Timelinez
Publisher(s):
Peninsula Timex/Sinclair User Group (PUG), South Bay Timex/Sinclair Users Group, Association of Greater Bay Area Timex User Groups, East Bay Z80 User Group, Easy Bay Timex/Sinclair User Group (EBZUG)
Timelinez was a joint publication of three user groups in the San Francisco, San Jose and Oakland Bay area: EZBUG (East Bay Z80 User’s Group), Peninsula User Group and the South Bay Timex/Sinclair User Group.
Thank you to Tim Swenson for preserving and providing many issues.
| Title | Description | Computers |
|---|---|---|
| 'Fontman' Varies Type Styles on 2068 Screen or Printer | Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| "Z88 Computing" Book Review | Review of the book “Z88 Computing” by Ion Sinclair, covering the Cambridge Z88 portable computer. | Cambridge Z88 |
| 2068 Bar and Pie Chart Program | A 2068 BASIC program that generates two types of graphs (bar or pie chart) from either data entered at runtime or a mathematical equation. User specifies number of items and selects graph type. Includes PLOT/DRAW rendering routines. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| 2068 Hardware Update and January Meeting Announcement | Editorial combining a hardware product update (TS Modem $119.55, Cartridge, ZX Microdrive, Timex 2040 Printer with prices) with the announcement of the January South Bay meeting featuring Billy Skyrme (Director of Product Planning, Timex) and Richard L. Huxtable (American Head Trauma Alliance). Notes the departure of Dan Ross (Timex VP) and an Infoworld review of | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| 2068 ROM Disassembly | Brief news item that Bob Orrfelt of the Peninsula group has disassembled the TS2068 ROM, producing a listing with comments and Z80 code. Editorial invites Orrfelt and others to write articles on the disassembly and the technique of disassembling ROMs. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| 2068 Tape Headers | Partial listing of SAVE commands and tape header parameters for popular commercial 2068 programs including Chess by Psion, VU-File, VU-Calc, VU-3D, Oliger Print Driver, 32-Print 88, and Zeus Assembler/Monitor. Intended to assist users converting cassette software to disk. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| 2068 Tape Labels | A short BASIC program for the TS2068 that creates formatted cassette tape labels, prompting the user to enter program titles and index numbers for each side. Includes instructions for printing and verifying. Covers up to 19-character titles and includes UDG characters for visual formatting. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| 3-D Wire Frame Graphics | Sinclair QL, Type-in program | |
| 32K RAM | 32K RAM in the cartridge port for Timex Portugal Disk Drives. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| 3D Drawing | A stereoscopic 3D drawing created on the 2068 using Artworks software, designed for free-fusion viewing (relaxing eyes until the two images merge). Objects appear at different depth levels. Author posted the drawing on CompuServe as an RLE graphic and plans to bring a viewer to the June PUG meeting. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| 3D Words | A BASIC program for the ZX Spectrum (compatible with TS2068) that generates large 3D block letters on screen in three sizes: Small (20 pixels high, 8 chars/line), Medium (30 pixels high, 7 chars/line), and Large (40 pixels high, 6 chars/line). User selects size, types letters, and the computer renders them. Menu offers screen print, LPRINT, | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| 64K Byte Memory Expansion for the T/S 1000 | Timex/Sinclair 1000 | |
| 8-16K Switch for Cheetah 64K RAM Pack | Detailed hardware modification for adding a DPDT switch to the Cheetah 64K RAM pack, allowing the 8-16K address block to be disabled so incompatible ROM cartridges (e.g., word processor modules) can be used simultaneously. Requires cutting two PCB traces (from IC4 pin 14 to the ROMCS edge connector and from IC4 pin 14 to IC3 | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| A Cozy Nook for Machine Code in the TS2068 | Identifies a 323-byte area starting at address 25365 (in single-display mode) used for bank switching that can safely store machine code when bank switching is not in use. The author tested loading zeros and machine code there without difficulty to normal TS2068 operation. Also notes unused fixed addresses in the system variable area at 23681. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| A Keyword Table for the TS 2068 | Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| A Letter to All Timex Sinclair & Sinclair Users & User Groups | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| A Low Cost Disk Drive for the Timex/Sinclair | News article on the Sinclair ZX Microdrive and ZX Interface 1, covering the 85K capacity cartridge format, 3.5-second load time, LAN networking at 100Kbaud, RS-232 support, and the ability to daisy-chain up to 8 drives. | Sinclair ZX Spectrum |
| A Mystery Program | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program | |
| A Quicky | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program | |
| A Review of Spectrum Games | Reviews of three ZX Spectrum games for TS2068 users: DK’Tronics ‘Spawn of Evil’ (3D star fighter cockpit perspective, alien invasion); DK’Tronics ‘Maziacs’ (maze game with treasure, guards, and swords — similar to TS1000 ‘Mazogs’ but without maze solution display at game end); and Activision ‘Pitfall II’ (rescue mission with scorpians, condors, bats, eels, frogs; sound | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| A Useful Utility: Decimal to Binary / Binary to Decimal | A BASIC program for the TS-2068 that converts decimal numbers to binary and binary back to decimal, including fractional and whole numbers. Also includes a printed Dec-Hex-Binary reference chart. Submitted as a useful aid when writing assembly code. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| A ZXmas Letter from Prison | A Christmas letter from inmate Robert Dale Kelly (#12415) at Southern Desert Correctional Center, Nevada, describing his experience learning BASIC programming using the TS1500 and Technical Literacy Series donated by PUG. Background context provided by George Mockridge describing the multi-year prison computing support project, which has helped multiple inmates including Robert Rhodes and Ron Hummel. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Add Custom Printer Features to Tasword Two Help Pages | Step-by-step method for editing Tasword Two help pages to replace Epson FX80 references with codes for any printer. Process: modify BASIC line 15 to specify load address 54784, then load Tasword as text, edit help pages without changing their length, and save back as tasword tape. Illustrated with a Star SG-10 printer help page example. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Aerco Interface / Tasword Two Patch and TS Modem Tips | Three related items: (1) POKEs to make Tasword Two word processor work with the Aerco disk interface (POKE 56901,235; POKE 56902,2; POKE 56903,77). (2) TS2068 modem power-strip interference: the TS2050 modem must not share a power strip with the computer — plug the recorder into a separate outlet. (3) Timex warranty/repair update: TS2052 modem repairs | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Aerco Interface with the Spectrum ROM | Pokes necessary to make the two work together. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Aerco Interface with the Spectrum ROM | Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| Alarm Clock | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program | |
| Amateur Radio | ||
| An Electronic Spreadsheet: Function and Application | Timex/Sinclair 1000 | |
| An Electronic Spreadsheet: Function and Application, Part 2 | Timex/Sinclair 1000 | |
| An Unsolicited Plug for Dan Elliott's Repair Service | Enthusiastic recommendation for Dan Elliott of Promise Land Electronics (Cabool, MO) for repair, upgrading, and custom building of ZX/TS computers. Reports fast service and very reasonable prices; cites a recent example of a TS2068 repaired for $25 that the sender had given up on. Provides weekend and evening phone numbers. | |
| Area of an Irregular Space — ZX81 Program | Short ZX81/TS1000 BASIC program that calculates the total area of an irregular polygon by dividing it into triangles and applying Heron’s formula to each. The user inputs the number of triangles and the three side lengths of each; the program accumulates the total area. Originally written by John South of Bexhill-on-Sea, Sussex for calculating lawn | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| AT-ONE: Microtape Cataloging Program for A&J Microdrive | BASIC program that saves to location 01 of any A&J Stringy Floppy microtape and auto-runs on LOAD. Provides menu options: catalog all tape locations to screen (optionally printed), or load any named file by entering the exact filename. Line 9393 is an auto-SAVE/VERIFY subroutine. Includes sample catalog output showing locations 2-17 with filenames. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Auto-Dialing with the TS-2068 and a Modem | Explains how the TS-2068 can auto-dial phone numbers using BASIC OUT commands to the modem port. Presents Randy Kale’s original 1984 CompuServe routine and a more advanced variation integrated into Tom Woods’ PRO/FILE address book program for automatic telephone dialing from stored records. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Back-Up Copying Protected Programs | Explains techniques for stopping and backing up self-running TS1000 programs, including using the BREAK key, the STOP command for numeric input screens (SHIFT-A), and string input screens (delete quote, type STOP). For machine language programs, uses RAND USR 0 sequence to interrupt, then LIST and SAVE with GOTO line. Introduces a companion reprinted article on | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Bankruptcy Filing for Cambridge North America | ||
| Banta Software Announces SCREEN-CODE | Announcement and description of SCREEN-CODE, a low-cost Z80 assembler for the TS2068 with its own editor that accepts all Z80 instructions and loads assembled programs directly into memory. Available as shareware for $3 from Banta Software; donation of $10 requested from satisfied users. Tapes of the program and instruction are in SVSTUG/EBZUG libraries. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| BASCII Corrections and TS-4040 PCB Diagram | Corrections to an article from a previous issue by Terry Greenlee about BASIC programming. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| BASCII: BASIC to ASCII Converter | A program for the TS1500 (with RS-232 and 16K RAM pack) that converts a BASIC program’s tokenized code into ASCII strings stored in a string array, then transmits them via a Memotech RS-232 interface to another computer. Uses RAND USR to redirect PRINT output to the string array above RAMTOP, then PEEKs the BASIC area | Timex/Sinclair 1500, Type-in program |
| BASIC Conversion Tips: Sinclair vs. Other Dialects | Reference table of equivalents for common BASIC functions when converting programs to Sinclair BASIC: GET$=INKEY$, LEFT$(A$,N)=A$(1 TO N), RIGHT$(A$,N)=A$(LEN-N+1 TO LEN), MID$(A$,N,M)=A$(N TO N), TL$(A$)=A$(2 TO) truncates the first character. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| BASIC: Code to Crunch File | Sinclair QL, Type-in program | |
| Bay Area T/S User Group Meeting Information | Standing column with meeting schedule, location, dues, and officer contact information for the South Bay, East Bay (EBZUG/West Branch Berkeley Public Library), and Peninsula Timex/Sinclair user groups. | |
| Bill Miller Reports | Peninsula Timex/Sinclair User Group (PUG) Meeting, attendance: 11 The videotape of the Tech-Draw program from Zebra Systems was shown. EBZUG Meeting, attendance: 10 The video tape of the Tech-Draw program was shown. Wayne Seibel reports Pacific Bell’s Call America service is great for you heavy modem users. If you do most of your calling between | |
| Binomial Bingo | A game program originally written for the TS-1000 and then adapted for the TS-2068. A ball starting at the top of the board travels binomially to the bottom; landing spaces pay out $2 to $100 but the ‘Jinxed’ number causes a loss. Supports 2-4 players. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Bits and Bytes | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| Blue Chip M120/10 Printer Review | Review of the Blue Chip dot-matrix printer ($248 at Best Products) with Tasman Interface ($99). Covers 7 print styles (pica, double-strike, emphasized, proportional, elite, condensed, enlarged), 100 CPS bidirectional printing, friction and traction feed, and graphic symbol programming. Includes BASIC program using printer graphics to draw a sine wave output on paper. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Book Review: Guide to Timex/Sinclair Telecommunications V2.0 | Review of Pete Fischer and Steve Ishii’s updated 96-page telecommunications guide, praising the expanded format, coverage of all T/S hardware and software for modems and comms, BBS listings with screen reproductions, and operating procedures. The larger format (8.5×11) addresses readability complaints about the first edition. Price increased to $7.50 postpaid. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Book Review: Introduction to 2068 Machine Code | Review of Lloyd Dreger’s 213+ page self-study manual for Z80 assembly language on the TS2068. Covers computer number systems, Z80 code, internal machine code, and peripherals. Reviewer notes addresses are primarily in decimal rather than hexadecimal and considers this a good reference work. Highly recommended. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Book Review: The T/S 2068 ROM Manuscript | Review of Lloyd Dreger’s 248+ page commented TS2068 ROM disassembly with assembly language notes and cross-references to the Sinclair Spectrum. Reviewer notes addresses are in decimal with Z80 code in hexadecimal, and that the 9-page Spectrum/Timex cross-reference table provides both decimal and hex addresses. Serious students still need Dr. Logan’s Spectrum ROM Disassembly for program | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Bouncing Lines | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program | |
| Breaking and Saving Programs on the TS2068 | Step-by-step instructions for breaking auto-running machine code programs to save them separately to tape or disk. Load the program with the MC (machine code only) command; PEEK the start address from RAND USR and calculate length (65535 minus start); SAVE the machine code with SAVE “NC” CODE start,length, the BASIC loader as SAVE “BASIC”, and | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Britain's Amstrad Seeks to Expand U.S. Presence | ||
| British Electronics Wiz, Clive Sinclair, Turns Efforts to Developing Electric Car | ||
| Bug Fix for TimeMachine | One-line bug fix for the TiMachine compiler for the TS2068: change the POKE value in line 106 from 32880 to 33880 to correct an error. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Building an RS-232 Port into the 2050 Modem | Step-by-step guide to installing the Zebra RS-232 circuit board inside the TS2050 modem case with a 3PDT switch for selecting between modem and RS-232 modes. Includes wiring diagrams, pin assignments for a Xerox Memorywriter connection, and BASIC software for driving the printer via the RS-232 port. Uses DS14C88/DS14C89 CMOS driver chips to reduce heat. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| CAI Stringy Floppy Modification for A&J Interface / ESFOA SIG Announcement | Instructions for modifying a CAI Stringy Floppy drive to work with the A&J (4K ROM) interface: one trace must be cut from connector CN pin 7, and a jumper added from CN pin 7 to IC7 pin 26 to supply 5V power from the A&J drive unit. If one A&J drive already powers the interface, | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Card Shuffle Routine for Games | Short programs to demonstrate shuffling routines and randomization. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| Card Shuffle Routine for Games | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program | |
| CATS User Group Program Swap Listing | Letter from John Riley, Software Librarian for the Capitol Area Timex-Sinclair User’s Group (CATS), offering a public domain program exchange: send a non-commercial TS-2068 or Spectrum program and receive one of three library volumes in return. Includes full annotated catalog of all three volumes: Vol.1 Games (18 programs), Vol.2 Educational and Utilities (17 programs), Vol.3 | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Change of the Guard: Editorial Announcement | Announces Jim March stepping down as newsletter coordinator with Walt Gaby assuming the role. Notes this combined April/May issue and urges members to submit articles: hardware/software/book reviews, project reports, and programming tips. Jungle Jim column to continue as regular feature. | |
| Changing the Guard — New Managing Editor | Brief editorial transition note: George Mockridge steps down as TIMELINEZ managing editor after substantially improving the newsletter’s quality and timeliness. Jim March takes over as managing editor and expresses hope to continue the improvement. The note thanks Mockridge for his service and solicits reader support for the new editor. | |
| Chaos Program #2 from Scientific American | Second QL chaos program adapted from Scientific American, implementing a chaotic attractor with parameters a=2.24, b=0.43, c=-0.85, d=3.4. Colors plotted points based on distance moved between iterations (INK 7, 5, or 3 depending on distance thresholds). Uses POINT in a SCALE coordinate system with repeating REPEAT loop. Full SuperBASIC listing provided. | Sinclair QL, Type-in program |
| Christmas Music | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program | |
| Club News | ||
| CLUSTER | Sinclair QL, Type-in program | |
| Color Plotting on the 2068: Commodore 1520 Interface Review | Review of the Commodore 1520 printer/plotter as interfaced to the TS2068 via John McMichael’s interface board (available as bare board, kit, or assembled; $15–$30). Covers PIC-PLOT and SCREEN-TO-PLOTTER software, print quality (fine lines; results vary by image complexity), speed (7 minutes to over an hour), and OKIMATE 20 color printer compatibility. Includes detailed wish list | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Color TV Pattern Generator | TS2068 BASIC program that generates five TV test patterns for adjusting color TV sets and monitors: color bars (with color names labeled on bars), horizontal lines, vertical lines, crosshatch, and gray scale. Saved as SAVE “Patterns” LINE 1 for auto-run on reload; pressing any key returns to the menu. Notes that the TS2068 does not | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Color-Gray Scale | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program | |
| CompuServe GIF Graphics Format | Editor’s note on CompuServe’s new GIF (Graphics Interchange Format), supporting images up to 16,000 dots per side in up to 256 colors from a 16-million color palette. Notes CompuServe’s limited initial release of decoders and Don Thompson’s intention to write a QL decoder once documentation becomes available. | |
| CompuServe Guidebook Review | Review of How to Get the Most Out of CompuServe by Bowen and Peyton (Bantam Books). Praises explicit navigation and exit directions, step-by-step guides for on-line sessions, and the On-line Survival Kit appendix for quick-reference commands. Useful for newcomers and experienced users alike. | |
| Computer Calendar | Meeting schedule for April and May 1986 for PUG, EBZUG, and SVSTUG, with Bay Area Computer Swap at the Cow Palace listed. Notes The Computer Show on KSTS Channel 46, Wednesdays 8-9 PM. | |
| Computer Calendar: December 1985 / January 1986 | Calendar of Bay Area computer events for December 1985 and January 1986: Golden Gate Computer Expo at Oakland Coliseum (Dec 14-15, $3 admission), Peninsula User Group (Dec 15), East Bay User Group (Dec 19, one week early due to Christmas), Silicon Valley TS User Group (workshop Dec 26, regular meeting Dec 31). January 1986 dates | |
| Computer Faire Report | Report on the Bay Area T/S user groups’ participation in the 1984 West Coast Computer Faire (March 2-4, SF Civic Auditorium). The booth distributed TS1000/1500/2020/2040/2068 data sheets and user group contacts; 30-35 newsletters sold. Three public domain programs donated to the club: Address Book (Bob Kovach), Othello in machine code (James Ruetenik), and a Machine | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Computer Faire Report | ||
| Contest Update | Announcement of a Timelinez newsletter article-writing contest running through the June 1987 issue: submitted articles earn 1-3 points each; a drawing in August 1987 awards a prize worth at least $100 (likely a new computer). Current point standings listed for 12 contributors including Norm Lehfeldt (15), Bill Miller (9), Walt Gaby (5), and others. | |
| Convert Your CAI Stringy Floppy to Store Variables Within the BASIC Program Just As The Cassette Does | Timex/Sinclair 1000 | |
| Cooperative Effort Produces Spectacular RLE Graphics (Decoding for the TS-2068) | A BASIC program by John Ryan (Oklahoma City) and substantially improved by George Mockridge to decode CompuServe RLE graphics on the TS-2068. Full instructions for downloading files via MTERM, verifying the RLE header, and saving decoded screens. Notes the possibility of compiling for faster decoding. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Core War for QL | Documentation and SuperBASIC listing for a Core War game implementation on the Sinclair QL, in which competing programs battle for control of memory. This was a popular programming challenge of the era, originally described in Scientific American. | Sinclair QL, Type-in program |
| Dandelion Doodles (Op Art for Pete's Sake) | A short TS2068 BASIC program that generates random dandelion-like geometric patterns using INK, DRAW, and trigonometric functions. The program uses nested FOR loops to generate varying sizes, spoke counts, ink colors, and positions for each dandelion. A second ‘Just for Fun’ variant uses INPUT to accept x, y, and step parameters for generating continuous spirograph | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Darkening Dots For Printing on the 2068 | Machine language routine to make printouts darker. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Dec-Hex-Binary Lookup Table Program | A BASIC program for the TS-2068 that generates a printed Dec-Hex-Binary lookup table using the LPRINT command. Designed as a reference aid when writing assembly code; especially useful for visualizing bit patterns for logic commands and bit manipulation. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Decoding CompuServe's Run-Length-Encoded Graphics on the Sinclair QL | A SuperBASIC program for the Sinclair QL to display off-line CompuServe RLE (Run-Length-Encoded) graphics files. Explains how to download files via MTERM, details the RLE format, and provides notes on color changes and printing using QDUMPS utility. | Sinclair QL, Type-in program |
| DEF FN: Spectrum-Style User-Defined Functions | Reprint of the DEF FN section from the Sinclair Spectrum User’s Guide, supplied by Bob Orrfelt who noted the 2068 manual is inferior on this topic. Covers defining numeric and string functions, functions with multiple or no arguments, and includes exercises demonstrating FN behavior versus built-in functions. | Sinclair ZX Spectrum, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Disc Fever?! | Reports on Bay Area user group efforts to investigate disk drive options for the TS2068, with letters sent to AERCO, Ramex, English Micro Connection, Lebra Systems, John Oliger Company, and Research Service Labs. AERCO responded with manuals and offered group discounts including CP/M, RAM Disc, Spectrum compatibility, and hard disk upgrades in development. Invites members | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Disk Systems for Timex/Sinclair Computers | Surveys disk drive systems available for various Timex/Sinclair computers, discussing LarKen, JLO, AERCO, and Spectrum-compatible disk options along with cross-platform compatibility considerations. Also mentions disk interfaces for the QL and Cambridge Z88. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Display File Explorer | Short BASIC type-in program and explanation demonstrating the structure of the TS2068 display file (6144 bytes starting at address 16384). Shows how each byte encodes an 8-pixel row, and how POKEing 255 fills the screen in a distinctive three-section pattern useful for understanding screen memory layout. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Double Size Letters for Bob Orrfelt's WP-32 | Short programming tip adding double-height letter capability to Bob Orrfelt’s WP-32 word processor for the TS2068. A supplementary BASIC routine generates oversized characters from the standard character set by stretching each pixel row. Companion to the WP-32 review that appeared in v2 n6. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| East Bay News | Brief EBZUG meeting update: Bob Orrfelt demonstrated an updated eprom burner editing software cartridge system; two members showed hardware projects including a robot and a 1000 disk drive in development. Upcoming summer meeting planned. | |
| EBZUG News | Brief editor’s note that Rick Link’s column on East Bay activities will resume in the next issue. | |
| EBZUG News | Reports on EBZUG meetings in September, October (themed ‘Talking Computers’), and November 1986. September: Alvin Lam demoed Speakwell voice synthesis from ZX Computing; David Gray demoed 2068 games. October speech synthesis theme: Ric Jesch demonstrated his homebuilt speech unit using two Radio Shack chips; Woody McPheeters showed a blood chemical analysis speech device; Alvin Lam | |
| EBZUG News | Report on the April 24, 1986 EBZUG meeting: discussion of Amstrad’s acquisition of Sinclair; reports on Computer Faire and swap meets; TS-1000 library updates with new modem/BBS software; Woody reporting on OX-Tour kits; David Gray and Kirk Adams demonstrated software including a 2068 80-column word processor in BASIC. | |
| EBZUG News | East Bay Z80 User Group news: library donations (SAMS Photofacts, books, Wampus software items, computer books); hardware demonstrations by members including Russ English’s TS-2068 disk drive system with bank switching, Wayne Seibel’s speech synthesis unit he built himself, Dale Ahlstrom’s TS-1000 with AERCO disk interface and Oliger color video board, Fred Templeton’s machine code word | Sinclair QL, Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| EBZUG News | Meeting report for the East Bay Z80 User Group (February 26, 1987). Topics include progress on securing a permanent meeting room at the library, upcoming joint meeting announcement, note about the PC8300 ZX81/TS1000 clone ($29.95) spotted in BYTE magazine, David Gray’s RLE graphics downloading work, and a request for help connecting two computers via a | |
| EBZUG News | Meeting report for the East Bay Z80 User Group (May 28, 1987 at Temescal Branch, Oakland Library). Darwin Thompson reports on the 1987 Midwest T/S Fest (approximately 800 attendees, QL computers for $99). Pat Morrissey updates the group on the LogOn BBS T/S SIG in San Mateo. | |
| EBZUG News | ||
| EBZUG News and User Group Reports | East Bay Z80 User Group news and Bay Area user group reports. | |
| EBZUG News: New Programs and MSX Demo | EBZUG news: David Gray of Antioch developing commercial programs for TS1000/2068 — a maze/arcade game and Dot To Dot graphic utility (BASIC+MC, joystick endpoint plotting with circle/fill/freehand/scroll); Woody demonstrated a Spectravideo MSX machine from DAK ($169, 40 programs); five new members welcomed. | |
| EBZUG Swap Meet Report | Brief unsigned report on the October 25 East Bay Z80 User Group swap meet: approximately 30 attendees, hottest items were RAM packs and accessories for the TS1000. A serial Banana Gorilla printer sold at a good price but nothing exclusively for the TS2068 sold. Notes next swap meet may take place at a future SVTSUG | |
| EPROMS Are Alive and Well... | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| ESFOA: Exatron Stringy Floppy Owners Association News | News from the Exatron Stringy Floppy Owners Association newsletter LIST, which discusses TS2068/ZX Spectrum, Microdrive, and Wafadrive topics. Notes LIST also covers BSR/Wafadrive (uses same wafers as A&J 2000 ESF) and the ZX and QL Microdrives. Contact for information exchange provided. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Etch-a-Sketch Drawing Program for the ZX81 and TS-1000 | A BASIC drawing program for the ZX81 and TS-1000 that uses the Q/A/P/O keys to move a cursor on screen. Supports drawing mode, erase mode (E key), and clear screen (C key). Features an always-on flashing cursor. | Sinclair ZX81, Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| Fast Banners | TS2068 BASIC program reproducing the banner-printing section of Bob Orrfelt’s WP32 word processor, adapted for compilation with TimeMachine for much faster execution. Generates large horizontal banners in 1-inch or 2.5-inch letter sizes using LPRINT to the TS2040 printer. The listing handles user input for banner text, character bitmap extraction, and formatted output with proper acknowledgment | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Flying Horses | A short BASIC program for the TS2068 related to graphic display or animation; described alongside notes referencing a ‘MINIBAR’ variant. The program appears to use DRAW, CIRCLE, and LET statements with trigonometric calculations. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| For Better or For Worse! | ||
| For the Birds | Three BASIC programs for the TS2068 useful in creating banner graphics: GUIDE (starts at line 9000, printable numbered grid overlay for plotting), CURVES (demonstrates arc depth for various parameters using DRAW and CIRCLE), and BIRD (a detailed bird illustration using PLOT/DRAW/CIRCLE to produce a banner-quality graphic). Includes notes on half-width versus full-width banner use and | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| FORTH Interest | Brief notice soliciting members interested in Forth programming on the TS1000/2068 to make themselves known, with an implied goal of forming a Forth special interest group. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Game Pokes | POKE values for three popular Spectrum games running in compatibility mode: Sabre Wulf (unlimited lives and reach end of quest), Jetset Willy (collect only one token), and Manic Miner (two sets of POKEs for different versions). Reprinted from The RAMTOP Newsletter, Greater Cleveland. | Sinclair ZX Spectrum, Type-in program |
| Game Scoreboard | Program to track game scores. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| Garland | A TS2068 BASIC program that draws intricate floral patterns using polar-coordinate equations. Based on mathematical equations from Oleg D. Jefimenko’s 4/86 article, the program draws overlapping circles with petals using adjustable parameters for number of flowers, petal count, radius, step sizes, and curve factor. Author recommends saving with SCREENS. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| GIF Graphics Decoding-Encoding Now Available to Sinclair QL Users | Sinclair QL | |
| Good News | Jack Dohany developed version of Mscript for 80 column printers with other features. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Good News | Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| Grafist | Review of drawing package from Canaan Software. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| GRAFIST | Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| Graphing Data, Part I: Quadra Chart and Graph-It | Comparative review of two TS2068 graphing programs: Quadra Chart (Psion Software) supports bar, pie, and line charts for up to 6 x/y pairs but has limited y-axis scaling and no user axis labeling. Graph-It (from ZX-Computing Apr-May issue) performs line graphs with user-set axes, full labeling, multiple simultaneous data sets, and best-fit linear regression with | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Graphing Data, Part II: Program Listing | Complete BASIC listing for Graph-It, the TS2068 graphing program reviewed in the previous issue (v2 n9). The listing starts at line 8900 so it can be MERGEd on top of the Screencalc spreadsheet (Banta Software), creating the first integrated spreadsheet+graphics program for a Timex/Sinclair. Menu-driven with 7 options: enter data, display data, choose plot symbols, | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| GUTS/SV Meeting News | Combined meeting report for the GUTS/SV (Group Using Timex Sinclair / Silicon Valley) user group covering the January 27, 1987 meeting. Includes proposed future meeting topics (Bob Orrfelt on video modes, Pat Morrissey on hardware, TS1000/Aerco disk demo), plans for video taping meetings, SincLink publication history, and new member announcement from Romania. | |
| Hardware Review: A & J Model 2000 Stringy Floppy | Review of the A&J Model 2000 Stringy Floppy mass storage device for the TS2068. Covers 11,400 baud transfer speed (38K in 45 seconds), wafer capacities (14K-85K), compatibility issues with Spectrum ROM, and comparison with CAI Stringy Floppies used on the TS1000. Purchased for $203 from Knighted Computers; also available from Phoenix Enterprises. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Hardware Review: Microdrive Adapter Board (EMU-4) | Review of the Qliger EMU-4 Microdrive adapter board ($35 PPD) from The English Micro Connection that enables ZX Microdrives to work on the TS2068 via Sinclair Interface 1. Notes the angled PC board design for easy Interface 1 attachment, slight risk from exposed components, successful use with Aerco Centronics Interface and TS2040 printer, and failure | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Hardware Review: Sinclair ZX Microdrive Expansion System | Detailed review of the ZX Microdrive Expansion System (Interface 1 + single microdrive unit) available from English Micro Connection for $134.95. Covers hardware: the Interface 1 paging mechanism (‘Shadow ROM’), 8K ROM-based OS supporting OPEN/CLOSE/MOVE/ERASE/CAT/FORMAT commands, 80-100K capacity cartridges, 15x faster than cassette, average 12-16 second access times. RS-232 and network ports described. Free software | Sinclair ZX Spectrum, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Hardware/Software Reviews | Exatron stringy floppy with interface, Hunter 2K-8K non-volatile memory board, Z-XLR8 fast load program. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Hash Table | Sinclair QL, Type-in program | |
| Hidden Word Generator | Conversion of a program originally in Microsoft BASIC to make hidden word puzzles. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Hidden Word Puzzle Generator | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program | |
| Hot Basic Tips | Use system variables to detect multiple keypresses; set S_TOP to remedy a 0 REM problem. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| How Slow Is It? | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program | |
| How to Disable the MERGE Function | Describes a technique for protecting a BASIC program from being MERGEd by saving it as machine code using the SAVE…CODE command with the program’s starting address and length. Program runs normally when loaded as CODE, continuing after the SAVE command. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| How to Make Your Timex Sinclair Computer Compatible with Other Computers | SincLink Shareware Article (file ss88915a) outlining a project to enable Timex Sinclair computers to communicate with Amiga, Apple II, Atari, Commodore, CP/M, IBM, and Macintosh systems via RS-232 serial ports. Describes the required hardware (serial port interface for each machine type) and outlines the minimum software requirements: format a disk, get a directory, view a | Sinclair QL, Sinclair ZX Spectrum, Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| How to Punch Out Your Banker: Bank of America HomeBanking | Article about using Sinclair/Timex computers with a modem and TYMNET to access Bank of America’s HomeBanking service ($8/month). Features account status display, fund transfers, bill payment to hundreds of merchants, two-way messaging with the bank, and printout to a TS2040 printer. Notes wryly that to enroll you still must stand in line at the bank. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| I Can't Write an Article (I Don't Have a Word Processor) | Short humorous demonstration that anyone with a TS2068 and a TS2040 printer can contribute to Timelinez without a word processor. A 10-line BASIC program uses READ/DATA and LPRINT statements to print a formatted newsletter article — and the article itself is the very program being described. Makes the practical point that printer output formatted in | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Improved TS2068 Internal ROM Bypass | Detailed hardware design for replacing the TS2068’s HOME ROM and EXROM without opening the computer case, using the cartridge slot to intercept the bus enable (BE) signal. Three designs: HOME ROM bypass (Figure 1) using BE-driven suppression of ROMCS in combination with external ROM/RAM; EXROM relocation (Figure 2a) by physically remounting the chip with full | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| In and Out of Caps Mode From Within a Program | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program | |
| In Defense of Public Domain Software | ||
| Index-Bubble Sort | Sinclair QL, Type-in program | |
| Information Wanted | Business owner would like to know what software to use, especially with his Model 33 teletype machine. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| INKEY$ Program Control | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program | |
| Interfacing an Electronic Typewriter to a ZX81 | Short piece about finding a compatible interface. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Inverting Screen Display | Routine to invert the screen to white on black. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| Inverting Screen Display — Corrections | Three hex corrections to the TS2068 screen-inverting routine published in a previous issue. Address 16822 should contain 06; 16835 should contain 82; 16842 should contain C9. Brief erratum with no surrounding explanation. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| ISMOVE: A Simple Moving Graphic in Machine Code | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program | |
| Joint Meeting Announcement | Notice of a joint Bay Area Timex/Sinclair user group meeting on October 28 at the Peninsula group location, encouraging members of all three Bay Area groups to attend. | |
| Joystick Patch for Timex Frogger | Patch to Frogger so it will work with Zebra joystick interface. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| Joystick Patch for Timex Frogger | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program | |
| Joystick Port Modification for Trakball | Describes a hardware modification to the TS2068 player 2 joystick port: breaking the trace from pin 7 and jumpering to ground allows an Atari-compatible trakball to work correctly. Wiring schematic included. Also used for a CHRDKEY Bugserio Keypad. Demonstrates the Romswitch trakball capability shown at October meeting. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| LabelMaker | A BASIC program compatible with any full-size printer interface (AERCO, Tasman, A&J, Oliger) that prints centered cassette tape labels with up to four lines of text. User enters program title, three info lines, a bottom line, and number of copies; program centers text, confirms on screen, then LPRINTs. Tips on sourcing form-feed cassette labels (Custom | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Larken Program Tips | Two practical tips for Larken disk users: (1) Speed improvement for COPY A DISK by changing all FALSE values in BASIC lines 5190 through 5200 to TRUE, cutting copy time approximately in half per a conversation with Larry Kenny; (2) General note that this change does not produce code as fast as machine code but | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Last Minute Notice: Timex Boston Conference | Brief notice of a Timex-sponsored conference in Boston on October 22, announcing that Rita Carr will attend on behalf of the Bay Area T/S user groups. | |
| Last Page | ||
| Latest Vendor News | Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| Latest Vendor News from SUM, Newsletter of Gainesville, FL | English Micro Connection is making blank keyboard overlay for TS 2068; TS Connection did not buy out Timex in Little Rock; new BBS. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Learning Z80 Assembly Language Programming | Timex/Sinclair 1000 | |
| Learning Z80 Assembly Language Programming, Part 2 | Timex/Sinclair 1000 | |
| Learning Z80 Assembly Language Programming, Part 3 | Timex/Sinclair 1000 | |
| Learning Z80 Assembly Language Programming, Part 3 | Third installment of a series teaching Z80 assembly on the TS1000, covering loop construction (DJNZ), table access with HL pointer register, and timing loops. Hex codes are provided for all example routines. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Letter from Cambridge Group | Cambridge Z88 | |
| Letters to Timelinez | Reader letter asking whether the Romswitch works with the Aerco interface, reporting on RGB monitor horizontal roll fix (reversing horizontal wiring polarity), and requesting reviews of Gravist and Multi-Draw 2068 software. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Letters to Timelinez: String Display Subroutines | Reader letter contributing BASIC subroutines for printing strings longer than 32 characters on the TS1000/TS2068: splits at last space before column 32, outputs centered text based on string length, with separate line-break and output routines. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Letters to/from the Editors | ||
| Link Reports: EBZUG Printer Cable Project and EPROM Board News | EBZUG news covering: Joel Brody passing presidency to Rick Link (fatherhood cited); a first special project meeting extending the Timex 2040 printer cable (desoldering tips, shielded cable, 7 leads plus ground); and a detailed report on Bob Orrfelt’s EPROM reader board which functions as Spectrum emulator, EPROM burner, CMOS battery-backed board, with an alternative character | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Linked Lists in SuperBASIC | Tutorial explaining linked list data structures for QL SuperBASIC programmers. Covers the concept of pointer-based dynamic ordering, where records store pointers to the next item rather than maintaining physical sort order. Includes a working type-in program demonstrating insertion (handling empty list, front insertion, end insertion, and mid-list insertion) and sorted printout. | Sinclair QL, Type-in program |
| Listing on Your Printer: A Complete LLIST Program for the TS-2068 | Discusses deficiencies in commercial LLIST programs, particularly their mishandling of tokens and color commands that are incompatible with non-Timex printers. Presents a relocatable BASIC LLIST program that converts tokens to pure ASCII, ignores color commands and number slugs, and supports selective line printing with configurable margin and width formatting. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Little Goodies for the 2068 | Collection of TS2068 programming tips and POKEs: generate an on-line BEEP whenever any key is pressed; use CHR$ codes before PRINT to prevent scroll; set CAPS/CHS mode with POKE 23658; PAUSE 65535 for indefinite pause; control key auto-repeat with POKEs to 23553 and 23552; escape locked INPUT with UDG input technique; print on lines 22 | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Little Goodies for the 2068 | A collection of POKE tips and programming tricks for the TS2068, including: BEEP on any keypress; auto-scroll like the TS1000; CAPS mode toggle; key repeat timing; USR LBASIC fix; screen copy to printer without COPY command; rounding formulas; INPUT at arbitrary screen positions; double INPUT examples; cartridge ROM access POKEs; color management; and more. Special | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Loading Tasword II on the A & J Microdrive | Modifications to make Tasword II work with the A & J Micro Drive. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Loading Tasword II on the A & J Microdrive | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program | |
| Location for Machine Code on the TS2068 | Technique using POKE 23730,255 then NEW to set RAMTOP at 65535, protecting 276 bytes (addresses 65260-65535) for machine code storage on the TS2068. Program reports OUT OF MEMORY before overwriting this area. Includes SAVE CODE command to save the protected block to tape. Not compatible with UDG mode. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Machine Code Graphics: The TS1000 Display File | Timex/Sinclair 1000 | |
| Madam, I'm Addin' | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program | |
| Magic Birthday Square | A 2068/Spectrum BASIC program that generates a magic square derived from a birthday number. Uses mathematical relationships to create a grid of numbers with equal row/column sums. Article notes the program is fun but not reliable for gambling. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Mailing Labelmaker | A QL SuperBASIC program for printing mailing labels on a full-size printer. Menu-driven with options to print return address labels, all addresses from a built-in DATA file, selected addresses, or manually entered data. Supports four font modes (regular, enlarged, condensed, combined) and doublestrike. Address book stored in DATA lines with optional extended fields. | Sinclair QL, Type-in program |
| March PUG Joint Meeting Report | Report on the first joint meeting of Bay Area, Sacramento, and San Joaquin Valley Timex/Sinclair user groups (March 15, 1987). Notes discussion of a possible T/S Fest in the Bay Area in 1988, announcement of the Merced Group BBS running on a 2068, and demonstration of Bob Orrfelt’s corrected and updated 2068 EPROM. | |
| Mathematical Magic: Decimal to Fractions | A short BASIC program that converts any decimal value less than 1.0 to the nearest 1/64th fraction, useful for woodworking and metalworking dimension scaling. User inputs a decimal (e.g., 0.197) and the program outputs the fraction (e.g., 13/64) and the rounding difference in ten-thousandths. The denominator can be changed by modifying line 40. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Medicare Income Tax Calculator | TS1000 BASIC program (approximately 2K) that calculates the Medicare catastrophic illness income surtax enacted for tax years 1989-1993. Supports all filing statuses (1-5), handles both-spouses Medicare eligibility and living-together scenarios, and computes taxes for each year based on legislated rate schedule (e.g., $800 ceiling in 1989, rising to $1050 by 1993). Displays a year-by-year table | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| Memotext Review | Detailed review of the Memotech ROM-based word processor for the TS1000. Describes the machine code ROM design, full ASCII character set, formatting commands, search-and-replace, and a ‘data pages’ feature for mailing lists. Notes incompatibility with the Timex 2040 printer and difficulties with the Memotech RS-232 interface and Epson MX 80 connection. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| MEMSCAN | A short machine code routine for the TS-2068 that displays a memory map of the computer by scanning every other address and plotting a dot if non-zero content is found. Relocatable; called with RANDOMIZE USR n. Also includes POKE modifications for Spectrum compatibility and for scanning every byte rather than every other. | Sinclair ZX Spectrum, Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Microdrives Shortages Coming | Reports that Ablex, the sole manufacturer of QL microdrive tape cartridges, may cease production after 1989 due to unavailability of BASF magnetic tape. Recommends QL users convert to 3.5″ disk drives, citing four reasons: UK software increasingly ships on 3.5″ media, reliability advantages, reduced drive cost ($75-85 with media at $0.59 from MEI), and availability | Sinclair QL |
| Mid-West TS Computerfest Opens May 3rd | Announcement of the Mid-West TS Computerfest at the Ramada Inn, Sharonville (Cincinnati suburb), May 3-4 1986: the first major Timex/Sinclair gathering since the ZX/TS Celebration in Boston (October 1983). Over 15 vendors confirmed including AERCO (FD-68 disc in CP/M mode), Zebra Systems (FD-3000 Portugal Disk with CP/M and Spectrum modes, WordStar and Microsoft BASIC on | |
| Miscellaneous Items of Interest | Reprinted clippings: PC market share table (through 1985) from Wall Street Journal; telephone long-distance equal-access dialing tips; CST Thor (QL successor) machine announced for PCW Show September; Timex sells 800,000 TS-2068/2048 units to Poland with technology transfer agreement. | Sinclair QL, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Modem Owners Directory | Announces the first Bay Area T/S modem owner directory, listing 13 members with phone numbers and modem type (Westridge 2050, Byte-Back, or Other). Briefly describes national online services (The Source and Compuserve) available to modem owners, and notes the Zebra Systems BBS (212-296-2229) dedicated to T/S users. Solicits additional entries from readers not yet on | |
| Modification to Multi-Tasking Article | Correction and addendum to the February 1987 multi-tasking article on IM2 interrupts on the TS2068. Clarifies SCLD chip behavior (places 255 on the bus during interrupts), reducing the needed interrupt table to 2 bytes. Also recommends disabling BIT 6 of port 255 during IM2 initialization, adding NOPs, and ending interrupt service routines with RETI rather | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Monitor for Timex 2068: RGB Conversion | Describes connecting a Sears Model 4064 color monitor ($364) to a TS2068 via RGB cable (Model 6539) and an E.Z. Arties Brown RGB Conversion Kit ($19.95). Provides complete wiring table between the conversion kit and monitor cable, and adjustment tips for horizontal stability using the VAI and CS trimmers. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| More 2068 Graphics Help | Using trigonometric functions and filling spaces. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| More PRO/FILE Enhancements for the Wafadrive | Letter from TAS BAM Users’ Group (Safety Harbor, FL) describing George Fetherman’s modifications to Tom Woods’ PRO/FILE database program for use with the Rotronics Wafadrive. New features include revised menus, Wafadrive save/load, catalog, move, and format commands, and toggle for bold characters on the 2040 printer. No loss of data file space. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Mscript/Tasman Interface Patch Correction | Correction for the Thomas Woods patch making MSCRIPT work with the Tasman Centronics interface: after applying the patch, PRINT PEEK 42637 (should return 12), then POKE 42637,10, then PRINT USR 36864. This eliminates erroneous form-feeds after each printed line. Also requests reader input on stopping the final form-feed after a complete document. | Sinclair ZX Spectrum, Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| MTerm and Spectrum | Pokes to use MTerm with the Spectrum ROM. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| MTerm and Spectrum | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program | |
| MTERM Tips: Transmitting and Receiving Files via Modem | Detailed procedural guide for transmitting BASIC programs and text files between TS-2068 computers using the MTERM terminal program. Covers sender/receiver parameter settings (duplex, LF, word length, parity), step-by-step CONNECT procedure, buffer management, saving to tape or AERCO/ZEBRA disk, and moving files between MTERM and MSCRIPT word processor. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| MTX-512 World Class Computer from Memotech | ||
| Multi-Tasking on the Timex-2068 Using Z80 Interrupt Mode 2 | In-depth technical article on implementing Z80 interrupt mode 2 on the TS-2068 for multi-tasking. Explains the 257-byte interrupt table, vector table, and service routine structure. Author used the technique in his machine code word processor to run a print spooler, input buffer, clock/calendar display, and clock display simultaneously. Includes assembly code listing. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Music Library: TS 1000 Software Review | Review of Music Library by Kendric C. Smith (Stanford, CA). A BASIC database for organizing music collections on the TS1000: stores three 32-character lines per entry (artist, album, selections) for 100+ items, with menu-driven entry/correction/deletion, alphabetize, renumber, and OMNISEARCH. Recommends for collectors; notes the manual doubles as a BASIC programming tutorial. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Musical Christmas with TS2068 | BASIC program playing three Christmas songs (Silent Night, Jingle Bells, Joy to the World) on the TS2068 using the SOUND command. DATA statements define note frequencies and durations. Menu selects the song and offers three play modes: play once, repeat, or continuous loop. Adapted from author’s book 30 Music Programs for TS2068 ($8 + $1 | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| My Favorite Triangle | A short TS2068 BASIC program using PLOT and DRAW statements to render an intricate ornamental triangle shape using angular calculations. Author notes it only works on the 2068 and is easy to follow but challenging to write from scratch. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Nationwide T/S Software Collection Proposal | Open letter from Lt. Col. Frank P. Dunkelberg (USAF Ret.) proposing to compile and publish a comprehensive collection of the best original Timex/Sinclair programs, organized into categories (Business, Household, Games, Educational). Offers approximately 50% of profits to contributors with credit given; requests original programs with a brief submission statement. Includes a tear-out submission form. | |
| New Developments in Timex/Sinclair Tele-Communications | Survey of BBS systems supporting Timex/Sinclair users in 1986: TIME--CHANGE BBS (213-329-3922, 25MB hard disk, all T/S computers); Average Remote BBS with first T/S sub-board west of the Mississippi; Zebra Systems BBS; Micro Systems BBS; and several others. Covers CompuServe Timex SIG (GO Club, section 4), PC Pursuit nationwide modem service ($25/month, off-peak hours), and | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| New Developments in Timex/Sinclair Telecommunications | Article from LA T/S Group covering: using Tasword and Mterm II together for file transfer via modem; POKE modification to prevent Mterm II losing phone numbers and macros on exit to BASIC; POKEs for faster telephone dialing; and MINI XMOD v1.5 (Weymil Corp., $29.50) for TS1000/1500/ZX81 implementing Xmodem error-checking protocol for uploads and downloads. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| New News | ||
