Got an atari st, want to see what my options are

[Brave Dave]

Hey guys I just got an atari st-f model and when I opened the Box I found a beautiful computer. Just one problem, this model has no rf output so you can only use it with the specified atari monitor. So my options now are find a monitor or get it to someone that can use it. In case any one is interested it is Like new in the original box with the styrofoam and covered in plastic. Also has inserts, leather cover and when I got it came with a box full of floppies. The thing is I have no way of testing it or any of the floppies but it does look brand new.

[The_Laird]

You don't say what country you are in?

 

I am pretty sure you can buy TV modulators for them.

[Brave Dave]

I'm in the us,

[carmel_andrews]

unfortunately rf mod's are pretty rare in the US, you'll have to pay through the nose to get one

Edited September 1, 2010 by carmel_andrews

[+orpheuswaking]

As far as I recall if the RF modulator is not on board you are limited to analog RGB monitors that sync down to 15hz (I know some people who use the commodore 1084s) just a matter of making a cable...

 

Someone more capable than me will be able to chime in and advise if you can get composite out on the ST-f models (which will give you more options)

[+remowilliams]

As far as I recall if the RF modulator is not on board you are limited to analog RGB monitors that sync down to 15hz (I know some people who use the commodore 1084s) just a matter of making a cable...

 

That is correct. Another route is a SCART RGB cable to a SCART RGB/component video converter, which will allow connections to much more modern component input TVs/monitors. Though component is also a legacy connector.

 

 

Someone more capable than me will be able to chime in and advise if you can get composite out on the ST-f models (which will give you more options)

 

If there is no RF modulator onboard the ST, then composite video will not be available at the 15 pin monitor port.

[+DarkLord]

You can do what you want, but in the end, for the best picture and that

true "retro" feel, do yourself a favor and get a good used SC1224.

[oky2000]

That must be the original 1040STF that was launched around the time of the 520STM and before the STFMs then? Wow that's pretty old machine actually. Would probably have had it off you if you were more local to me here in the UK

 

I'm sure a SCART lead and some simple cable adaptor will allow it to work on any modern LCD/Plasma TV though.

[Brave Dave]

I tried looking on eBay and nothing seems to match any of the ports on the back, can anyone show me what the correct scart would look like?

[oky2000]

I tried looking on eBay and nothing seems to match any of the ports on the back, can anyone show me what the correct scart would look like?

 

One end of the cable goes into the 13pin DIN monitor socket, other looks like a standard SCART euro connector.

[Brave Dave]

Anyone have one of these cables?

[Shredder11]

Enter this auction number into the main Ebay search box:

 

250650775033

 

Edited September 8, 2010 by Shredder11

[OldAtarian]

Enter this auction number into the main Ebay search box:

 

250650775033

 

 

 

Hmmm...I'm going to try an experiment. Will report back with results as soon as the parts get here.

Edited September 25, 2010 by OldAtarian

[+wood_jl]

You can do what you want, but in the end, for the best picture and that

true "retro" feel, do yourself a favor and get a good used SC1224.

 

 

I'm going to have to agree with the above, wholeheartedly. The composite/RF thing sounds good in theory, but in practice it sucks an egg. There is **NOTHING** like the crispness of an Atari SC1224 monitor.

 

If the ST could be coaxed into S-video or component video, then there might be a chance. As I am one of the less-technical people here (I don't know jack-shit), I wonder as to the feasibility of such a connection. Technical-types, please chime in. Until then, get an SC1224.

[OldAtarian]

You can do what you want, but in the end, for the best picture and that

true "retro" feel, do yourself a favor and get a good used SC1224.

 

 

I'm going to have to agree with the above, wholeheartedly. The composite/RF thing sounds good in theory, but in practice it sucks an egg. There is **NOTHING** like the crispness of an Atari SC1224 monitor.

 

If the ST could be coaxed into S-video or component video, then there might be a chance. As I am one of the less-technical people here (I don't know jack-shit), I wonder as to the feasibility of such a connection. Technical-types, please chime in. Until then, get an SC1224.

 

While the Atari monitors are still somewhat readily available, it's not really a good option unless you have money to waste. Shipping is probably going to be in the $50+ range and that puts almost any price way over what they are actually worth. Those guys selling them for $200 on ebay are on crack. You'd need to be able to find one locally.

[phaxda]

Let us know where you are located. If it happens to be in Northern CA, you're in luck.