Re: Woz GS differences

[dempson@actrix.gen.nz (David Empson)]

Shawn T Beattie <mustb5@uxa.ecn.bgu.edu> wrote:

> dempson@actrix.gen.nz (David Empson) writes:
> 
> >There is no point using a IIe power supply in a real IIgs case, because
> >there is nowhere to mount it.  The IIgs power supply sits above the
> >motherboard, while the IIe one sits alongside the motherboard (and is
> >screwed onto the case).
> 
> Any ideas why Apple would use a different power supply connector for the
> IIGS than they did for the //e and ][+?

Good question.  No idea, except that the IIgs one is a standard
connector (probably cheaper) and is a more convenient shape.

> Interesting...they dropped the keyboard and power supply connectors (what
> about the numeric keypad connector?)

No numeric keypad connector either.

> but kept the //e game I/O connector?

The IIe has _two_ game connectors (DB-9 on the back, DIL-16 internal).
I assume you are referring to the internal 16-pin connector (the
original one from the ][ and ][+)?

There is a very good reason for retaining it: it provides several
signals which are not available on the external DB-9.  In particular,
the four annunciator outputs.  The IIgs also has a fourth switch input
which is only available on the internal connector (this pin is unused in
the ][, ][+ and IIe).  The ][, ][+ and IIe also provide a strobe output,
which is not available on the IIgs.

-- 
David Empson
dempson@actrix.gen.nz
Snail Mail: P.O. Box 27-103, Wellington, New Zealand