SUM grew out of a Timex Sinclair user group formed in Gainesville, in September 1982. The user group's newsletter started out as postcards sent to a handful of people telling them when and where the next meeting would be.
In January of 1983, the group started sending out a single sheet of typed "news". Slowly it grew to two pages, and then to a four page newsletter -- all typed. The July 1983 newsletter was the first one created using a word processor: Memotech's Memotext and the Seikosha GP-100 printer (also known as the Gorilla Banana).
Over the next year, the newsletter stayed at four pages, covering events at the last meeting, reviews, short programs submitted by user group members and where to find hardware and software.
When Timex exited the market, the newsletter's editors, Richard Cravy and Joe Williamson, thought that interest would dry up.
"Instead, we were flooded with requests for more information on our group and newsletter. There was a great thirst for Sinclair knowledge from everywhere. Everyone wanted to unite to keep the faith going. So did we."
At that point, Richard and Joe decided to turn the newsletter into a magazine.
August 1984 was the first issue of SUM Magazine. It was eight pages long, had six articles and two ads.
SUM merged with Time Designs Magazine after the July 1986 issue (volume 4, number 7).
The first year of SUM was reprinted in The Best of SUM.
| Title | Description | Computers |
|---|---|---|
| “How to Make Money with Your Microcomputer” – A Book Review | The title of this book caught my eye as I was browsing one day in a local bookstore. I am the devoted owner of a personal computer (a Timex/Sinclair 1000), and constantly use it in the execution of my profession. It is also my belief that the personal computerist can turn his/her machine into the […] | |
| “MemoNotes” Debuts | The SYNCWARE GROUP is pleased to announce the publication of “MemoNotes“, the Newsletter for Memotext and Memocalc users. This Publication will appear four times a year, starting with the summer 1985 issue. It contains information for efficient use of these programs, as well as technically oriented articles for their improvement and adaptation. Subscription price is […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 1500 |
| “Santa-C” Holiday Program | This program contains two novel approaches to BASIC programming of the 2068 computer that I developed in teaching the subject in adult education classes. One is a departure from the text-book method of programming BEEP (music?) and the other is the concurrent playing of BEEP music with animation. We get by with such a mixture […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Downloadable, Type-in program |
| “TRANS-EXPRESS” Tape to Wafadrive Utility | The Rotronics Wafadrive system provides a very viable alternative to cassette tape or even disk drives for many Spectrum users in the UK. Now, with the appearance of several “twister” type boards which allow “spectrumized” TS-2068s to run Spectrum hardware, 2068 owners are enjoying the Wafadrive as well. However, there is a fly the soup– […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| 2068 Graphics for the Beginner | Having purchased a 2068 computer, I soon found that I would have to Know at least a basic knowledge of trigonometry if I were going to make graphics to any degree. Not having a working Knowledge of trigonometry, nor a desire to go back to night school to obtain it, I decided to obtain a […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| 2068 Power Supply – Make It Cooler & Quieter | I have discovered that programs SAVED to cassette tapes from the TS-2068 can have a very high Noise/Scratch background level making verification and loading a somewhat iffy proposition. The best way to determine if you have this problem is to monitor the signal on the tape aurally during loading. The background noise can be heard […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| 2068 Printer Interface and ROM Card | This month I finish up my series on the printer interface with the circuit board layout and simple print driver software. In reconfiguring the layout to include the ROM interface, I had to rearrange things a bit, so here is the final version of the schematic showing the new pin configuration. The schematic to the […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| 2068 Printer Interface and ROM Card | This month I finish up my series on the printer interface with the circuit board layout and simple print driver software. In reconfiguring the layout to include the ROM interface, I had to rearrange things a bit, so here is the final version of the schematic showing the new pin configuration. The schematic to the […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| 24 Usable Lines | Have you ever wondered why the TS 1000 won’t print to the last two lines in the display? The reason is because the last two lines are reserved for editing. But while the program is running, why can’t you use the last two lines then? The truth is, you can! The number of blank lines […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| 32K Memopak Incompatible | Memotech has announced that its 32K RAM packs are incompatible with the Timex TS20A0 Printer. Memotech is working on the problem, but so far no theories on the cause. The 32K RAM Pack does work with the ZX Printer. All other Memopaks do work with the TS2040 Printer. | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| A & J Microdrive Review | The A & J Microdrive has been a long awaited peripheral which is the best thing to come along since the 2068 itself! | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| A & J Microdrive Review | Its been out for three months now, its easy to use, and its fast! The A & J Microdrive has been a long awaited peripheral which is the best thing to come along since the 2068 itself! | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| A Beginner on the QL | I took the Quantum Leap! I liked the computer so much I bought the company! No, I didn’t have the sixteen million dollars. All kidding aside, I liked the QL so much I took it and my printer to my daughter’s to help her finish a term paper. After we had the paper ready to […] | Sinclair QL |
| A Keyboard Interface for Any Timex Computer | For those who do not wish to go into their computer to connect a new keyboard, here is an interface which you can plug on to the rear expansion buss. You can easily add on one of those TI surplus keyboards which are selling for as low as five dollars. This interface uses the same […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 1500, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| A Review of the Sinclair Spectrum Plus | The latest home computer from Sinclair is the ZX Spectrum+. What sets this computer ahead of the other Spectrums is the larger keyboard with extra dedicated keys. The Spectrum+ looks a lot like the QL small business computer but with a few less keys and no microdrives attached to the side. The keyboard itself has […] | Sinclair ZX Spectrum |
| A Review of the Sinclair Spectrum Plus | The latest home computer from Sinclair is the ZX Spectrum. What sets this computer ahead of the other Spectrums is the larger keyboard with extra dedicated keys. The Spectrum looks a lot like the QL small business computer but with a few less keys and no microdrives attached to the side. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Add a Full Size Printer to Your System | Today, dot matrix printers are available from many sources at very reasonable prices. Many TS1000/1500 users are still using the TS2040 as their only printer. Now may be the time to upgrade. Let’s consider some of the possibilities. First, there is a product now available for those who already have a dot matrix printer, in […] | Sinclair ZX81, Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Adding a “Real” Keyboard to Your 2068 | Probably the most common complaint I hear about the 2068 is about the keyboard. Although it does work well, it lacks the feel of a full sized keyboard as found on Commodore, Atari, and others, not to mention some of the missing (single dedicated) keys such as the period, comma, semi-colon, and slash keys. In […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Adding Dimension in 2068 Computing … Using a Plotter | The versatile TS 2068 computer never ceases to amaze me on its capabilities. Each of us has a pet application for their computer; mine is information and productivity. Here, I define productivity as the use of skills and resources to maximize output of a deliverable item. In a nutshell, my computing must do _ something, […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Adding Microdrives and Interface III to a Timex 2068 | As a subscriber to SUM, I thought I would sit down and take the time to. share with others my experience with some new hardware that I recently purchased from the English Micro Connection. Although the total purchase price of everything might appear somewhat excessive ($250), the end results are very rewarding. The hardware involved […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Adding RGB to Your 2068 | RGB on the 2068 is probably one of the most gratifying additions you can get. The problem is that there is no simple way to do it and few companies (if any) have any to sell. E. Arthur Brown at 1702 Oak Knoll Dr, Alexandria, MN 56308 did have one they were selling for $19.95 […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Additional Notes on the Hardware of the T-2068 & Disk Drive | Disassembling the T-2068 reveals a circuit board smaller than found in the American computer. It is a very professionally designed board with no wire jumpers. A stand alone RF modulator replaces the video/RF modulator circuitry of the TS-2068. There are no trim pots or adjustable components except for a fine tune in the RF modulator. […] | Timex Computer 2068, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Additional Notes on the Spectrum Plus | While Joe was busy checking out the “mechanics” of the Spectrum Plus, I was looking it over in other ways. First, the Spectrum Plus comes with an excellent manual printed in full color. Only 80 pages counting the index, the User Guide does not cover as much as the 2068 manual does (no sound synthesizer […] | Sinclair ZX Spectrum, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Additional Notes on the Spectrum Plus | The Spectrum Plus comes with an excellent manual printed in full color. Only 80 pages counting the index, the User Guide does not cover as much as the 2068 manual does (no sound synthesizer to talk about or hi-res graphics) but is packed with info in a smaller print done double column with color screen […] | Sinclair ZX Spectrum |
| Aerco Interface with the Spectrum ROM | If you have converted your 2068 to a Spectrum and have the Aerco parallel printer interface, here are the changes needed to run the print driver software supplied with the interface while in Spectrum mode. First place your computer in Spectrum mode and load in the Aerco print driver software. When loaded, break into BASIC […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| An RGB Monitor for the TS2068 | I purchased a Model No. 4084 TV/ monitor from Sears ($364.00 including tax) together with RGB Cable Model 6529 ($18.00). I had to modify my computer using an RGB Conversion kit #220-453 from Arthur Brown Co., 1702 Oak Knoll Drive, Alexandria MN S6208 ($19.95). This kit requires opening the computer and doing some soldering inside. […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| An Update on Using the Portuguese Disk Drive | As I write this, I have had the Portuguese disk drive system for about 6 weeks. My experience with the system continues to be very positive. The only recurring problem has been a cable that sometimes does not make connection (as in TS-1000 to 16K ram pack problems). Meanwhile, I am now saving all my […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Astronomy Program Pack – A Review | ASTRONOMY PROGRAM PACK, I. Auersbacher, 41 King Street A2, Belleville, NJ 07109; for the TS-2068; $14.95. When you are showing off your computer to someone who is not a computer user, what type of program do you select? A spreadsheet program? A database? A word processor? No, you’ll probably pick out your best game program […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Backgammon Reviewed | John Burn’s BACKGAMMON is a 100% machine code program put out by Biocal Software, Inc. The program takes about 6 1/2 minutes to load and self starts. The program comes up running with the title and copyright notice. You are then greeted by the board and asked if you want the dice to be rolled […] | Sinclair ZX81, Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 1500 |
| Banners on the TS-2040 | Here is a program that will allow you to input a message and have it print the message as a banner on the out 2040 printer. The letters are generated one at a time by PEEKing at the letter to be generated in the ROM, making it 8 times normal size and turning it on […] | Sinclair ZX81, Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| Basic Graphics on the 2068 | When writing my first article for SUM, I made an assumption that there were many others like myself that did not know much about the graphic abilities of the 2068. In reviewing the article, I think that it was a good assumption, but assumptions can be dangerous. Many times I have read an article in […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Beginner’s Basic Programming | This Is a beginner’s program that capabilities of the Timex-Sinclair computers and will run on the ZX 80 (8K), ZX 81, TS 1000 (all with 16K RAM attached), TS 1500, and the TS 2068. For convenience, lets call these the 1000 and the 2068. The convention is to number in increments of 10. Do not […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Beginner’s Programming (Part II) | Last month we started programming with x+y=z. Our meager beginning has revealed the complexity of a simple program. By incrementing one Improvement at a time, we can make this program into a piece of professional work. Let’s first make the computer write the problems for us. Load In last month’s program to get started. The […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Beginner’s Programming (Part IV) | This month we will start tying a lot of loose ends together. Since the TS-1000 and the 2068 use different commands to draw the face, we will start with the TS-1000: RUN this part of the program. In line 860, try swapping 10* and 15* and RUN or use 10* twice and RUN. Use the […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Beginner’s Programming, III | This month, let us first personalize our program. Clear the screen and ask your student to type his name. The name is ENTERed into a string variable and can be used any place in the program by calling the string variable. -Note- The 2068 lets you enter a prompt in your input statement in line […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Beginner’s Programming, Part III | This month, let us first personalize our program. Clear the screen and ask your student to type his name. The name is ENTERed into a string variable and can be used any place in the program by calling the string variable. -Note- The 2068 lets you enter a prompt in your input statement in line […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Beginning With Quill Word Processing | For a newcomer to word processing, Quill may seem rather complicated and confusing. However, with practice, it will be as natural as a pencil and paper to use. I am by no means an expert myselr in its use but sharing what I have learned with other new QL users will help you get over […] | Sinclair QL |
| Better RGB Circuit | The circuit described in the February 1986 issue of SUM was designed around the Sears RGB/TV/Monitor (same as the Sanyo model # 31C426) and the Magnavox (NAP) RGB-40 or 80. Both of these monitors (and the QL monitor as well) take negative-going composite sync and active high RGB signals and have well buffered inputs to […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Bugaboo | BUGABOO is an arcade quality game for the TS2068 which has been converted from the Spectrum. It is, or was, one of the most computer games in England and is sold in the USA by Quicksilva for both the 2068 and the Commodore 64. Bugaboo, we are informed, is a flea who falls down a […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Calorie Counter review | Of the many people trying to lose weight, a few eventually discover that calorie intake must not exceed calorie expenditure. Counting calories can be a bothersome task, but for some of us, this may be the only way, at least initially, to balance our metabolic budgets. CALORIE COUNTER by Foote Software could be a handy […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Celestial Basic | (Eric Burgess’s CELESTIAL BASIC is a collection of astronomy programs originally written for the Exidy Sorcerer computer. These programs were rewritten for the Apple II and published under the above title in 1982 by Sybex. In 1983 another rewrite adapted some of the more important programs to Timex Sinclair BASIC. The result was MORE USES […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Checkbook Balancer: Old Standby Reviewed | CHECKBOOK BALANCER will help you keep your account in order in a simple way. You can take your checkbook and enter it into this program and keep it up to date by entering bank charges, deposits & debits. The program is very simple to use and comes with a keyboard overlay with listings like TRANsaction, […] | Sinclair ZX81, Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Color Blind to Colorful | I have had four color blind TS 2068’s. The first one I sent to Timex Little Rock Repair Center and was sent another 2068. I electrocuted that 2068 and sent it to TS Connections in Cincinnati. It was returned to me with a memo to give it a decent burial. I ordered a second-hand 2068 […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Computer Shopper Magazine | One of my favorite magazines, next to SUM Magazine, is the COMPUTER SHOPPER from Titusville, Florida. With an annual subscription rate of $15.00 and a monthly size of over 200 pages tabloid size, it has to be a great value. The SHOPPER is stuffed full of discount mail-order ads and 20 or so pages of […] | |
| Convert Your TV into a Computer Monitor | Schematic and instructions for converting a black and white TV to a monitor. | |
