Altair8800microManual PDF

Altair 8800micro
Setup and Users Manual
JULY 2010 PRELIMINARY MANUAL
Briel Computers
5392 Cornell Blvd
North Ridgeville, OH 44039
ALTAIR 8800 micro Users Manual
All materials, schematics, and hardware designs provided without any warranties. Although this material has been carefully examined,
Briel Computers takes no responsibility for any errors in printing.
Version 1.0
Published by Briel Computers
5392 Cornell Blvd
North Ridgeville, OH 44039
USA
Copyright 2010 Briel Computers; All rights reserved. Printed in the United States of America. Except as permitted under the
Copyright Act of 1976, no part of this publication may be reproduced or distributed in any form or by any means, or stored in a
database or retrieval system, without the prior written permission of the publisher, with the exception that the program listings may be
entered, stored, and executed in a computer system, but they may not be reproduced for publication.
© Briel Computers 2010 page 2

Forward Recreating a cult classic

Anybody who has been even remotely involved in vintage computers knows of the Altair 8800. There have
been many discussions on the first personal computer, the first home computer, but nobody can argue that the
Altair set the industry in motion.
Original Altair 8800 system
The original Altair 8800 was designed in 1975 by Ed Roberts founder of MITS (Micro Instrumentation and
Telemetry Systems).
Ed Roberts shown next to some of his Altair machines

In 1977, Ed Roberts moved back to rural Georgia after the sale of MITS to Pertec. Nearby Mercer University
started a medical school in 1982 and Ed Roberts went on to be the first graduating class and get his medical
degree in 1986. He did his residency in internal medicine and in 1988 established his own practice. Ed Roberts
died on April 1, 2010 after a long bout of pneumonia at the age of 68. The computer system he created was
introduced to the world in the January 1975 edition of Popular Electronics and shall live on forever.
January 1975 Popular Electronics featuring the ALTAIR 8800
The article describes the entire system of the Altair and took two issues to cover the entire system. The
production version was not ready at the time and MITS had this case made for the magazine article. You could
purchase an affordable base kit for $439 which included the case, CPU board and 256 bytes of memory. The
assembled version was $621. Soon after the release Bill Gates sent Ed Roberts a letter stating he had a software
company that had BASIC that would work on the Altair. Paul Allen came to MITS in Albuquerque to
demonstrate their program using paper tape; it crashed after it displayed “Altair Basic”. The next day a new
paper tape reader was brought in and BASIC loaded successfully. This was the beginning of Microsoft, the
largest software company in history.
Copies of BASIC were bundled with a pair of Altair 4K RAM boards for $75. However, the RAM boards were
flawed and most users did not want those boards. Robert Marsh who formed Processor Technology offered 4K
static RAM boards for $255. His company was the most successful company that produced Altair compatible
products. This kept many hobbyists from wanting the flawed 4K MITS boards and the full retail price for
BASIC from Micro-Soft was $500. The Homebrew computer club was formed in 1975 and the primary
computer there was the Altair 8800 system. Steve Dompier passed a copy of the pre-release version of BASIC
to Dan Sokol who had access to a high speed tape punch. The next day at the Homebrew Computer Club
meeting, 50 copies of BASIC were made available to members for $.50 each. Shortly, many people had copies
of BASIC and were passing it along freely. Word of this got back to Bill Gates and prompted this open letter to
hobbyists in 1976:


The second letter was sent out to all major computer publications after a very strong negative response from
many in the field.
In late 1975 Imsai released the 8080 as a direct competing clone of the Altair. Most feel that the Imsai was a
better machine than the Altair and used the same bus expansion scheme. It wasn’t long before several other
companies also had clones using the S100 bus system. This led to several aftermarket companies developing
hardware add-on cards for the S100 bus systems.
By 1977 MITS had reached $6 million in sales when they were sold to Pertec. The company was soon merged
into the larger company (Pertec) and the name abandoned. The S100 bus system computers continued to be sold
well into the mid 80’s and I remember as late as 1990 still seeing ads for S100 boards in magazines.
The Altair 8800 is an icon for the start of the home computing industry. Long live the blinking lights :.::.:
Vince Briel

Setup and Users Manual
Index
Chapter 1: Introducing the Altair 8800 micro 9
Chapter 2: Unpacking your system 13
Chapter 3: Building your kit with step by step instructions 15
Chapter 4: Powering up and testing your system 23
Chapter 5: Programming with the front panel 27
Chapter 6: Loading BASIC 29
Chapter 7: Saving memory to an SD card 30
Chapter 8: Loading a text file BASIC program listing 31
Chapter 9: On screen graphics and color 32
Chapter 10: Special front panel functions 33
Chapter 11: Performing a firmware update 35
Appendix A: Troubleshooting 75
Appendix B: The expansion port 80
Appendix C: Bill of materials 85
Appendix D: VT100 Control Commands 95

Chapter 1: Introducing the Altair 8800 micro
The Altair 8800 micro is the result of 5 years of concept ideas and many failures. While the project spent much
time on the shelf, the desired result would keep this project alive. The micro is based on a simple early version
Altair 8800 with memory and a serial card for I/O. The project goal was to design a system that could be
programmed like the original with toggle switches and could run the original Altair BASIC programming
language. The micro is the first in a series of Altair clones that will be released. A full size version will be in the
works after the initial release of the micro that will be a front panel only and then the original concept AltairPC.
Final Altair 8800 micro prototype
You may have noticed that not all of the original Altair I/O status LED’s are on the front panel. This is due to
the limited amount of I/O and the limited amount of physical space allotted on the front panel itself. The
missing LED’s are INTE, PROT, WAIT, and HLDA. In addition to the missing LED’s one AUX switch was
also not included on the board. The AUX switches were not directly used on the original Altair but the one
AUX switch on the Altair micro serves as a boot loader and memory storage detector.
Choosing a processor was no easy choice. Most replica computers created by Briel Computers use authentic
processors that are identical to those used in the original systems. The Altair 8800 micro is different. The
original processor (i8080) has multiple voltage requirements making design implementation difficult for kit
purposes at a low price. The Z80 processor is very close to the 8080 and most code works with it. The problem
is that it doesn’t run Altair BASIC and was one of the failed concepts. This processor failure set the project
back over 2 years. After considering using the 8085 (software compatible), I opted to emulate the CPU in a
microcontroller. The main reason was chip reduction. With a microcontroller I am able to not only embed an
emulated version of the 8080; I can also emulate most of the Altair system in 1 chip. The main CPU
microcontroller has the nickname AOAC (Altair on a chip). While there are I/O pin limitations, a handful of
latches can give you as much I/O as you need.
Writing an emulator for a CPU is a very difficult process if you’ve never written an emulator and you have very
little programming experience on the CPU you are emulating. My first step was to learn about a CPU that I
hadn’t used in 20 years. Many CPU’s share similar features such as accessing memory, having registers to work
with, math functions, ability to call routines, jump to memory locations, etc. It wasn’t long before I had a good
handle on the CPU and how it functioned. The hardware is a simple design. Using the Atmel AVR family
microcontroller was a simple choice. It is RISC based and many of the instructions only require one clock cycle
to perform. The heart of the code simply reads a memory location OP instruction and handles that instruction
exactly like the 8080 would. Some instructions were almost directly compatible to the Atmel instruction set
making emulation easy. Other instructions were much more difficult and required more code to interpret the
command.
Single step introduced a whole other problem. Not only does the microcontroller emulate the instruction, it
breaks it down into steps. As the original Altair single-steps through code, it does so one section of the
instruction at a time. For example, a jump to another address command first gets the opcode, and then on the
next step it fetches the low order byte of the address it is going to jump to. On the final step, it grabs the high
order byte. The next step will place the CPU at the new address.
With the core of the CPU and front panel emulation complete, the built on terminal section received its features.
The terminal section is from the Briel Computers PockeTerm with a lot of changes. The addition of an SD card
slot gives the ability to load and store programs and memory.
SD card slot on Altair 8800 micro
The SD card has the following features and conditions:
• Cards work with FAT16 or FAT32 only, no NTSF

