ZX Spectrum +2 vs +2A: Differences and Reader Questions

ZX Answers and Contacts

Starting with this issue, the editorial team is introducing a new section, ZX Answers and Contacts. The idea is for you, our readers, to get in touch with one another and help each other solve problems of any kind. ZX Revija has received the following question:

What are the differences between the Spectrum 128K/+2 and 128K/+2A?

Answer

• The main difference is that the +2A has the system board from the +3, but without the disk controller, since the +2 has a built-in cassette recorder.
• The Spectrum 128K/+2A is black, not grey like the +2.
• A parallel printer port was added, but the signals on the 56-pin expansion port were not changed. This caused problems for manufacturers and users of interfaces for DUGU. MTG sells an accessory that solves the compatibility problem for £7.95. It comes in a small box containing a little electronics and a special connector. The problem has thus been fixed, but not forgotten.
• The keyboard errors are the same as on the +2 (Caps Shift+M or N gives a lowercase letter). And since they were already making a new microcomputer, they could have used the simpler solution: Caps Lock.
• Beta Basic 4 does not work on the new machine.
• The new +2A also uses memory pages differently from the +2 and creates a different, smaller RAM disk.

Those are basically the differences between the +2 and +2A. The editorial team’s conclusion is that you should run from the +2A like the devil from the cross. The editors hope that Miodrag Stančević from Belgrade will be satisfied with this answer.

Here are some questions from Brada Jožef of Čantavir:

1. My computer works correctly, but when I connect an interface to the edge connector, or connect an empty edge connector to the connector on my computer, a black square appears and I cannot continue working—the computer freezes. Please help me find the problem. The printed circuit board in my computer is from the 4B series (ISSUE 4B).
2. I am looking for the program TASWORD 3.
3. I am looking for manuals (original or photocopies) for the following user programs:
   • C-Compiler
   • The domestic word processor EVE

You can send the requested manuals, programs, help, information, and advice for Brada Jožef to the following address:

Brada Jožef
Bajmočka 18
24220 Čantavir

Or send them to the editorial office.