| Converting Textwriter Files to Tasword II Files | I wished to upgrade a three page essay that I had written several montns ago on the Textwriter word processor. The only catch was I am now using Tasword and preferred using it over Textwriter. I did not relish the idea of retyping the essay, so I scanned the leader of the Textwriter text code […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Creating Additional Colors on the 2068 | If you have ever felt limited on the 2068 with only eight colors, here is a way to create up to fifteen NEW colors and twelve new shades of the ones you already have. What’s the catch? Well, actually there are two. One, you are limited to the new color being the size of the […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Creating Your Own TS-2068 Character Set | One of the features that made me get my 2068 was the possibility of changing the character set. But, it didn’t seem to be worth the trouble until I saw the special alphabet used in a program that was shown at a recent TUG meeting. As you can see in the listing of CHR$, it […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Disks & Memory for the QL | The Sinclair QL computer is a great small business and home productivity computer. However it lacks a few iteis that would greatly enhance its usefulness. It has no centronics parallel printer port. Its memory is too small for much serious work. And it has only microdrives for mass storage and retrieval. Technology Research, a leader […] | Sinclair QL |
| DK’Tronics Three Channel Sound Synthesizer | The DK’TRONICS Sound Synthesiser is a hardware and software combination using the AY-3-8912 programmable sound generator integrated chip — the same as that used in the 2068. The hardware portion comes attractively packaged complete with feed through connector for other peripherals. Also included is a four inch speaker in its own separate cabinet. A volume […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Editorial & Apology | A number of you noted how late your September issue arrived. The fact is…we muffed it! We were late getting the September issue together, then our printing facility was tied up with another job which meant that we had to wait until ours could be printed. The end result: our september issue came out in […] | |
| Editorial on the Sinclair/Amstrad Deal | What a shock! Only days after coming out from under rigorous bank supervision, Clive Sinclair sells his computer company to Amstrad, his leading competition in the English home computing market. A larger scale version in the U.S. would be Commodore suddenly selling out to Atari! However, my feelings about this move is far different than […] | |
| Emergency Power for the 2068 | You never notice how often the power goes off until you start fooling around with computers. A great majority of power interruptions go unnoticed in normal every day living. Unfortunately, that computer notices every one. The reaction is always the same. The screen goes blank and back come the opening copyright notice; gone is your […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| English Micro Connection Announces Microdrive Interface | Bob Dyl of the English Micro Connection is helping lead the way in bringing the full range of Spectrum products to our shores. Already it is possible to get the new Spectrum Plus, Sinclair microdrives and other peripherals through EMC. Now comes the announcement that any 2068 with a Spectrum ROM, ROM Switch, or Emulator […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Enhancing the A&J Microdrive | Here is my collection of some of the programs I have come up with which will enhance some of your programs (like Tasword and VU-Calc) to make full use of your Microdrives. With Tasword, one hint that will help in re-saving text files when several are on one tape is to place several asterisks at […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Ephemeris V – Review of an Astronomy Program | The U. S. Naval Observatory annually produces a book that tells the positions of all the major celestial objects for the year of publication. It was formerly titled The Ephemeris and Nautical Almanac, but a few years ago its name changed to The Astronomical Almanac. To die-hards it is still the “Ephemeris”. With that in […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| EPROM Programmer You Can Build, Part II | To use the EPROM programmer discussed last month with the TS 1000/1500, you need to use the program listed here. Because the 1000/1500 does not have IN or OUT, a couple of short machine code routines appear in the REM statement of line 1. Memory location 16514 holds data to be outputted, and 16515 holds […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Expanding UDGs | Have you thought that when you wanted to print a pattern using user defined graphics on the screen that you were limited to placing that pattern on the screen in multiples of the pixel dimensions (8×8) of the character? True in the horizontal, but in the vertical dimension, the tyranny of the character can be […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Far Side of Saturn | I was trying assorted plots with my 2068 when I noticed that one of them looked like part of the rings of Saturn. At that moment I ttought, “Why not write a program that draws Saturn?” After a little playing around, I decided it needed to have Cassini’s division. A solid ring did not look […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Fish Locator | SUM Magazine has received many different programs for review. One of the most original is Fish Locator. Fish locator is a program that will analyze the fishing environment in your area from the date, weather, and coordinate information you supply and give you a comprehensive summary of the day’s overall fishing prospects. You are also […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| From the Editor | I would like to thank everyone for their support over the past year and wish everyone a happy holiday season. Thanks for all the letters and contributions of articles we have received. I’ve had _ several questions regarding articles’ submitted to us. We love to receive articles in any form, but we would prefer that […] | |
| Gainesville TUG Meeting | ||
| Gainesville TUG Meeting | ||
| Greeting Card Designer | GREETING CARD DESIGNER is a sophisticated program that allows you to design and print out on your Epson compatible printer, beautiful greeting cards. The front and inside page can both be personalized with your own borders, graphics, and phrases. A graphic library of 23 graphic characters including Christmas trees, bells, grads, and flowers gives you […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Gremlins, the Adventure | First it was on the movie screen and now it has made its way to your monitor screen. GREMLINS, THE ADVENTURE is a graphic/text adventure of the highest caliber for the Spectrum from Adventure International. It has made the most of the graphic capability of the machine and provided a most amusing entertainment for the […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Hardware Project: EPROM Programmer You Can Build | The cartridge dock of the 2068 was Supposed to open up a whole new dimension in instant loading software when Timex introduced it oh so long ago. There were very few cartridges available and what was wasn’t worth it. Then came along Doug Dewey’s Spectrum emulator which made excellent use of it. Now more recently, […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Header-Reader for 2068 | Loading a program into the 2068 1s always divided into two parts, The Header and then the program or bytes or array. R-HEADER reads the header without loading the program. The header contains the following information: Type in the listing and save it before RUNning. Then RUN, follow instructions. The program will list contents of […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Downloadable, Type-in program |
| Headline — February 24, 1984: Timex Leaves the Market | Timex Computer Corporation drops out of the home computer market! You read it right. Timex is not continuing with its computer product line. Why? Well, you may have noticed that they never did much advertisng, and because of that, they put themselves under. Sinclair has been critical of how Timex handled their computer all along. […] | |
| Helpful Household Program | Medicare helps you keep track of your medical bills from hospitals, doctors, and prescriptions and your coverage from Medicare and insurance. It also has a section on how to file with Medicare and keeping up with their payments. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Hex Versus Decimal | One thing for sure, I am new to computing and computers are new to me. My first computer was the 2ZX-80. Next came the ZX-81 followed by a TS-1000 and now the TS-2068. Neither myself or any of my computers understand hexidecimal (hex). My computer refuses to use anything but decimal. Realizing it is not […] | |