• 8.3 filename format, no using long names
• Root directory access only, no reading/writing to subdirectories
• Micro-SD cards can be used with an adapter
• Cards must not be removed while the system is on
The purpose of the SD card is to store and load BASIC, complete memory including BASIC and firmware
updates. The card was not designed to load disk operating systems and other such means of storage.
Modifications may be possible to do this in the future but not at this time.

Altair 8800 micro VGA port
The VGA output port is part of the terminal system. Consider all of the I/O ports as part of the terminal
system and you will better understand how everything is connected. The VGA port gives the user an
800X600 display of 80X40 characters with a single color choice that can be modified on the keyboard. The
cursor can also be changed from a blinking square to solid or underscore, blinking or not, or no cursor at all
if you choose. Most monitors work just fine with this system, but it is software driven and not a hardware
VGA driver so some monitors may have more difficulty syncing up with the system. We have found this to
be a very rare occasion and you should have no issues with your monitor as long as it meets the system
specs. When using the VGA monitor in BASIC, you may want to do some cursor controls such as, turn off
the cursor and move the text location to X,Y. You can do these features using what is called VT100
commands. The VT100 commands are essentially code commands that tell the terminal section to perform a
specific function. One example that is commonly used is the HOME CURSOR command:
ESC[H
To use this command in basic the code would look like this:
10 PRINT CHR$(27)+”[H”;
This moves the cursor from wherever it was to the upper-left corner of the screen. Even if the cursor is off,
the next character to be displayed on the screen starts printing there. Other functions can be found in the
appendix section.
Composite video connector
Since the other video output choice is composite monitor, you can choose to use both setups at the same
time if you wish with no issues. The composite video output port is a full color 40X25 NTSC output port
capable of displaying full color characters with text block style graphics. You can turn on/off the cursor
using VT100 codes as well as clear the screen, home the cursor and set X,Y location of cursor. Not all
VT100 codes are capable with the composite output due to the smaller screen size and driver limitations.

PS/2 keyboard port
The ps/2 keyboard port gives the user the ability to use a standard PC style keyboard to type data into the
system. The ps/2 port is also connected to the terminal section and any data from it is treated the same as a
standard terminal.
DC Power input jack
The power input connector is a 2.5mm connector that accepts DC positive center connector. We suggest
using a 1A (1000mA) 7-9V DC regulated power supply. If you connect the system with an incorrect power
supply that has the + on the external connection, there is circuit protection up to 1A.
The overall experience of the Altair 8800 mini will give the user a real life feel to what it was like to
program a computer with lights and switches in the pioneering days of computers. Kit builders will find the
experience of building a full system fun and rewarding.

Chapter 2: Unpacking Your System
Ok, you’ve just received your Altair 8800 micro system, what do you do next? Well, if you purchased the kit,
you will want to skip ahead to chapter 3 on building your kit. If you have the assembled system, we can guide
you to getting it set up.
What you need for your Altair 8800 micro:
You can use a VGA monitor or TV with composite input.
Use a keyboard that has the ps/2 connector on it. A USB converter may not work properly.
The power supply needs to be at least 1000mA (1A) 7-9V DC positive center with a 2.1mm connector.
You will need an SD card or you can use a Micro SD card with the adapter to SD.

Prepare a space for your Altair 8800 micro:

Make sure you have enough space to securely place a monitor behind your Altair. You can choose a CRT or
LCD style monitor. If you find you need to place something under the monitor to raise it above the Altair, use
caution that the monitor is stable and can not fall over. A good place for the keyboard is directly in front of the
Altair or alongside the unit. Before you go any further, make sure the switch is up (off) on the on/off switch on
the front panel.
Connecting up a monitor:
Using a monitor is optional, and you may wish to simply program the Altair from the front panel alone. In
which case, you don’t need a monitor connected. However, if you wish to run BASIC or another program
requiring text output, you need to connect to a monitor. You have 2 choices to choose from on the Altair micro.
You can choose a VGA monitor which gives you a nice crisp bold 80X40 text display of a single color choice,
or you can choose a composite monitor or TV to get full multi-color text and low-res text graphics. If you can’t
make up your mind, that’s ok, you can use both, and at the same time! My setup has a VGA monitor behind my
Altair micro and a small 7” LCD TV that sits right on top of my Altair. Please use caution if you place anything
on top of the Altair that it might not properly support the weight of your object.
Plug in your keyboard:

If you choose to use a keyboard for I/O, connect it to the PS/2 keyboard port in the rear of the Altair 8800
micro. Set it directly in front of the Altair with enough room to still be able to flip your switches.
Plug in an SD card:
If you are going to use an SD card to load/store programs, you must do this with the power turned OFF.
WARNING: Removing or installing the card while the power is on could result in damage to the card or
data loss. You may also use the newer micro-SD card but you will need to use an adapter for it to fit.
Add some power:

Using your own supplied power supply, plug the connector into the DC power connector port and plug the other
end to a wall socket. Make sure your power supply is 7-9V DC 1000mA (1A) power supply with positive center
supply.
WARNING: If you attempt to use an incorrect power supply, you could damage the Altair 8800 micro.
Please feel free to ask if you are unsure about your power supply or have any problems.
You are now ready to use your Altair 8800 micro and begin your new adventure in old school computing.

