SDrive-MAX, or how to build a virtual disk reader for Atari 8-bit in domestic conditions

August 3, 2018, 14:00 Vladimir Kreyson ред.

There are good news for those who hates the fact that Atari 8-bit computer has only one disk reader. Two german guys, Daniel and Klaus, have found a solution for this problem. All you are going to need is the board and the touch screen from the Arduino. With these items you can create a device called SDrive-MAX capable of mounting ATR disc images and CAS tape images from an SD-card.

The reader is slim, it doesn't take much space. It connects to the computer via SIO-port and is powered by this connection, although it can be charged by other means too. SDrive-MAX has an USB-port, which is very useful in terms of changing the firmware or working with memory card. The small size has only one disadvantage - there is not enough space to display the game titles properly.

For the best perfomance Arduino UNO board with ATmega328p controller and touch-sensitive 2.8" TFT-display are recommended. Equivalent hardware should be sufficient too. You can download the english instructions and the firmware from Pixel Perfect. There is a support service, but it's German only. If you want additional information, check the video below: