I've installed an Etarikashikoshi Midi & 8MB RAM expansion in my X68k XVI and while the Midi is working fine, the RAM doesn't appear to be recognized. I used the switch command to change the RAM to 10MB but memtest68k still reports 2MB. Does anyone have any suggestions as to what might be going wrong / how to debug?
In the first production batch (February 2024), there was a flaw in the firmware that prevented correct operation on systems with more than 10MHz, the models produced later had the correct firmware, alternatively it was possible to request an update from the manufacturer by sending the ram back.
So set your XVI to 10MHz and you will see it work, unfortunately you will not be able to use it at 16MHz.
Thanks for the info! I tried switching to 10MHz and it does indeed work. But I guess that means I need to find a new expansion card...
Polykubos RAM+MIDI should be fine, however before purchasing ask the manufacturer for compatibility with frequencies above 10MHz.
https://www.polykubos.fr/en/vintage-computers/1-8-x68000-sram-midi-board.html#/3-kit-c02_board_backplate_jack_35mm_to_din_5_pin_midi_cable/5-back_plate-black
Remember to select the color you want for the back plate.
If you're in the US, I believe I have the updated version (need to double check) and would be happy to swap boards with you. Just let me know. The polykubos may be the better option either way as I think there are some midi compatibility issues with the etarikashikoshi if I remember correctly.
I'm in the UK actually. I didn't notice any midi compatibility issues yet but I've only really checked a handful of games so far. I saw that After Burner is known to have issues, but not sure how many others do. If that's still a significant issue even with the updated firmware I might prefer to go with something else.
The main problem is that you can't use your XVI at 16MHz.
Sure, I'm just trying to understand if an Etarikashikoshi with updated firmware would be an acceptable solution or if the midi issues would still warrant buying something else like the polykubos.
Absolutely yes, if you are looking for a low-cost solution, out of 82 games with MIDI support even if one or two don't work it's not a big deal.