| New Timex Products / Latest Inside Information | Reports pricing and expected release dates for Timex products including the TS2068 ($199), TS1500, TS2000, Model 2040 printer, joystick, and command cartridges, based on insider information. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 1500, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Newsletter Exchange | Compilation of reprinted items: news about Sir Clive Sinclair vs. Acorn’s Chris Curry brawl in Cambridge; Spectrum/TS2068 software incompatibility due to pull-up resistors; method for adapting an Atari-compatible trackball for the 2068; notice about the QL Technical Guide available from Sinclair Research. | Sinclair QL, Sinclair ZX Spectrum, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Newsletter Exchange | Reprints from other newsletters: A+ Computer Response (New Hampshire) has purchased the entire North American Sinclair supply and become the new QL distributor. Includes a QL bundled software cloning tip from SUM NL (Florida): using the CLONE program on each cartridge to make backups. | Sinclair QL |
| Newsletter Exchange Items | Reprinted brief items from three newsletters: a QL CLS curiosity tip (CLS 160 causes an odd display reset on the QL) from the BEZUG newsletter; a note on TS computer virus safety from the CCAT/S User Group Plotter (TS computers with self-contained ROM operating systems are immune to OS-based disk viruses); and a notice from | Sinclair QL, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Newsletter Exchange Page | Monthly newsletter exchange column presenting excerpts from exchanged publications. This issue includes items from the Sinclair Louisville Users Group (Sep 88) featuring a tape backup utility, and from the Jan. 89 QZX Newsletter covering tape unlocking and color monitor technical issues with the TS2068. | |
| Newsletter Exchange: 2068 Tips — Removing Vu-Calc Print Coordinates | Short BASIC program (run after loading Vu-Calc and exiting to BASIC) that blanks the row and column coordinate labels from the screen using PRINT AT before COPYing to printer. GOTO USR 0 restores Vu-Calc. Produces clean spreadsheet printouts without grid references. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Newsletter Exchange: Cincinnati T/S ComputerFest Reports | Two reports on the Cincinnati T/S ComputerFest from the May 86 RANTOR NL (Cleveland) and the March 1986 Atlanta T/S User Group newsletter. Both describe the large crowds, high sales of QL computers and disk drives, and many user groups in attendance. One reporter meets Eric Truegas, Joe Williamson, Tom Woods, and others. | |
| Newsletter Exchange: Correction — System Variable 23661 Is Used | Correction to TS2068 user manual page 264: location 23661 is incorrectly listed as Not used. It is the MSB of the FRAMES counter and should not be POKEd with anything other than 0 while the printer is in use. A safer address for printer use is 23670. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Newsletter Exchange: Hacking Tips for Spectrum Games | Spectrum game POKE collection reprinted from the November 1985 CATS Newsletter (Bladensburg MD), compiled by Paul Millar from the National Software Library. Covers: Jet Set Willy (multiple POKEs for blocks, walk-through, safe zones, etc.); Cookie (stop bin monster); Freeze Bees (infinite lives); Pi-Balled (lives); Pyramid (limitless energy); Arcadia (infinite lives); Wild West Hero; Kokotoni Wilf; | Sinclair ZX Spectrum, Type-in program |
| Newsletter Exchange: Industry News | Reprints from other newsletters: Amstrad announcement of eight IBM-compatible PC models from $595 (Business Week, Sept 15-28); letter from Sir Clive Sinclair clarifying that Amstrad bought only existing computer range and brand name, not Sinclair Research Ltd. (Electronics, Aug 7, 1986); Better RGB Circuit improvement by Joe Williamson (from SUM NL July 1986). | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Newsletter Exchange: Internal Stop-Watch Using FRAMES | Technique for measuring elapsed program execution time on the TS2068 using system variable FRAMES (locations 23672-23673). Insert POKE 23672,0:POKE 23673,0 at program start; read with PEEK 23672+256*PEEK 23673 at end. Formula for averaging and converting 16ms FRAMES steps to decimal seconds accurate to about 0.01 second. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Newsletter Exchange: Programming Tips from Other NLs | Reprinted programming tips from several newsletters: ‘More Tips on String Storage’ by Mark Fisher (CATS NL, Bladensburg MD) on storing numbers larger than 255 in string characters using powers of 256. Also: elapsed time subroutine tip (CATS NL); Tasword II AERCO Centronics Interface POKE fixes (Synapse NL, Central PA); Hacking Jet Set Willy with game-modifying | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Newsletter Exchange: Repair Center News and Simple Aerco Patch | Two exchange items: (1) TSS Users Group Cincinnati reports Timex’s Little Rock repair center transferred operations to TS Connection (Cincinnati OH, 513-271-5575), repair charges $15-$20 for TS1000, $35-$40 for TS2068; (2) Simple Aerco Patch BASIC program from ZX/TS Forum of South Florida copies the Aerco buffer to a full-sized printer. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Newsletter Exchange: Smooth Scrolling Machine Code for TS1000 | Machine code program from CATS N/L (Sept. 85) for the TS1000 stored safely above RAMTOP. Provides smooth, non-jerky scrolling in four directions (up, down, left, right) via LET Z=USR x with constants for each scroll direction. POKEd into memory from hex DATA statements. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| Newsletter Exchange: SOFTAID Charity Spectrum Games Tape | Information on SOFTAID, a Spectrum cassette of 10 top games (Spellbound, Starbike, Kokotoni Wilf, The Pyramid, Horace Goes Ski-ing, Gilligan’s Gold, Ant Attack, 3D Tank Duel, Sorcery, Jack and the Beanstalk) with all proceeds to the Band-Aid Ethiopian famine relief fund. Available for $6.25 plus $2 P&H. Also a Commodore 64 version. | Sinclair ZX Spectrum |
| Newsletter Exchange: Tassman Interface Type Identification | Warning from Toronto Sinc-Link N/L: Tassman interfaces modified by Ramex for the Ramex disk drive system (type C) are incompatible with all other systems. Users ordering a Tassman interface must specify type RB to receive an unmodified version; type C only works with the Ramex Disk System. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Non-Breakable Programs 2068 Back-Up Copies | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program | |
| Non-Breakable Programs: 2068 Back-up Copies | Techniques for backing up non-breakable programs. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Note from Fred Templeton: Publish or Perish! | Short editorial appeal from Fred Templeton warning that the upcoming June issue (the 3rd Anniversary Issue) will be the last unless members submit articles. Also mentions a personal hardware project converting the TS-2048 EXROM to a 16K EPROM. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Note Pad | A TS2068 BASIC program for composing and printing short personalized notes or letters on the Timex 2040 printer. Addresses are stored in DATA lines starting at line 3801 with an index in line 1700. The program can save in two copies (GO TO 4000) and allows different content each time while reusing the stored address | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Orbit Simulator | A QL SuperBASIC program simulating orbital mechanics around a central planetary body. The orbiter starts above the planet and can be given directional thrust using the joystick, allowing demonstration of circular and elliptical orbits. Converted from a C-128 version written by Doug Fries. Author notes the QL runs the program faster than the C-128. | Sinclair QL, Type-in program |
| Organizer as Word Processor | Describes using the Sinclair/Timex Organizer (VU-File) cartridge software as a makeshift word processor on the TS1000/2040 printer, detailing its capabilities and limitations for text entry. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Palms Up for Sinclair | Atari Portfolio. | |
| Password Security for the TS2068 | ON ERR technique for the TS2068 to prevent accidental BREAKing of a running program, with an improvement: a secret password subroutine (lines 9000–9090). ON ERR RESET is triggered only when the user types the correct password string (with debounced INKEY$ accumulation), allowing authorized BREAKing while keeping untrained users locked out. Useful for programs handling sensitive | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Pay Off That Debt! Loan Amortization Program | TS2068 BASIC program that calculates monthly loan payments and generates a complete amortization table. User inputs loan amount (PV), number of months (N), and interest rate (I); the program computes the monthly payment using the standard annuity formula and displays a month-by-month table of principal paid, cumulative interest, and remaining balance. Sample output shows a | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Paycheck Analyst | A Sinclair QL SuperBASIC program that analyzes a paycheck’s deductions. User answers 9 questions about a weekly/monthly pay period and the program displays gross pay, FICA, federal/state/city taxes, United Way, credit union, and insurance as both dollar amounts and percentages of gross. Option to print results on a serial printer. | Sinclair QL, Type-in program |
| PC8300 ZX81/TS1000 Clone Hardware Examination | Detailed physical and electrical examination of the PC8300 TS1000 clone from American Design Components. Covers case dimensions, keyboard (42 keys), chip complement (Z80 CPU, c4005 ULA, AMI 8444 ROM, TMM 2216 RAM), external bus compatibility with ZX81/TS1000, and the author’s repair experience after accidental reverse-polarity power damage. Notes machine code programs cause a looping problem. | Lambda 8300, Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| PDSE Library Exchange | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| Peninsula/South Bay Joint Software Library Newsbrief | Software library update: forthcoming catalog ($1 meetings, $2 mail); offer to swap public domain software with other groups; information on Hisoft Devpac Assembler/Disassembler (relocatable, for Spectrum/2068); two new library items: relocatable Aerco Print Driver and Extended Basic (sprite graphics up to 256×176 dots) by R. Newman translated for 2068 by Dohany. | |
| Perpetual Calendar Program (Continuation) | Completes the perpetual calendar program omitted from the November 1984 issue, providing program lines after line 460. Marks Bay Area user group meeting dates on a monthly calendar display; works on both TS2068 and ZX81/TS1000 with scroll variants in the REMs. Includes instructions for purchasing a copy for $3.50. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Phone Number List | BASIC phone number list program holding up to 102 entries in DIM NS(102,32). Features: list all names (L), add new entry (N), find by first three letters (F), and delete an entry (R). Type RUN 20 on first use, then save as LINE 1. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| Playing With Electricity: What the hell is a modaptor anyway? | Sinclair QL | |
| Power Squeezer: Home Energy Control System Review | Review of the Power Squeezer hardware/software package ($69.95) for the TS1000/ZX81 16K that connects via mic/ear ports to control BSR carrier-current appliance and lamp modules. Controls up to 256 channels programmatically; software handles 20 with two on/off cycles per 24 hours. Notes software clock inaccuracy requiring weekly resetting as main limitation. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Printer On/Off Detection Programs | Two short TS2068 BASIC programs using machine code REM statements and USR calls to detect whether the TS2040 printer is currently on or off, printing a corresponding status message. Program 1 uses POKE 26516,73 and tests USR 16514 against 16383; Program 2 (with FLASH) uses a similar approach with CLS reset. Practical safety check before | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Printer Plotter | Timex/Sinclair 1000 | |
| Printing True Curves and Figures | Explains why the TS2040 printer distorts screen drawings (rectangular vs. square pixel grid) and provides the correction: divide variable x-coordinates by aspect ratio A=0.82 (or multiply variable y-coordinates by 0.82). Eight program examples demonstrate the correction for diagonal squares, circles, and slanted equilateral triangles on both TS1000/1500 (PLOT/DRAW) and TS2068 (DRAW/CIRCLE statements). Editor notes full-size | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Prison Project Report | Status report on the Bay Area groups’ ongoing project to donate computers to Nevada prison inmates. Walt Shulman obtained four ZX81s at flea markets; Rex Lundgren repaired them for donation; James Griffis (GUTS Sacramento) modified one ZX81 with a conventional keyboard in a wooden case; Virginia Cunningham donated a new TS1000 with tapes. All equipment | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Producing Graphics on the 2068 | Review of Timex Sinclair Color Graphics by Nick Hampshire. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Product Review: PC8300 | Brief product review of the PC8300 ZX81/TS1000 compatible clone from American Design Components. Describes keyboard similar to the TS1500, added joystick port, TV/monitor ports, power LED, sound, auto line numbering, and built-in 2K RAM. Notes tape programs are auto-detected and converted to PC8300 format on load, making PC8300 programs incompatible with the TS1000. | Lambda 8300, Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Program Lister | Sinclair QL, Type-in program | |
| Program Wipeout | Short BASIC program for the TS1000 using POKE 23613,2 and POKE 23614,91 to set up a continuous text display loop that cannot be broken, demonstrating system variable use for display/interrupt control. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| Programming Tips by Kendric | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program | |
| Programming Tips: User Defined Graphics with Decimal DATA | Demonstrates how to define User Defined Graphics characters using decimal numbers in DATA statements rather than binary, for CHR$ 144 through 163. Includes a complete UDG program with DATA for multiple characters (vehicles, geometric shapes) and a test display line. References Chapter 18 of the TS2068 manual for the POKE binary approach. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Protect Your Computer from Line Transients | Explains how to install a GE MOV V130LA10 metal-oxide varistor across the power line to protect the TS1000 from voltage spikes and transients, with step-by-step instructions. | |
| Public Domain Software | Explains what public domain software means, names two sources for free programs, and describes the EBZUG club library’s policy for member copying of PD software. | |
| Public Notice from Jack Dohany | ||
| PUG Membership Information | Describes the new PUG membership database file and explains the coding system on mailing labels (A=full member, N=newsletter-only, E=newsletter exchange, P/R=complimentary). Requests address/info corrections via Pat Morrissey (new secretary/treasurer). All membership checks now payable to C.P. Morrissey at 2000 Crystal Springs Road, San Bruno CA. Notes potential joint membership directory project with the other two | |
| PUG News | Discussion of upcoming PUG leadership changes and new officers; January meeting produced a volunteer (Rita Toth) to liaise with Nevada prison inmates learning Sinclair BASIC; group modem purchase (about 20 members); Jack Dohany demonstrated early version of MSCRIPT improvements at January meeting including Timex Portugal disk drive review. Sunset Electronics published new books including ‘Computer | |
| PUG News | New officers being presented for approval; January meeting produced Rita Toth as prison project liaison; about 20 members purchased modem boards; Jack Dohany demonstrated MSCRIPT disk drive improvements (now compatible with all mass storage and printer interfaces); Sunset Electronics has new books by Paul E. Field and Jim Stephens. Note: This is a combined Feb/March | |
| PUG News | March 16 PUG meeting report: strong new interest in telecoms spurred by cheap uncased 2050 modems (as low as $20); informal modem setup seminars held; Jack Dohany demonstrated completed MSCRIPT enhancements (compatible with all mass-storage devices and interfaces, keyboard options); Spectrum 128 available for hands-on play from Sunset Electronics (reviewed as two incompatible machines in | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| PUG News | Peninsula User Group meeting notes. | |
| PUG News | Peninsula User Group news: upcoming July swap meet details; Jack Dohany’s AERCO CPM terminal connected to TS-2068; Rex Lundgren on peripheral removal damage; TIMELINEZ receives trademark dispute letter from a company using the name ‘TIME LINE’; Pat Morrissey finds pro bono attorney. | |
| PUG News | PUG news: prisoner project update with Nate Schulman donating a TS-1000 and keyboard; Bob Orrfelt working on new 2068 ROM with additional commands (several months more work needed); color screen dump to Canon ink-jet printer demonstrated from QL; Quantum Levels QL quarterly publication from Tom Woods now available; Jeff Moore new Syncware News editor; Sir | |
| PUG News | Report on the May 17, 1987 Peninsula User Group meeting. Features three member presentations: Norm Lehfeldt on Front Page DTP for the newsletter, Tim Swenson on Cellular Automata on the QL. Notes new software catalog from Silicon Valley and upcoming plans to form a Sinclair Faire committee. | |
| PUG News | ||
| PUG News | ||
| PUG News | ||
| PUG News | ||
| PUG News: QL Demo, Software Library Donations | PUG news: Norm Lehfeldt demonstrated his new Sinclair QL at September meeting; December meeting scheduled for the 15th; software library updates — Barbara Stolle adapted the 2068 Tape Label program for TS1000/1500, David Docker donated a date-tracking program and the Shell Game. Word Puzzle from August 1984 highlighted for holiday gifts. | |
