https://github.com/pynckels/versalogic_board_tester
First draft of a versalogic (0V = false, -12V = true) board tester
https://github.com/pynckels/versalogic_board_tester
Last synced: 4 months ago
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First draft of a versalogic (0V = false, -12V = true) board tester
- Host: GitHub
- URL: https://github.com/pynckels/versalogic_board_tester
- Owner: Pynckels
- License: mit
- Created: 2025-08-10T16:24:15.000Z (10 months ago)
- Default Branch: main
- Last Pushed: 2025-08-10T17:02:13.000Z (10 months ago)
- Last Synced: 2025-08-10T18:25:22.423Z (10 months ago)
- Size: 8.92 MB
- Stars: 0
- Watchers: 0
- Forks: 0
- Open Issues: 0
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Metadata Files:
- Readme: README.md
- License: LICENSE
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README
# Data620 Testing Device - Project Overview
The **Data620 computer** is a unique machine built entirely with analog electronic circuitry. It uses a **VersaLOGIC signaling scheme**, where a logical **0** is represented by **0 V**, and a logical **1** is represented by **-12 V**. This unconventional voltage scheme distinguishes it from modern digital systems and makes troubleshooting its boards particularly challenging.
The Data620 is constructed from standard electronic components—resistors, capacitors, diodes, and transistors—across a large number of printed circuit boards (PCBs). Some of these boards may include faulty components, and currently, there is **no dedicated testing device** to verify their functionality.
This project aims to develop such a testing device, enabling systematic diagnostics and repair of Data620 PCBs.
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## Current Status
The **conceptual design** of the VersaLOGIC board tester is now **complete, simulated, and validated** through multiple proofs of concept. All the heavy lifting on the theoretical side is done.
A more detailed status report can be found on the [status page](https://github.com/Pynckels/versalogic_board_tester/blob/main/STATUS.md).
The remaining work primarily focuses on:
* **PCB design** – to enable practical testing of Data620 boards.
* **Software development** – implementing the testing logic for the board tester.
In short, the foundation is solid, and we are now entering the **“making it real” phase**.
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## Project Scope
* **Hardware:** Preliminary designs and SPICE simulations are complete, showing that the concept is viable.
* **Software:** Development will proceed now that a stable hardware design exists.
* **Independence:** This project is an independent effort, not affiliated with Usagi Electric or other existing Data620 projects. That said, collaboration opportunities are welcome.
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## Community & Feedback
As this project is still evolving, **constructive feedback and suggestions** from the community are highly appreciated.
For more context about the Data620 computer:
* [Retrocomputing Forum: Data-620 Transistor Minicomputer](https://retrocomputingforum.com/t/data-620-transistor-minicomputer/3847)
* [GitHub: Nakazoto/Data620](https://github.com/Nakazoto/Data620)
* [YouTube: Data620 Overview](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YR9E9ZvHkQE)
We thank **Usagi Electric** and the community for their ongoing dedication to preserving this remarkable piece of computing history.