Overview
The Aquarius MX system expander brings USB compatibility to the Aquarius Computer along with a 32K RAM expansion, and features all the functionality of Bruce Abbott's Micro Expander in an easy-to-build solution that fits the footprint of the Mini Expander.
Features
- USB Drive Port - Reads and writes to USB drive, for quick access to games and programs
- 32k RAM - Removes the need for a separate RAM expansion cartridge
- Cartridge ROM Loading - Quick loading/running of legacy Aquarius ROM cartridges through USB
- AY-3-8910 Sound Chip - Three voice PSG (Programmable Sound Generator) with Control Pad IO
- AY-3-8913 Sound Chip - Support for optional second PSG (Programmable Sound Generator) for a total of six voices
- Real Time Clock - Support for optional Dallas DS1244Y Real Time Clock chip for TimeDate functions
- PT3 Music Player - Built-in retro music player
- Aquarius Control Pad Inputs - Standard DB9 connectors for attaching Aquarius Control Pads (internal header also available)
- USB BASIC - Enhanced commands for USB and IO devices to improve your BASIC programs
- Classic Design - Matches original Aquarius design aesthetic, in a device the same size as the Mini Expander: 210mm x 120mm x 55mm / 8.5" x 4.75" x 2.125"
- Easy to Build - Using standard through-hole components, this is an easy-to-make project for those who like to tinker in electronics
- Open Source - All components of this project are open source: make or modify them to your heart's content
- Expandable - System expansion port available for future add-ons
Status Updates
- 16 MAY 2023 - Alpha Testing in process. Version 1-6-0a of PCB available, supporting new ROM/CART and RTC reset options; AQ_MX_RRU.JED incremented to 1.2 to support reset behavior updates. ROM v1.3 development upgraded to v2.0 due to large list of features and updates.
- 01 MAY 2023 - Version 1-5-0a of PCB available, supporting RTC integration.
- 02 FEB 2023 - Published version 1-4-0c of the PCB which fixes a missing mounting hole for Controller B when using a metal DB9 port. If you ordered a 1-4-0b version, the hole can be drilled out at 1/8" / 3.25mm.
- 21 JAN 2023 - Published version 1-4-0b of the PCB. Allows use of either Type A or Type B CH376S USB interface boards, and allows use of less expensive metal DB9 connectors.
- 07 NOV 2022 - Created PDF form template for bottom label.
- 26 SEP 2022 - Released YouTube video on intro to USB BASIC programming. Added source files and tools from the videos into the src/usb-basic folder.
- 21 SEP 2022 - v1.2 of MX ROM released to fix LOAD into array bug, and added "smart" load of SCR files into Screen RAM; AquaLite 1.32 released with the v1.2 MX ROM included, fixes SAVE issues, and can now be used to develop MX-dependent games & software.
- 15 SEP 2022 - Four YouTube videos on the Aquarius MX are posted; see links in docs folder.
- 09 SEP 2022 - Testing complete. All components are cleared for production and sale.
- 29 AUG 2022 - Signature Version (prebuilt) serial number 0001-SPH available for purchase on eBay (SOLD, 9/5/2022).
- 28 AUG 2022 - Prototypes shipped to testers. ROM incremented to v1.1 (replaced KILL command with DEL).
- 24 AUG 2022 - Most files have been uploaded and are actively being updated directly to the Repo.
- 23 AUG 2022 - Vendors identified in USA and UK to supply components.
- 21 AUG 2022 - First prototype completed and tested locally. Others will be built and sent to designated testers through the end of AUGUST 2022.
- 16 AUG 2022 - GitHub repository site created.
Build Process
- Acquire the components - Click for Bill of Materials
- Program the ROM and Logic Chips - Watch the YouTube video
- Assemble the PCB - Watch the YouTube video
- Enclose components in the case - Watch the YouTube video
- Format and configure USB drive
GitHub Folder Structure
- case - components to make the 3D printed enclosure
- docs - system documentation, including schematics, board layout, and logo files
- img - image files used on this site
- pcb - files for making or modifying the PCB
- software - files for creating or updating the software used to run or control the Aquarius MX
- src - files for programming in USB BASIC, or modifying ROM and GAL logic chips
