional software. Did
you find a KCACR
manual? I don't have one and haven't checked Steve's list. I will look at
pricelists and see what is listed for the 680.
I'm sure I will. Steve has the manuals. I'm making a big list for him. : )
Grant