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I've designed a new circuit for controlling MSSIAH, Cynthcart, and other C64 software using potentiometers.

This circuit features sub-miniature trim-pots for calibrating the range of the knobs' rotations. No longer are dead-zones a problem when using pot control - this new circuit allows the full range of the pots to be utilised. The controls may be calibrated using MSSIAH's Diagnostics page, and once set, can be left alone.

I have also fixed the issue of pot tapering. This is the effect of the pots moving the on-screen pointers at different speeds, depending on how far the knobs are turned. This new circuit has a reverse logarithmic behaviour that approximates how the C64 operates closely.

Note that the circuit must be doubled to allow four pots to be used, with two pots on each of the Commodore 64 joystick ports.

I have constructed the circuit, twice, on a piece of stripboard measuring 2"x2". The mod may be housed inside a C64 along with case-mounted pots, or, as I have done, in an external controller box which connects to the joystick ports. All the parts are standard and can be obtained cheaply.

VR1 and VR2 are the main pots, while VR3 and VR4 are the respective trim-pots for calibration.

I would very much like C64 users to try this out. If you decide to assemble this new improved circuit, please post your results here. Thanks.

Oh, and it works with Cynthcart, Prophet64 and any other C64 software which uses pot/paddle control.

I've decided to sell one of my Atari 2600 Synthcart sets.

This lot comprises of an Atari 6-switch 2600 VCS console, two Video Touch Pad controllers, PSU, RF cable and a brand new copy of Synthcart with manual.

The VCS console was assembled by me from three different woodgrain colour consoles in various conditions. The best board, the best switches, the best chips, all were carefully selected. This is a fine example, with no visible scratches, marks, or corrosion. The condition is reflected in the price.

The console has been modified with a rear 1/4 inch audio output for a lovely clear sound with loads of ooomph. The Synthcart really can sound pretty brutal when needed to.

Another modification is a detachable RF cable. The original VCSs (of which this is one) had the RF cable fixed to the console, which can be awkward, especially as Synthcart can be played without using a screen. The console I am selling has a gold plated phono socket at the rear for RF connection. Cable supplied.

The controllers are brand new old stock, taken from copies of the Star Raiders game that I have bought up. They look a little grimy in the photos, but that is a trick of the light. They are nice and shiny-new.

The PSU is a modern type, manufactured by Sony.

This bundle is all ready to be plugged in to the RF socket of a TV, a mixer, PA or what-have-you, and will be good to go. It looks, and sounds, superb.

Please note that this for the PAL TV standard.

Price: £80 exc. delivery (or collection from Somerset, United Kingdom).

More on Synthcart including MP3s here:

http://www.qotile.net/synth.html

Here are some photographs. TV not included. Click the pics for a larger view. I can supply more photos if needed.