Hard Drives for 8-Bit Computers

There is an idea to adapt popular AT-bus hard drives for use with 8-bit computers (starting with Z80 systems).

Connecting the disk drive itself, however, is not enough. For comfortable operation, extra RAM is needed (a 256 KB SIMM would be the cheapest option), as well as ROM (I doubt anyone intends to boot the disk from tape). Naturally, a suitably powerful power supply and a case will also be needed. That covers the hardware.

An operating system is needed too. For now, the options being considered are CP/M 2.2 (Z80 DOS, ZCPR1), CP/M 3.x, and MSX DOS (does anyone have another idea?).

Without the SIMM and the hard drive, the price will be about 100 zł. A SIMM costs between 15 and 30 zł, while a hard drive costs 50–100 zł (40 MB).

Anyone interested, please get in touch by post (include a stamped, self-addressed envelope) or by telephone. If no envelope and stamp are included, a general reply will appear in the next issue of ZX LAND.

Grzegorz Adamski
ul. Sobieskiego 10a/5
99-200 Poddębice
tel. (0-43) 78-28-92

GOFER