| Hi-Res Graphics for the TS-1000: A Review of I.S.I.’s Software | “High Resolution Graphics MK. II” is a software high resolution graphics program for the TS-1000 line of computers. It has the ability to plot points, unplot points, write in upper and lower case, test a point on the screen, invert the hi-res screen, and copy the hi-res screen to the printer. The resolution comes as […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Horace … At Last! | A common complaint in the microcomputer field is that those who make the hardware don’t know how to write the software. This adage has largely been confirmed by Timex, whose software for the 1000/1500 series seldom came up to the same quality level as packages from independent suppliers. This same problem has also been evident […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| How (Not) to Sell Computers: An Editorial | Hard times have fallen upon many in the computer industry. As a result, companies are having to be a lot more aggressive and informed in selling their product. . .or are they? I’m afraid that my experience has been less than impressive in trying to deal with many computer hardware and software companies. If it […] | |
| Inventory Program for 2068 | I tried to make this an user-friendly program. If the program is interrupted, it should be restarted with GOTO 50. At some places in the program, if there Is an error and the program does not return to the menu, data can be lost to the user. It is still there but the counter “A” […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Kempston QL Disk Drive: Making a Good Thing Better | The Sinclair QL comes equipped with two Microdrives. They offer much faster access and reliability ‘as well as convenience) than older cassette tape systems. But Microdrives do have their limits. They provide only about 100K of storage, suffer some reliability problems (tapes, not the drives), and do not project the business image many professional users […] | Sinclair QL |
| Kempston, Another Spectrum Disk Interface | I have been using the Kempston disc drive interface on one of my TS 2068’s since early October and I am extremely pleased with the results so far. The Kempston disc interface is intended for use on the Spectrum, In order to use it on a TS 2068, one needs to use a Spectrum BUS […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Key Modifications for 2068 Users | Recently SUM ran an article on English keyboards available for Spectrum and 2068 users. At that time detailed instructions were not included on how to adapt the keyboard cable connectors to work with the T/S 2068. This article should help with that deficiency. When installing the T/S 2068 in the various English keyboards that are […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Keyboard Template for Tasword II Users | If your family is computer shy but they would like to use Tasword II, the template shown below will make their experience using the computer much more pleasant. The templates that I use were made for the Spectrum, but fit the 2068 with little alteration. You can purchase ten blank cardboard templates from SPEEDYSOFT (formerly […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Latest Vendor News | A & J Microdrive has recently reduced prices on their Model 2000 stringy floppy. The system now is $149.50 with the second drive at $99.50. A cable and software to drive a parallel printer is now at $24.50. Their print driver software will now LPRINT, LLIST, and COPY. Robotron Industries Inc. is now selling an […] | |
| Letter from Editor | With all the changes that have been taking place over the past several weeks, it’s going to be interesting to see what will happen next! The recent Amstrad deal with Sinclair will certainly be “the buzz” at the Midwest IS Computerfest the first of MAY. I do hope to see a lot of you there […] | |
| Letter from the Editors | Well, this is it! With this issue of SUM we complete two full years of publishing this magazine in its present format. We were usually on time, and conclude this final issue only one month behind schedule. SUM as a magazine will be no more. However, we welcome the opportunity to continue to work with […] | |
| Letter from Your Editor and Publisher | We at SUM Magazine would like to thank all of you for the support you have shown over the past years. The activity in the Sinclair/Timex market seems to be ever growing, and it 1s exciting to see so many of you sticking with what many people consider to be a “dead” computer. This tells […] | |
| Loading Tasword II on the A & J Microdrive | Using the A & J Microdrive to load Tasword II takes less than 30 seconds! But to SAVE the program and files created by it requires some modifications to the BASIC part of Tasword II. To make the changes, LOAD Tas- word off tape and choose the BASIC option. DELETE lines 11, 15, 700 and […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Logic Analyzer | For my senior project in Electrical Engineering at the University of Florida, I decided to get to know my 2068 a little better. I started dreaming up useful ideas that my instructor would think would be hard enough to be worthwhile to spend a whole semester on designing. There are dozens of things to build […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| M-Script review | MSCRIPT is the word processor that was supposedly going to be offered by Timex themselves, possibly even on a cartridge. MSCRIPT has been developed not only for the Timex 2068, but also for other computers such as IBM and Radio Shack. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Machine Code Tutor | Well, we pulled a fast one on you all last month. We were testing you and noone wrote and said that we left out the second column in James Brezina’s review of MACHINE CODE TUTOR! Actually, it was a mistake on our part. Somewhere between pasting the issue up and printing it, the paste-up column […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Machine Code Tutor: A Comprehensive Review | MACHINE CODE TUTOR for the 2068 is a program on two cassettes and consists of 35 lessons. The advertising states 33 lessons. Most of the lessons have demonstration and examples following them. The 34th just explains the interrupts and the 35th is just a sign off message. After the program/simulator section is loaded, a prompt […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Magnavox RGB Monitor: Inexpensive Color | Any Spectrum or TS-2068 owner who has seen their model of computer running on an RGB monitor is never really happy with a color TV or composite color or green monitor again. Both computers require an adapter be purchased for such a hook-up, but the real problem is the cost of purchasing the RGB monitor. […] | |
| Mass Storage for the TS-1000 Has Arrived! | One of the most memorable moments I have of my TS1000 is the day I brought it home from the store. Carefully setting everything up according to instructions, I proceeded to load the included tape in the recorder and turn it on. NO LOAD! It was 45 minutes before I finally got it to load. […] | Sinclair ZX81, Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Math Function Graphing | Here is a program written by Tom Bingel you can type in to graph complex equations such as trigonometric and polynomial functions. The plots are printed on the screen and on the printer if you have one. Note that programs with great curvature (that changes values rapidly) may not be reproduced accurately by the computer […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Math Tutor Program for Youngster | Here is a program that quizzes 7 to 10 year olds in addition and subtraction at different levels and keeps score. If you get the correct answer, you are rewarded. It was written by Tom Bingel. | Sinclair ZX81, Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| Midwest TS Computerfest a Success! | Just as the future of our computers grows dim again, the Midwest TS Computerfest comes along and brightens things up! With more than 25 dealers and groups with displays and more than 350 registered families in attendance (500-600 people actually showed), the show proved that support for the Sinclair/Timex line is far from being over. […] | |
| Modem Tips | “TS 2050 Modem links you with a new world of opportunities” as an ad for Timex once stated, and its true! The Westridge 2050 Modem does link you with up to the minute information from just about everywhere. I know I get mesmerized staring at the screen communicating with a BBS or mainframe somewhere while […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Monitor Output for the TS-1000 & 1500 | I have had numerous requests on how to add direct video to the TS-1000 & TS-1500 computers so as to drive a composite video monitor. This has been covered many times in the past in other newsletters and magazines, but I feel that for those who are just now starting to use their computers and […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 1500 |
