Parallel Interface for the Clone

[MajorClements]

Could a Parallel interface be created for the clone using traditional Shift Register ICs? I understand that the serial port bit rate is software limited to 9600, but since the clone can kick up to 115,520 could the firmware be updated to support such a feat? (perhaps even higher than the 115k?) Honestly, from a Computer Engineering perspective, I don't see why it cannot be done, unless I am missing something in my way of thinking.

BTW, I began restoration work of my 8800 Clone, I have to say, Solder Flux makes a tremendous difference!

[Wayne Parham]

I began restoration work of my 8800 Clone, I have to say, Solder Flux makes a tremendous difference!

True that!

Could a Parallel interface be created for the clone using traditional Shift Register ICs? I understand that the serial port bit rate is software limited to 9600, but since the clone can kick up to 115,520 could the firmware be updated to support such a feat? (perhaps even higher than the 115k?) Honestly, from a Computer Engineering perspective, I don't see why it cannot be done, unless I am missing something in my way of thinking.

Sure, you can easily make a serial-to-parallel converter. I personally like using the old AY-5-1013 chip for that purpose. They're just so easy to use, and you can still get 'em.

Back in the 1970s, I made a handshaking converter based on that chip. It converted XON/XOFF handshaking to DTR/DSR (or RTS/CTS) for devices that could only support one or the other. The circuit gated the chips parallel output to "watch" for XON and XOFF, and asserted the hardware handshaking line accordingly.