| PUG News: QL Demos, Mouse Hack, Spectrum 128 News | PUG news: Jack Dohany adapted Radio Shack mouse for TS2068 with full-sized IBM-style keyboard; Jay Brockman added Cribbage to EPROM cartridge; Pat Morrissey working on mass storage comparison; Norm Lehfeldt demonstrating QL. Mentions Spectrum 128 launched in Spain (~$170 UK, 50-key keyboard, AY sound chip, RS232, 128K); rumors of GEM OS on QL. Timelinez index | |
| PUG's Newsletter Exchange | ||
| PUG's Newsletter Exchange | ||
| PUG/Area News and Tidbits | Compilation of user group news and tips: Rex Lundgren finds assembly problem in TS-1500 ribbon cable that is starting to crack; notes on TS-1000/Stringy Floppy compatibility; VU-CALC formula count increase from 100 to 128; SUM Newsletter merging into TIME DESIGNS; Extended Basic for TS-1000/1500 with 22 new commands now available; John Warburton attending British Personal | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 1500, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Putting Machine Code into Mterm II | Instructions for loading machine code into the SMART II (Mterm) terminal program’s BASIC buffer area on the TS2068 by manipulating the VARS system variable. Includes the POKE formula to open the buffer by 1500 bytes and then LOAD/SAVE the code to the correct memory address. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| QL Chaos Program | SuperBASIC program implementing the logistic map chaotic attractor for the Sinclair QL. Uses WINDOW, FOR/NEXT loops, and POINT commands to visualize the behavior of x = rx(1-x) across parameter values r = 2.978 to 4. The program contains a deliberate or accidental bug; readers are invited to find and correct it. A second shorter variant | Sinclair QL, Type-in program |
| QL Commentary: Sinclair USA Customer Service Critique | Editorial criticizing Sinclair USA’s customer service and business practices: inconsistent delivery priority between American Express and direct orders, refusal to discount to dealers, uninformed telephone staff, and an overall indifferent attitude toward the user community that kept Sinclair technology alive after the Timex collapse. References Sir Clive Sinclair and suggests sending Nigel Searle In Search | |
| QL Draw Routine | Sinclair QL, Type-in program | |
| QL Flight Simulator by Microdeal | Review of the Microdeal QL Flight Simulator. Wire-frame graphics update approximately twice per second; reviewer notes the keyboard memory control scheme makes it easy to overcorrect and enter unrecoverable spins. Overall assessment is average. Described as the only flight simulator available for the QL. | Sinclair QL |
| QL is Making Slow But Steady Progress | Industry overview of the Sinclair QL’s progress in early 1986: CompuServe T/S conference increasingly QL-dominated, especially modem connectivity via hardware translators; Nigel Searle departed Sinclair Research for an IBM software company; Sinclair now marketing more aggressively through dealers with discounts on monitors and printers. New QL software reviewed: Supercharge SuperBASIC compiler (Digital Precision), Cosacs astronomy | Sinclair QL |
| QL Logo Implementation in SuperBASIC | Implements a subset of Logo turtle graphics commands as SuperBASIC procedures for the Sinclair QL, including FD/BK (movement), RT/LT (turning), PU/PD (pen control), CIRCLEL/CIRCLER, SETPOS, DOT, SETX, SETY, SETH (heading), SETPC/SETBG (colors), CS (clear screen), and HOME. All loop and logical control uses SuperBASIC commands; the Logo procedures start at line 9000 so user programs | Sinclair QL, Type-in program |
| QL Microdrive Formatter | A short QL SuperBASIC program that automatically formats two microdrive cartridges (one in each drive) for a user-specified number of times. Repeated formatting removes ‘stretch’ from new cartridges and conditions the tape surface, increasing capacity and long-term reliability. Experienced QL users recommend formatting new cartridges 10 times. | Sinclair QL, Type-in program |
| QL Pascal Development Kit Review | Review of the Metacomet Pascal Development Kit for the Sinclair QL. Package includes two tapes, a ROM cartridge, and a comprehensive bound user manual. Covers the screen editor (easy to use, controlled by arrow keys and modifier keys), linker, and compiler (slow to load but produces fast programs). Recommended for those wanting access to a | Sinclair QL |
| QL Productivity Tips | A collection of three SuperBASIC productivity tips for the Sinclair QL: using the slash-zero character (CTRL+SHIFT+FP) in printer output for program listings, the screen-redraw key (SHIFT+F5) in Psion applications, and using CTRL+F5 to pause on-screen scrolling in SuperBASIC without Toolkit II. Tips are particularly useful for Quill word processor users. | Sinclair QL |
| QL Serial to Parallel Converter | Full circuit documentation for converting the Sinclair QL’s 9600-baud serial RS232 output to Centronics parallel format, enabling use of standard parallel printers. Explains operation of the 74HC02 NOR gate, TL0556 timer, and 74HC164 serial-to-parallel shift register with detailed adjustment instructions for clock frequency (9600 Hz) and frame byte timing. Circuit schematic appears on the cover | Sinclair QL |
| QL System Variables | Reference guide to selected Sinclair QL system variables with addresses, sizes, and usage notes. Covers RAMTOP+1 (memory expansion detection at 163950), SCREEN_CTD (TV mode status at 163990), SCREEN_STATUS (screen activity at 163991), NET# (network number at 163995), REPEAT_DELAY (163986 word), REPEAT_FREQ (163952 word), and CAPS_LOCK (163976 word, noting a correction to a previous TimeLinez article). | Sinclair QL |
| QL to PC Clone Cable | Sinclair QL, Type-in program | |
| QL User Defined Graphics | Sinclair QL, Type-in program | |
| QL-Crypt File Encoder | A QL SuperBASIC utility for encrypting and decrypting Sinclair ASCII text files using a password. The password is hashed to seed a pseudo-random number generator; each character’s ASCII value is offset by a random 1–4 value. The same seed and process allows decryption with the correct password. Includes full listing with Encode, Decode, and Instructions | Sinclair QL, Type-in program |
| QL: First Look — Psion Software and Microdrives (Conclusion) | Continuation assessing the four Psion programs: Database (needs disk for large data); Spreadsheet (16,000+ cells, very fast); Business Graphics (easy bar/line/circle charts with mono or color output); Word Processing (limits to ~3 pages of RAM text, no direct printer code embedding — identified as seriously underpowered). Also discusses Sinclair Microdrives positively for home/small office use. | Sinclair QL |
| QL: Our First Look | Preliminary review of the Sinclair QL five months after ordering. Covers SuperBASIC command entry (typed keywords, no single-keystroke), lack of full-screen editor, DEFined PROCedures, display modes (85-column monitor vs. shrunk TV mode), video output types (RGB, PAL, NTSC), and connection of a Star printer via Serial-to-Centronics converter. Continued on back page. | Sinclair QL |
| Qwiksort | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program | |
| RAM-Pack Wobble | Compilation of community-sourced solutions to the notoriously unreliable RAM pack connector on the TS1000/ZX81, drawn from the Boston Computer Society and SincLink newsletters. Solutions include Blue Goo adhesive, Velcro, flexible cable interfaces, soldering, and rubber bands. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Re-Morse-Ful ME | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program | |
| Remember Time Designs? | Short plug for Update magazine. | |
| Repair Information | Contact information and pricing for replacement parts. | |
| Rita Carr Reports on Boston T/S Celebration | Firsthand report on the BCS Sinclair-Timex Celebration held October 22, 1983 at the Boston Park Plaza Hotel, covering exhibitors, seminars, an interview with Timex VP Dan Ross, and a demonstration of Bob Orrfelt’s Maple Leaf Rag on the TS2068. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Rita Carr's Newsletter Exchange | Standing column reporting on the inter-user-group newsletter exchange program coordinated by Rita Carr of SVTSUG. Notes exchanging current issues with participating groups and soliciting new participants. Brief mention of news received from other T/S newsletters across the country. | |
| River Cities Smart BBS: Timex/Sinclair SIG | Announcement of the River Cities Smart BBS (304-532-1616) with a dedicated Timex/Sinclair Special Interest Group. Features include message center, bulletins, information center with national user group/dealer/publication lists, and a download section with programs for the 1000 and 2068. Introduces a one-time lifetime membership fee to cover hardware costs. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| RLE Graphics Offer Art and Information | Showcase of RLE (Run-Length-Encoded) graphics downloaded from CompuServe and decoded on the TS-2068 and Sinclair QL. Displays examples from CompuServe Picture Support Forum, FBI Ten-Most-Wanted, Hollywood Hotline, Broadcast Professional Forum (circuit diagram), and Discover Orlando travel brochures. Discusses the format’s capabilities and the future of higher-resolution online graphics. | |
| RMG Catalog on Disk | Brief announcement that RMG now offers their complete product catalog on Larken-format disk using TASWORD III word processor, available for $3. Also announces a $12/year monthly disk mailing service with catalog updates and at least 3 public domain programs per year, ready to run. Combined order includes $60 in coupons. | |
| Rounding Off to 2 Decimal Places for Financial Programs | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program | |
| S.N.U.G. — Sinclair North America Users Group Formation | Announcement of the formation of S.N.U.G. (Sinclair North America Users Group) as a national coordinating organization for Sinclair/Timex users and groups. Details membership dues ($12 individual, $15 user group), initial membership goals (100 by January 1989, 300 by July 1989), planned services including a public domain software library, quarterly publication, vendor complaint follow-up, and calendar | |
| S.N.U.G. Election News | Reports complete results of the first Sinclair Northamerica Users Group charter-year officer elections, supervised by a Pasco County deputy election official (Mrs. Julia Bailey). Lists all candidates and vote counts/percentages for five offices: President (Mel Nathanson, 40 votes), First VP, Second VP, Secretary, and Treasurer. Also describes the group’s public domain software library plans and | |
| S.N.U.G. Memogram | ||
| S.N.U.G. Memogram | ||
| Sanyo's Slots | Sinclair QL, Type-in program | |
| SAVE the UnSAVEable / LOAD the UnLOADable | Presents two versions of a modified LOAD command for the ZX81/TS1000 that copies ROM routines into RAM and adjusts addresses to run there. Version 1 (SAVE the UnSAVEable) enables backup copies of self-running programs by scanning for ‘S’ keypress then jumping to the SAVE routine. Version 2 (LOAD the UnLOADable) recovers programs from tapes with | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| SBZUG Holiday Note / No December Meeting | Brief note from incoming SBZUG president Rita Carr with holiday greetings, and an announcement that the December meeting is canceled because Dysan Corporation (the meeting host) is closed during the last week of December. | |
| SBZUG Looks for New President / Paul Perrault Steps Down | Paul Perrault announces he is stepping down as SBZUG president after two years, thanks key volunteers (Martin Clinton, George Mockridge, Teddy Helderman, and others), and calls for someone to take over leadership of the South Bay group. | |
| Science and Engineering Programs for the Timex/Sinclair 1000 | Timex/Sinclair 1000 | |
| Scorepad Program | BASIC program for keeping score during table games for one to four players. Accepts player names and scores each round, keeping a running total. Full type-in listing included. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| Scrabble Score Program | BASIC program for the TS1000/TS2068 that tracks Scrabble scores for 2–4 named players. Calculates letter values automatically from words entered; handles double/triple letter and word scores (by entering words multiple times), blank tiles (skipped), 50-point bonuses (QQQQQ entry), and end-of-game tile subtraction (ZZ prefix). Supports up to 32 characters of words per player turn; saved | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Screen Color POKEs for the 2068 | Explanation of the TS2068 system variable at address 23693 for setting permanent screen paper and ink colors without clearing the screen. Describes how bits 7 (Flash), 6 (Bright), 5-3 (Paper), 2-0 (Ink) are combined, with a worked example (green paper + blue ink = POKE 23693,33). Includes a short BASIC program to interactively set colors | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Screen Peek'r | Sinclair QL, Type-in program | |
| SCREEN-SOLV Electronic Worksheet (Banta Software) | Product description for SCREEN-SOLV for the TS2068: an algebraic and trigonometric equation solver and definite integrator using 10-point Gaussian approximation. Supports up to 26 equations, 6 arrays of 50 elements, up to 46 user-defined variable names, and IF/GOTO/GOSUB/LOOP program sequencing. Results displayed in tabular form or graphically via a built-in PLOT routine. Runs on TS2068 | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Scrolling Banner | A QL SuperBASIC program that scrolls up to 10 user-entered text strings across the screen in a repeating banner display. Originally written on the ZX81, adapted for the QL with MODE 8, STRIP, and CSIZE commands. Includes keyboard interrupt to re-enter strings or clear data. Full program listing with continuation on the back page. | Sinclair QL, Type-in program |
| Shuffle: Jumbled Word Puzzle Program | A short BASIC program for the Sinclair QL that solves jumbled word puzzles of 2-6 letters. Developed by Robert Fischer as a shorter, more flexible version of a program from an earlier SUM newsletter issue. | Sinclair QL, Type-in program |
| Sideways Printing | A 2068 BASIC program that rotates the character set 90 degrees, allowing the Timex 2040 printer to print spreadsheets and other content sideways for wide columns. Author also offers a machine code version (1,024 bytes) that runs approximately 3x faster, available on tape or disk by request. Disassembly also available. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Sinclair Introduces New Computer | Reprint of a brief item from the San Francisco Chronicle (February 18, 1987) reporting Clive Sinclair’s announcement of a new small laptop computer weighing under two pounds, IBM-compatible, priced at $350–$700, and believed to be the Z88. | Cambridge Z88 |
| Sinclair Portable to Debut (Soon) | News brief about an upcoming Sinclair ZX Spectrum portable computer: reportedly the size of a Tandy Model 100, with a 5-inch flat-screen mono VDU, full typewriter keyboard, 300/1200 baud acoustic modem built in, communications ROM, microdrive storage, and 72K RAM disc from 128K total. Priced at approximately 300 pounds. | Cambridge Z88 |
| Sinclair QL: Low-Cost Computer for Home Users and Small Businesses | Wall Street Journal reprint covering Sinclair Research’s introduction of the QL computer (Motorola 68008, 128K RAM, two microdrives, four Psion programs). UK price equivalent to $559; US price $499. Compares the QL to PCjr, Adam, C64, and Commodore 264, and notes analyst caution about Sinclair’s US distribution strategy. | Sinclair QL |
| Sinclair Research Ltd. Expands | Press release from Mary Reinman of Sinclair Research in Boston: Sinclair Research has opened new sales offices in the Middle East and Southeast Asia as part of an international expansion. Worldwide sales now exceed 3 million units; production exceeds 150,000 units per month. The QL (68008-based) has been available by mail order in the UK | Sinclair QL |
| Sinclair Sold to Amstrad | Brief news item: as reported on the front page of the Wall Street Journal (April 8, 1986), Amstrad Consumer Electronics purchased Sinclair Research Limited for $7.3 million. Sinclair was experiencing financial difficulties. Amstrad plans to begin manufacturing Sinclair computers when supplier contracts expire later in 1986. Sir Clive Sinclair returns to inventing. | |
| Sinclair User Group List | Partial international listing of Sinclair and Timex/Sinclair user groups with contact information. Omits groups from Israel, Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, Pakistan, Portugal, Singapore, and Spain due to space constraints. Primarily covers US groups with some international entries. | |
| Sinclair Vows Z-88 Will Be #1 In World | Cambridge Z88 | |
| SincLink | ||
| SincLink | ||
| SincLink | ||
| SincLink | ||
| SincLink | ||
| SincLink | ||
| SincLink | ||
| SincLink Contact Log — November/December 1988 | The SincLink running log of phone calls, letters, and meeting reports for November–December 1988. Notable items include: a SHAREWARE FILE WARNING for file ts8872ba (QL to PC Clone Cable diagram has errors — do not use); GUTS/SV meeting report (November 30) with Bob Kuster’s TS2068 JLO disk library; TSPUG meeting report (November 20) with Rex | Cambridge Z88, Sinclair QL, Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| SincLink Contact Log — October/November 1988 | The SincLink running log of phone calls, letters, and meeting reports for the GUTS/SV group, covering October–November 1988. Notable items include: Rex Lund’s theatrical light board controller project; Tim Swenson’s 40-track QL disk drive acquisition; discussion of TS1000/TS2068/QL file format compatibility for the 1989 T/S Fest in Washington DC; William Pedersen’s proposed TS2068 bank-switching and | Sinclair QL, Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| SincLink Newsletter 8901 / SLIX Contacts December 1988 | Monthly SincLink newsletter and contact log for January 1989 covering 51 entries of December 1988 activity. Documents user group meetings, reader correspondence on shareware disk format standardization, newsletter exchanges with numerous clubs, BBS system updates, news about the upcoming CapitalFest 1989 in Baltimore, and a Z88 BBS announcement. A detailed record of Bay Area T/S | |