Chapter 3: Building Your Kit with Step By Step Instructions
If you purchased your Altair 8800 micro as a kit, you will need to assemble it before you can begin
programming. In order to assemble your kit, you will be required to solder the components onto the 2 printed
circuit boards and mount the boards and panels in the case. We will demonstrate how to assemble the kit step by
step. You are encouraged to follow these steps as we have studied the best possible method for assembly with
the highest degree of success.
Inventory your parts for the mainboard from the following list:
PART QTY
ATMEGA 8515 CPU 1
62256 CYPRESS SRAM 1
74HCT573 LATCH 8
PROPELLER CHIP 1
EEPROM 1
5MHz CRYSTAL 1
20MHz CRYSTAL 1
LM7805 VOLTAGE REGULATOR 1
40 PIN SOCKET 2
28 PIN SOCKET 1
20 PIN SOCKET 8
8 PIN SOCKET 1
100 OHM RESISTOR 2
220 OHM RESISTOR 6
470 OHM RESISTOR 3
560 OHM RESISTOR 1
1K OHM RESISTOR 1
3.3K OHM RESISTORS 5
.1uF CAPS 12
22pF CAPS 2
10uF CAPS 2
100uF CAP 1
1N4001 DIODE 1
PS/2 KEYBOARD CONNECTOR 1
RCA YELLOW VIDEO CONNECTOR 1
VGA CONNECTOR 1
HEADER CONNECTORS 3
SD CARD CONNECTOR 1
DC POWER CONNECTOR 1
SCREWS 6
NUTS 2
BLANK MAINBOARD PCB 1

Tools required for assembly:
1. Soldering iron or gun (25-35W preferred)

2. Solder (low temp solder works best)
3. Phillips screwdriver
4. Wire cutters
5. Old dry towel for cleaning iron
Before you begin, make sure you have plenty of space to work with and have your components sorted into
sections. The front panel and mainboard sections come bagged separately to help avoid confusion and to locate
your parts quicker.
Plug your soldering iron or gun in and allow the iron to get hot. Make sure nothing is around the tip that can get
melted. Allow 5-10 minutes for your iron to fully heat up. Using a dry towel, wipe the tip clean of any old
solder. If you are using a gun, you need to hold the trigger to heat up most units. I will refer to your soldering
device as an iron from this point on.
Tin your iron by melting a small amount of solder directly onto the tip of your iron. If your iron is hot enough
the solder should melt with ease. Now, using your dry towel, wipe off the excess solder so that your tip looks
solder shiny but with only a very thin coat on the tip. This helps transfer the heat to the contact area for a better
solder flow.
You are now ready to assemble the mainboard using the following steps:
Step 1: Install the SD card slot. The SD card slot sits on the top of the PCB and there are 2 notches
that should fit into holes so that it is perfectly sitting on the board. Carefully solder all of the pins to their pads.
NOTE: Solder the 2 upper ground pads at each side of the SD card slot to the PCB
Step 2: Install the resistors. Resistors are small cylinder shaped components with wire sticking
out on each side. The colored bands identify the size of the resistor. Each resistor will have either a gold or
silver band. Hold the resistor so the gold or silver band is on the right side. Now look at the first colored band
on the left side. That color is the first digit of the resistor. Let’s assume your resistor has the color band pattern
Yellow, Violet, Red, and Gold. Looking at the chart on the next page you can calculate the value of that
resistor.

Resistor color chart
The first color on the left is Yellow which equals the value 4. The 2nd color is Violet which equals 7. The 3rd
color is red. This is your multiplier. Red equals 2 so we add 2 zero’s to the end. So, the resistor value is 4-7-00
4700 or 4.7K. The gold band indicates that value will be within 5% of the value when measured.
Find the 3.3K resistor. The 3.3K resistor has the value Orange, Orange, Red, and Gold. Bend the metal wire
tabs at a 90 degree angle at the ceramic edges so the resistor forms a U shape. On the top side of your printed
circuit board (PCB) locate a resistor spot for 3.3K and insert the resistor into the holes and make the resistor sit
flat on the PCB. There is no polarity on the resistor so it does not matter which side gets inserted into which
hole. While holding the resistor flat on the board with one hand, turn over the board and open up the wires so
they point away from each other enough so that the resistor will not fall out. Set the board down on the table
and place your iron tip on one side of the round ring hole and on the wire. Count to 5 then touch the other side
of the hole with solder. Try not to touch the iron. Wait until the solder begins to melt and flow. Make sure you
are only touching the ring and the resistor wire with the iron. Apply enough solder so the wire forms the shape
of a triangle. At this point, remove the solder, then the iron. Check your work to make sure the solder adhered to
the ring only. Now solder the other resistor wire and ring. Cut the extra lead wire off close to the PCB. Repeat
with all the other resistors. I like to keep all my resistors facing the same way so that all the gold rings are on
the same side. It does not make any difference if you do this or not, but try not to unsolder a component unless
you have to. Please note that there is no resistor #15. R15 was removed from the design.
Step 3: Install the Crystals The Crystals are like the heartbeat of a CPU. CPU’s operate on
timing and synchronization. There is one 5MHz for the Propeller CPU (terminal) and one 20MHz crystal for the
ATMEGA8515 CPU. The numbers are clearly labeled on top and they can be installed in either direction. Like
the resistor, install the wire leads until the component sits flush with the board. Hold the component, turn over
the board and separate the 2 leads away from one another to help hold the crystal on the board. Now set the
board down and solder the crystals to the board. Cut the extra lead length off.

Step 4: Install the Diode. The diode is like the resistor in shape but it is polarized. You must install
it so the white stripe on the diode matches the white stripe on the PCB. Bend the leads just like the resistors and
push it flush onto the PCB. Turn over and solder down the leads and cut the extra length off.
Step 5: Install the Sockets. Sockets are the host spot for the integrated circuits (IC’s). One short
edge will have a notch in it and the white silkscreen on the PCB will have a matching notch. This helps identify
where pin 1 is on the chips. When installing the socket onto the PCB, make sure you match the notch up with
the PCB drawing of the notch. Hold the socket flush on the board and flip the board over. Carefully set the
board down so that the socket remains installed on the board. Solder two opposite corner pins and flip the board
over and make sure that the socket is still flush on the board. If not, you can heat the pin up and push the socket
flush. Solder the rest of the pins down. Repeat for the remaining sockets. Check your work before moving on.
One of the biggest issues with kit building is missed solder spots. Make sure you solder every pin correctly.
Step 6: Install 40 pin headers. There are 3 40 pin IDC .100” spacing headers on the
mainboard. One is used for expansion; the other 2 are for connection to the front panel. The shorter side gets
inserted into the PCB. Make sure it is inserted all the way, hold the connector and flip the board over. Solder
one pin on each edge and check to make sure the header is still flush with the board. Finish soldering the rest of
the pins. Double check all the pins before soldering the next header. There is no polarity on the headers and they
can install in either direction. Just be sure that the longer leads are pointed up.
Step 7: Install the ceramic capacitors. There are 12 .1uF capacitors and 2 of the 22pF capacitors.
Logically, there are 2 that are different from the others and that’s the easiest way to tell the difference. They are
not polarized so you can install them in either direction. You should be able to mount these flush with the board
and then solder them down. Cut the extra length off of the leads after soldering.
NOTE: C3 is missing on REV 0 boards so there are only 11 .1uF capacitors
Step 8: Install the DC Power Connector. Make sure the hole for the wall wart power supply is
facing the edge of the board. It is easier if you bend the leads away from each other then flip the board over to
solder them down.

