First steps with the ATW800/2

[rubber_jonnie]

So, I decided today was the day that the MSTE got the ATW800/2 installed.

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As it goes it was a super easy install to do, even with my slightly complicated X-Boot setup.

First step was to clear a path for the card to go in, as the VME slot had a 2nd serial port fitted in a blanking plate:

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I was slightly concerned the top cover would need to come off to remove the serial port, but inside it was a simple IDC plug on a header:

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And it came apart with no issues.

Next up was installing the card itself, which was super easy, just sliding into the VME slot:

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I reused the serial port blanking plate screws to hold the card in place. It should be noted that the card comes preconfigured for a TT so if fitting to an MSTE then there are 2 jumpers to be changed, however there is a note inside the box that tells you this and it's the first thing you see on opening the box, so all good.

Next up I hooked up the HDMI to one of my big displays:

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I left the VGA connected to my other display so I could see what was going on at boot and here is one gotcha. This is what I saw after I installed the provided software:

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And it seemed like the machine was locked up, and I spent some time troubleshooting. Here is where you need to RTFM!!!

Firstly I had assumed the display would just power on my big display automatically. It didn't. I was getting a black screen on the HDMI display for two reasons 1) Display was powered off and didn't auto power on. 2) I hadn't selected the correct input.

So bear in mind if your machine appears to hang like the image above, it's likely you need to get your HDMI display powered on and set right!!!

As soon as I did that I saw a logo bouncing around and after hitting a key I was able to choose my preferred resolution, some of which are eye wateringly high!!

Here are some screen shots:

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With Teradesk:

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And a quick GEMBENCH run:

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As of yet I haven't looked into the Transputer side of it, that'll come next, so any hints and tips ATW800/2 users might have would be gratefully received

Very nice experience so far though

[Steve]

You'll want the ATW software packs next, located: https://nextcloud.geekdot.com/s/jt4fYYa ... Transputer

Be aware of the dates though, make sure to get the latest versions:
atw800_2_basepack_20260227
atw800_2_heliospack_20260227

inside the packs contain important readme.txt files, make sure to read them properly. Also make sure to extract the files to the correct directory structure on 'C:\ATW800_2\'. Inside you'll find many Transputer demos to run (including DOOM which runs full-screen at an impressive frame-rate) Also the Helios operating system. If you get stuck with anything feel free to ask. If you use Discord, there is an official user server you can join for direct support.

[rubber_jonnie]

You'll want the ATW software packs next, located: https://nextcloud.geekdot.com/s/jt4fYYa ... Transputer

Be aware of the dates though, make sure to get the latest versions:
atw800_2_basepack_20260227
atw800_2_heliospack_20260227

inside the packs contain important readme.txt files, make sure to read them properly. Also make sure to extract the files to the correct directory structure on 'C:\ATW800_2\'. Inside you'll find many Transputer demos to run (including DOOM which runs full-screen at an impressive frame-rate) Also the Helios operating system. If you get stuck with anything feel free to ask. If you use Discord, there is an official user server you can join for direct support.

That's awesome thanks for that

[HigashiJun]

[Darklord]

Interesting. I don't recall any note in my package about my ATW800/2 card
being setup for a TT and I didn't make any jumper changes. It seems to work
fine.

They are an amazing addition to my Mega STe - I'm glad you're enjoying yours.

[rubber_jonnie]

Interesting. I don't recall any note in my package about my ATW800/2 card
being setup for a TT and I didn't make any jumper changes. It seems to work
fine.

They are an amazing addition to my Mega STe - I'm glad you're enjoying yours.

Possibly the note is something new, but it was front and center when I opened the box.

I actually read the manual and it does state it there too, but the note was a nice touch IMHO.

One thing is though, I was heading down the road of a Nova VGA adapter and also have a board for a VME et4000, so the issue now is I spent money on that and don't need it anymore!

I'll have to have a clear out and recoup some of what I've spent.

I have to say the HDMI image and resolutions are amazing.

Looking forward to trying the Transputer side of things.

[Icky]

Yeah, this is really a nice package @rubber_jonnie. It makes the older Nova solutions look a bit cumbersome. I have one of my TT's with this board and it's great. Seriously thinking of another for other VME Atari's.

[mgi]

Where did you get the ATW800/2 from? Geekdot?
I could add this to one of my TTs to complement Nova with Mach64.

Thanks
Michal

[alexh]

I could add this to one of my TTs

One? #Jealous

[rubber_jonnie]

Yeah, this is really a nice package @rubber_jonnie. It makes the older Nova solutions look a bit cumbersome. I have one of my TT's with this board and it's great. Seriously thinking of another for other VME Atari's.

Very much so, it definitely is a very nice build, I think it's definitely the way to go for VME machines, be interesting to see how one does in a Mega ST.