| SincLink Newsletter 8902 / SLIX Contacts January 1989 | Monthly SincLink contact log for February 1989 covering January 1989 activity (46 entries). Documents successful progress reading LarKen and JLO disk formats on the QL via direct sector read. Reports GUTS/SV meeting proceedings, reader correspondence on disk format standardization, newsletter exchanges with HATS, SMUG Bytes, KATS KNEWS, ZX-Appeal, Pixel Print Press, and other clubs. Includes | |
| SincLink Newsletter 8904 / SLIX Contacts March 1989 | Monthly SincLink contact log for April 1989 covering March 1989 activity. Includes the SincLink file directory listing (Sn894_dir and related files), newsletter exchange summaries, updates on reading/writing various T/S disk formats on the QL, and user group meeting reports. The HATS (Harrisburg Area T/S Users) newsletter exchange is noted. | |
| SincLink Newsletter 8905 / SLIX Contacts April 1989 | Monthly SincLink contact log for May 1989 covering April 1989 activity (approximately 37 entries). Includes the SincLink file directory listing for the Sn895 archive, summaries of disk format compatibility work, newsletter exchange updates, and user group meeting notes. File directory shows 193,386 bytes total for the Sn895 archive. | |
| SincLink Newsletter Exchange | Table of contents and file listing for SincLink SLIX disk files, Volume 6 issues 10–11 (October–November 1988). Lists files covering SincLink news, financial report, SLIX progress, contacts, and newsletter exchange labels. Provides supported disk formats (TS2068, QL, IBM, Amiga, Mac, etc.) and instructions for mailing disk exchanges to Bill Miller. | Sinclair QL, Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| SincLink Newsletter June and July/August 1989 | Two combined SincLink newsletter issues covering June and July/August 1989 activity. Includes file directory listings for Sn895 and Sn896 (Sn896_dir at approximately 193,386 bytes), newsletter exchange index for June (ScB906) and July/August (ScB907-8), SincLink subscriber list with renewal notices, and SincLink information page. Lists several print multiple-column and newsletter exchange items for both months. | |
| SincLink Tables of Contents 1988 | Complete index of all SincLink newsletter issues published during 1988, listing file names, byte sizes, and article titles for each issue from 8801-2 through 8812. Provides a comprehensive reference for locating specific articles across the full year of SincLink archives, useful for members with access to the disk-based newsletter. | |
| SINing and Filling-in on the T/S 2068 | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program | |
| SLIX Indexing Proposal | Proposes a system for indexing and full-text searching the SLIX (SincLink Information Exchange) permanent disk database. Describes the algorithm: chronological sort of directories and files into LIFO order, keyword extraction from capitalized words, sorting keywords (approximately 1 hour for a 55K file using Shell sort in SuperBASIC), deduplication, and interactive keyword search with cursor positioning. | |
| Smuggler's Cove — Command Reference | Complete listing of authorized word commands for the adventure game Smuggler’s Cove (Quicksilva), compiled by member John Shillinglen. Covers directional, action, and interaction verbs, organized in three columns with nouns required where noted. Context: the game’s limited documentation made this reference valuable. | Sinclair ZX Spectrum, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Software Library Listings | Combined listing of available tapes in the EBZUG Library (as of April 28, 1986) and the PUG/SVSTUG Library (as of April 20, 1986). Covers games, utilities, word processors, and other programs for the TS-2068 and Spectrum. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Software Review: New Hard/Software Combos Produce Dynamite Color Graphics | Reviews two new color screen dump packages. Don Thompson’s programs for the Sinclair QL support both the Olivetti PR2300 monochrome ink-jet and the Canon/Radio Shack/IBM color ink-jet, offering full-size or zoom mode dumps with positive/negative options. Dave Franson’s TS-2068 color dumps for the Canon color printer provide two output sizes. Both available via mail order. | Sinclair QL, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Software Review: The Worx! | Review of ‘The Worx!’ (by Artel S. Fratlich and David C. Ridge, Novelsoft), a desktop utilities suite for TS2068/Spectrum. Covers all nine modules: Planner (appointment scheduler with 40 activities), Notepad (text editor, 20 lines/file), Telephone directory (50 entries), Calculator (arithmetic + five functions + programmable), Decision maker (paired permutation ranking), Biorhythm chart, real-time clock with | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Software Reviews | Short reviews of several TS1000/2068 software titles including a guitar chord finder, a pinball game, a rocket game, and a math drill series. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Solar Water Heater Designer: TS 1000 Software Review | Review of ‘Solar Water Heater Designer‘ by Tim Rossetti (Timex), a BASIC engineering program for the TS1000/TS1500. Calculates heat gain in BTU/sq ft per month, annual fuel savings, and optimal collector area based on city, angle, efficiency, and daily hot water usage. Notes shortcomings: no print routine, oversimplified efficiency model, and assumes tank size equals | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Solar Water Heater Payoff | BASIC program to calculate the financial payoff period of a solar water heater versus keeping savings in a bank account, factoring in installation cost, fuel savings, and interest rates. Full type-in listing included. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| Some More Little Goodies for 2068 (Edition 4) | Fourth installment of a recurring collection of short programs, POKE tricks, and machine code snippets for the TS-2068. Includes: printer on/off check; absolute line drawing PLOT/DRAW idiom; SCREENSAVE machine code routine; line edit at top of screen POKE; free memory in Spectrum mode; screen invert loop; COPY all 24 lines to printer; border color from | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Some Names at Timex | Contacts of individuals still working at Timex Computers. | |
| South Bay Update: January Meeting a Success | President’s column reporting on the January SBAZUG meeting (130+ attendees, speakers Dick Huxtable/AHTA and Billy Skyrme/Timex, 14 new members) and previewing the February 28 meeting (speakers Eric Reiter of Computer Continuum and Bob Orrfelt demonstrating a new 2068 word processor that works with the Timex 2040 printer). | |
| Spectera-64 V4.1 Terminal Program Review | Review of Spectera-64 version 4.1 for the TS2068, highlighting 1200 baud capability, 64-column display without hardware add-ons, and a 7K programmable overlay area. Notes the overlay system allows adding auto-dialers, RLE decoders, and other utilities. Cautions that 1200 baud requires an RS-232 interface rather than the TS2050 modem. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Spectrum Art Studio and AERCO Interface Conversion | Instructions for converting the Spectrum Art Studio (or Extended Art Studio) program to work with the AERCO Centronics parallel printer interface. Requires POKEing 26 bytes into memory before running; step-by-step customization procedure for selecting the print driver. Also notes a local LA-area ZX users group and the Timex Exchange BBS. | Sinclair ZX Spectrum, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Spectrum Emulator/Chameleon News | First-hand review of the EMU-1 Spectrum emulator cartridge ($68) for the TS2068, with a compatibility list of ~20 tested programs. Working titles include Maziacs, Mad Martha 2 (adventure), Monopati, Hobbit, Jet Set Willy, Attic Atac, and Tasword. Discusses why some programs fail (US 60Hz vs. UK 50Hz causes issues with pseudo-pixel graphics routines), notes Spectrum | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Spectrum Machine Code on the 2068 | Reprint from SYNTAX Magazine (Dec. 1983) explaining how to run ZX Spectrum machine code programs on the TS2068: replacing IN keyboard scan routines with INKEY$/STICK commands, and the importance of RAMTOP placement. Notes that programs written for 48K Spectrum are more likely to be compatible. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Star Spangled Banner for 2068 Offers Graphics, Music | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program | |
| Stop Auto-Running Programs on Your TS1000 | One-paragraph tip: to stop a purchased auto-running program so it can be saved to disk, instead of LOAD”” use SAVE CHR$ USR 832 as the LOAD command. As the monitor screen first clears, hit BREAK within 5 seconds and the computer stops at line 0 ready for modification. Useful for backing up commercial software to | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| STRING$ | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program | |
| Stringy Floppy for the Timex 1500 | Review and overview of the A&J Micro Drive stringy floppy system. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 1500 |
| Supercalafragalistic Phone Number Word Generator | A BASIC program for the Sinclair QL that generates all possible words that a phone number could spell, useful for creating memorable vanity numbers. Prints possibilities in pages; last ‘word’ ends with ‘FINE’. | Sinclair QL, Type-in program |
| SVSTUG News | Silicon Valley Sinclair Technology User Group news for December 1985. | |
| SVSTUG News | Meeting notes and information items: TIME--CHANGE BBS details; Logon Unlimited multi-user BBS test; Saguaro Software AMDEX 5in disk drive pricing; Rob & Debbie Curry using QL and Archive for customer list on microdrive; TS2040 printer issues with 64K RAM; George Mockridge reports 4 new library tapes (cassette labeling, assembler, microdrive Tasword/VuFile/VuCalc patches, and Headscan). | |
| SVSTUG News | Meeting notes: Margaret Finney got her TS2068 printer customized to work with the AERCO Centronics interface; workshop meetings discontinued due to loss of Greater Western Savings venue; upcoming SVSTUG meetings scheduled at Cupertino Library. Out-of-town member seeks Gorilla Banana printer codes for Tasman Interface (type B) with TS2068. Thanks to George Coronado for donating a | |
| SVSTUG News | Upcoming SVSTUG/GUTS-SV meeting dates for November, December, and January. Rich Silva demonstrated his pop-up auto-dialer program written entirely in machine code at the September meeting. Meeting location changes announced (moving to El Camino Hospital due to Cupertino Library expansion). Thanks to new member William J. Pedersen (Grand Rapids MI) who contributed 12 articles (70 pages) | |
| SVSTUG News | Meeting report (Jan 29): Terry Greenlee demonstrated transferring information between unattended TS computers with 2050 modems. A&J Microdrive loaned SVSTUG 7 Rotronics Waferdrives and 4 ZX Spectrums for member loan; Wafadrive command syntax reference included. Seeks help translating a newsletter from GUTS de Mexico (in Spanish). For-sale listings from Glenn in Castro Valley. | |
| SVSTUG News | April 1986 SVSTUG meeting notes: interest in ZEBRA Systems modem deal high (18 of 20 units from Ledra Systems worked); Bill Miller demoed Damco Wafadrive hooked to Spectrum; Terry Greenlee and David Gray borrowed Spectrums and Waferdrives loaned by A&J Microdrive to work on 2050 modem compatibility; Dan Mowrey brought copy of MTERM for SVSTUG | |
| SVSTUG News | Meeting notes from the April 30 Silicon Valley Sinclair Technology User Group meeting. Terry Greenlee demonstrated the TS-2068 Library Tape; Bill Miller demonstrated the Damco Wafadrive with Spectral Writer software. Upcoming meeting dates listed. | |
| SVSTUG News | At the May 27 SVSTUG meeting, Mark Waller demonstrated a battery-operated TS-1000. S.N. Stein showed an engineering department Spectrum trouble-shooting manual and what appears to be a prototype TS-2020 cassette recorder. Notes on new member Bill Phillips and Henry Pollard’s search for a cheap TS-2068. | |
| SVSTUG News and Equipment For Sale | Editor note that Bill’s column will resume next issue. Includes classified listing of TS1000 equipment for sale by Glenn Zaretzka: TS1000 computer, 16K RAM pack, 2026 cassette recorder, 2040 printer, A&J Microdrive with wafers, Gladstone 64K RAM pack ($40), Memotech Centronics interface and cable ($50), ZX Profile and updates ($20), plus books and cassettes. | |
| SVSTUG/GUTS Report | At the June 24 GUTS/SV meeting, Bob Kuster demonstrated his new QL with new attendee Mark Wahl. Notes new member Don Elliott; Radoslav Breznikar seeks TS-2068 repair address (Timex Service Center, Little Rock, AR); Eric Bosch converting Spectrum computers to NTSC TV. Upcoming meeting schedule. | |
| SVSTUG/SincLink Meeting News | SincLink column reporting on GUTS/SV meeting (May 27, 1987). Steve Nichols demonstrates five TS1000 programs. Mark Wahl announces forthcoming articles on CMDS static RAM bank-switching (16K to 254MB) and TS1000/TS2068 X-MODEM communications. Terry Greenlee demos TS1000 as a terminal via TS2050 modem. Notes Don McRae’s search for help converting ZX Spectrum knitting programs. | |
| Swap Meet Announcement and Win-a-Computer Contest | Announces a Timex/Sinclair Swap Meet on July 20, 1986, at Peninsula Hospital, Burlingame, open to all T/S users and groups. Also announces a year-long contest awarding points for TIMELINEZ contributions, with the winner receiving a new TS-2068. | |
| SyncBits: Bay Area TS/Spectrum/QL Hardware and Software News | News column covering the still-unsettled Spectrum ROM/emulator situation on TS2068; English Micro Connection as UK hardware agent (TC2068 $159.95, disc drives $239.95 first, $125 second); Zebra Systems Koala Pad; ARTWORKX graphics software by David Ridge; Ray Kingsley’s Exrom bank-switching cartridge; corrected TS1000 ROM from Tom Bent; SINC-ARTIST ZX81 graphics; Spectrum Beta Basic 60Hz poke; Spectrum | Sinclair ZX Spectrum, Timex Computer 2068, Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| T/S 2068 Books | List of available books, excerpt from Sharon Zardetto Aker’s T/S 2068 Basic and Beyond. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| T/S 2068 Books | Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| T/S 2068 Color Monitor Difficulties | Technical analysis of why some color monitors perform poorly with the T/S 2068 video output. Compares the 2068’s color vector phase angles to NTSC standards (e.g., Blue at 350° vs. 358°, Red at 116° vs. 112°) and identifies three engineering issues: color burst not synchronous with the waveform (3.579545 MHz vs. 14.112 MHz crystals), shortened | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| T/S Beats IBM! | Short article reproducing a floating-point precision benchmark from Fred Gruenberger in Scientific American (April 1984): enter 1.0000001 and square it 27 times. Sinclair BASIC produces only a 3.33% error while the Apple IIe produces 96.60% error and the IBM PC 1212.06% error. Suggests Timex/Sinclair owners keep their computer as a high-precision arithmetic tool even after | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| T/S Dealers | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| T/S Fest '87 at Indianapolis | First-person report on the 1987 Midwest Timex/Sinclair Fest in Indianapolis (May 2–3), with approximately twice the attendance of the 1986 event. Covers the Friday dinner gathering of 12 T/S master programmers and vendors, 55+ vendor booths with demonstrations and bargain prices (QLs for $99, 64K RAM packs for $25), notable people encountered, and 12 user | |
| T/S Guide to Telecommunication: BBS List | Introduction to a forthcoming free publication by Steve Ishii and Pete Fischer covering T/S modems, terminal programs, and hardware add-ons. Accompanied by a table of BBS systems that support Timex/Sinclair computers with phone numbers, hours, and connection settings. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| T/S Guides: Member Technical Assistance Directory | Edition 4 of the member help directory listing Bay Area T/S volunteers available for technical questions in areas including EPROM programming, 2068 ROM disassembly, tape recorder diagnostics, Aerco interface, ham radio, BASIC programming, Blue Chip/Tasman interface, computer-assisted music, and VU File. | |
| T/S Hostel System | A computer-assisted traveler matching service pairing traveling T/S users with local user hosts across the country. Travelers and hosts each submit a form; Rick Johnson runs a database search and notifies matched pairs; a fee of unspecified amount applies to travelers only. Also mentions the Timex Survivors Flyer from Games To Learn By, Inc. (Williamsburg | |
| T/S On-Line: Modems and BBS Report | First-hand account of using the Westridge 2050 modem with Mterm communications software on various online services. Covers Compuserve (CEM 450 SIG, weekly Wednesday T/S realtime conference, data base section XA-4), the free Zebra Systems BBS (718-296-2229), and several Bay Area bulletin boards (Neighborhood Story Board, Parent’s Resource Net, Peacenet, Land of the Lost for SF/Fantasy | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| T/S Repairs at Sunset | Notice that Sunset Electronics (2254 Taraval Street, San Francisco) is now offering Timex-Sinclair computer repairs performed by Rex Lundgren (PUG member), described as the first repair service west of the Mississippi for T/S computers. Contact Sunset at (415) 665-8330. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| T/S Update | News and rumor column covering: home energy management seminar at the May meeting (Brian Leary of PG&E); Bob McConahy of Washington DC area building a synthesizer/clock hardware interface for the TS2068; keyboard sound and repeat-delay POKEs for TS2068 from Clackamas County TS users. Also notes: ASTEC investigation into TS2068 cartridge; Alphacom repair parts inquiry; Trinity | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| T/S Update | Updates about product availability from Doug Dewey (Spectrum Emulator), Sunset Electronics, more. Timex sold all hardware, most of software to a liquidator in New York. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| T/S Update | Emulator news from Dewey; Pinball available from Sunset Electronics. Timex sold all hardware and software to New York liquidator. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| T/S Users at the Computer Faire | Invitiation to attend. Eric Reiter scheduled to appear. | |
| T/S Users at the Computer Faire | ||