Step 9: Install the Composite Video Out connector. Make sure the yellow post portion is facing
the edge of the board. Mount it flush and bend the leads to hold component in place. Flip the board over and
solder down.
Step 10: Install the PS/2 keyboard connector. When installing the PS/2 connector, take your time
and get all the pins lined up correctly. Make sure the connector is flush with the PCB and flip the board over.
Check to make sure you get all connectors soldered correctly with no solder bridges.
Step 11: Install the VGA connector. This connector fits with ease onto the board. Be sure
to check for bent pins before inserting into the PCB. Flip the board and solder all the leads including the two
large mounting tabs. This will help hold the connector onto the PCB better.
Step 12: Install the Electrolytic Capacitors. These capacitors are polarized and must
be installed in the correct orientation onto the board or you will damage the capacitors and the board. Look at
the large 100uF capacitor and you will see a – (negative) sign on one side with an arrow. That is the negative
lead and is the shorter lead. The other lead is the + (positive) lead and is longer. Insert the capacitor with the
longer lead at the + marked hole on the PCB and push the capacitor flush onto the board. Flip the board over
and solder both leads and cut the extra length away. Repeat for the 2 smaller 10uF capacitors.
Step 13: Install the Voltage regulators. Voltage regulators convert voltage and supply a steady
supply to the IC’s. There are 2 of these and it is important that you do not get these mixed up or damage will
occur to the board. One is labeled 7805. This one is closer to the DC power connector. Install through the 3
holes and then bend the regulator over so that it is laying down flat on the PCB. The hole should match up with
the large hole on the PCB. Place one screw threw the hole and put one nut on the bottom side of the screw. Do
not over tighten the screw. Solder the 3 leads and cut the extra lead lengths off. Repeat for the 3940 voltage
regulator.

Step 14: Install the IC chips. Find the chip labeled ATMEL ATMEGA8515. This is
the main CPU chip of the Altair 8800 micro. One short edge will have a notch in it. Match the notch on the chip
with the silkscreen or socket on the PCB and carefully install the chip. The machined sockets are going to give
resistance to installing the chip so use caution not to bend the leads. If you do, remove the chip and straighten
out the pins and try again. Repeat this step for all of the chips making sure to install them in the correct
orientation. You are now finished with the mainboard and are ready to move on to the front panel.
Inventory your parts for the front panel from the following list:
PART # QTY
2 POSITION SPST SWITCHES 21
3 WAY MOMOMENTARY TOGGLE 3
220 OHM RESISTORS 32
4.7K OR 3.9K OHM RESISTOR PACKS 3
HEADER CONNECTORS 2
RED LED's 32
FRONT PANEL PCB 1
SCREWS 4
While the parts list looks small, the front panel is much more difficult to build than the mainboard. The front
panel PCB assembly will require the front panel plate to install the switches and LED’s so they line up with the
holes correctly. Find your bag with the front panel components and check your inventory.
Step 1: Install the resistors. There are 32 resistors and they are all 220 ohm resistors. They are
labeled RED, RED, BLACK, and GOLD. Install and solder them the same as the mainboard.
Step 2: Install the resistor packs. These are polarized and must be installed in the correct
orientation. Look for the small dot on the edge of the resistor pack. Match that dot with either a dot on the PCB
or the same edge as the RPx label. Solder all the leads and double check your work.

Step 3: Install the 40 pin headers. There are 2 40 pin IDC .100” spacing headers on the
front panel PCB. Both are used for connecting switch and LED data to/from the mainboard. The shorter side
gets inserted into the PCB.
NOTE: The headers MUST be installed from the back side of the panel so they stick out the bottom
(back) of the PCB. If they are installed incorrectly, your Altair 8800 micro will not function. Please notice
picture below showing the headers mounted to the back side of the PCB.
Inside photo showing front panel connecting headers located on back side of PCB
Make sure it is inserted all the way, hold the connector and flip the board over. Solder one pin on each edge and
check to make sure the header is still flush with the board. Finish soldering the rest of the pins. Double check all
the pins before soldering the next header. There is no polarity on the headers and they can install either
direction. Just be sure that the longer leads are pointed up.
Step 4: Installing the switches. This is the tricky step. To make mounting and building easier, the
front panel has PCB stand-off’s mounted to it. When installing the switches, it is best to have the switches in the
down position. There are 3 switches that are red and they are momentary switches. They go in the STEP,
EXAM and DEP locations and are not outlined on the PCB. They go in the holes directly under the labels and
are not polarized and can install either way. Set the switches in their location and place the front panel over the
switches. If you can put the screws into the PCB and into the front panel plate without the switches falling out it
will help keep the switches in the right angle but can still fall out of the PCB. Carefully turn the board over and
set the board on the work bench so the toggles are resting on the table and pushed all the way flush with the
PCB. Solder one pin on each of the 3 switches and remove the metal front panel. Check that the switches are
still flush with the board and you can finish soldering the other 2 contacts from each switch. Install the blue
switches in the remaining switch locations on the bottom row (STOP, RESET, PROT, and AUX). Notice that
the STOP switch is oriented upside down from the other 2 pin switches. Use the front panel plate as needed to
keep the switches lined up but remember that it won’t keep the switches from falling out. You can now install
the 16 upper row switches. Make sure that the switches line up with the holes on the front panel plate.

Step 5: Installing the LED’s. The LED’s are polarized and have a + (positive) and a – (negative)
lead. The longer lead is the positive lead. Insert all the LED’s so they are oriented with the longer lead going
into the holes with the + symbol. Place the front panel plate back on over the switches and place the screws in
the mounting standoffs. Turn the panel upside down so the metal front panel is on the bottom. One at a time,
push the LED’s so they go through the metal panel as far as they can. Solder down the LED’s and cut the extra
length off.
NOTE: Take your time and do the LED’s one at a time for the best results.
Inspect your work and make adjustments to the LED’s before cutting the leads off. You can now leave the metal
panel connected to the front panel PCB. At this point both boards are completed and ready to install into the
case.
Inventory of parts to complete the Altair 8800 micro:
PART QTY
FRONT PANEL & PLATE 1
MAINBOARD 1
CASE 1
CONNECTING CABLES 2
MOUNTING SCREWS 6
REAR PLATE 1
The case has a top and a bottom. The bottom has a speaker port that is small round slots. To keep the cost low,
we found a standard enclosure to use and had the front and rear panels made to fit the case. You may discard the
blank black panels as they are not needed. Place the rear panel on one side and slide it down the slotted fitting.
Take the completed mainboard PCB and set it down so it fits on the case and the VGA port and composite
video ports go through their holes slightly. Screw down the six screws into their locations on the board. We
have found that sometimes one hole is not opened up for a screw and that is ok, skip it and move on. Attach the
data cables to the mainboard in locations CABLE 1 and CABLE 2. The cable has a red line on one edge
indicating pin 1. You will notice on the board a number 1 on one corner of the header. Make sure the red edge
matches up with the number 1 on the board. Plug CABLE 2 into the front panel header that is on the upper
middle of the back of the PCB. Pin 1 is lightly labeled on the back on the left side of the header. When
connected properly, there is no twist to the cable. Plug CABLE 1 into the other header on the front panel PCB
that is mounted vertically. Pin 1 is on top so the red cable should be up at the top. There should be only a slight
twist (half turn) on the cable. Slide the front panel PCB with plate into the case slot.
NOTE: Double check your cables to be sure they are installed correctly. Installing the cables incorrectly
could damage your computer.
Now place the lid onto the front and rear panels and make sure they are going into the slots on the case. The
case lid should go on without using any force. The 2 large case screws can now be installed. This completes the
assembly procedures for the Altair 8800 micro. Any trouble shooting of the hardware will need to be done with
the case open.

