Tag: soldering

Replaces the Atari 400's internal RAM board with either 48 KB or 1056 KB of modern memory.

Both product pages reported five boards in stock on 2026-07-27. Either installation requires disassembling the computer and soldering four jumper wires beneath the main board. A machine previously fitted with Atari's 48K RAM Expansion Kit may already have those jumpers. The 1056K board does not require the plastic-housing modification described in the older Atari kit instructions.

Replaces the CPU in Commodore 264-series computers and can add 512 KB of Hannes-compatible expanded memory.

Lotharek marks the module discontinued. CPU-only use requires correct pin-1 orientation and a compatible socket or safe desoldering. Enabling the 512 KB expansion is invasive: remove the original DRAM and connect CAS to pin 15 on an eight-chip, 1-bit layout or pin 16 on a two-chip, 4-bit layout. Confirm the exact motherboard, CPU package, memory layout, and software's Hannes banking support before buying or installing a used module.

Retains the original POKEY while adding FPGA stereo POKEYs, Covox channels, digital mixing, and a high-rate stereo DAC.

The product exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-27. It requires a working original POKEY and can be installed in stages: basic stereo output, a second POKEY through an A4 connection, Covox through D6xx or D7xx decoding, and full internal-audio mixing. The approximately 1 mm PCB intentionally leaves pin 31 unconnected; verify that it remains isolated from the motherboard. Only the basic stage uses a single address jumper, while the expanded functions require additional signal and audio wiring.

Upgrades a Revision 8A Amiga 500 motherboard to 2 MB of Chip RAM with a soldered internal module.

The product page exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-27. It is only for Amiga 500 Revision 8A motherboards, requires soldering, and makes the trapdoor RAM expansion unusable. The current Revision 3 no longer needs the LSP connection shown on page 6 of the older fitting manual, so follow the current seller note rather than that obsolete step.

Adapts the Pixels Past 8K or 16K EPROM cartridge into an eight-selection homebrew multicart for the Atari 800XL.

Human review found the combined visual material sufficient for a skilled builder. It remains an adaptation rather than a revised fabrication package: the linked Gerbers and assembly material are for the unmodified Pixels Past single-cartridge PCB, while the eight-way changes appear only in an inline diagram with no separate revised Gerbers, bill of materials, ROM-preparation guide, or textual selection instructions. Pixels Past licenses its base files under CC BY 4.0, but no license for the eight-way modification was verified.

Adapts a modern ATX power supply to a Power Macintosh 8600 or 9600 without cutting the computer's chassis.

The current store listed the conversion kit without an out-of-stock marker on 2026-07-24. The ATX supply and tools are not included.

Adapts a modern ATX power supply to an IBM XT and recreates the missing -5 V rail.

Retro Electronics listed one board in stock on 2026-07-25. The board does not include an AT P8/P9 connector or its cables; the buyer must supply and solder them.

Programs 16K, 32K, 64K, and 128K EPROMs from an Apple II expansion slot.

The kit was out of stock on 2026-07-24. It is a tall card and requires soldering; verify physical clearance, software, and the exact EPROM type before use.

Adds 1 MB of banked RAM to an Atari 1200XL or 800XL with a 30-pin SIMM and custom refresh and bank-selection logic.

The archived article provides the circuit discussion, 1200XL connection table, SIMM pinout, and software notes but describes the 800XL only as having similar connection points. It is an advanced historical wire-and-perfboard build. The author reports that the SpartaDOS cartridge does not function with this configuration and that ordinary SpartaDOS and much commercial software see only a 320XE-style subset; MYDOS 4.5.1M or newer needs the documented page sequence.

Tested 64K-by-1 4164 DRAM chips for repairing Commodore 64 motherboards that use the eight-chip, 16-pin memory layout.

Both exact product routes were present on 2026-07-30, but Tavily did not expose an unambiguous current cart or stock control on the ToTs RETRO page, and Retroleum was temporarily closed until approximately the beginning of August 2026. Confirm stock before ordering. Match the installed memory organization and motherboard rather than relying on case style: Retroleum explicitly excludes Assy 250466 and C64C boards that use two 41464 or 4464 devices.

