After using “Firstloader” for quite some time, I felt that there was nothing that could be improved upon in programs that convert TS 1000 programs to the TS 2068. I was mistaken. In using “Firstloader”, I found that my computer/recorder combination was one of those that required a load filter to work. With this “Basload” program I did not need a load filter.
The program consists of a BASIC portion, and of course, a Machine Code portion. The loading lines are more distinctive in the “Basload” program, and the acceptable volume settings are a little more broad. This program is supposed to also be able to convert variable data along with the BASIC program from the TS 1000 to the TS 2068. However, I had no program of that kind to test it on, so I can not verify this. One item bothered me somewhat about this program. The BASIC portion of the program is over-written when a program is converted. This makes it a little awkward to save the converted program (press NEW and start converting another program), but not impossible.
This is probably the best program on the market to convert your BASIC TS 1000 programs.
“Basload” sells for $19.95, and is available directly from the author: Walter E. Styles, PO Box 325, Chester, VA, 23831, or also from Ramex International, Sharp’s, and Curry Computer.