| More Color! | In reference to your program in the March issue on creating extra colors on the 2068, here are a couple of programs which build on that one. The first one gives full screen displays of all the colors possible, and the second one gives eight different screen displays, each display is broken down into 8 […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| More on Spectrum ROMs | As far as I know I was one of the first 2068 users to put Spectrum ROM in my machine. It is mounted using Joe Williamson’s board from the August SUM and allows me to switch between 2068 and Spectrum compatibility with a toggle switch on the back of my machine. I would recommend to […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| MTERM (Smart II) Telecommunications Hints and Tips | The MTERM Smart II telecommunications program for the Timex/Sinclair 2068 personal computer is a fine value. This software package exceeds the capabilities of many terminal programs far exceeding it in cost. And because of MTERM’s wide versatility, its users are still uncovering more secrets of its power. In these few pages are included hints and […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| New Computer Repair Center | Timex computer’s Little Rock repair center has turned over all Operations to TS Connection at 3832 Watterson, Cincinatti, OH 45227. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| New Products | Memotech has just released three (four if you count the keyboard) new products. These three new add-ons are firmware, which is software that resides permanently on an EPROM. MEMOCALC is a spreadsheet analysis program which enables users to perform complex number crunching routines with ease. Up to 7,000 numbers with up to 250 rows or […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| New TS2040 Print Style | Thanks to Dick Scoville of the Triangle Timex Sinclair User’s Group, you can make the letters on your screen darker by using a short routine. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| News and Notes | E-Z KEY has just announced that they now have available a keyboard interface module that allows a keyboard to be plugged into the rear expansion connector on your Zx 81/TS-1000/TS-1500 or the 2068. The module will allow you to add keyboard, joystick, or numeric keypad. It comes complete with a keyboard schematic. They have a […] | |
| News and Notes! | E-Z KEY has just announced that they now have available a keyboard interface module that allows a keyboard to be plugged into the rear expansion connector on your ZX81/TS-1000/TS-1500 or the 2068. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Newsletter Changes | Richard Cravy and Joseph Williamson decided to change the newsletter into a magazine type of format with a regular subscription. | |
| OmniCalc 2 Spreadsheet | OmniCalc 2 is a spreadsheet program that will allow you to have up to 99 columns or 250 rows of data with a maximum of 5000 cells. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Pokes for Aerco-Tasword | To run Tasword with the Aerco, first load the Aerco software, then the Tasword Two program. | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Poor Man’s Word Processor/TS-2068 | This program was developed to be used with a “home brew” interface before I found John Oliger had a neat little interface that is hard to beat. The program can be used with any printer. Some modifications may have to be made since this one was for use with the JUKI 2200. (I don’t recommend […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Portuguese Timex T-2068 Computer & Timex Disk Drive System: A Hands-On Evaluation | Timex is still in the home computer market—in Europe! When Timex bowed out here in early 1984, their computer manufacturing facilities in Portugal continued their work, primarily, so everyone believed, manufacturing for Sinclair in England. Apparently, this was only partly true. Their research and development department was still at work, perfecting the products only hinted […] | Timex Computer 2068, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Preview: Sinclair 128 | SUM MAGAZINE has recently been able to obtain a Spanish version of the new Spectrum 128 Sinclair computer for evaluation. Next month we intend to have a full review and description of it. This computer is expected to be available in an English version on the English market in about two months. Except for Spanish […] | Sinclair ZX Spectrum |
| Pro/File 2068 Filing System: An Outstanding Value | When Tom Woods released PRO/FILE 2068 so long ago, it appeared to be quite a file system if you could figure out how to use all of it’s features from the meager instructions included with the program. We were all promised that a comprehensive manual was being compiled and would be shipped to all who […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Producing Sprites on the 2068 | Back in September of ’84, SUM published my program that showed how to print a pattern on the screen that was not a slave of the 8×8 pixel dimension, but it only worked vertically. At the time it seemed impossible to do the same thing horizontally without doing an endless character creation session. It was […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Programming TIP | What does the following line do? At first glance, it would appear that whenever the computer came across this line, it would check to see if A$ 15 “YES”. If not, it would not make x=1 and then because it is a multi-line statement, it would print the message and then STOP. NOT SO! Due […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Programming Tips on the 2068 | Sometimes a programming problen can be easily solved by using certain tricks. Here are a few tips and techniques to help you possibly the next time you get stuck. I hope you will find them useful. THE SAVE PROBLEM To replace the message “Start tape then press Enter” you just need to POKE 26689, 38. […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Publisher’s Statement: For New Readers and Old | For a number of our readers, this is your first issue of SUM Magazine. Others have been with us since we were only a local users newsletter, supporting the Timex Users Group here in Gainesville. SUM Magazine is the result of the efforts of Joe Williamson and me, Richard Cravy, to help support our “orphan” […] | |
| RAM Pack Repairs | In this article, I will discuss some of the problems that can occur with the 16K RAM pack for the ZX81 , TS 1000, and TS 1500. As I said in my last article, RAM pack ‘wobble’ is the most common problem and can be cured by cleaning the connector, raising the RAM pack off […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Ramblings from the Publisher | Welcome to another issue of SUM MAGAZINE. Great things are happening both with SUM and in the Timex computer world. First, SUM is growing. As a result of word of mouth advertising and an article in the 2/5 U.S.A. Today newspaper which mentioned us, inquiries and subscriptions are coming in at a regular rate. I […] | |
| Ramblings from the Publisher | These are the best of times for those of us who have Sinclair and Timex computers. There is so much more activity and excitement than we have seen up until now. I’ll try to let you know about some of the good news crossing my desk right now. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Reader Feedback | ANDREW KOSIOREK, 2192 Glenbury Ave., Lakewood, OH would like to contact other TS modem users on COMPUServe. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Review: Ghostbusters! | Quick.. what do you get when you match the most profitable comedy movie ever (over $200 million) with the programming genius of David Crane (PITFALL, KABOOM! and more)? Times up…”who ‘ya gonna call?… GHOSTBUSTERS! ” Yes, those people at ACTIVISION have freed the “slimers”, and its your job to rid Gotham City of the spooks, […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Review: ZPrint 80 Universal Print Driver | Have you ever wanted to be able to modify a favorite program so that it would utilize your full-sized printer/interface combination to print out information? Or get a full 8 1/2 X 11 inch screen dump in color (sort of)? And do it in either 2068 or Spectrum mode? Well, now thanks to Zebra Systems, […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Review: ZX Computing Magazine | EDITOR’S NOTE: With this article, SUM is beginning a new series on other publications of interest to Timex/Sinclair users. ZX COMPUTING is one of the most popular British publications devoted exclusively to the Sinclair computers. Having had a subscription to it for more than 2 years, there are certain things that can be said with […] | |
| Reviewing Two Printers | One of the first peripherals that most Timex/Sinclair owners purchase for their computers is a printer. Because the TS2068 as well as the older TS1000 and ZX81 did not come with a printer interface built-in, the Timex 2040 printer was an especially attractive purchase since it required no other interface, and fully supported LPRINT, LLIST, […] | |
