Retro Chip Tester Pro

[cliff_poole]

If anyone is buying one, I'd recommend the SD card option.

Some of the features I like include...

With the MAME CRC list on the SD card (available from the download site), the RCT will automatically identify ROMS.
It has a built in routine to dump a truth table for PALs and GALs if you specify inputs and outputs (I've not tested this yet).
You can create your own custom device pinouts for tests by adding as a text file to the SD card.
For old RAM chips such as 4116, a supply decoupling capacitor can be jumpered in. The reason for the jumpers is down to the different pinouts for different chips. This is useful because the power is applied to the chip at point the test starts. Some old chips can cause a power spike due to initial higher current requirement, which can cause the test to be unreliable. I have found this on other testers.
It is really well supported. There is a forum, and new devices are being added all the time.

In general use, the tests feel very solid and reliable.

 

[cliff_poole]

Yes, the downloadable HTML file with the search field is awesome, and one thing I realized was that I have way more RAM than I thought.

I use the DC to DC board that comes with the RCT and feed 9V into the DC jack (which was some kind of recommendation in the manual) and it's supposed to be possible to use it with USB (5V) I think but then some (many?) chips will not be possible to test so really not an option if you want hassle-free operation.

Yes I agree, the 9V supply definitely seems to be the best way to go. I haven't even bothered to try the USB socket.
I believe that is the reason for the third DC/DC option, it can boost the 5V if you are are powering it from USB.

 

[cliff_poole]

Auto ID of a 2708 from the MAME CRC list.

 

[Phils Arcade]

Auto ID of a 2708 from the MAME CRC list.

This alone would be so helpful. I know what my Christmas present is now

 

[Macro]

oh dear, I feel more test gear could be on the way ... mainly to program 2708's - which set of expansion PCBs is that one in ?

 

[Kingpin]

Mike, just look at the official link I posted the other day and you'll find what you're looking for ;-) But here is the adapter for 2708:

Haven't made one myself as I have several Data I/O programmers which can do 2708's for me if needed.

 

[Macro]

I can do all of those except 2708! it just wasn't worth keeping a data-io for one type of eprom I seldom program.

At least if I get one of these it can test a few things the ABI cannot.

 

[Kingpin]

Data I/O's can program some older bi-polar PROMs as well, but yeah, for sure they take some valuable workshop space!

I should make the 2708 adapter myself as well to have the ability to program 2708's on my RCT's.

 

[Macro]

do you have the BOM so I can see what parts come in at please.

 

[Kingpin]

Sorry Mike, looked around my files but cannot find it, but I'm sure you can get it from Stephan if you just ask/e-mail him. Look at the link I posted, the official site for contact details. He's also very quick to respond.

 

[Macro]

I now have access, since I took the plunge and bought the PCB for the main unit. Now need to find what bits I have sitting in drawers, and what I need to buy in.

 

[cliff_poole]

I recommend buying double the amount of zener diodes. So many of mine were outside the required tolerance.

I was using my RCT just yesterday to check and ID load of ROMs. Such a time saver !. Previously, I'd read them on my Data IO, save to floppy disk on the old 486 laptop, plug a USB floppy drive into my current laptop, before using the online ID tool.

 

[Macro]

I wondered about getting some of the 1% or 2% tolerance ones, in case they were better. Will see on prices, if they are not too much, I'll get a couple of different types!

 

[Macro]

OK, everything (I didn't have) ordered - total came to about £170

I already had some bits such as regulators, resistors, pins and ZIF sockets so that saved a few quid.

Just have to put the pile of bits together after testing to see if I have 32 Zeners in the correct range (I got 64, so fingers crossed)

I also ordered some PCBs for the 2708 programmer, so will have a few of these spare if anyone needs one!

 

[Alpha1]

I want one, the fact it is an all in one unit to identify unknown PCBs is amazeballs.

 

[TheDaddy]

OK, everything (I didn't have) ordered - total came to about £170

I already had some bits such as regulators, resistors, pins and ZIF sockets so that saved a few quid.

Just have to put the pile of bits together after testing to see if I have 32 Zeners in the correct range (I got 64, so fingers crossed)

I also ordered some PCBs for the 2708 programmer, so will have a few of these spare if anyone needs one!

I will need one, i am just pondering selling a board to find it though.

Although my software has rom ident this should be a lot quicker , i have to read , save and then read back in to verify.

Dave.

 

[funk]

Yet another example of thinking you have everything you ever need... looks awesome.

 

[cliff_poole]

It will be great if they develop bi-polar PROM programming adapters at some point.

Most of all, I like that it is backed by enthusiasts rather than industry. Loads of work has gone into supporting all sorts of obscure devices, and they are adding all the time.

 

[funk]

Yeah, with a platform like that you can pretty much make sure you're in it for the long haul which is great, until a actual technical limitations mean a new revision being required.

 

[Macro]

Well, I got 64 zeners and just did the 9v test on them - all failed (4.89v - 4.9v) - tried one on 5v and it drops to 4.3v!

so, need to get some more to see if I can find some that succeed

did you use the recommended 1n4733a or one of the compatibles ?