| T/S Users Meet on Compuserve | Guide for Timex/Sinclair users accessing the CEM 450 Special Interest Group on Compuserve. Explains how to log in, read bulletins, join the weekly Wednesday T/S conference (hosted by SYSOP Patrick), and access the XA data library (Section 4 = T/S) to download programs via Byte-Back’s ZCOMM modem software. Positions Compuserve as a vital lifeline for | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| T/S1000 Verify | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program | |
| Tactile Feedback for a Dime | Timex/Sinclair 1000 | |
| Taming the Bug in VU-Calc TS 2068 | Fixes a bug in the “Clear Worksheet” command. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Tape Loading Problems | Troubleshooting guide for ZX81/TS1000 cassette loading failures, covering bar pattern recognition, optimal volume levels, gap noise, and timing the SAVE command. Reprinted from the SincLink newsletter. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Tapecopy | Sinclair QL, Type-in program | |
| Tasprint: Five Typefaces for Dot Matrix Printers | Description and sample output of Tasprint (Tasman Software), which adds five typefaces to dot-matrix printers with graphics capability: Lectura Light, Median, superbold, Data, and Script. Called from Tasword II via the tilde character. All characters print in double height. Also covers Tasword II border and paper color change technique via POKE. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Tasword 2 Changes for Multiple Copies | Modifications to the Tasword 2 word processing program to enable printing multiple copies of a file. Explains stopping the auto-started program, changing line 2460, and entering new lines 265 and 287 with a FOR/NEXT loop and a quantity prompt. Also covers redefining graphics characters for a form feed on printers lacking elite type. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Tasword for A&J Microdrive — Updates and Corrections | Follow-up letter to an earlier Timelinez article (Feb/March 1985) about microdrive adaptations of Tasword for the TS2068. Corrects the earlier listing: DELETE lines 920, 930, 940, 943, and 1050. Provides a new refined version with SAVE to positions 2 and 3 on microdrive. Notes a forthcoming cassette version covering Tasword, VuFile, VuCalc, and AT-ONE. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Tasword II on the A&J Microdrive | Instructions for adding two BASIC lines to Tasword II to allow saving and loading it on the A&J Model 2000 Stringy Floppy microdrive. Files saved to @tz filename. Includes BEEP confirmation and VERIFY step. Files can be saved to either microtape or cassette. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Tasword II with Aerco Interface: Spectrum ROM Pokes | Provides four POKE addresses discovered by Joe Williamson to run the Spectrum version of Tasword II with the Aerco interface on a TS2068 with Spectrum ROM. Step-by-step: load Aerco first, then Tasword, enter BASIC via Symbol Shift+STOP, apply pokes, return to Tasword with RUN, save the modified version. | Sinclair ZX Spectrum, Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Telecommunications Article Errata | Corrections from the ZEBRA BBS SYSOP (John Ezike) to Ed Grey’s BBS article from the January 1986 issue: Zebra Systems is in Woodhaven Queens NY, not Long Island; Micro Systems BBS no longer supports T/S users; OMNI-NET BBS phone (718) 296-2385 is actually Zebra’s order line; MINI-BIN BBS does not exist — that number is | |
| Telephone List, Part 2 | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program | |
| Tell Timex Contest | ||
| Tell Timex Contest | ||
| Tell Timex Contest | Brief notice announcing an extension of the Tell Timex contest deadline to August 31, soliciting constructive criticism of Timex products from users. | |
| Test-Bit Subroutine | BASIC subroutine (at line 100) allowing the user to determine whether a specific bit (0-7) of any byte address (0-65535) is on (1) or off (0) on the TS1000/TS2068. Includes a demonstration program that prompts for address and bit number and prints the result. Note in listing: adjust line 110 for 1000 vs 2068. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| TextWriter 1000 Enhancements and Errata | Enhancements to the TextWriter 1000 word processor (by Robert Fingerle) to eliminate screen flicker and enable keyboard auto-repeat: add line 140 SLOW and modify line 175 to check for empty INKEY$. Also adds a multiple-copy print option: if user selects option 4 or 5, a prompt asks for number of copies, and a FOR/NEXT loop | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| TEXWRITER 1000 Review | Structured review of a TS1000 word processing program. Covers automatic word wrap at the right margin, cursor-based text editing, and a set of six editing commands for adding/deleting spaces and lines. Notes the program cannot move paragraphs. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| The BIN Function on the TS2068 | Short tip explaining the TS2068’s BIN function for converting binary notation to decimal in BASIC (e.g., PRINT BIN 1001 displays 9). Notes that variables cannot be used as arguments — only literal sequences of 1s and 0s — and the maximum value is 65535 (BIN 1111111111111111). Shows that all arithmetic operations including powers and roots | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| The Chaotic Return | Corrected QL SuperBASIC chaos program responding to the challenge posed in issue 4. Replaces POINT with BLOCK for the physical coordinate system, and randomizes the value of r (r = 5 + 512*(r-3)) rather than sweeping sequentially, causing the full bifurcation diagram structure to become visible progressively rather than rendered one line at a time. | Sinclair QL, Type-in program |
| The Computer Widows Corner | Call to action from “computer widows” in Cleveland, OH. | |
| The Editor's Musings | Sinclair QL | |
| The Editor's Musings | Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| The Editor's Musings | ||
| The Editor's Swan Song | ||
| The Essential Guide to Tmex/Sinclair Home Computers | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| The Incredible Shrinking Screen | A Spectrum/TS2068 BASIC program that progressively reduces the active screen display through a series of PLOT/DRAW and PRINT operations, creating a visual effect of the display shrinking to a smaller and smaller area. Submitted as an entry in a proposed ‘most outrageous program’ contest. | Sinclair ZX Spectrum, Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| The Jungle Jim | Series of articles about programming in BASIC for the TS 1000. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| The Jungle Jim | Timex/Sinclair 1000 | |
| The Jungle Jim: Character Display, Part II and PAUSE | Two-topic column: (1) Machine code details of the TS1000 character generator — the I register must contain 30 (1EH) to point the computer to the correct character table in ROM. Includes a POKE sequence (LD A,n; LD I,A; RET) and BASIC program to change the I register and display scrambled characters, illustrating how the table | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| The Jungle Jim: Display File | Continues the Jungle Jim series explaining how the TS1000/1500 display file works in memory. Covers the D_FILE system variable, how display file storage differs by RAM size, and includes sample BASIC programs to PEEK display file memory and observe character codes. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| The Jungle Jim: GOTO Statement and Program Line Storage | Two-topic column: (1) The TS1000 GOTO statement accepts a line number, variable, or numeric expression as its target — demonstrated with a program that dispatches to line 100 or 200 depending on a key press using CODE A$. (2) Technical explanation of how the TS1000 stores program lines in memory starting at 16509: two bytes | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| The Jungle Jim: Number Base Converter | BASIC program converting numbers between any two bases (binary, octal, decimal, hexadecimal) by first converting input to base 10, then to the target base. Handles numbers up to 1,000,000+ in base 10. Also includes a brief huh? program using PEEK/POKE on memory location 16512-16513 that demonstrates unexpected display-file behavior. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| The Jungle Jim: ROM Character Generator, Part I | First of two parts on the TS1000 ROM character generator table: 512 bytes at addresses 7680–8191 defining 64 characters as 8-byte sets. Explains how to calculate a character’s start address (7680 + 8 * CODE A$) and includes a BASIC program that displays any character as a large bit-pattern grid by reading and converting each | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| The Jungle Jim: System Variables — VARS | Continues the Jungle Jim series with an explanation of the VARS system variable (address 16400) on the TS1000, which points to the start of the variables area in RAM. Distinguishes pointer variables from data variables and notes practical applications for machine language/BASIC data transfer. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| The Jungle Jim: What's on the Menu? | Explains how to build menu-driven programs on the TS1000. Defines menus, master menus, and multi-level menu-driven systems. Presents a complete framework with DISPLAYMENU and GETKEYPRESSED subroutines using GOSUB and CODE for keypresses, with numbered options dispatching to code sections. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| The Latest from S.N.U.G. | Summary of the S.N.U.G. national meeting held May 6, 1989, attended by approximately 35 members with Frank Davis serving as spokesperson in Mel Nathanson’s absence. Reports the confirmed election results for all five officer positions, thanks all candidates, and lists all candidates with withdrawn candidates removed from the tally. | |
| The New Tax Law and You | Analysis of the 1986 Tax Reform Act’s impact on 1986, 1987, and 1988 tax liabilities, presented as six comparison tables with a detailed worked example for a two-income household. Shows changes to medical deduction thresholds, elimination of sales tax and union dues deductions, and modified standard deductions. Includes a short QL program to reproduce the | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| The RAM-BO RAM Test | BASIC program by James Lowry testing all RAM (0-65535) by POKEing 0 and 255 to each address and PEEKing for defects. Prints defective addresses to LPRINT. Instructions: first PRINT PEEK 23653+256*PEEK 23654 to find the program’s own start address, then substitute it in line 20 to exclude the program from testing. Takes approximately 23 minutes | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| The Shell Game: Program for TS1000/1500 | Type-in BASIC program implementing the three-cup Shell Game for TS1000/1500. Player starts with $100, bets any amount, watches cups shuffle, guesses which cup hides the pea (1-3), plays until broke, then receives a tally of total attempts, correct guesses, and accuracy percentage. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| The TIMEXsinclair 2068: Bank Switching and Memory Expansion | A landmark technical article proposing interim standards for expanding the TS2068 beyond its standard memory limits. Introduces a Bank Switching Controller (BSC) design using a standard PC expansion backplane (EVEREX SYSTEMS EV-168) and an adapter card (VIDJUP Co. design) that can address up to 16 megabytes of memory. Covers the Current Chunk Owner Table (CCOT), | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| The Trailing Edge in Computers | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| The WIDJUP Co. Part III | Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| The WIDJUP CO. Revisited | Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| Things I've Tried | Reprint of article from December 1983 issue of Dr. Dobb’s Journal. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Three Tips from Rex Lundgren | Three hardware/software tips for TS2068: (1) Adding a third diode to the earphone input circuit (near CR5/CR6) to raise logic level and improve cassette loading reliability at lower volume settings; (2) DC power supply notes for external cassette recorders using an LED as a voltage-drop element; (3) Joystick Sketcher BASIC program using the STICK function | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| TimeLinez Begins Desk-Top Publishing Experiments | Editorial describing the transition to desktop publishing using the Front Page QL software from GAP Software. Explains the workflow for creating the masthead using Artworks on the 2068 and converting to RLE for import into Front Page. Candidly reviews Front Page’s bugs (corrupted files on save, no file deletion, minimal error trapping) and its strengths | |
| TimeLinez in Transition | Editorial announcing Walt Gaby’s handover of the Managing Editor role to Norm Lehfeldt after two years. Notes that Mockridge produced this interim April issue due to the volume of arriving articles and the timing of the transition. | |
| Timelinez Index, Vol. 1 Issue 1 to Vol. 2 Issue 11 | Comprehensive cumulative index of all Timelinez articles from the first issue (July 1983) through Vol. 2 Issue 11 (November 1984), compiled by Bill Miller. Organized chronologically by issue with page numbers, article titles, and brief topic tags. Jim March announces plans to distribute the index as a VU-FILE database on tape, enabling keyword searches; Bill | |
| Timelinez is Growing | ||
| Timelinez Reviews | ||
| TimeMachine Compilation Bug Fix | Reprint of patch instructions for a bug in TimeMachine (a BASIC compiler for the Spectrum and TS2068) affecting large programs compiled using XD and XE directives for data statements. Provides corrected BASIC lines and DATA statements for both Spectrum and TS2068 versions. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Timex Announces Schematic and Technical Manual for the TS2068 | News item: Timex Materials Sales Division (Little Rock, AR) will offer a large schematic of the TS2068 facilities and a comprehensive Technical Manual covering memory, bank switching, block diagram, I/O port layout, RGB monitor connection, character set, system software, and commands unique to the 2068 vs. the ZX Spectrum. The schematic will be available starting | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Timex hits at Sinclair | Timex is selling Spectrums independently due to monies owed by Sinclair. | |
| Timex Hits at Sinclair | ||
| Timex News | Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| Timex News Update | Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| Timex Perpetual Calendar | TS2068 BASIC perpetual calendar program that displays any month/year on screen with the correct day-of-week alignment. Navigation keys: 7 (forward one month), 6 (back one month), 8 (forward one year), 5 (back one year), space bar (re-display directions), 0 (COPY to printer). The algorithm handles leap years including century-year corrections. Author notes that lines 475-500 | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Timex Quits But We'll Go On | Comments on Feb 22, 1984, announcement and user group plans. | |
| Timex Quits But We'll Go On | ||
| Timex Sinclair Color Graphics | Review of the book by Nick Hampshire. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Timex Sinclair Still in Game | USA TODAY reprint (Sept. 27, 1983) covering the launch of the TS2068 at $199 and its competitive position against the Commodore 64, Coleco Adam, and Atari computers in the 1983 holiday market. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Timex Trade-In Offer From Memotech | Memotech will accept trade-in of Timex/Sinclair computers toward purchase of the Memotech MTX512. | |
| Timex Update | On 4/24/84, I spoke with David Higgenbottom from the Los Angeles area. He is organizing a venture capitalist effort to acquire the licensing rights from TIMEX COMPUTER CORP. This endeavor combines some 47 companies into a publicly held subsidiary of Trinity Magnum of San Diego, CA. There are plans to open a nation wide chain | |
| Timex Update | Report on January South Bay meeting product demos by Billy Skyrme (Timex): Vu-3D, Ant Attack, Scrabble, and an experimental Hobbit cartridge. Confirms a Timex/Digital CPM agreement and upcoming language cartridges (Forth, Pascal, Logo). Notes the microdrive and 8-column printer were shown, the modem is delayed, and a sub-4-inch disk drive is rumored for September. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Timex/Sinclair BBS in San Mateo | Announces the launch of a TIMEX/Sinclair Special Interest Group (SIG) on the LogOn Unlimited BBS in San Mateo, CA (415-571-6911). Describes upload/download capabilities for 2068, Spectrum, and QL software, plus plans for ZX81/TS1000/TS1500 files. Explains the message base system, access registration, and relationship to other LogOn boards. | Sinclair QL, Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Tips from CPT Charles R. Byler | Two tips from APO-stationed reader: (1) To load and stop auto-running machine code from the TS1000/ZX81 without executing it, enter the POKE sequence to load at an address, LOAD the program, then RUN it — it stops at the load address. (2) For TS2068 owners wanting to run UK Spectrum software: replace the first 16K | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Tips on Typing in 2068 Programs | Reprint from The RAMTOP. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Tips on Typing in 2068 Programs | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program | |
| Totally Safe Machine Code for the ZX81 and TS-1000 | Technique for safely embedding machine code in REM statements on the ZX81 and TS-1000, using two template types that together provide 112 bytes or more of machine code space. Includes a memory address map showing where each template stores its code, and the critical restriction that CHR$(13) (ENTER) must never appear in the machine code. | Sinclair ZX81, Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Transfer Files Without Retyping Profile 2068 | Step-by-step instructions for transferring data files from one version of Pro/File 2068 to another using SAVE/LOAD CODE commands, avoiding manual re-entry. Technique uses PEEK 23627+256*PEEK 23628 to find the starting address of the file data in memory, then SAVEs and LOADs raw bytes. Tips from the program’s author, Thomas B. Woods. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Transmit Using MTERM: Basic Programs | Step-by-step tutorial for transferring BASIC programs between two TS2068 computers via modem using the MTERM terminal program. Covers setting MTERM buffer to Erase mode, configuring for HEX conversion, using MERGE to load the program into the buffer, opening and transmitting the buffer via Control-R and the Transmit menu, and verifying correct receipt. Includes a verification | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Tree-Forth Users SIG Notice | Brief letter from J. Cohen of Mendocino, CA asking if other TS1000 owners have the Tree-Forth chip from Softmagic Corp. installed, and suggesting they form a special interest group. Invites interested readers to contact the author directly. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Try This | Short program to draw a moire pattern. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Try This | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program | |
