iBolit2 – a new cartridge for MSX diagnostics

The RBSC presents a new diagnostic cartridge for MSX computers – iBolit2. The new cartridge is based on an Altera MAXII CPLD and is, as usual, an open-source project. The basic firmware includes four diagnostic modes, which – with some skill and attentiveness – allow you to identify faults in data and address buses, detect missing or “stuck” signals, and check the voltage on all three MSX power rails.

As with the previous cartridge version, the iBolit2 includes a voltmeter board, but this time the voltmeters are made using LCD indicators with backlighting. The new version also includes overvoltage protection on the 5V line based on a Zener diode and a self-resetting fuse – features not present in the previous version.

And what’s best – anyone with enough skill can create his own firmware for this cartridge in order to improve or expand the original firmware’s functionality!

Relevant link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4OyPK4fRdwI
Relevant link: https://github.com/RBSC/iBolit2
Relevant link: https://rbsc.su/en/

Source: https://www.msx.org/news/en/ibolit2-a-new-cartridge-for-msx-diagnostics