Chapter 4: Powering up and testing Your System

Before you power up your system, it is best if you prep a SD card to load BASIC from. Included on your CD is
a copy of 8KBASIC. Make sure you have an SD card that is formatted in FAT or FAT32. Be sure to copy
BASIC from the SD card over to the root directory of the SD card. If you try to use subdirectories, you will not
be able to load BASIC.
How to format an SD card:
We will show you how to format an SD card using a Windows PC system. First, using Windows Explorer, find
your SD card. In our case, it is labeled as Removable Disk (G). We are simply using the card reader on a
printer to read from. The printer has several memory card slots and we are using one that is labeled SD – MMC.
WARNING: ALL data on the SD card will be erased. Be sure to backup your data first

Right mouse button click on the drive that is your SD card and you will get a drop down (or up) menu of
options. Move the mouse cursor over Format and left mouse select Format.

When you select Format, you get a pop up box that will look like the picture above. First thing to look at is the
Capacity. In our case, we are using a 4GB SD card. This is probably overkill, but it was a card we have laying
around. The file system is FAT32 because FAT has a 2GB limit. We are also choosing the smallest Allocation
unit size of 32KB to help ensure the card is readable with the Altair 8800 micro system.
You can also see that Quick Format is selected. This is ok as long as the card will do a Quick Format. If Quick
Format fails, unselect this box and do a full format of the card. Click on the Start button and format the card.
You should do this because you may have a card that was formatted with a camera or other device and is not
readable in the Altair micro.
If you get this message you are finished formatting the SD card and can now put BASIC onto your SD card.

Once you copy BASIC onto your SD card, remove the card and place it in the Altair 8800 micro SD card slot.
With the SD card ready, plug in your VGA or composite TV/monitor. I use a 19” LCD VGA monitor for the
VGA output and a 7” widescreen LCD TV for the composite. Choose the monitor that you feel is the best for
you.
Next, plug in your keyboard into the PS/2 keyboard port. Look for an arrow on the keyboard plug connector.
That will be the top of the connector and should plug right in.
Now you are ready for the power supply. First, make sure the power switch on the front panel is up in the off
position. Plug your power supply connector into the port on the rear and plug it into your wall outlet.
Before you start, make sure all switches 0-15 are down.
To start the system so it will load BASIC, you must put the front panel switches in a specific mode. First, we
need to put the AUX switch up so the system will know we want to load a file. With the AUX switch up, we
need to flip up switch 11 so the system knows we are using the SIO onboard terminal system. With both AUX
and SW11 up, we can now power up the system. At first, on the panel you should see INT status LED light
come on. On your monitor it should display the Altair 8800 micro greeting message along with a prompt asking
for a file name. If you do not see the INT light come on and no greeting message on your monitor after a few
seconds, turn off the Altair micro and recheck all your connections.
If you are going to load BASIC now and want it to run after it finishes loading, flip the RUN/STOP switch
down to RUN so that the system will start running when loading is finished.
If you get the prompt “File name to load?” then type in the name of the file of the version of basic you wish to
load. In this example, we will load 8K BASIC, so type in 8KBASIC.BIN
You will notice that you are typing in uppercase, that is ok, and the system will adjust automatically for the
filename. If you make a mistake typing it in, there is no backspace, so you must turn off the system, wait a few
seconds and turn it on and try again. If your file name is 8 characters long followed by a period and the file
extension, it will not wait for ENTER to be pressed and will attempt to load the file. If you typed the name in
incorrectly or it can not find the file, it will respond with “Opening failed”.
If you typed in the name correctly and it finds the file, you will see the LED’s on the address display start to go
up. The system is now loading BASIC into the system. When it is finished, if you have the RUN/STOP switch
down to the RUN mode, it will attempt to start BASIC. At this point you will see the message “MEMORY
SIZE?” If you don’t see this message and the RUN/STOP switch is on RUN, then BASIC failed to load
correctly. At this point, you should turn off the Altair and start over.
BASIC has the ability to check how much memory you have available. If you press ‘ENTER’ BASIC will
check how much memory you have available. The next question BASIC will ask is “TERMINAL WIDTH?” If
you press enter, the terminal width default used, 80 is the screen width on the Altair 8800 micro. The last
question asked is “WANT SIN-COS-TAN-ATN?” You must answer Y or N for this. If you choose N, you will
not have trig functions available. If you are loading 4K BASIC, it will just ask “WANT SIN?” Choose Y and
continue with ‘ENTER’
You should now get the BASIC version info and an OK. You are now ready to program in BASIC.

Chapter 5: Programming with the front panel

The front panel on the Altair 8800 micro is very similar to the real Altair 8800. It has 16 data/address switches,
8 of which are called the “SENSE SWITCHES”. There are momentary switches to STEP, DEPOSIT and
EXAMINE memory. Due to the size issue with the case, we decided to eliminate 4 LED’s from the display as
well as 1 AUX switch.
As discussed in the next chapter, you can load BASIC at power up just by having SW11 and AUX up on power
up. But what if you don’t want to program in BASIC, you want to enter data just like it was 1976 again. You
have a choice, you can load BASIC but not use it, or put the AUX switch down on power up and the system
will not prompt for a BASIC file name. If the RUN/STOP switch is up in the STOP mode, you are ready to
read/write to/from memory.
Let’s give it a try. Turn off your Altair and put all switches down except OFF and RUN/STOP. Turn on your
Altair. If you have a monitor connected to the Altair you will notice that it does not ask for a file name. The
LED’s on your panel should be all off on the address row and your status LED’s and DATA LED’s will be lit.
If there is no DATA LED’s lit (D0-D7) that means at address 0 the value 0 is stored. Let’s put the value $80 at
location $0001 in memory.
Step 1: Lift address switch 0
Step 2: Lift and release EXAMINE switch (A0 LED will now be lit)
Note: At this point there may be data at that address; we are going to write over it
Step 3: Push down switch 0 and lift up switch 7
Note: Switch 7-0 are now being used as your data input value by lifting switch 7 only that is the value $80
Step 4: Lift and release DEPOSIT switch
Your address LED’s should display A0 lit and D7 lit, this indicates that at memory location 1, the value
10000000 or $80 is now stored at that location.

Ok, now you know how to store data in memory, but there is a slightly quicker way. What do you do when
there are several bytes you need to program all in the same block of memory? DEPOSIT NEXT will deposit
your data in the current memory location, the auto advance to the next memory location. So, if you were to do
step 4 over again:
Step 4: Press down and release DEPOSIT switch
Now the system deposits $80 to memory location 1 and advances to memory location 2. This makes
programming quicker because now you only have to enter that DATA values and the system will keep track of
the memory location.
To check multiple memory locations in a row is very similar. Enter into the address switches the starting
memory location to look at. Now lift up the EXAM switch. The D0-D7 LED’s will now display the value of
that memory location.
Now if you push DOWN on the EXAM switch you will notice the address will change to the next binary
address and the data will change to the value at that location.
RESET is used when you need to reset the system from being locked up or in a HALTSYS state. When you
press RESET it will restart the CPU, not the terminal section. This is important because if you have the AUX
switch up and switch 11, it will wait for a terminal response to receive BASIC. If you already have BASIC
loaded and working, then you can simply put AUX down as well as all the address switches. When you RESET
it will start at memory location 0 which is the starting point for BASIC. There may be times when doing a
RESET could erase a byte in memory and you will then need to reload BASIC.

