JoyMega3: Mega Drive to MSX Controller Adapter

The JoyMega3 is a hardware adapter designed to interface SEGA Mega Drive (Genesis) 3-button and 6-button controllers with the MSX joystick port.

Technical Specifications

Based on the JoyMega project by Sergio Guerrero Miralles and refined by FRS, this Revision 3 version offers several hardware improvements:

• Logic Chip: Uses the NC7ST04M5X inverter, providing a more compact footprint and lower power consumption compared to the original 74HCT04 design.
• Signal Protection: Features two 1N5711 (or BAT85) Schottky diodes. These protect the MSX hardware against bus contention if pins 6 and 7 are accidentally configured as outputs (e.g., when using PAD(0) in MSX-BASIC).
• Multiplexing: The adapter inverts the TH signal (Pin 8 on MSX) to ensure that the D-pad and primary buttons are active by default.

Functionality

• Standard Mode: Out of the box, the 'B' button acts as Trigger 1 and the 'C' button acts as Trigger 2, maintaining compatibility with standard MSX software.
• Extended Mode: Compatible software can access all buttons (A, B, C, Start, X, Y, Z, and Mode) by toggling Pin 8.
• Compatibility: Works with 3-button and 6-button Mega Drive controllers on any MSX, MSX2, MSX2+, or TurboR system.

Details

• Form Factor: Compact internal PCB design.
• Power: Draws +5V directly from the MSX joystick port.
• Testing: Fully compatible with diagnostic tools such as JoyTest and HID Tester.

Disclaimer: This is a hobbyist hardware project. Use at your own risk.

MSX_SD is an open-source hardware project providing a cost-effective SD card interface for MSX computers via the cartridge slot.

Features

• Simple Hardware: Minimalist design using a small number of standard logic ICs and a microcontroller (like the Raspberry Pi Pico or similar).
• Nextor Compatible: Fully supports the Nextor DOS for SD card storage and file management.
• Easy Assembly: Designed for DIY enthusiasts with a focus on accessibility and low component cost.
• Compact Design: Fits into a standard MSX cartridge shell for a professional look and feel.

Technical Overview

• Interface: Standard MSX Cartridge Slot.
• Storage: MicroSD card support via SPI.
• Driver Support: Includes necessary BIOS/driver files for seamless integration with MSX-DOS.

MSX Spider Flash Cartridge

The simple, cost-effective DIY flash solution for your MSX.

The MSX Spider Flash Cart is a straightforward and reliable PCB designed for enthusiasts who want to run ROM files on original MSX hardware. It is perfect for building a physical game library or testing your own homebrew software.

Key Features

• Broad Compatibility: Supports 8kB, 16kB, 32kB, and 48kB ROM files.
• Simple Operation: Easily flash ROMs using standard CLI tools (like WRTSST.COM).
• Compact Design: High-quality PCB that fits perfectly into standard MSX cartridge cases.
• DIY Friendly: An ideal project for retro gamers and hardware modders.

Classic MSX gaming made easy with this compact DIY flash cartridge.

Single 720Kb Floppy Drive Tower for MSX

The essential upgrade for MSX systems without an internal drive.

This high-quality Floppy Drive Tower is specifically designed to house a 720Kb drive. It is fully optimized for use with the FC4MSX, but also offers seamless compatibility with other popular cartridges such as the DC-600 and MFDC.

Key Features:

• Ideal for Retro Computing: Perfect for MSX users who need a reliable external drive solution.
• Flexible Setup: This build comes ready for your own floppy drive. Alternatively, you can order drives directly from us (subject to availability).
• Complete the Build: We also supply the necessary power cables and floppy data cables to get your system up and running immediately.

Looking for specific drive models or custom cabling? Feel free to reach out!

MSX2014 – Fully Assembled Modular MSX1 Computer

A completely built and tested MSX2014, a unique modular MSX1-compatible computer integrated into the RC2014 ecosystem. This is a "plug and play" set for anyone who wants the modularity of an RC2014 with the soul of an MSX1.

System Configuration (Ready-to-Run):

• MSX2014 PPI Core: Fully assembled v3 PPI module for essential system logic and bank switching.
• 32kB RAM/ROM: Configured with 32kB of RAM and the original MSX BIOS/BASIC ROMs.
• TMS9918A Video Card: Dedicated module providing authentic MSX1 graphics via the original VDP.
• YM2149 Sound & I/O: Complete sound module for 3-channel PSG audio and joystick/peripheral support.
• Cartridge ROM Module: Ready to load and run your favorite MSX ROM software.
• RC2014 Pro Foundation: Housed in a high-quality Backplane Pro, including the Z80 CPU, clock, and reset modules.

Why this set?

• Professionally Built: No soldering required. This system has been carefully assembled and thoroughly tested for stability.
• MSX1 Standard: A faithful hardware recreation, perfect for classic 8-bit gaming and BASIC programming.
• Desktop Eye-Catcher: The modular "open-frame" look of the RC2014 combined with MSX hardware makes this a unique piece for any retro collection.
• Expandable: While ready to use, the modular nature allows you to add or swap RC2014-compatible modules in the future.

Experience the MSX in its most unique, modular form. Built, tested, and ready for action.

The MSX Goa'uld is an advanced FPGA-based upgrade that replaces your MSX's Z80 CPU to transform it into a high-performance MSX2+ system with HDMI output and SD storage.

Features

• Z80 Socket Replacement: Directly replaces the original CPU to upgrade the system architecture from within.
• MSX2+ Evolution: Implements an MSX2+ engine, including expanded VRAM and enhanced graphics capabilities.
• Integrated SD Storage: Built-in SD card support (compatible with Nextor) for easy software loading and storage.
• Modern Video Output: Features HDMI output with optional scanlines for high-quality display on modern monitors.
• Highly Configurable: On-screen menu to toggle the memory mapper, slot configurations, and "Ghost SCC" sound support.

Technical Overview

• Core: Based on the Tang Nano 20K FPGA module.
• Compatibility: Designed to fit into a standard DIP-40 Z80 socket.
• Audio/Video: Provides digital video output and enhanced audio options (SCC support).
• DIY Friendly: Utilizes a mix of through-hole and SMD components for a compact, efficient footprint.

Dual 720Kb Floppy Drive Tower for MSX

The essential upgrade for MSX systems without an internal drive or for effortless disk duplication.

This high-quality Floppy Drive Tower is specifically designed to house two 720Kb drives. It is fully optimized for use with the FC4MSX, but also offers seamless compatibility with other popular cartridges such as the DC-600 and MFDC.

Key Features:

• Ideal for Retro Computing: Perfect for MSX users who need a reliable external drive solution or a dedicated setup for copying diskettes.
• Flexible Setup: This build comes ready for your own floppy drives. Alternatively, you can order drives directly from us (subject to availability).
• Complete the Build: We also supply the necessary power cables and floppy data cables to get your system up and running immediately.

Looking for specific drive models or custom cabling? Feel free to reach out!