Want a VGA compatible 8 bit

[ryoder]

I have a ColecoVision with F18A and an Amiga with a Indivision ECS. I now want an eight bit Atari with VGA. Is there one I can buy already outfitted?

[barnieg]

It would be worth considering a MiST FPGA computer running the Atari 8-bit core, it works well and has VGA as standard. I'm just going through a reorg of my set-up and will be testing the updated core as soon as I can

 

Barnie

[ryoder]

I'd like it in a nostalgic 800 case.

[Rybags]

VBXE can do VGA. It might have changed but with a 14 MHz crystal a VGA only core is available, with a 28 MHz crystal a VGA core with VBXE functions is available.

The needed 28 MHz crystals aren't real common, though some Amiga models use them.

[ryoder]

I don't get it. Can I get an Atari with vbxe and plug it into a modern lcd monitor? Or does it require 15khz?

[Rybags]

The stock VBXE install requires 16 KHz RGB as used by Amiga, ST and few others.

 

The VGA modified VBXE is aimed at modern VGA monitors. Not sure how the PAL version goes though as 50 Hz representation on many modern monitors is poor or not possible.

[flashjazzcat]

The VGA core is deprecated and ousted all the extra graphical features. You'd probably be better off using a scan doubler on the 15KHz VBXE output.

[Frankie]

After trying many different solutions, I found this to be the best scan doubler for the price - $30 https://www.amazon.com/HD-Converter-GBS-8200-Converts-systems-monitors/dp/B00F1YQIVK/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=atariage&linkId=23ea7f69aac25ea19d2cd05315bdebe0

It's not in a case, but I just stuck it on the back of the lcd with some velcro.

[flashjazzcat]

I can vouch for that one. I once cased one up for someone and it looked good. DB9 15KHz input on one side and DB15 out on the other, so the same video cable hooks up to the scan doubler or 1084S.

[Rybags]

How does 50 Hz video go on modern LCD monitors though? I'd consider getting one of these if there's a good chance it'd work... I threw out the 1084 I had that blew it's flyback circuit, and don't plan on replacing the one I've got if it dies too.

[+Eyvind Bernhardsen]

How does 50 Hz video go on modern LCD monitors though? I'd consider getting one of these if there's a good chance it'd work... I threw out the 1084 I had that blew it's flyback circuit, and don't plan on replacing the one I've got if it dies too.

 

It's hit and miss. My projector (a fairly old Panasonic) handles 50Hz VGA just fine, while my 17" Eizo flat panel (even older) shows a perfect image for a second but then helpfully overlays a "SIGNAL OUT OF SPEC" panel, making it useless.

[Mclaneinc]

The straightforward answer is that there isn't an out of the box ready to go Atari with that ability, as others have said it would need a combination of separate components in addition to the Atari and if you went the VBXE route it requires a semi complex installation so some decent soldering and basic electronics would be a real help.

 

What you want has been a long term quest on here with some great successes from our hardware modding members, the quest for the best Atari video output is on going

[ryoder]

Looking forward to it. I refuse to play old systems on my LCD with poor results. The Indivision ECS for the Amiga is awesome. The F18A for ColecoVision is also superb and worth every penny. I have scart to HDMI for my N64 and Genesis and even that is not good enough. Looking forward to having all my retro consoles and computers able to output VGA or HDMI.

[pixelmischief]

When it comes to VGA from the 8-Bit, there are two strategies, I think.

 

Option 1: if the machine in question has S-Video, an S-Video cable into an S-Video to VGA (or HDMI) is actually an excellent, inexpensive, and uncomplicated option. Add an SLG-1000 scanline generator to the pipeline and the result is nothing less than fabulous. Composite is also an option along these lines, but the quality goes WAY down.

 

Option 2: Get the VBXE. As others have said, don't be enamored by the VGA core. In the immortal words of Admiral Ackbar, "It's a trap!" Instead, get your VBXE terminated to an HD15 port. If you choose this route, you will have essentially the same video signal that comes from the ST; true RGB at 15kHz. Jump over to those forums and search. You will find an dizzying number and variety of options.

Edited August 27, 2016 by pixelmischief

[ryoder]

I have an STE with the Best cable and a NEC Multisync that syncs to 15khz. That's cool. But there are jail bars. So not so perfect. Maybe I can deal for now but I really want an XEGS with wireless game pad and VGA so I can play in the living room.

[Dmitry]

My Atari 800XL has VBXE going to hd15 port. My NEC Multisync 1550M works great with 15khz signal if it's coming from a Tandy Color Computer 3 or Amiga.

Same monitor can't handle the VBXE signal.

 

For the 800XL, I use a scan doubler, and at the moment generic VGA monitor. But I've got a Dell UltraSharp 2001FP on order.

It's well known to sync to 15khz and work with Amiga and Atari ST.

 

The Amiga and ST folks keep lists of monitors that can work without scan doubler.

 

I've never seen a post or list where anyone has confirmed a flat panel vga monitor as working with VBXE without scan doubler.

 

However I've seen two youtube videos where it appears someone has done just that - if anyone here can confirm their VGA flat panel can sync to 15khz and works with a VBXE without scan doubler - please, please please share the model that you are using! thanks

 

I'll let you all know if the dell works....should know next week.

 

I also tried a Planar PL1700-BK which is also known to work with Amiga....unfortunately mine appears to be non-working in general.

Happens a little too often with e-bay....

Edited August 28, 2016 by Dmitry

[flashjazzcat]

My LG M1921A has a VGA port which will sync down to 15KHz. However, it also has a SCART input so I hook the VBXE up to that.

[Kavik]

I'm in the same boat and looking for the optimal solution for 8-bit output to an LCD monitor or TV (either VGA or HDMI).

 

When it comes to VGA from the 8-Bit, there are two strategies, I think.

 

Option 1: if the machine in question has S-Video, an S-Video cable into an S-Video to VGA (or HDMI) is actually an excellent, inexpensive, and uncomplicated option. Add an SLG-1000 scanline generator to the pipeline and the result is nothing less than fabulous. Composite is also an option along these lines, but the quality goes WAY down.

 

Option 2: Get the VBXE. As others have said, don't be enamored by the VGA core. In the immortal words of Admiral Ackbar, "It's a trap!" Instead, get your VBXE terminated to an HD15 port. If you choose this route, you will have essentially the same video signal that comes from the ST; true RGB at 15kHz. Jump over to those forums and search. You will find an dizzying number and variety of options.

 

In your opinion, how good is the VBXE route vs. a S-Video solution for VGA or HDMI?

 

Any thoughts on the best current U.S./non-SCART monitor offering (produced in the last few years) that can display a native RGB signal?

 

[Dmitry]

My LG M1921A has a VGA port which will sync down to 15KHz. However, it also has a SCART input so I hook the VBXE up to that.

 

 

That particular monitor isn't for sale on U.S. e-bay.

 

However, they do have monitors with SCART, like this one:

 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/SAMSUNG-19-LCD-TV-COMPUTER-MONITOR-SYNCMASTER-910MP-/322239041299?hash=item4b06f18f13:g:~EsAAOSwENxXlikY

 

claims to have 7 of them..... getting a list of monitors together would be great, so people can pick up a cheap flat panel without needing to buy a scan doubler.

 

If my dell doesn't work out, I'll try the samsung...if nothing else I could use it with scart.

[Beetle]

I'd suggest to risk a look at the Framemeister mini...

 

Here is a video describing it on YouTube.

 

 

 

Sure, its not really inexpensive....

[Bikerbob]

I have an STE with the Best cable and a NEC Multisync that syncs to 15khz. That's cool. But there are jail bars. So not so perfect. Maybe I can deal for now but I really want an XEGS with wireless game pad and VGA so I can play in the living room.

 

Just a question.. have you looked at the thread of the UAV? This one takes the 8-bits to S-video output and the results have been exceptional. Many TV/Monitors (TVs with VGA input) will also have S-video and that way you could use one monitor with multi inputs to display all your retro platforms.

 

I am waiting on the new batch myself - I will be ordering 4 of them for all of my 8-bits.. this is the best result/price out there in my opinion, I was extremely impressed with how well it cleaned up the output.

 

James

[morelenmir]

The straightforward answer is that there isn't an out of the box ready to go Atari with that ability, as others have said it would need a combination of separate components in addition to the Atari and if you went the VBXE route it requires a semi complex installation so some decent soldering and basic electronics would be a real help.

 

What you want has been a long term quest on here with some great successes from our hardware modding members, the quest for the best Atari video output is on going

 

You beat me to it paul!

 

However its odd and I don't say it with some kind of butch techno-macismo, but I genuinely find the VBXE easier to fit than even the Lotharek-stereo - especially if you are adding it to an XE system. There is plenty of room inside the latter case and almost all of the patches go to one chip. You might encounter sync issues, you might encounter patterning depending on the quality of the display you use - but the core mod itself is rock solid and the new ones don't need any crystals adding.

 

The VBXE is a fantastic upgrade and if it were only cheaper I would say essential for modern A8's - perhaps more so for the general user than even the Ultimate1MB as it can perform the functions of a RAMBO 256 memory upgrade as well.

[ryoder]

 

Just a question.. have you looked at the thread of the UAV? This one takes the 8-bits to S-video output and the results have been exceptional. Many TV/Monitors (TVs with VGA input) will also have S-video and that way you could use one monitor with multi inputs to display all your retro platforms.

 

I am waiting on the new batch myself - I will be ordering 4 of them for all of my 8-bits.. this is the best result/price out there in my opinion, I was extremely impressed with how well it cleaned up the output.

 

James

I only have one tv with vs video. I think VGA is the future old school interface that will be supported for the next twenty years so I want to stick with that.

[Beetle]

I now want an eight bit Atari with VGA. Is there one I can buy already outfitted?

So, to answer your initial question: No.

 

you will either have to

• Buy an SVideo/Composite to VGA upscaler
• use Emulation (Raspberry Pi or MiST or PC)
• get a TV with SVideo or Composite inputs.

The main difference is that A8 uses 15kHz and VGA is 31kHz scan frequency - you have to convert somehow, if you persist on VGA.

[bbking67]

Personally I think it would be super-cool to have HDMI output on the Atari--sound and all. I already have a good scan doubler (I have a couple of DVDO iScans which work well, and a few others including the popular arcade RGB converter)... but having HDMI would be sublime. Either that or DVI-D output with a separate audio jack.

 

Personally I'm not a fan of the VBXE upgrade--I'd prefer stock... but super sharp and compatible with all modern computer monitors and TVs.

Edited August 31, 2016 by bbking67