Chapter 6: Loading BASIC

The Altair 8800 micro has the ability to run 4K or 8K BASIC as of the writing of this manual. Other versions
may work with time. To load BASIC, you must do this from a power up stage. The reason is because you must
have the terminal section restart to be ready to send BASIC from the SD card.
Step 1: Prepare your card. Format and prepare your SD card with a version of BASIC loaded onto the card.
With the power turned off on your Altair 8800 micro, place the card in the SD card slot on the back.
Step 2: Prepare your front panel. The terminal section of the Altair 8800 micro and Altair BASIC looks to
see what port to use BASIC from. Turn off all address switches, then lift only switch 11.
Step 3: Lift the AUX switch and make sure PROTECT is down.
Step 4: Push the RUN/STOP switch down to RUN mode
Step 5: Turn on Altair 8800 micro
At this point it will now prompt you for a file name to load. If you do not see a file name prompt on your screen
(VGA or TV), then you may see an error about the SD card. Check your card and try again.
Type in the name of your file and press ENTER. If your file name is 12 characters long, it will auto continue
without the need for ENTER.
NOTE: There is NO BACKSPACE for the feature. If you perform a typo, you must power up the system
again.
If you entered the file name correctly the terminal will start to load BASIC and send it to the CPU section of the
Altair 8800 micro. As the data is being entered into the system, you will see the address lights cycling up and
the DATA lights will flow with data. This is normal.
When the file is finished loading you should get your Altair BASIC prompt messages on screen. If you don’t,
check to make sure the RUN/STOP switch is down to the RUN position and that only switch 11 is in the up
position. If you still don’t get the BASIC prompt, you may have a failed load and will need to power off and
restart the process.
When you enter your terminal screen width and other info you will get the version of BASIC you loaded along
with the OK prompt. You are now ready to program in BASIC.
NOTE: Do not remove the SD card while the power is on, doing so could damage the card contents

Chapter 7: Saving memory to an SD card

Now that you have had the chance to use the Altair 8800 micro, you may need to save your work. The SD card
slot is connected to the terminal section of the system and the data from the Altair needs to be transmitted from
memory to the SD card. To do this, we must enter memory record mode.
With the system STOPPED make sure AUX and PROTECT are raised. Now, lifting the STEP switch will put
the system in memory record mode. It will now prompt for a file name to store the memory to. Enter a file name
with the 8.3 format. In other words, you MUST use a file extension.
NOTE: Failure to use a file extension like “.bin” will cause that file to be stored in an unreadable format.
You will not be able to delete that file from the card and the only way to remove it would be with a
format from your computer.
If you already had a file with the same name on the SD card it will automatically replace that file with the new
one. There is no prompt for this, so be aware of your file name before saving.
At this point, all of the memory in the 32K range is being stored to the SD card. This takes about 30 seconds to
perform and then the system goes back to being able to be programmed. You will get a message on the screen
stating that memory was saved to file name xxxxxx.xxx
You can now push the PROTECT switch down and resume programming on your Altair 8800 micro and your
memory contents are stored in the file on the SD card. To read the memory back, you do this from the power up
stage just like loading BASIC.
If you have a BASIC program you wish to store, you would simply lift the STOP switch right from BASIC,
then perform the memory record function described above. When powering up the system, your new file will
contain BASIC and the program you had in memory when you recorded it to the file.

Chapter 8: Loading a text file BASIC program listing

The Altair 8800 micro terminal section has the ability to dump text files into the system as if you were typing
them in. This makes loading programs from a text file convenient and easy. Prepare your SD card with a text
file of a BASIC program that you wanted entered into the system. Place the SD card into your Altair 8800
micro computer SD card slot.
Before you begin, you must power up your Altair 8800 micro with a version of BASIC loaded and ready to go.
When you are at the command prompt in BASIC, type NEW and press ENTER. On your PS/2 keyboard, press
control and F1 at the same time. Now you will be prompted for the name of a file to load. Type in the file name
and press ENTER.
NOTE: There is no backspace feature in this routine. If you make a typing mistake, you will have to
restart the process over
Once the file is found and loaded, the terminal section will begin transferring the file over to BASIC as if it
were keystrokes. You will see the program being entered on the screen. It is not very fast and is subject to errors
but it is a good tool for getting programs entered.
When the file is finished loading, you may wish to save it to the SD card by storing memory command for faster
load times.

Chapter 9: On screen graphics and color

While the VGA monitor gives us a nice crisp 80 column display, it only has the ability to display a single color
of text on the screen at a time. The composite TV output however has the ability to have a different color for
any character on the screen. This gives the user the ability to create simple low resolution color graphics on the
display.
The VT100 control codes can be used in BASIC to not only change text colors but to locate the cursor
anywhere on the screen or clear the screen.
Example:
10 REM CHANGE TEXT COLOR WITH CHOICE OF 1-22

20 REM WE WILL USE COLOR #3
30 PRINT CHR$(27)+”[3T”
40 REM CLEAR THE SCREEN
50 PRINT CHR$(27)+”[2J”
60 REM MOVE THE CURSOR HOME UPPER LEFT
70 PRINT CHR$(27)+”[H”;
80 REM MOVE CURSOR TO Y,X ON A SCREEN OF 40 BY 25 ON TV
90 PRINT CHR$(27)+”[12,20H”;
100 REM PRINT AN X ON THE MIDDLE OF THE SCREEN
110 PRINT “X”;
120 END
This is just a small sample of using VT100 commands to put characters where you want on your screen. Please
refer to Appendix D for a full listing of VT100 codes.
Keyboard function keys:
The Altair 8800 micro terminal section utilizes function keys F1-F5 for special features. This is the list of
features:
CTRL-F1 SEND A TEXT FILE TO BASIC

CTRL-F2 CHANGES TEXT COLOR (HOLD FOR CHANGE)
CTRL-F3 UPDATE TERMINAL FIRMWARE
CTRL-F4 TURNS ON/OFF BACKSPACE MODE*
CTRL-F5 CHANGE CURSOR TYPE BLOCK, UNDERSCORE, BLINKING
* Altair BASIC uses _ to simulate a backspace. The Altair 8800 micro terminal uses the backspace key to
simulate this function. You can turn it on/off with CTRL-F4.

Chapter 10: Special front panel functions

Having a front panel gives the operator the ability to control the system. Everything from programming
memory, to performing firmware updates. Here is a list of the current special front panel functions and the
conditions to use them.
Boot loading a file:
This is the power up sequence that is used to load BASIC or other custom saved file programs. To use this setup
you must have a binary (.bin) file stored on an SD card installed in the SD card slot with the power up.
Place address switch 11 up and the other 15 switches all down.

Turn up AUX switch and make sure PROTECT is down.
Now you can power on the Altair 8800 micro to begin the boot loading procedure. The boot loader will prompt
you for a file name. You must enter a file name using standard 8.3 naming procedure.
For example: 8kbas.bin
NOTE: There is no backspace when typing in the filename. If you make a typing error, you must power
down the unit and start over
Once the file name is found on the SD card it will begin loading the file into memory. You will see the memory
location lights increasing until the entire file has been loaded or 32K reached.
Backing up memory to a file on the SD card:
Use this front panel feature to backup your memory at any time. The backup feature will backup all of the lower
32K of RAM including BASIC and BASIC programs if entered into memory.
Lift the STOP switch so the CPU is stopped.

Lift AUX and PROTECT switches so they are both up.
Lift STEP and release to enter memory storage mode.
At this point you will be prompted to enter a file name to store the memory to.
NOTE: It is important that you enter a file name extension otherwise it will create a file that you can not
access or delete.
One example name is: memory.bin
NOTE: There is no backspace when typing in the filename. Use caution when entering the filename.
Make sure to use the standard DOS 8.3 file naming scheme. Once the file is stored, you can lower the
PROTECT switch and continue programming.

Break-point stop mode:
Use this feature to stop the Altair 8800 micro at the address that is on the front panel address switches when the
CPU hits that address.
Let’s say you want the CPU to stop when it hits address $2000. To get the CPU to stop at memory location
$2000 you must set the front panel in break-point mode using the PROTECT switch and the 16 address
switches. You simply program the front address switches with your address and put the PROTECT switch up
and the AUX switch down.
To program $2000 on the 16 front panel switches you must flip up switch 13 and all the other ones go down.
When the CPU is running and you hit address $2000 the Front panel will stop the CPU at that address and then
you can pull up the STOP switch to go into front panel programming mode. When you are finished and want to
run again, simply put the PROTECT switch back down and flip the RUN/STOP switch to RUN again.
Firmware updates:
There are 2 types of firmware updates. The first one would be an update to the terminal section firmware. This
is done using keyboard commands and not the front panel. The other firmware that we perform when needed is
the CPU section. As the code for emulating the 8080 improves, firmware updates will be issued that will be
needed to improve the performance of the system as well as remove software bugs as they are discovered.
To update the CPU’s firmware you must follow these steps:
1. Turn off the Altair 8800 micro

2. Load the new firmware version onto your SD card.
3. Place the card into your Altair 8800 micro.
4. Turn on address switches 14, 12, 10, and 8.
5. Turn off address switches 15, 13, 11, and 9.
6. Lift up AUX switch and make sure PROTECT is down.
7. Turn on the Altair 8800 micro and wait for the message and prompt
8. Enter the file name of the new firmware and press ENTER.
At this point the system will perform a firmware update. Do not turn off your system until you get the
completed message. After it is finished, you need to turn off your system, put only switch 11 and AUX up to
load BASIC as normal.
Future front panel modes planned:
As time allows, we will continue to add features to the front panel including a dummy demo mode that blinks
the lights in some strange pattern. We also plan to allow you to load from SD card at any stage of programming.

Chapter 11: Performing a firmware update
The Altair 8800 micro is the result of two projects. The Altair 8800 emulator using an Atmel ATMEGA8515
microcontroller for the CPU and front panel emulation, and the PockeTerminal project incorporated into the
mainboard for a built in terminal for I/O. Both of these systems operate on firmware that may require updates
from time to time. You may choose to update them or leave the system alone if it is operating correctly for you.
Terminal section firmware update:
Download onto your SD card the terminal firmware update file and power up your Altair 8800 micro like
normal. When the system is at a point where you can stop it, lift the STOP switch so nothing is going on with
the CPU while the update is running. Press control and F3 at the same time. You will now be prompted with a
file name. Enter the name of the firmware update file and press enter.
NOTE: There is no backspace for this function. You will have to start over if you type it in wrong
After you type in the name, it will attempt to load that file and begin writing the new terminal software into the
EEPROM on the mainboard. Do not turn off the Altair until after the update is complete. If this firmware update
fails, you will have to send in the EEPROM for a replacement.
After a long 4 minutes, the EEPROM will be finished and you will get a message that the update is complete.
However, you will not know if it worked correctly unless you turn off the Altair 8800 micro and turn it back on.
If you can cycle power and the terminal screen comes up, your update worked.
CPU section firmware update:
As the code for emulating the 8080 improves, firmware updates will be issued that will be needed to improve
the performance of the system as well as remove software bugs as they are discovered.
To update the CPU’s firmware you must follow these steps:
1. Turn off the Altair 8800 micro

2. Load the new firmware version onto your SD card.
3. Place the card into your Altair 8800 micro.
4. Turn on address switches 14, 12, 10, and 8.
5. Turn off address switches 15, 13, 11, and 9.
6. Lift up AUX switch and make sure PROTECT is down.
7. Turn on the Altair 8800 micro and wait for the message and prompt
8. Enter the filename of the new firmware and press ENTER.
At this point the system will perform a firmware update. Do not turn off your system until you get the
completed message. After it is finished, you need to turn off your system, put only switch 11 up and AUX to
load BASIC as normal. If performing the CPU flash update fails, you can attempt the steps again.

Appendix A: Troubleshooting
Condition Solution
|
Nothing happens when I turn the unit on | Check your power source to make sure you are using the
Nothing is on the display and no keyboard | correct power supply for the Altair.
|
|
I can’t get my SD card to work in the system | Try using a different SD card; format the card in a PC
|
|
The front panel is lit but nothing on the VGA | Try auto sync mode, make sure monitor can do 640X480
|
|
The keyboard is not working | Use a true PS/2 with no USB – PS/2 adapter
|
If you are having a problem with your Altair 8800 micro and you have just built a kit, check the board, cables
and connectors for any issues or missed soldering connections. Feel free to email me at
vince@brielcomputers.com for help troubleshooting your kit.

Appendix B: The expansion port
Signals Description Direction

A0-A15 address bus signals Output
D0-D7 Data bus signals Bidirectional
R/W Read or Write mode Output
I/O I/O or RAM mode (high=I/O) Output
ALE Address Latch Enable Output
CS RAM chip select (low select) Output
R1 System RESET Input
SB1-3 Switch bank select Output
LLE Status LED Latch Enable (low) Output
TXD TTL Level RS232 transmit port Output
RXD TTL Level RS232 receive port Input
The expansion port is a 40 pin header located near the front of the mainboard. It uses standard bus signals to
create add-on boards. The original design did not include the expansion port and there are currently no add-on
boards available. There will be plans in the future for an addition 32K RAM board and a serial port with
onboard terminal eliminator.

