[N8VEM: 20032] Re: N8-2312

[Wayne Warthen]

Hi Jeff,

OK, well, maybe "capable" is not the best choice of words.

The N8 is a little more authentic in that everything is based on
technologies of the realm. The video is based on a true graphics chip
typical of the day. The IDE interface is good for connection to a real
hard disk.

The Zeta2 uses the ParPortProp secondary board to provide a lot of
functions. The video is suitable for direct connection to a VGA compatible
monitor whereas the N8 requires NTSC. As such, the Zeta2 has clear 80
column text, but the N8 has just 40 columns. The keyboard interface on the
N8 is, well, a little creative. It works, but will lose characters if the
system is busy doing other stuff. The Zeta2 supports direct insertion of
an SD card for hard disk style storage, but as you mention, there is no IDE
interface.

Many builders find it easiest to use SD cards to transfer data. Probably
easier than an IDE drive because an SD card is so easy to move between
systems. You will still need to use a tool on the PC side to add/remove
files from either an SD card or IDE drive because of the CP/M file system

Both the N8 and the Zeta2 provide very complete systems. They just take
different approaches. Most people seem to find the Zeta2 to be a little
easier to construct, but not sure if everyone would agree.

Thanks,

Wayne

No worries! Work has to come before play!
"...the Zeta2 is quite a bit more capable than the N8 due to the use of a
Propeller processor on the ParPortProp."
How is it "more capable"?
If I'm reading all the info correctly, the "Zeta2/ParPortProp" combination
doesn't come with an IDE port (N8 does have one), but the ParPortProp board
does have PPIDE (whatever that is).
I'm looking for a system that I can just plug an IDE drive into, format
it, and transfer the system.
Regards,
Jeff