ZX Spectrum Next Kickstarter News
The group discussed the launch of the third ZX Spectrum Next Kickstarter campaign on July 19, 2025. One feature generating particular excitement is the Sinclair QL emulation capabilities, which would give people access to QL software with modern conveniences like SD card storage instead of the original microdrives.
There was some discussion about the Spectrum Next’s disk support, particularly how it handles floppy disk images. The “Plus 3” disk capabilities were mentioned, though details remain unclear. Members talked about preservation tools like the Grease Weasel, an FPGA-based device that can read various floppy disk formats via USB and create raw flux images to preserve aging media.
Hardware Maintenance and Repairs
The meeting covered several practical aspects of maintaining vintage Timex Sinclair hardware. There was significant discussion about power supply safety – many original supplies are decades old with aging components that can output unstable voltages. For example, the TS 2068’s power supply can surge from 15V to 19-21V when unloaded, potentially damaging internal components. Members recommended modern switching power supplies as safer alternatives.
Keyboard Troubleshooting
Christian Mann shared shared his experience with a DK Tronics keyboard to build his “Spectrenstein Mk I”. He had problems with several non-functioning keys, indicating matrix connection issues.The group discussed how keyboard matrices work and troubleshooting techniques, recommending basic tools like digital multimeters for diagnosing connection issues. Members shared matrix maps and schematics to help with repairs.
Software Projects and Updates
The TS-Pico ROM code is getting a significant update. The development team is working on fixing a ROM bug that affects printing output, particularly with the LPRINT command that causes garbled printouts.
A highlight was Tim H’s Pico ZX Printer project – a PCB that uses a Raspberry Pi Pico to emulate the Timex Sinclair 2040 printer. It captures pixel data from the computer, reconstructs print images, performs OCR to convert them to text, and even runs a web server so users can view output in a modern browser.
Community Connections
The meeting featured international participation, including members from Mexico and Argentina. Arnulfo Ordaz, from Mexico, shared his story of using TS 2068 and Apple II computers for physics simulations during university.
Vintage Networking Discussion
Long-time users reminisced about connecting Timex Sinclair computers to modems for BBS access and early networking. Popular hardware included the Timex 2050 modem and alternatives like the Byte-Back modem, often used with terminal software like MTerm. Some members mentioned transitioning from local BBS use to UUCP and Usenet systems.
There’s ongoing work to modernize this experience using Wi-Fi-enabled Raspberry Pi Pico devices to emulate modems, potentially allowing vintage machines to connect to contemporary networks.
VCF Midwest Planning
Anticipation continues building for the Vintage Computer Festival Midwest, which promises to be larger than previous years. One interesting feature will be an on-site telephone system allowing attendees to request phone lines at their tables for authentic vintage communication experiences, including BBS connections and demonstrations with classic equipment like a 1930s Stromberg Carlson switchboard.