OqtaDrive
An open-source hardware project that uses a modern microcontroller to emulate the Sinclair Microdrive tape storage device. It additionally extends support for the Sinclair Network to connect over the Internet, enabling modern networking for vintage computing equipment.
Timeline (last 90 days)
The OqtaDrive project has been in continuous development for five years, with the original goal of emulating Sinclair's Microdrive tape storage device.
One of OqtaDrive's core functions is emulating the read/write behavior of the Microdrive with modern hardware, allowing old machines such as the ZX Spectrum to run software without relying on original tapes.
OqtaDrive needs a modern microcontroller to generate responses matching Microdrive timing in real time and to emulate the loop positioning logic of the tape loop.
OqtaDrive maps the Sinclair network protocol stack onto the modern Internet, communicating with old machines using real Sinclair network timing at one end and encapsulating data as modern network packets for long-distance transmission at the other.
In the related discussion on Hacker News, the OqtaDrive project received only 7 points and 1 comment.
OqtaDrive evolved by first implementing a single Microdrive emulation and then layering on Sinclair network Internet connectivity, rather than aiming for something big and comprehensive from the start.
All Facts (6)
The OqtaDrive project has been in continuous development for five years, with the original goal of emulating Sinclair's Microdrive tape storage device.
50%UnverifiedOne of OqtaDrive's core functions is emulating the read/write behavior of the Microdrive with modern hardware, allowing old machines such as the ZX Spectrum to run software without relying on original tapes.
50%UnverifiedOqtaDrive needs a modern microcontroller to generate responses matching Microdrive timing in real time and to emulate the loop positioning logic of the tape loop.
50%UnverifiedOqtaDrive maps the Sinclair network protocol stack onto the modern Internet, communicating with old machines using real Sinclair network timing at one end and encapsulating data as modern network packets for long-distance transmission at the other.
50%UnverifiedIn the related discussion on Hacker News, the OqtaDrive project received only 7 points and 1 comment.
50%UnverifiedOqtaDrive evolved by first implementing a single Microdrive emulation and then layering on Sinclair network Internet connectivity, rather than aiming for something big and comprehensive from the start.
50%