Misc video improvements

[JohnBuell]

I recently remember seeing a thread that said, essentially, that if you get the right parts and cut a hole in the back of the 600XL, you can basically set it up for the same monitor connector as the 800XL. Is this correct? Are there other options for a 600XL?

 

And what options, if any, exist for the 400? The cord is hardwired, correct? What kind of signal is it sending? It doesn't look as if you can plug it into a standard RCA video jack....

[+orpheuswaking]

Monitor Port for the 600xl is an easy modification (however you HAVE to have the right motherboard, there are a few older rev motherboards that do not have the circuitry built in) If you have the right motherboard it's a Solder by Numbers project, the hardest part is putting in the monitor jack as you may have to ream out a couple holes for the mounting legs of the jack (the holes are there but just too small) and then cutting a neat hole in the rear of the case.

 

Best Electronics has the complete kit in stock (although they have a minimum order limit I think) or if you have a bunch of parts laying about you could try and assemble the needed components yourself.

 

Part number is CB101093 listed on this page

 

http://www.best-elec...a.com/800xl.htm

 

600XL Composite Monitor Modification Kit. Allows you to install a 5 pin Din monitor output jack for composite type monitors. (components & instructions, requires soldering and cutting out of plastic). CB101093 $12.00

 

[edit]

 

Link to my photos of this mod in progress.

 

http://orph.atarinet.com/photos/main.php?g2_itemId=4413

Edited August 19, 2010 by orpheuswaking

[+orpheuswaking]

The 400 is a little more difficult, especially as you need to get hold of a Atari 5200 mod that is no longer made. Basically the only current output in the 400 is RF direct to a TV (so no RCA)

 

The thread on the 400 mod is here

 

http://www.atariage.com/forums/topic/163005-a400-composite-mod

 

I'm sure there are other ways of getting A/V on a 400 but it would take someone who knows what they are doing to come up with a kit, or at least schematics and instructions.