| Try This | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program | |
| TS 1000 Programming Notes | Thirteen numbered programming tips for the TS1000/1500, covering: initializing without power-cycling, computing program size and variables size via PEEK formulas, VAL byte costs, PRINT/LPRINT token behavior, displaying line numbers within programs, printing bottom two lines, protecting MC programs in REM, making lines invisible, auto-run on load, and slow-mode precautions. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 1500, Type-in program |
| TS Chaos | Timex/Sinclair 1500, Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program | |
| TS-1000 and 1500 Software Libraries | Comprehensive listing of PUG-SVSTUG-EBZUG library tapes available for the TS-1000 and TS-1500, organized alphabetically with catalog numbers. Covers games, educational, business, utility, and entertainment programs. Note directs members missing documentation to donate extra copies. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 1500 |
| TS1000 Clone Hardware Analysis | Detailed chip-level and hardware analysis of a TS1000-compatible clone, described in the issue’s table of contents as Bob Orrfelt digging into a home-made TS1000 clone. Specific article content is heavily disrupted by OCR column layout breakdown. | Lambda 8300, Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| TS1000 Repair Info from Timex | Timex/Sinclair 1000 | |
| TS1000 Tape Unlocker | Short BASIC program using nine POKEs (values 62,0,56,0,64,1,55,0,201 into locations 16514-16522) that permits making backup tapes of programs with non-standard beginnings or endings. After entry, add lines 60-110 to complete the program, which patches the LOAD command routine. Public Domain Library of Tim Ward. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| TS1000/1500 Tape Labels Program | Adaptation of James DuPuy’s TS2068 tape label program for TS1000/1500 users. Creates formatted cassette labels with tape title, program names and index numbers for both Side A and Side B, then COPYs to printer. Tape copy available in software library as LOAD TAPE LABEL. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 1500, Type-in program |
| TS2068 Back-Plane Expansion System Standard | Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| TS2068 Ins and Outs | Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| TS2068 Joystick Quad Drawing Program | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program | |
| TS2068 Programming: User Defined Graphics | Explains how to use the 21 User Definable Graphic characters (codes 144-164) on the TS2068 with the CHR$ function to keep program listings readable. Includes a subroutine to load UDG data from DATA statements, and a technique for creating centered program titles with GOSUB without line numbers. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| TS2068 Sound Effects Program | BASIC program for the TS2068 using the SOUND command to produce five sound effects: machine gun fire (FOR loop with decreasing pitch), five clunks (repeated SOUND with PAUSE 350), a screaming bomb (rising pitch loop), a short roar, and a series of pings. Uses PRINT AT to display effect names. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| TS2068 User's Guidebook | Brief news item: T.S. Services (Red Bank TN) sells a guidebook listing over 800 products for the TS2068 and over 40 dealers still supporting the machine, for $5.00 cash, check, or money order. Includes publications, hardware, and software of all types. Positioned as an alternative to calling dealers individually to find remaining support. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| TS2068 vs. Commodore 64: Semicircle Demo Programs | Side-by-side BASIC programs for the TS2068 and C64 drawing semicircles, producing hand clap sound, and rendering multicolored circles, illustrating differences in graphics and sound capabilities between the two machines. Includes type-in listings for both computers. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Turtle Graphics | Sinclair QL, Type-in program | |
| Two References to Possible QL Keyboard Improvement | Sinclair QL | |
| Tymnet Information Service | Introduction to the free Tymnet online information service as a safe testing ground for beginning modem users. Explains connection procedure (terminal ID ‘A’, login ‘INFORMATION’) and provides a list of local Bay Area Tymnet access numbers for cities including Oakland/Alameda, Belmont, Burlingame, Concord, Fremont, Los Altos, Napa, Pleasanton, and San Francisco. | |
| Unbreakable-Unstoppable Program | Very short TS2068 BASIC listing using ON ERR GO TO that creates a continuously running program immune to BREAK, key presses, and normal interrupts: line 10 sets ON ERR GO TO 20, line 20 prints INKEY$ and loops. Author (unnamed, from ATSU Newsletter, Central Ohio) reports being unable to stop it by any means tried, | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Undocumented Z-80 Instructions | Explains that the Z80 processor supports undocumented 8-bit operations on the IX and IY index registers using the DD and FD prefix bytes. Any standard H or L register instruction preceded by DDh operates on the high/low bytes of IX (XH, XL), and FDh for IY (YH, YL), providing 4 additional 8-bit registers. Lists usable | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Uploading T/S 1000 Programs to the 2068 | Reports on Firstloader (published in SYNTAX magazine Dec. 1983, available on tape from E-Z Key, Quincy MA for $19.95), a program that allows TS1000 BASIC programs to be loaded into the TS2068. Key requirements: very clean tape copies, disconnect the ‘ear’ cable during recording, use high-quality AC-erase tape, position tape past the video sync buzz | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Use of the IN Function: Dual Simultaneous Keypresses on TS2068 | Explains detecting two simultaneous keypresses on the TS2068 using the IN function with specific port addresses. Includes a port address table and an Etch-a-Sketch style BASIC program demonstrating simultaneous joystick/key inputs for on-screen sketching using INVERSE PLOT. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Using a Large Printer with the TS2050 Modem and Aerco Interface | Technique from the T/S Users Group of Cincinnati for redirecting the TS2050 modem’s built-in screen-copy routine (normally calling addresses 54025-54026 for the Timex printer) to instead call the Aerco Interface’s printer driver at address 64628. Requires specific POKEs (54206,252; 64263,0; 64264,0; 64265,0), reloading just the BASIC modem loader while stopping the tape early, entering CLEAR | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Using Time(x) Doing Time, or Time Well Spent | The history of PUG’s prisoner computing aid program, started in 1982 when George Mockridge responded to a letter from a Nevada prisoner who had bought a Sinclair ZX-81. Describes the ongoing correspondence, equipment donations, and how inmates learned BASIC and eventually computerized their prison’s Parole and Probation Office. Includes contact information for donations. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Vector-Based Characters | Sinclair QL, Type-in program | |
| Verifying MScript 5T on A&J Microdrive | Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| View From RAM-Top | ||
| View from Ram-Top | Editorial reflecting on one year as TIMELINEZ editor, describing the organizational upheaval including SincLink’s separation, rejoining, and final re-integration with TIMELINEZ. Announces that American Micro Connection now covers printing costs, resolving financial issues. Solicits Timex-platform articles, noting the current issue is heavy on QL content. | |
| View from Ram-Top — Christmas | Christmas season editorial surveying recent T/S product releases: Pixel Print Professional (DTP with bank-switching, 64-column printing for TS2068), Graphit-1 charting software from Bottle Cap, QL business/financial titles from Emsoft, Meta Media Productions smart terminal for QL, Digital Precision IBM emulator for QL (95% compatibility claimed), and the Cambridge Z88 laptop. Encourages readers to buy hardware | Cambridge Z88, Sinclair QL, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| View from RAMTOP | ||
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| View from the Ramtop | Managing editor’s column discussing the distraction of spring cycling in the California hills, explaining recent newsletter production delays. Notes an ascent to Lick Observatory and upcoming cycling goals, and announces that the next two TimeLinez issues will be bi-monthly to maintain the annual subscription balance. | |
| View from the Ramtop | Brief editorial celebrating TimeLinez’s sixth birthday and introducing the main technical article on TS2068 memory expansion by William J. Pedersen. Notes a change in meeting schedule for the Silicon Valley Users group (now third Wednesday of each month starting in August), and mentions two new BBS systems serving the Bay Area community. | |
| Volunteers Needed: Computer Supermarket Fair | Brief notice calling for Bay Area T/S user group members to staff a booth at the San Mateo Fairgrounds Computer Supermarket Fair (February 25-26) to recruit new members. | |
| VU-Calc for the AERCO Centronics Printer I/F and 80 Column Printers | Techniques and program to drive an 80 column printer. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| VU-Calc for the AERCO Centronics Printer Interface and 80 Column Printers | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program | |
| VU-CALC Printer I/F and 80 Column Printers | Detailed instructions and BASIC program lines for merging with Psion’s VU-CALC spreadsheet to enable printing to an 80-column printer via Tasman Centronics interface on the TS2068. Includes step-by-step MERGE procedure, configuration notes for Star SG-10 and Blue Chip 120/10 printers, and a sample payroll report output. Notes on adapting for 136-column printers and handling VU-CALC | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Vu-File 80 Column Printer Control | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program | |
| Vu-File Special: Selective Printing of Data Fields | Technique for printing only selected Vu-File fields by placing unwanted fields on a single line with the last field containing all spaces (which overwrites the entire line on print). Allows printing mailing labels with name/address only from a file that also contains phone numbers and notes. Includes step-by-step instructions and a mailing label example. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| War in the East | Review of War in the East, the only QL wargame available at the time of writing. Player commands German Wehrmacht units against Soviet computer-controlled forces on an accurate Eastern Europe map. Each side has 30–40 units; turns take approximately 45 minutes. Notes good gameplay for wargamers, save-game feature, and purchase of all four scenarios. | Sinclair QL |
| War in the East — Game Review | Detailed review (rated Excellent) of War in the East, a TS1000/1500 (16K) and TS2068 (32K) strategy wargame simulating the German invasion of Russia from July 1941. Features a map of Central Europe with terrain types, 11 unit types with different strengths and mobility, 30-month game length, seasonal weather effects, and probabilistic combat outcomes. Uses color | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Welcome to the Sinclair Lotto Simulator | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program | |
| West Coast Computer Faire Recap and Sinclair QL Demo | Report on the Bay Area T/S groups at the 18th West Coast Computer Faire: approximately 1,750 brochures distributed, newsletters and TIMELINEZ Guides handed out, 150 people signed mailing list and received free Sunset Electronics catalogs (provided by John Harburton). Notes the QL demonstration and observations on QL Microdrive behavior during the show. | |
| West Coast Computer Faire: Bay Area Groups to Exhibit Free | Announcement that the three Bay Area T/S groups were invited to exhibit free at the 18th West Coast Computer Faire (March 30 – April 2, Moscone Center SF). Describes 10×10 booth, 8 exhibitor badges distributed to members, $4 off coupons available by SASE, and request for members to take booth turns. | |
| Westridge 2050 Modem Operations: A Reference Guide | ||
| WetWare Divisions T/S SIG Telecommunications Server Starter's Manual/Guide | A comprehensive guide to accessing the WetWare Divisions UNIX-based BBS, which hosts a dedicated Timex/Sinclair special interest group. Covers login procedures, terminal emulation settings (VT-52, ANSI, DUMB) for various T/S models, conference navigation commands, essential UNIX commands, and XMODEM file transfer procedures for the TS2068 and TS1500 modems. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Where's the Beef? | ||
| Win A Car! | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program | |
| Winter Doldrums, Rumors Mark Current QL Scene | QL industry report for early 1986: steady trickle of QL sales; CompuServe conference active; Tom Bent (SyncWare News) argues QL superior to Atari ST with comparable investment; Sinclair US reportedly not answering phones; Mark Fendrick hints at improved US distribution deal. Miracle Systems Modaptor with QCODE terminal software enables RS-232 modem use up to 1200 | Sinclair QL |
| Word Sinc I++ Review | Brief review of Word Sinc I++ by Powell Hargrave (Gesang Associates). Notes the full character set and punctuation, 20 special characters, adjustable auto-repeat, fast printer output with automatic right justification, and 16K RAM holding 8,000 characters. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Word Sinc II Review | Letter-review of Word Sinc II by Powell Hargrave (Gesang Associates, Randallstown MD). Reports features including upper/lower case, 42-column display, free-moving cursor with auto-scroll, full menu with search/replace/move/delete, word wrap, and an 8-digit byte counter. Price $15.50 including handling. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| WORM Word Processor Review | Review of WORM, a word processor for TS1000/1500 machines written by Gordon Young and published in T/S Horizons Nos. 5, 6, and 7. Because WORM drops from machine code to BASIC for printing, it easily accommodates any USR or LPRINT CHR$ routines needed for different printers and interfaces. Features include upper/lower case entry, on-screen word | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| WP32 Word Processor Review | Detailed review of the WP32 word processor for the TS2068, written by PUG member Bob Orrfelt and priced at $24.95. The five-component program offers up to 200 lines of text with full-screen editing (deletion, insertion, line copy), screen graphics exhibits, four special character sets (Greek, Spanish, scientific, general symbols), hex peek/poke utilities, and flexible save/load. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Yahtzee for the TS2068 | An adaptation of the Yahtzee dice game for the TS2068, with full BASIC program listing. Features UDG graphics for dice faces, abbreviated game instructions screen, 13-round play, score tracking across upper and lower sections, bonus calculation at 63+ upper points, and auto-save via GOTO 9998. Programming notes explain how to enter the complex UDG graphics. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Your Timex Sinclair 1000 and ZX81 | Timex/Sinclair 1000 | |
| Z88 BBS Announcement | Two-part announcement for the ZED-88 BBS, dedicated exclusively to Cambridge Z88 users and located on the US East Coast (703-968-9433, Northern Virginia). Part 1 previews the BBS with approximately 200 files planned and invites interest gauging before the August 1st official launch. Part 2 confirms the BBS is open in beta test mode with about | Cambridge Z88 |
| Z88 Programs, Tips, and Other Useful Info | Tips and a QL SuperBASIC program for transferring files from the Cambridge Z88 to the Sinclair QL using the Z88 Export menu. The included listing reads ASCII text lines transmitted from the Z88 over a serial connection, handling the Z88 newline convention. Also covers the SKIP procedure for interrupting transfers with ESC. | Cambridge Z88, Sinclair QL, Type-in program |
| Z88 to IBM or TS2068 Cable | Wiring diagram for a homemade RS232 cable connecting the Cambridge Z88 (DB9 male) to an IBM PC (DB25 female), tested with PROCOMM software on the IBM. The cable also works for connecting the Z88 to the TS2068 via a Z-S10 interface (attached to the modem cable end), and for linking the QL SER2 port to | Cambridge Z88, Sinclair QL, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Z88 to QL Connections | Documents a cable or connection method for interfacing the Cambridge Z88 portable computer with the Sinclair QL,. | Cambridge Z88, Sinclair QL |
| Zebra Disc Reborn | Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| Zeus Assembler: TS 2068 Software Review | Review of the Zeus Assembler for the TS2068, distributed by Softsync and originally written by Crystal Computing (UK) for the ZX Spectrum. Covers line-numbered Z80 mnemonics entry, full-screen editor, machine code conversion, and the built-in Mini Monitor for examining and modifying memory. Notes the absence of a BASIC-callable assembler subroutine mode. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| ZX81/TS1000 Tips | Timex/Sinclair 1000 | |
| ZXTalker Review | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
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