Open, through-hole RF-modulator replacement with adjustable C64 luma and chroma output levels.

The repository supplies KiCad sources, Gerbers, a schematic, a BOM, and assembly and adjustment instructions. Components were estimated at about $12 when documented, excluding PCBs and shipping. Building the board requires through-hole assembly; installing it requires safely desoldering the original RF can and selecting the correct jumper configuration. Using the shortboard setting on a longboard can feed the wrong voltage and damage the VIC-II.

Open RF-modulator replacement that improves the C64's original luma, chroma, and composite video signals.

Retro Electronics listed one board in stock on 2026-07-25. Installation is an irreversible soldering job that removes the original RF modulator, adds two headers, and solders a ground wire.

Upgrades an original Commodore 1764 REU from 256 KB to 512 KB and supplies parts that can also repair or expand other 17xx REUs.

The current Shopify product page exposed a priced checkout product on 2026-07-29. This is a component kit for an original REU, not a complete memory cartridge. The page does not provide a complete board-revision-specific installation procedure; use appropriate Commodore service information, ESD precautions, and an experienced installer.

Expands a 16 KB Atari 600XL to 64 KB with two 41464 DRAMs and three wiring changes.

The archived instructions call for two 41464-10 or compatible DRAMs, hookup wire, soldering tools, and optional sockets. Chips may need desoldering, several pins and resistor leads must be isolated, and fine motherboard traces are exposed; the author explicitly says to attempt it only if the diagram is understood and at the builder's risk. This is a historical modification guide, not a current kit.

Replaces an Atari ST or Mega ST memory subsystem with a 4 MB expansion and a motherboard-specific adapter.

The Heron board and three current adapters exposed order paths on 2026-07-27. A complete installation requires the Heron plus either the C070789-001 Revision F adapter, the C070523-001 Revision D adapter, or the universal socketed-MMU adapter. C070859-001 Revision 2.0 and C103414-001 adapters were still described as in development. The Shifter must be socketed or desoldered, the original RAM must be disabled, and A9 and WE wires must be connected. This is a skilled mains-exposed internal installation; disconnect power and choose the exact motherboard adapter before ordering.

Compact Apple II paddle controller offered as an assembled unit or a beginner-friendly through-hole kit.

The storefront listed economy, standard, and fully assembled configurations without an out-of-stock marker on 2026-07-24. Newer PCBs carry a correction sticker for a November 2025 silkscreen error.

Provides a new 1.7-meter nine-conductor lead for repairing compatible vintage joysticks and controllers.

AutumnHippo exposed an add-to-cart route at USD 7 on 2026-07-30. Basic soldering is required. Trace the existing cable or controller circuit before removal: the seller explicitly warns that wire colors can differ and that systems sharing a nine-pin plug do not necessarily share controller wiring.

Adds RGB color, programmable sound, paged memory, a Forth extension ROM, and serial I/O to the Jupiter II computer.

A2Heaven marked the expansion kit out of stock on 2026-07-27. The historical package included the expansion PCB, active and passive components, pre-mounted SMD parts, placement and schematic diagrams, documentation, and source material. The base Jupiter II computer was separate and also out of stock.

Recreates the Jupiter Ace as a complete soldering kit with revised video, reset, keyboard, and expansion hardware.

A2Heaven marked the kit out of stock on 2026-07-27. The historical package included the three PCBs, active and passive components, pre-mounted SMD parts, placement and schematic diagrams, documentation, and source material. No separate public fabrication download or current alternative seller was verified.

Adds an internal PS/2 or USB keyboard interface to supported Atari 8-bit computers by interposing at the POKEY socket.

Both variants exposed login-or-register-to-buy paths on 2026-07-27. A non-socketed POKEY must be desoldered, four control wires are required, and installation calls for a new case opening for the supplied keyboard socket or cable. The PS/2 page says an original keyboard that stops working on a 600XL or 800XL requires removal of R2 and R3; XE and XEGS machines leave those resistors intact.

Adds an optional Motorola 68882 floating-point coprocessor to the Macintosh Classic II.

Human review found the Infinity Products page orderable on 2026-07-24. Jurassic Computing showed a $35 Tindie purchase path with selectable FPU options on 2026-07-27; a 5 V oscillator is not included, and economy mail from France to the United States was suspended. Check the exact seller option for a fitted 68882.

Replaces the failure-prone power-control hybrid module in the non-backlit M5120 Macintosh Portable.

JCM showed three units in stock on 2026-07-24. This part is only for the non-backlit M5120 and is not compatible with the backlit M5126. Perform the maker's resistance and voltage pre-check first; damaged surrounding circuitry can make replacement harmful. After installation, monitor the main 5 V rail and A/D line as directed.

Replaces the Z80 and upper 32 KB of DRAM in a ZX Spectrum 48K, Spectrum+, or Timex TC 2048 while adding AY sound.

The seller exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path for MAMLAS on 2026-07-27; its Z80SRAM predecessor is discontinued. MAMLAS installation is invasive: remove the original CPU and any socket, disable or remove the upper 32 KB DRAM, and solder the module directly at the CPU footprint with correct pin-1 orientation. The audio connector is not included, and a ZX Spectrum 48K heat sink may need to be bent for clearance. Do not install the module on top of its shipping or protective bottom socket. Used Z80SRAM boards should be treated as a distinct earlier revision and checked against their archived instructions.

Open dual-SID board with mixed 6581 and 8580 support, runtime address selection, channel mixing, paddle compatibility, and stereo output.

The complete GPL-2.0 hardware, GAL, Gerber, and build documentation remains available. A Tindie assembled listing reported out of stock since 2020 but says the seller may assemble a unit on demand; treat that as a contact route rather than stocked availability. SID chips are excluded.

Sharpens video on some PAL or NTSC Atari 600XL and 800XL boards by disconnecting one filter capacitor.

The recovered 2017 discussion says to lift or cut one capacitor leg, making later restoration possible, and the author tested PAL and NTSC machines only. SECAM compatibility is unresolved. Several commenters report that later Revision D 800XL boards omit C56 or use a different layout, so identify the exact board revision and component before changing anything. The quoted 80 percent improvement is the author's subjective estimate, not a measured specification; more complete video upgrades may produce better output.

Adds a vintage 1 MB banked-memory board to an Atari 800XL or 1200XL with several selectable PIA banking configurations.

Only archived installation instructions and the used market were verified. Installation requires the original Newell board or a faithful equivalent, memory devices, extensive motherboard wiring, isolated IC pins, and model-specific changes; a 1200XL also needs three address-trace changes. The recommended banking method preserves OS control and ANTIC banking but repurposes other PIA bits and may require BASIC and diagnostic switches. The top RF shield may no longer fit.

Replaces the 74LS08 clock logic in Atari XL and XE computers with four separately buffered O2 outputs.

The product exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-27. Installation replaces a 74LS08; a non-socketed chip must be desoldered and the required 14-pin socket is not supplied. The installer must identify the motherboard's actual CPU O2 connection by continuity rather than relying blindly on a model example. Three outputs carry 680 pF capacitors, while the uncapped top output is intended for Ultimate 1MB; remove a corresponding capacitor if a capped output causes instability.

Replaces a 24-pin 2364 ROM with a programmable 27xxx-family EPROM or EEPROM and optionally switches among several ROM images.

The Atari-specific Brewing Academy page exposed an Add to Cart path on 2026-07-24, and the open design includes fabrication files. The assembled adapter is configured for a 2764; other capacities need the documented resistor configuration and optional switches. The open project says only the W27C512 configuration was thoroughly tested. Supply legally obtained, exactly sized ROM images and verify socket orientation.

Open internal video-overlay module that displays expansion status and other configured messages over C64 composite or S-Video output.

The maker offered assembly kits by email for 25 EUR including regular worldwide mail on 2026-07-30, with a limit of two per person. Stock is kept when practical, but prepaid production batches can take several weeks. The kit includes the PCB, a preprogrammed ATmega, and board components, but not the computer-specific wiring. C64 installation is an advanced internal modification: use amplified luma from A/V pin 1 for S-Video or composite from pin 4, never the unamplified VIC-II luma signal. Driving both outputs requires an expert RF-modulator connection, and excessive overlay brightness can disrupt sync.

Adds a four-channel discrete DAC beneath the PIA chip for higher-quality Atari 8-bit sample and module playback.

The product exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-28. The seller's demonstration shows an Atari 800XL, which is the only exact model established by human review. The published address table assigns both LS138 pin 9 and pin 10 to $D600, so verify the desired address against reliable board documentation rather than relying on that table. A non-socketed PIA must be desoldered and socketed.

Uses a 1 MB 30-pin SIMM and GAL controller to add switchable Compy Shop or Newell/RAMBO banked memory to Atari XL and XE computers.

The Polish project page publishes a schematic, GAL JEDEC file, utilities, parts list, full 800XL and Freddie-equipped 800XLF instructions, startup tests, and timing troubleshooting. Installation is highly invasive and may require trace cuts, lifted or bent IC pins, motherboard timing changes, and RAS-delay tuning for a particular machine. The page groups the 600XL and 1200XL with older 800XL memory-control hardware but does not provide separate step-by-step guides for those models. No explicit project license was verified.

Replaces the failure-prone linear 5 V regulator board inside two original Commodore 64 wedge power supplies.

The Tindie page listed PowerUP! 64W PRO V2 at USD 29 on 2026-07-30, but ordering was paused while the seller takes a break through July 31, 2026. Confirm that sales have resumed and that the seller will ship to the destination. The current V2 listing says it is delivered at 5.15 V; the linked Version 1.0 manual instead documents a 5.2 V default and 5.05-5.25 V adjustment range, so follow the instructions supplied with the purchased hardware rather than assuming the older manual's calibration value.

Converts selected PC Radeon 7000 PCI graphics cards for classic Mac use with a Mac ROM v226 image.

The pre-flashed ROM chip and a limited set of converted used 64 MB cards were listed without an out-of-stock marker on 2026-07-24. The ROM-chip product does not include a graphics card.

Converts an Apple IIe 80-column card into a 64K auxiliary-memory card.

The current product page listed the complete kit without an out-of-stock marker on 2026-07-24. The included used TMS4464 DRAMs are free, unguaranteed bonus parts and may need replacement.

Replaces the Atari 8-bit CPU with a 20 MHz WDC 65C816 accelerator backed by fast SRAM, SDRAM, flash, and software-selectable modes.

Both Lotharek hardware packages are discontinued. The 800XL package includes two Adaptus boards and requires CPU and OS ROM removal, socket work, a correctly oriented ribbon cable, and EXTSEL, MPD, and ground connections that differ between Freddie and non-Freddie boards. Its page says replacing DRAM with the separate SRAM module is mandatory and records additional O2 timing workarounds for Ultimate 1MB. The XE package may need four or five precision sockets to clear the cartridge slot. The official Rapidus PDF remains unavailable to automated extraction under WF-001, so obtain complete documentation before installing a used board.

Replaces the C64 RF modulator with composite, optional S-Video, and mono or dual-SID audio connections.

The official store listed RFOUT! at 22 EUR but out of stock on 2026-07-30. It provides a composite socket, a 3.5 mm audio jack, and solder points for an optional S-Video connector; stereo output requires a dual-SID source and the SJ1 setting. Installation requires desoldering the original modulator. Measure the motherboard supply before installation: boards carrying 12 VDC or 9 VAC on pin 1 require that pin to be removed and a separate 5 VDC connection supplied to RFOUT!. Confirm the footprint, voltage, extension-board fit, and case height before soldering.

Replaces the C64 RF-modulator circuitry while retaining composite and S-Video through the computer's A/V port.

The current maker page remains online but exposes no price, stock state, or order control. Human inspection recovered a maker compatibility list naming PAL and NTSC Assy 250407 C64 boards and all C128 board revisions; Tavily did not render those list values. A 2020 independent review also tested a SixtyClone Assy 250466, where both composite and S-Video worked. Removing the original modulator and installing Shuriken requires desoldering and soldering. RF output is removed.

Partially assembled internal board for adding a second matching SID chip at $DE00 or $DF00.

The MSSIAH availability page reported the SID2SID circuit board in stock on 2026-07-28, and its order workflow includes SID2SID. SID chips, audio wiring, and an output jack are excluded. Shareware Plus separately advertises a parts pack without the PCB or SID chips while its remaining stock lasts.

Open ROM adapter that selects alternate C64 KERNALs through the RESTORE key and indicates the active bank with an LED.

The open project provides Gerbers, firmware, and programming guidance. Retro Electronics lists an assembled board, cables, LED, and blank 27C256 or W27C512, but its page did not expose a current stock or ordering state on 2026-07-25. Users must program legally obtained ROM images; the seller specifically notes that JiffyDOS and JaffyDOS require licenses.

MSX cartridge kit for 8 KB through 64 KB DIP28 EPROMs, including a switchable dual-32 KB mode.

The current storefront listed bare-board and kit configurations without an out-of-stock marker on 2026-07-24. Neither the IC socket nor EPROM is included.

DIY 4 MB 30-pin Macintosh memory module made by transplanting DRAM from a compatible 16 MB 72-pin SIMM.

The current store listed the bare kit and optional passive-component set without an out-of-stock marker on 2026-07-24. Compatible donor DRAM is not included.

Switches an upgraded early Macintosh between 128K and 512K memory configurations.

The product page listed the switcher kit and optional Macintosh 512K adapter without an out-of-stock marker on 2026-07-24. The vendor no longer sends this electronic item by international registered mail.

Replaces the 4050 video buffer and routes configurable conditioned video signals to the Atari's output connector.

The product exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-27. Installation replaces the 4050, connects GTIA pin 21 to the board's color input, and rewires output signals at the computer's video connector. A non-socketed 4050 and the output modification require desoldering and model-specific board work.

Provides finely adjustable clock generation for selected 68040 Macintosh logic boards using an XC88916-family clock driver.

The current product page listed the module without an out-of-stock marker on 2026-07-24. Installation, measurement, cooling, stability testing, and any resulting hardware damage remain the user's responsibility.

Mounts donor Apple IIgs electronics inside a compatible Apple IIe case.

The MacEffects page said Sold out on 2026-07-24. The user must provide a ROM 00 or ROM 01 IIgs logic board, keyboard, power supply, and plastic case. Unless ordered preinstalled, the power and keyboard connectors require soldering. Very early IIe cases with white keyboard legends are incompatible.

Discontinued C64C RF-modulator replacement with rear-panel S-Video and 3.5 mm audio jacks.

The original maker site is gone, and a 2020 discussion describes the closed design as dead. An independent review tested an older version on an Assy 250469 Rev. 4 C64C: the first board was faulty, the replacement worked, CRT S-Video improved slightly, flat-panel results were worse, and composite output was unusable in that setup. A later eBay version once claimed C64C and C128D support plus an AEC fix, but no surviving manual or seller page establishes its exact differences or safe C128 installation. Buy used only with a return option and exact revision documentation.

Adapts a later PLCC44 SWIM floppy controller to the DIP28 socket in an early Macintosh SE.

The current storefront listed the adapter and optional refurbished SWIM chip without an out-of-stock marker on 2026-07-24. The optional FDHD ROM pair requires a manual pin modification and is not recommended for beginners.

Replaces the ULA, video RAM, upper RAM, and RF modulator in Issue 2 through 6 ZX Spectrum 48K boards while adding modern video, sound, memory, and machine modes.

The seller listed availability after 2026-08-31 and exposed a preorder path on 2026-07-27. Installation is invasive: remove the ULA and RF modulator, disable or remove the original DRAM, connect M1, RESET, IORQ, and RFSH at the Z80, and install the supplied RGB adapter and ribbon cable. The output is digital RGB only, not composite or YUV. Verify board issue, pin 1, wiring, case clearance, display compatibility, and the current installation guide before work.

Uses the SX-64's existing drive-reset button to reset the computer, change drive numbers, and switch ROM sets.

All three official variants were in stock on 2026-07-30: the assembled and tested board at USD 19.95, the easy-to-build kit at USD 9.95, and the bare-parts and programmed-CPU TFT version at USD 6.95. The standard assembled board is the simplest option. Installation still requires opening the SX-64 and soldering; the TFT variant is only for the separately documented TFT conversion.

Adds NTSC composite video to tested RF-only vintage computers with a small internal solder-in board.

The JCM page offered kit and assembled two-packs with an Add to Cart path on 2026-07-24. Documentation is for North American NTSC hardware. The 600XL procedure cuts one side of the RF-output resistor and can restore RF only by resoldering it; the installer must verify all connections against the host schematic.

Replaces the C16's original DRAM and multiplexers with a socketed SRAM module that can select 16 KB or 64 KB operation.

The maker's 2024 article still links a SellMyRetro offer and says kits are available, but current stock was not independently established on 2026-07-29. This is explicitly an expert installation: four ICs must be removed without damage, four sockets fitted, and A14, A15, and phi-0 signals connected. The maker warns that it is not a beginner project.

Adds configurable expanded memory, flashable operating-system slots, SpartaDOS X, and a battery-backed clock to Atari XL and XE computers.

The Brewing Academy collection marked its 2026-version package sold out on 2026-07-24. Lotharek still exposed a login-to-buy path for a closely related regular-firmware version. The TBA package includes the board, MMU and OS ROM adapters, a four-wire cable, and mounting parts, but no printed manual. A board without socketed MMU and OS ROM chips needs desoldering and new sockets; those sockets are not supplied.

Adds clean composite and S-Video output circuitry to supported Atari 8-bit computers.

The Atari 8-bit Rev. D page said Now shipping on 2026-07-24 and offered plug-in, basic, kit, and 1088 variants. Installation still requires soldering, output jacks, and the ability to follow a schematic. The vendor calls its large manual a starting collection and warns that not every machine has explicit or fully current instructions. The separate 600XL monitor port and BOBby audio/video breakout are installation accessories, not standalone upgrades.

Adds RGB output, enhanced graphics modes, a blitter, and true 80-column text to supported Atari 8-bit computers.

The XL and XE product pages both exposed login-or-register-to-buy paths on 2026-07-27. Choose the machine variant deliberately: both storefront descriptions say an XE adapter is included, but the installation manual explicitly says the XL and XE ANTIC adapters differ. Installation requires ANTIC removal, an adapter soldered to the motherboard, several model-specific signal connections, and an EXTSEL safety check that may require modifying a Freddie pin. The current manual documents 800XL, 800XLF, XE, and XEGS paths, not 600XL or 1200XL.

Open internal C64 modification that switches between installed PAL and NTSC VIC-II chips and includes LumaFix64 video cleanup.

The current project page provides build files, component links, PCB ordering routes, and a video guide under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0. This is not a plug-and-play board: installation removes the RF shielding, desolders motherboard parts and jumpers, adds pins, and requires both a 6567 and 6569 VIC-II. The connected display must accept both PAL and NTSC or one switch position may produce monochrome video or no usable picture. The authors provide no warranty or installation support.

Documents period DIY memory conversions that give an Atari 400 48 KB plus a banked 16 KB or an Atari 800 a 288 KB SuperRam configuration.

These are historical, invasive board-level modifications rather than current kits. Both require extensive disassembly, trace cuts, soldering, stacked or perfboard logic, and staged electrical testing. The authors release the instructions for public use with attribution. The Atari 800 text lists six 41256 DRAMs, while human review found only one 41256 in its rough circuit sketch. The contradiction remains unresolved: do not treat the Atari 800 parts list or sketch as an authoritative build package without reconstructing and checking the circuit.