Appendix C: Bill of materials

DESCRIPTION QTY
ATMEL ATMEGA8515 AVR CPU 1

62256 SRAM CYPRESS 70NS 1
74HCT573 LATCHES 8
PROPELLER CHIP 1
EEPROM 1
5MHz CRYSTAL 1
20MHz CRYSTAL 1
40 PIN SOCKET 2
28 PIN SOCKET 1
20 PIN SOCKET 8
8 PIN SOCKET 1
2 position on/off toggle 21
3 WAY MOM TOGGLE 3
100 OHM RESISTORS 2
220 OHM RESISTORS 38
470 OHM RESISTORS 3
560 OHM RESISTOR 1
1K OHM RESISTOR 1
3.3K OHM RESISTORS 5
4.7K OR 3.9K OHM SIP RESISTORS 3
.1uF CAPACITORS 12
22pF CAPACITORS 2
10uF CAPACITORS 2
100uF CAP 1
1N4001 DIODE 1
PS/2 KEYBOARD CONNECTOR 1
RCA YELLOW VIDEO CONNECTOR 1
VGA CONNECTOR 1
HEADER CONNECTORS 5
SD CARD CONNECTOR 1
RED LED'S 32
2.1MM DC POWER CONNECTOR 1
CASE 1
FRONT CUSTOM PANEL 1
REAR BRUSHED PANEL 1
MAINBOARD PCB 1
FRONT PANEL PCB 1
CD 1
RIBBON CABLE 2
4-40 MOUNTING SCREWS 10
4-40 NUTS 2

Appendix D: VT100 Control Commands

Altair specific non standard commands:
ESC[R to load program into AVR

ESC[S to store memory into file
ESC[nT change TV text color to value n 1-22
ESC[Z turn off TV cursor
ESC[Y turn on TV cursor
Current VT-100 Code list (Mostly VGA mode)
ESC[m Turn off character attributes

ESC[0m Turn off character attributes
ESC[1m Turn bold character on (reverse)
ESC[7m Turn reverse video on
ESC[nA Move cursor up n lines
ESC[nB Move cursor down n lines
ESC[nC Move cursor right n lines
ESC[nD Move cursor left n lines
ESC[H Move cursor to upper left corner
ESC[;H Move cursor to upper left corner
ESC[line;columnH Move cursor to screen location v,h
ESC[f Move cursor to upper left corner
ESC[;f Move cursor to upper left corner
ESC[line;columnf Move cursor to sceen location v,h
ESCD Move/scroll window up one line
ESC[D Move/scroll window up one line
ESCL Move/scroll window up one line (undocumented)
ESC[L Move/scroll window up one line (undocumented)
ESCM Move/scroll window down one line
ESCK Clear line from cursor right
ESC[0K Clear line from cursor right
ESC[1K Clear line from cursor left
ESC[2K Clear entire line
ESC[J Clear screen from cursor down
ESC[0J Clear screen from cursor down
ESC[1J Clear screen from cursor up
ESC[2J Clear entire screen
ESC[0c Terminal ID responds with [?1;0c for VT-100 no options
ESC[c Terminal ID responds with [?1;0c for VT-100 no options
Esc[value@ Insert one character
Esc[valueP Delete one character

List of unsupported codes
ESC[xxh All of the ESC[20h thru ESC[?9h commands

ESC[xxl All of the ESC[20i thru ESC[?9i commands
ESC= Alternate keypad mode
ESC< Enter/Exit ANSI mode
ESC> Exit Alternate keypad mode
Esc5n Device status report DSR
Esc0n Response: terminal is OK DSR
Esc3n Response: terminal is not OK DSR
Esc6n Get cursor position DSR
EscLine;ColumnR Response: cursor is at v,h CPR
Esc#8 Screen alignment display DECALN
Esc[2;1y Confidence power up test DECTST
Esc[2;2y Confidence loopback test DECTST
Esc[2;9y Repeat power up test DECTST
Esc[2;10y Repeat loopback test DECTST
Esc[0q Turn off all four leds DECLL0
Esc[1q Turn on LED #1 DECLL1

Warranty
(Applies to factory assembled circuit boards only)
Briel Computers hereby warrants each of its products, and all components
therein contained, to be free from defects in materials and/or workmanship
for a period of thirty (3O) days from date of purchase. In the event of
the occurrence of malfunction or other indication of failure attributable
directly to faulty workmanship and/or material, then, upon return of the
product to Briel Computers, at 5392 Cornell Blvd, North Ridgeville, Ohio
44039 (postage prepaid), Briel Computers will, at its option, repair or
replace said products or components thereof, to whatever extent Briel
Computers shall deem necessary, to restore said product to proper
operating condition. All such repairs or replacements shall be rendered by
Briel Computers, without charge to the customer. The responsibility for
the failure of any Briel Computers product, or component thereof, which,
at the discretion of Briel Computers, shall have resulted either directly
or indirectly from accident, abuse, or misapplication of the product,
shall be assumed by the customer, and the Briel Computers shall assume no
liability as a consequence of such events under the terms of this
warranty. While every effort, on the part of Briel Computers, is made to
provide clear and accurate technical instruction on the use,
implementation, and application of its products, Briel Computers shall
assume no liability in events which may arise from the application of such
technical instruction, nor shall Briel Computers be held liable for the
quality, interconnection, or application of peripheral products, which may
have been recommended by Briel Computers, but which have not been supplied
as part of the product. This warranty contains and embodies the limits of
responsibility of Briel Computers, with regard to its products, and no
other liability is expressed, implied, or should be assumed by the
purchaser, and in no event shall Briel Computers be held liable for the
loss of time, effort, or transportation costs, nor for loss of potential
profits or other consequential losses which might arise from the purchase,
assembly, use, application, or subsequent sale of the products of Briel
Computers, nor from any instructions and/or technical information thereto
related.

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Altair 8800micro

Setup and Users Manual

JULY 2010 PRELIMINARY MANUAL

© Briel Computers 2010 page 2

Forward Recreating a cult classic

Original Altair 8800 system

Ed Roberts shown next to some of his Altair machines

© Briel Computers 2010 page 3

January 1975 Popular Electronics featuring the ALTAIR 8800

© Briel Computers 2010 page 5

© Briel Computers 2010 page 6

© Briel Computers 2010 page 7

Setup and Users Manual

© Briel Computers 2010 page 8

Chapter 1: Introducing the Altair 8800 micro

Final Altair 8800 micro prototype

SD card slot on Altair 8800 micro

The SD card has the following features and conditions:

• Cards work with FAT16 or FAT32 only, no NTSF

© Briel Computers 2010 page 10

Altair 8800 micro VGA port

Composite video connector

© Briel Computers 2010 page 11

PS/2 keyboard port

DC Power input jack

© Briel Computers 2010 page 12

Chapter 2: Unpacking Your System

What you need for your Altair 8800 micro:

You can use a VGA monitor or TV with composite input.

© Briel Computers 2010 page 13

Prepare a space for your Altair 8800 micro:

Plug in your keyboard:

Add some power:

© Briel Computers 2010 page 14

Chapter 3: Building Your Kit with Step By Step Instructions

© Briel Computers 2010 page 15

Tools required for assembly:

1. Soldering iron or gun (25-35W preferred)

© Briel Computers 2010 page 16

Resistor color chart

© Briel Computers 2010 page 17

NOTE: C3 is missing on REV 0 boards so there are only 11 .1uF capacitors

© Briel Computers 2010 page 18

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© Briel Computers 2010 page 20

© Briel Computers 2010 page 21

Inventory of parts to complete the Altair 8800 micro:

© Briel Computers 2010 page 22

Chapter 4: Powering up and testing Your System

How to format an SD card:

© Briel Computers 2010 page 23

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Chapter 5: Programming with the front panel

Step 1: Lift address switch 0

Step 3: Push down switch 0 and lift up switch 7

Step 4: Lift and release DEPOSIT switch

© Briel Computers 2010 page 27

Step 4: Press down and release DEPOSIT switch

© Briel Computers 2010 page 28

Chapter 6: Loading BASIC

Step 4: Push the RUN/STOP switch down to RUN mode