On the Nec 765 (Intel 8272) the direction pin is also use for reduced write
current (TG43).
When the step line pulses the direction pin controls the direction. All
other times it is high if the track counter is 43 or less, low if the track
counter is greater than 43.
The current disk controllers are based on the 765.
Does anyone know if the direction pin does the same on the newer clone
chips? I have started looking at the datasheets but so far I have not found
any reference to that function on "modern" parts.
If it's true then the 34 to 50 pin cable I use (and others) can be made to
include TG43 without using an adapter like FDADAP.
It may turn out some do and some don't but since everyone is basically using
the same licensed core I would expect all newer chips to act the same. The
question is was TG43 support kept from the original 765?
Randy
www.s100-manuals.com