Atari 8-Bit Ethernet Frequently Asked Questions

Table of Contents

  1. Will the interface cartridge work on all atari 8-bit computers?
  2. What will the interface cartridge be capable of doing?
  3. What are the different versions of the CS8900A and which one will the interface use?
  4. How can I get an interface cartridge and software?
  5. For More Information
  1. Will the interface cartridge work on all atari 8-bit computers?

    It should but due to the programming space needed to program the TCP/IP stack, expanded memory may be needed to do things like web browsing. There is also the problem of closing the cartridge hatch on the 400 and 800.

  2. What will the interface cartridge be capable of doing?

    Right now, the interface allows telnetting over the internet. FTP, web browsing, simple e-mail, and and a web server app are all possible.

  3. What are the different versions of the CS8900A and which one does the interface use?

    The CS8900A comes in four different part numbers:

    • CS8900A-CQZ, 5Volts, 0°C ~ 70°C operating temp, 100-LQFP package
    • CS8900A-IQZ, 5Volts, -40°C ~ 85°C operating temp0, 100-LQFP package
    • CS8900A-CQ3Z, 3.3Volts, 0°C ~ 70°C operating temp, 100-LQFP package
    • CS8900A-IQ3Z, 3.3Volts, -40°C ~ 85°C operating temp0, 100-LQFP package

    Any of these devices will work but the part numbers ending in CQ3Z or IQ3Z are 3.3Volt devices and will require a voltage regulator because the Atari cartridge port supplies 5 volts.


  4. How can I get an interface cartridge and software?

    This is an open source project, so you would have to build your own interface. This may sound harder than it is because there are CS8900A development boards available that can be hooked up to a blank cartridge and a 74LS138 decoder chip to make an interface. In fact, this is how the testing was done for the telnet program. Hopefully full schematics and PC board patterns will be available soon for a single board interface and / or a board that would accept the small Olimex development board. As far as the software goes, the telnet program is available for download and other programs will be available for download as they are developed. the source code for the other apps is available via SourceForge.

    Table of Contents

  5. For More Information