| Reviewing Two TS-1000 Programs | DISTACALC Basically Programming 2528 West Olive Avenue Fullerton, CA 9263316K TS/1000, 1500; $12.95 Were you ever taught while in school that an airplane flying from the United States to the Soviet Union flies over the North Pole? The principle involved is that of the Great Circle route. The concept flies in the face of common […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Reviving the 2068 Keyboard | One of the complaints most often heard about the Timex 2068 and its keyboard is the “dead” keys and/or spacebar that so often develops. Here is a procedure that will often solve the problem. An understanding of how the 2068 keyboard is made reveals the solution. The accompanying photo shows the constituent parts. When viewing […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Rocket Man | This TS-1000 (16K) game is truly one that makes you wonder why you put aside this computer for bigger and better things. It uses high-res graphics equal to that of the 2068! And just as fast, all under software control — no modifications needed. The idea is to gather as many diamonds as possible by […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Setting up the 2068 | Next time you sit down to program on your 2068, try this upon powering up: CLEAR 65535: POKE 23561,10: POKE 23562,2: POKE 23609,5. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Shuffle | The January issue of SUM contained a program for solving Jumbled Word Puzzles. Robert Fischer went to work and developed a much shorter version of the BASIC pro- gram which will also allow words of any length up to 16 characters (but only 6 fit in the on-screen box). To start over, push the zero […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Sinclair at CES | Sinclair Research Limited was present at the Winter Consumer Electronics Show just held in Las Vegas. The above photo shows the products they had on display. Brochures available at the booth had the Nashua, NH address printed on them-the obvious implication being that these products would be available in the U.S. Pictured in the photo […] | Sinclair QL |
| Sinclair QL – A Review and Evaluation | The Sinclair QL was first announced in Great Britain in January 1984. Sinclair was not able to begin delivery for about 5 months after that, but did manage to obtain about 15,000 back orders for the com puter during that time. Early production models suffered all sorts of problems, including software that crashed, dead-onarrival machines, […] | Sinclair QL |
| Sinclair Research Sells Out! | Reprint of Amstrad Purchase of Sinclair Research Is End of an Era in British Computer by Paul Hemp, Wall Street Journal, April 8, 1985. LONDON — Amstrad Consumer Electronics PLC bought the computer business of troubled Sinclair Research Ltd. for the equivalent of $7.3 million. The sale represents the end of an era in the […] | |
| SM-II for the TS 1000 & 1500 | There is a Smart Terminal II program for the Timex 1000 and 1500 computers, but it hasn’t been put on the market. I contacted the Micro-Systems Software company and they told me that they do have Terminal Il program for the 1000. I heard that there a lot of people who would like this program. […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 1500 |
| Software Review: Starion & Space Scan | SOFTWARE REVIEW: “STARION“ This is a 3-D graphics program drawn with extreme precision very quickly and smoothly. The complex shapes can be spun, rotated; the effect is, to say the least, amazing. You blast your way through space. Each time you blast the enemy ship, the cargo becomes a letter. This you collect until you […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Software Review: Voice Chess | One of the software packages recently introduced for the TS2068 is “Voice Chess” by SoftSync. Available on cassette, the program loaded easily and utilized well the features of the computer. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Software Review: Zaxxon | Zaxxon for the 48K Spectrum that is a duplication of the popular arcade game. It comes in a nice plastic package and looks much more “expensive” than a standard cassette case. On the front is a great picture of the game. The documentation is pretty good and explains the game quite well. A person who […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Software Reviews: Frogger, Mothership | For those who have played the arcade version of FROGGER, there are differences. Besides the things we are used to with our TS1000s — no sound and no color — the Timex version compensates for the fairly coarse graphics of its screen by presenting only half the typical arcade at a time. MOTHERSHIP reminds me […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Solving Jumbled Word Puzzles | A very popular syndicated newspaper feature is JUMBLE, a word puzzle involving four jumbled words which need to be unjumbled, then a master word made up of letters from the first four. My problem with this puzzle was one of frustration; I usually gave up before I finally was able to unjumble all the words. […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Sounder: Using SOUND on the 2068 | A COMMENT When writing an article I always try to do something which will encourage others to try their hand at learning to program for themself. While SOUNDER is a working program, it is open to improvement and I hope some of you will do just that. You may want to allow for larger files, […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Spectrum 128 Review | The Spectrum 128 is the latest computer from Sinclair in the Spectrum family. It is housed in a Spectrum + body, but has more pluses than the Spectrum + ever dreamed of having. The particular version that we received is the Spanish one currently being sold in Spain. Sinclair is holding back the English introduction […] | Sinclair ZX Spectrum |
| Spectrum Buss on 2068 | I stated in the last issue that we ordered the Rotronics Wafadrive system from England. I also promised that I would give a report on it. Unfortunately, we have yet to receive it. Anticipating it’s arrival I have prepared a Spectrum buss to plug the unit into. We have already received the operations manual and […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Spectrum Emulator Revisited | In last month’s article, we inadvertently left out the printed circuit board layout, so here it is this month with our apologies. Also I have drawn a side view showing how the chips sit on the board. When installing the chips, always use great care in positioning the chips in the sockets. Generally, the width […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Spectrum+ Now in U.S. | Bob Dyl of English Micro Connection (EMC), 15 Kilburn Ct., Newport, RI 02840 401/849-3805 reports that they are an agent for Sinclair (and other English) computers. The Spectrum+ sells for $159.95 postage paid and has an average delivery time of less than three weeks. He also has the Interface I and microdrive kit (includes four […] | Sinclair ZX Spectrum |
| Speech Synthesizer for the TS-1000 | Now I’ve heard everything! A computer that talks back to me? why not…everybody else does! Tad Painter has done the “unheard” of by digitizing the human voice for T/S computers. His SPEECH SYNTHESIZER program does the job without the need for expensive additional hardware. It’s all software generated. SPEECH SYNTHESIZER is available for the TS […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| SUM Begins a New Year | This year we plan to serve the Sinclair-Timex community to the best of our ability covering hardware, programs, related news, reviews and more! We welcome comments about our publication and encourage you to write and tell us what you think. We start this month with a 2068 parallel printer interface for you to build and […] | |
| Suntronics Keyboard Review | The Suntronics KD-81 Keyboard is a fully cased keyboard with full-size keys, including 2 shift keys, and a space bar. The printed circuit board from the computer fits inside the new plastic keyboard’s vaporized metal coated case. Assembly requires attaching the PC board inside the case with 5 screws and slipping the keyboard’s ribbon cables […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| Tape Backup | Here is a program from Larry Kenny of Larken Electronics to backup any 2068 program. The program requires two tape recorders, one to play the tape, and one to record the program. The program can be located anywhere in free memory. Follow the instructions as given in the program. Once the code 1s set, it […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Downloadable, Type-in program |
| Tape Makes a Difference | Since my years with the ZX81 and some time with the TS2068, I have fought the idea of adding another peripheral such as a Winky Board or any other type of amplifier and/or filter. I guess I’m fussy but I hate clutter in my computer area. So I’ve endured lost data, blaming it on the […] | |
| Targets Five | TARGETS FIVE is a program that will require a RAM Pack on your TS-1000. It is a slow-acting routine of an arcade type of game, but you can have a lot of fun with it. You get four shots to shoot down five targets. It can be done. Nested loops such as 510-580 are time […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| Tasprint | TASPRINT is a utility produced by Tasman Software, the same firm in England which sells Tasword II and the Tasman interface. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Tasword II Improvements | This program will allow you to change the screen and ink colors in the Tasword II word processor from BASIC to your own choosing. Up till now, if you go into basic and change the BORDER, INK, and PAPER to your own colors, as soon as you return to Tasword, only the paper and ink […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Tax Time … and Some Help | For those with TS 2068s there is help available in the form of SPECTAX85 from Poretsky and Poretsky. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Tax Time … and Some Help | Here it is just one month before income tax filing time and, if you are like me, you could use a little (or a lot) of help preparing your tax forms. For those with TS 2068s there is help available in the form of SPECTAX85 from Poretsky and Poretsky. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Ten Place Accuracy on the TS1000/1500 | The TS 1000/1500 computers (and many others) do calculations to 9 or 10 significant figures. As described at the end of Chapter 4 in the TS 1000 manual, the ROM’s floating point arithmetic uses a 32 bit mantissa for a decimal accuracy of 32 * LN 2/LN 10 which equals 9.63 digits. However, in order […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| Textwriter 2000 Plus: A Brief Review | Textwriter 2000+ — available for the 2040 printer at $18.95; for the Aerco interface at $24.95. Bob Fingerle’s TW2000+ is a menu driven word processor with word wrap for the TS2068. The menu consists of seven items: Most of the items are self explanatory. #1 allows you to set paper and ink colors on your […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Thank You | Welcome to our third issue of SUM! We wish to thank all of you for your support and for the subscriptions that we have received. We welcome any comments that you would like to send us regarding our format and contents or anything else about Sinclair/Timex products. If you would like to share an interesting […] | |
| The Computer Shopper Magazine | One of my favorite magazines, next to SUM Magazine, is the COMPUTER SHOPPER from Titusville, Florida. With an annual subscription rate of $15.00 and a monthly size of over 200 pages tabloid size, it has to be a great value. The SHOPPER is stuffed full of discount mail-order ads and 20 or so pages of […] | |
| The Consumer Electronics Show: A First-Hand Report | Twice each year the American consumer electronics industry has a giant show in which manufacturers from here and abroad show their new and upcoming products to their dealers and the press. In recent years over 100,000 people have been in attendance at these shows. The most recent CES was held in early June in Chicago. […] | |
| The February Report | With this issue, we start bulk mailing due to the increase for first class coming February 17. Also, with our circulation up to almost 500, your tongue gets a little tired of licking stamps! I hope this will not cause anyone any Inconvenience due to the delay that bulk mall has (according to the post […] | |
| The Heart of the Sinclair QL … the 68008 | There is great confusion about the QL. The question is: in which computer category does the QL fall? The 32, the 16 or the 8-bit computer!?! It depends on the point of view. For now, we can say that the microprocessor, the MC68008, which is the heart of the QL, is an 8/32-bit type. The […] | Sinclair QL |
| The Rotronics Wafadrive: An inexpensive alternative to cassettes | Those of us with ZX81s and TS1000s remember well the long and doubtful loading times of our original machines. To us, the TS2068 with its “fast” loading time was almost miraculous by comparison. But the new soon wore off, and we all cast our eyes longingly to Uncle Clive and the Sinclair Microdrives. Alas, they […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| The Textwriter Series | Of all the word processing software S.U.M. has reviewed, the Textwriter series by Robert Fingerle offers the most versatility for all Timex computer users. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| The Zebra Graphics Tablet: A Review | The Zebra Graphics tablet is a hardware and software combination using the popular Koala Pad graphics tablet–the same type used with Radio Shack, Apple, Commodore, and other computers. The hardware portion consists of an I/O board with two integrated circuits, a few resistors and diodes, and two sockets into which the Koala Pad is plugged. […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Timex Portugal Coming to American Market! | New “Timex 2068” and Disc Drive to Lead the Way In an exclusive interview with the Managing Director of Timex Portugal, Bob Dyl of English Micro Connection has ascertained that the Portuguese division of Timex, which is independent of the American division, plans to enter the American market with a modified version of the 2068 […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Timex Technical Manual | It is our understanding that TIME DESIGNS, one of our fellow publications, has secured the rights to reproduce the original TIMEX TECHNICAL MANUAL for the T/S 2068. Tim Woods, editor, says that this is a corrected edition with some extra appendices which will be available about February 15 at $25 per copy postpaid. Also available […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Timex/Sinclair Interfacing review | TIMEX/ SINCLAIR INTERFACING by James M. Downey and Don Rindsberg contains more than seven tested hardware projects for the ZX80, ZX81, TS 1000, and the TS 1500. The book is well written and concise, intended for someone with some knowledge of electronics and microcomputers. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| TMK Color Monitor | The TMK monitor/TV (model #201b) is a low resolution 9″ monitor and TV combination. The unit stands 13″ by 10″ wide and 13″ deep. A set of switches on the front allow adjustments for contrast, brightness, color and tint, as well as autocolor and TV/monitor switching. It contains a turret style tuner for VHF and […] | |
| True 64 Columns on the 2068 | OS-64 is a plug-in cartridge that gives the 2068 a 64 column display operating system and includes full size printer software that supports Aerco, Tasman, A & J, and Oliger Centronics printer interfaces. The cartridge plugs into the cartridge dock on the front of the 2068 and is, in effect, the 2068 ROM with new […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| TS 1500 Review | The new 1500 is here and it lives up to everyone’s expectations of being the perfect “big brother” to the TS1000. | Timex/Sinclair 1500 |
| TS 2068 Printer Interface | This month I will discuss building a printer interface for the 2068. With all the software out on the market for the 2068, its hard to figure out what’s the best route to take in deciding which printer interface to buy for the best variety of good programs. The interface described here will work with […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| TS 2068 Printer Interface | Last month when I started my article for the printer interface, I came up with the idea of using the cartridge port. I had designed the printer interface using the rear edge connector on my ‘proto-board’ and everything worked great on that. As I was writing the article, I changed heading and actually altered the […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| TS 2068 Review | When I last wrote about the 2068 two months ago, I really didn’t have a chance to put the computer through its paces. I didn’t even have a color TV to work with! Well, now that they are out and I have one, I had better finish that article. Even though they advertise eight colors, […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| TS-2068 Gets Rave Reviews | Since Timex finally introduced its new Timex-Sinclair 2068 color computer this past October/November, it has received very favorable reviews in most of the popular microcomputer magazines. Those which I have seen and read are the following: These are in addition to the various reviews found in magazines devoted specifically to the Timex-Sinclair computers such as […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| TS2000 System Schematic | Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| TS2050 Modem | I ordered the Timex 2050 modem back in January hoping I would get it in time to use in a class I was taking at the University of Florida. Of course I never saw it during that time. Finally I called Timex and was told that Westridge Communications in Marina Del Ray, CA had a […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Unisort | “UNISORT” is a universal sort program. It will do numeric as well as alpha sorts. It is a utility program in that it has no defined areas – they must be entered. The program receives input to sort from tape and will output the same. Sorted data is saved in K$. The only holds are: […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Upgrading to a “Real” Keyboard: E-Z Key Makes It Easy | Back in the September ’85 issue of SUM, we ran an article on adding a large size keyboard to your computer. I find it necessary to bring it up again for this special issue. A fullsized keyboard makes all the difference in the world and E-Z Key has made it easy to build your own […] | Sinclair ZX81, Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 1500, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| User Defined Graphics for the TS-1000 | Your own custom graphics for less than $10? With just three IC chips, and a few extra parts, you can add a modification that allows you to change all 64 of the standard ZX/TS characters. To better understand the modification, we need to take a look at how the ZX/TS displays characters. To generate a […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| User Defined Graphics for TS-1000, Part II | Here is the program for the TS-1000 which will generate and store your own characters into the custom graphics board as described in last month’s issue. | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Type-in program |
