As we await samples of the new v4 Retro-Printer module, we thought that we would share the details of the new version.
It is based on the v3 Retro-Printer module, but also features the following:
Correction of the all-important manufacturing fault on the v3 which resulted in the reversal of pins 19-36 on the Centronics connector
Change to the on-board chips and addition of diode to the +3.3V GPIO pin to allow the v4 module to work with the amended power scheme on the Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ (and any later models)
+5V on Pin 18
Jumpers to allow you to disable the +5V on each of pins 13, 18 and 32
This should help to improve the range of equipment which the Retro-Printer module can be used with.
After many months of development and testing, the v4 Retro-Printer module is getting nearer.
We have now changed to using the LVC versions of some chips, as these help to catch the leading edge of signals.
It works with the Raspberry Pi 3B+, although for some unknown reason when connected to the latest Raspberry Pi 4, although everything starts up, no data is captured, so we are investigating this now.
We have done some more testing on the v4 Retro-Printer module this month.
Still working nicely with the Pi 3B+ (having found a damaged GPIO connector), we have also managed to get it working on the latest Raspberry Pi 4 (it needs a 3.5A power supply however, rather than the 2A) and we had to update the WiringPi module.
It is just a shame that Raspberry.org decided to reverse the layout on the Pi4 so it cannot be used with our existing case!
RWAP wrote: ↑Mon Apr 29, 2019 7:44 pm
As we await samples of the new v4 Retro-Printer module, we thought that we would share the details of the new version.
It is based on the v3 Retro-Printer module, but also features the following:
Correction of the all-important manufacturing fault on the v3 which resulted in the reversal of pins 19-36 on the Centronics connector
Change to the on-board chips and addition of diode to the +3.3V GPIO pin to allow the v4 module to work with the amended power scheme on the Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ (and any later models)
+5V on Pin 18
Jumpers to allow you to disable the +5V on each of pins 13, 18 and 32
This should help to improve the range of equipment which the Retro-Printer module can be used with.
I notice on the web-site it mentions addition of pull-up resistors on the 'data control' lines.
Can I assume this means 4K7 Resistors on Strobe and Data0..Data7?
The reason I'm asking is that I'm planning to do as many mods as I can to the V3 board I have so just checking
anightin wrote: ↑Tue Nov 10, 2020 9:09 pm
I notice on the web-site it mentions addition of pull-up resistors on the 'data control' lines.
Can I assume this means 4K7 Resistors on Strobe and Data0..Data7?
The reason I'm asking is that I'm planning to do as many mods as I can to the V3 board I have so just checking
Yes, that is correct - if you look at the picture at https://www.retroprinter.com/v4-retro-printer-module/ you can see the bank of 9 pull up resistors - the idea was to ensure we do not get any false signals from the data lines (we have found this can happen for example if you connect the Retro-Printer before turning on a Sinclair QL).
The v4 Retro-Printer is now on order - with delivery to us due in September (all things willing).
The v4 will be at the full price of £85 inc VAT (with case). The v3 will remain available for those on a budget, or just wanting something to test with specific equipment / development ideas
