Ttssastt Episode 0.2: Using a digital recorder with TRS-80 Model 100/102/200

A reader named Duane Calvillo read the last post I did on using a digital recorder to save and load files from the little Model T computers, and just wanted to know the specifics of the actual saving and loading process. In the previous article, I talked more about the process of figuring out how to actually translate the audio save files into text using a PC and audio software, strange esoterica that would only interest someone who had only audio of old computer program save files and no original computer to load them with (think a digital archivist trying to get data off orphaned audiotapes of saved files). Today I’ll cover the actual process of saving and loading files using a digital recorder instead of a cassette drive.

Episode 0.2: Using a digital recorder with TRS-80 Model 100/102/200 to save and load files when your CCR-81 Cassette Data recorder is broken or lost. Works for Tandy TRS-80 Model 100, 102, 200, Kyotronic 85, Olivetti M10 or NEC PC-8201/8300.

To build your own Cassette Interface Cable:
http://www.8bit-micro.com/data-cable.htm

Club 100 order form, in case they still have any for sale:
http://www.club100.org/ordform.html
(sad news: I just got an email from Ken Pettit, current Club100 main guy, who said he hasn’t paid attention to Club100 orders for months and will soon be disabling the order form. So much for that T200 REX I ordered. Guess I’ll have to make my own..)

Some documentation on the CCR-81 and the cassette load/save commands available for the TRS-80 and compatibles: