Hey everyone! Just a general discussion here, no schematics or troubleshooting this time.
I was browsing the internet and came across this nifty thing:
http://www.scullcom.com/ZX80_Minstrel_schematic.pdfIn the top-right corner, they show the "ear" and "mic" connectors. Got me thinking: What if it is possible to use this "cassette" interface for data transfer today?
Searching the forum, I found these:
viewtopic.php?f=4&t=5297viewtopic.php?f=4&t=82But here is my neo-retro take on it: Instead of having real tape, use any computer or really any device that has a headphone/mic jack built in. Like an iPod or any modern smart phone or even a standard desktop computer. I once saw The 8-Bit Guy do this to send data into an old computer. He downloaded the audio file, connected the device to the ear and mic jacks, and hit play. Super easy!
I have done work in the past converting raw text data into audio form. In particular using 'sox' (what an amazing tool!). With a little C++, you can create your own music from a .txt file! The possibilities are there. Every modern device I know can play an .mp3 file without issue, and so what we have is a near-universal method to possibly transfer data between computers. Sound on for 1, sound off for 0, I don't know, just thinking "out loud" (har har).
Now, I know some of y'all will start talking about 'phase' or 'amplitude' or 'baud'. Yes, true, there are limitations to this type of data communication. But I'm just amazed as the simplicity and accessibility. I know y'all are pros, experts, and have seen it all. I'm just the new guy. But I'm also thinking about how to universally transfer this data between machines. UART's and RS-232 connectors are great and all, and many of you have been using them for years, but I have not. Just think of a homebrew 6502 solder-it-yourself kit sent to a true newbie, they wouldn't have any of the fancy setups and devices that you guys have. I don't even know if these fledglings would have access to a real computer [ minus their smartphone of course ]! They would *at least* have an internet connection to download .mp3 files and a device with a headphone jack, or a way to convert to a headphone jack. Seems like a good way to keep it simple for the noobs like me
Thoughts?
Again, just general discussion here. No specifics required.
Thanks everyone!
Chad