| User Group News | In this column, we will list the regional user groups in Florida. If you have a users group here, please drop us a line so we can include your meeting times and highlights of your last meeting. TUG: Gainesville, FL. Meets the third Wednesday of each month at 3708 Newberry Rd (State Road 26) Gainesville, […] | |
| Using a Modem with the QL | One of the most exciting things that a computer can be used for is telecommunications. The QL is not behind others in this regard. A nifty little device called the “QL MODAPATOR” provides the special cable and software needed to connect the QL to any standard modem. In reviewing the Modadaptor I used a Hayes […] | Sinclair QL |
| Using Parallel Interface Printers With the QL | Technology Research and other QL hardware manufacturers have introduced centronics parallel interfaces to allow the QL to drive parallel printers, which are more common than serial interfaced printers. Some information on how to install these parallel interfaces to work with the QL’s software is given in the INFORMATION section of the QL manual. Additional information […] | Sinclair QL |
| Using Tasword II with the Zebra Serial Ports | In your article “Reviewing Two Printers“, SUM Apr11 ’86, you asked for information on the serial port of the Zebra Disk Drive after referring to TASWORD Il output to that RS-232 serial port. I have been using that port since last October ’85 along with TASWORD II and a Radio Shack serial printer. The “key” […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Using the “Tomy Tutor” Recorder with TS-2068 | While looking in a Video Concepts store the other day, I came across some old computer accessories they were selling off and found some “Tomy Tutor” data recorders they were dumping at $3 each. The recorders come with a power supply and have a tape counter and speaker to monitor what you SAVE or LOAD. […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Vendor Report | Timex-Sinclair “Survivor buttons” are now available from The White Church Cabin, 219 White Church Rd., Brooktondale, NY 14817. The buttons are full sized, 3-color and say: “SURVIVOR – Low cost computing,” and have the Timex-Sinclair logo as well. A & J Microdrive is now supplying the 1000 type micro drives and wafers on their Model […] | |
| Vendor Report | First to report this month is the goings on with Sinclair in the U.S. and in England. After a seemingly shaky introduction in the U.S., Sinclair is apparently ready to start letting dealers sell the QL instead of only going by mailorder. At the same time, news from England says that the deal between Sinclair […] | |
| Vendor Report | Simulsion, Box 2382, La Jolla, CA, 92038 is having a closeout sale on their old (but classic) ZX80/ZX81 software at $.99 and $1.79 each. Titles include: Etch-A-Screen, Checkbook Balancer, Hey, There (banner program), and Classic Games. Great stocking stuffers! They also have several books and a new addition of QL software. Write for free catalog. […] | |
| Vendor Report | Curry Computer is now the U.S. distributor for Pyramide Software of Paris France. Curry now has their first program for the QL: WANDERER, a three dimensional graphies program for an RGB color monitor. The program comes with 3D glasses and gives the impression of the display “floating” somewhere between your computer and your monitor. It […] | |
| Vendor Report | The article last month on connecting the 2068 to a plotter has elicited a great response from a number of readers. Peripherals Direct was listed as the source for the Amdek plotter. They now inform us that they are sold out of this model but still sell Amdisk III 3″ disk drives (similar to Zebra’s […] | |
| Vendor Reports | Larken Electronics, RR#2 Navan Ontario, Canada K4B 1H9 has recently announced that they now have a disk drive system for the ZX81/TS1000 which can save BASIC arrays or code seperatly and does not use up any RAM. It will be compatible with their 2068 drive system also. We hope to review it in our next […] | |
| Vendor Reports | There are a number of reasons for the existence of magazines and newsletters supporting specific computer brands such as the Timex/Sinclair machines. One of the major reasons, from my point of view, is the interface such publications provide between users of the computers and those companies which produce hardware or software for the machines. We […] | |
| Vendor Reports | Budget Robotics & Computing of Tucson, AZ has purchased the rights to manufacture and sell the Computer Continuum Buffered Buss Development Board. This expansion buffered buss board is available as a bare board with complete documentation and parts list. This board is compatible with the ZX80, ZX81, TS1000, and TS1500 computers, all for $40 ea. […] | |
| Vendor Reports | TS COMPUTERFEST A midwest Timex/Sinclair Computerfest is being planned for May. Most software, hardware, magazines and other supporters will be on hand to answer your questions and help you make better use of your computer and to help rekindle interest in the family of T/S users–particularly those who have their machines hidden on the top […] | |
| Vendor Reports | The Quickey 2068 is a keyboard overlay with legends printed on and available for TASWORD II/TASPRINT and MSCRIPT. Coming soon, one for OMNICAL, and others. Blank ones are also available. Price: $3.99 each, or two for $7.50. Blanks for $3 ea. Available from AN-TO Productions, 9009 West Elm St. #2 Phoenix, AZ 85037 TASWORD THREE! […] | |
| Vendor Reports | E-Z KEY has just released a new program for the QL called DUMP which allows you to make a hard-copy of the QL screen on your Epson compatible printer from SuperBASIC. $24.95. E-Z Key, Suite 75, 711 Southern Artery, Quincy, MA 02169. Curry Computer now has the following Spectrum programs: Delta Wing, Chiller, The Comet […] | |
| VIEWord | VIEWord is the first in a series of software packages for the TS2068 being produced by Jim Clatfelter. It is to be followed by MAIList and BOOKeep. Considering the quality and simplicity of VIEWord, I am looking forward to these other two. Considering the 32 character screen line that the 2068 provides, various word processors […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Where to Find ZX-81/TS-1000/TS-1500 Supplies | The following is a list of ZX81/TS 1000/1500 dealers. Included is a brief rundown of what they carry (hardware or software or both). This is fairly up to date, but not all have been chacked out. They are in no particular order. That about wraps up the list. If I missed anyone, I’m sorry but […] | Sinclair ZX81, Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 1500 |
| WMJ Data Systems Software | Timex/Sinclair 2068 | |
| Word Processing for the 2068: Tasword II | Tasword comes in a black plastic case about 6×9 inches with a 20 page manual. It loads easily in about a minute and signals its beginning with a beeping tone. | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Workin’ in the Software Patch | Our feature program this month is OMNICALC 2, the impressive spreadsheet program from Microsphere, Ltd. OMNICALC 2 was reviewed in an earlier issue of SUM (volume II, Number 12). In my opinon, OMNICALC 2 deserves every bit of praise it gets. Advanced capabilities and ease of use places OMNICALC 2 way ahead of any other […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| WORM – A Type-it-yourself Game | Have you been looking for the 2068 that doesn’t a game for require lightning fast reflexes and nerves of steel? Well, Worm will give you a chance to play a game without dodging/blasting ten zillion human eating, earth destroying thingamagigs. As you type in the following program, there are a couple of lines that should […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068, Type-in program |
| Zebra Graphics Tablet Addendum | Last month we inadvertently left out the “digitized” cat I tried drawing–so here it is this month to remind you of how powerful the graphics tablet can be. If anyone out there has their own creation using the Zebra Graphics Tablet they would like to show off, send it in and we’ll consider printing it! | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| Zebra Talker – A Review | The Zebra Talker is a hardware and software combination that will allow you to synthesize human speech. The system is based around the Votrax SC-01 Speech Synthesizer IC which produces 45 basic speech sounds and links them together to make speech. Approximately 1400 words are able to be created using this device. A phoneme editor […] | Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
| ZX/TS Repair Guide – Part II | This is the second in a series of articles on how to repair your ZX81 and TS1000. I will also try to cover some of the problems found in the 1500 and 2068 as well in future articles. From my experience with the 2X81 & TS1000, I would say that there are four common problems […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000 |
| ZX/TS Repair Guide, Part I | This begins a series of articles on how to repair the problems’ that spring up with your ZX81 and TS1000. Sending off to have your computer repaired can cost as much as–if not more than–the original cost of the computer. The majority of the problems can be fixed by the average owner. The first problem […] | Timex/Sinclair 1000, Timex/Sinclair 2068 |
Last updated: December 30, 2023