New Osborne owner questions

[Iwantgames:)]

So I just acquired a Osborne 1 and got it cleaned up and working. Unfortunately the only disks I have are productivity applications and this computer does not have the double density upgrade. I can't find single density disks with games anywhere only double density on eBay

so my question is how can I get some games onto single density disks the Osborne 1 can read?

[Turbo-Torch]

I'd love to find one of those...one of the coolest computers ever made.

 

Did it come with a communications program?  If so, use a null modem to download programs from your PC. 

I often do that with my Model III.  I download anything I want for the III off the internet to my PC.  I use DOSBOX to run Telix (what I used to call BBSs with back in the 80s) in host mode.  I attach the III to my PC with the null modem cable and use my favorite comm program on the III.  It's just like calling a BBS with my III and the PC being the BBS.  If your current PC doesn't have an RS232 port, you can buy a USB to RS232 adapter...pretty cheap and Best Buy stocks them.

 

I'd also look into the DD upgrade.  I have no idea what it involves but the people on vcfed.org should be able to help.

[Iwantgames:)]

I got a line on a partially working double density system so hopefully I can use parts from it to make mine DD

[Iwantgames:)]

Well I got the other Osborne and after taking it apart, cleaning and relubricating the drives have got it working! Now I have both a single density and a double density working  just need to repair the ddouble's keyboard (missing keycap and worn out clips)

[Iwantgames:)]

Bought my 3rd Osborne (I've gone Osborne crazy lol) just to get this Drive C RAMdisk

[Iwantgames:)]

Added a original Osborne monitor. Almost 40yrs and still working flawlessly. Wonder if a modern flat screen could last that long lol.

[Iwantgames:)]

I tried 80col mode on the external monitor and nope it needs a adapter which will probably be near impossible to find. If anyone knows where I might find a schematic for the adapter so I could build my own, let me know so far I haven't had any luck finding info on it

[carlsson]

Hm, I'm getting a strong deja vu feeling about this. Didn't someone else ask about external monitor on the Osborne before?

 

Perhaps you'll find something here:

 

Edited September 10, 2019 by carlsson

[Iwantgames:)]

That definitely helps, thank you! Now I just need to figure out where they are hooking the composite wire up to on there. I know one wire goes to ground, I would assume the other is replacing video out but not 100%?

 

It's this little adapter between the system and the monitor cable that I need to create.

Edited September 10, 2019 by Iwantgames:)