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Sinclair QL - wanted one since 1984

Posted: 08 Jun 2022 18:49
by PhilC
I always fancied a Sinclair QL back in 1984 I think when the adverts appeared but never got round to having one until now that it.

It’s a bit grubby and has a couple of keys missing and no PSU and no idea if it’ll even work.

70BA75EB-5402-4EB9-8B81-974966BFAC00.jpeg

I do know they need 9v DC and also 15VAC? Does anyone know if I can get it to boot with just the 9VDC? Guess I’ll find out shortly :D

Re: Sinclair QL - wanted one since 1984

Posted: 08 Jun 2022 19:27
by stephen_usher
Looking at the schematic, it should be safe.

The Microdrives won't run. I can't see +9V, +12V or -12V going to any of the main chips.

http://www.sinclairql.net/srv/qlsm1.html

Re: Sinclair QL - wanted one since 1984

Posted: 08 Jun 2022 19:36
by Icky
Welcome to the 68008 club @PhilC

Re: Sinclair QL - wanted one since 1984

Posted: 08 Jun 2022 19:50
by PhilC
Thanks for the info @stephen_usher. I’ve done a bit of Googling and it looks like you need +12v for the video circuit? And as you say -12v for the micro drives.

I’m not too worried about this QL looking standard, so I’m going to see if I can make up a new PSU or maybe get a meanwell one that’ll do the +9, +12 and -12v required.

Can anyone spot a slight issue with the keyboard membrane? Nothing some scissors won’t cure.

B96C6530-5A52-4529-AD65-5E28116793D6.jpeg

Re: Sinclair QL - wanted one since 1984

Posted: 08 Jun 2022 19:51
by Badwolf
PhilC wrote: 08 Jun 2022 18:49 I always fancied a Sinclair QL back in 1984 I think when the adverts appeared but never got round to having one until now that it.
A sucker for Sir Clive in a scarf, eh? ;)

Looks a beaut. Good luck!

I know nought about using a QL but like the fact they had a better expansion system than all the 'wedge' ST range.

BW

Re: Sinclair QL - wanted one since 1984

Posted: 08 Jun 2022 19:52
by PhilC
Icky wrote: 08 Jun 2022 19:36 Welcome to the 68008 club @PhilC
Thanks Icky, it’s another one crossed off my list.

Re: Sinclair QL - wanted one since 1984

Posted: 08 Jun 2022 19:53
by PhilC
Badwolf wrote: 08 Jun 2022 19:51
I know nought about using a QL but like the fact they had a better expansion system than all the 'wedge' ST range.

BW
That makes two of us :lol:

Re: Sinclair QL - wanted one since 1984

Posted: 08 Jun 2022 20:10
by Icky
PhilC wrote: 08 Jun 2022 19:52
Icky wrote: 08 Jun 2022 19:36 Welcome to the 68008 club @PhilC
Thanks Icky, it’s another one crossed off my list.
Am sure between @rubber_jonnie, @stephen_usher and myself we can get you buying all the modern add-ons.

Re: Sinclair QL - wanted one since 1984

Posted: 08 Jun 2022 21:38
by rubber_jonnie
Icky wrote: 08 Jun 2022 20:10
PhilC wrote: 08 Jun 2022 19:52

Thanks Icky, it’s another one crossed off my list.
Am sure between @rubber_jonnie, @stephen_usher and myself we can get you buying all the modern add-ons.
Oh boy, do we have a spending spree for you :)

Re: Sinclair QL - wanted one since 1984

Posted: 08 Jun 2022 22:03
by stephen_usher
PhilC wrote: 08 Jun 2022 19:50 Thanks for the info @stephen_usher. I’ve done a bit of Googling and it looks like you need +12v for the video circuit? And as you say -12v for the micro drives.

I’m not too worried about this QL looking standard, so I’m going to see if I can make up a new PSU or maybe get a meanwell one that’ll do the +9, +12 and -12v required.

Can anyone spot a slight issue with the keyboard membrane? Nothing some scissors won’t cure.


B96C6530-5A52-4529-AD65-5E28116793D6.jpeg
I feel the need for a purchase from RWAP Software via Sell-My-Retro or maybe eBay coming on. (Keyboard membrane)

You could get a replacement PSU from here https://www.keelog.com/sinclair-ql-psu- ... y-uk-plug/