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Re: Q68 Order Process
Posted: Thu Mar 30, 2023 1:29 am
by ql_freak
Thanks!
Re: Q68 Order Process
Posted: Thu Mar 30, 2023 7:11 pm
by TitoxUnix
Thanks for your information!!!!!!
Derek_Stewart wrote: Wed Mar 29, 2023 11:26 pm
Hi,
I am sorry for the lack information on the progress of the next batch of Q68.
The new Q68 case required a little more design work, the QL Network sockets have accurately drilled and on the right hand side of the of the Q68 case.
The new case is slightly smaller than the previous case, which required the end panels redesigned. I produced an engineering drawing to produce new end panels, which has been usdd to produce new panels, that are fully anodised and do not suffer from paint flaking as seen on the prevent case end panels.
The new rear end panel has a I2C socket fitted above the Serial socket, this is a 4 pin 2mm JST Socket.
The other major delay was the supply of parts, which were previousily were supplied from an Electronics company in Germany, who could not supply parts to the UK, the reason was given as Brexit. Which is strange as other German companies supply to the UK. So I had source the parts from an alternative source, which I have just only taken delivery today.
I am sorry for the delays, I hope to start shipping the Q68 in April.
Re: Q68 Order Process
Posted: Thu Mar 30, 2023 7:37 pm
by dilwyn
Thank you Derek.
Re: Q68 Order Process
Posted: Thu Mar 30, 2023 10:13 pm
by Derek_Stewart
Hi,
I have the Q68 PCBs built and tested, running SMSQ/E v3.38, updated the Applications software on SD Card, I have tried to supply the up to date software available.
The main area of work surrounds the the new case, whuch is a split design, where the top lifts off to reveal the Q68 PCB in all its glory.
The case being slightly smaller and has no contouring on the outside. Required a little thought on the installation of the QL Network Connectors, which the circuitry is installed into the top case, connecting to the internal expansion port.
The I2C connection from the PCB to the rear panel, requires a little adapter connector board , attached to the rear panel, which is located above the serial port, as a 2.0mm JST connector.
This trying to be compatible the Sparkfun QWIIC CONNECT SYSTEM:
https://www.sparkfun.com/qwiic
If a tutoorial on I2C is required, look at:
https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/i2 ... ect-system
Of course, there is the Minerva MKII I2C interfaces, which used a 9 pin D connector, I will supply a cable to connect to these interfaces, but care us needed as Minerva MkIi I2C is a 5v system, where Q68 I2C is 3.3v.
Re: Q68 Order Process
Posted: Wed Apr 26, 2023 8:08 pm
by Derek_Stewart
Hi,
Here is an update on the next batch of Q68.
I have redesigned the case, with a split design, that allows the top of the case to be removed, to allow access to the internals of the Q68.
The QL NET connection is fitted to the top Case section, that is plugged into the Q68 expansion connector, by a 3 pin connector.
The I2C connection is accessable on the rear panel via a JST 2mm connector.
Here are some photographs taken with my mobile phone:

- Q68

- Q68 QL NET

- Boot Screen

- 2 Q68s

- Q68 internals
I am a little behind in the build schedule, but I have 5 Q68 built into cases just needing the QL Network circuitry fitted, I plan to ship these next week and try and build and ship 5 Q68s per week.
Re: Q68 Order Process
Posted: Wed Apr 26, 2023 8:53 pm
by Chr$
Will you be selling just the case and new parts (the cables and any fixtures and fittings) Derek? I'd take one to house my existing Q68.
Re: Q68 Order Process
Posted: Wed Apr 26, 2023 8:59 pm
by Derek_Stewart
Chr$ wrote: Wed Apr 26, 2023 8:53 pm
Will you be selling just the case and new parts (the cables and any fixtures and fittings) Derek? I'd take one to house my existing Q68.
At present, only Q68 production.
I will get some prices on Cases and Panels, which are specially made.
Re: Q68 Order Process
Posted: Thu Apr 27, 2023 9:23 pm
by NormanDunbar
I have to say Derek, those look great!
Cheers,
Norm.
Re: Q68 Order Process
Posted: Sat Apr 29, 2023 8:37 pm
by pjw
Derek_Stewart wrote: Wed Apr 26, 2023 8:08 pm
Hi,
Here is an update on the next batch of Q68.
<>
Here are some photographs taken with my mobile phone:
<>
Looks fantastic, Derek!
I wish I needed another one.. ;o)
Re: Q68 Order Process
Posted: Sun Apr 30, 2023 8:45 am
by Derek_Stewart
pjw wrote: Sat Apr 29, 2023 8:37 pm
Derek_Stewart wrote: Wed Apr 26, 2023 8:08 pm
Hi,
Here is an update on the next batch of Q68.
<>
Here are some photographs taken with my mobile phone:
<>
Looks fantastic, Derek!
I wish I needed another one.. ;o)
Hi Per,
Thank you for the nice comments.
I have 30 Q68 Boards to build and have orders for 29, 1 spare maybe for me?
I should be starting to ship the Q68 next week, Shipping in is slower due to 2 Bank Holidays and a extra holiday for the King's Coronation.
I just got the QL Network circuitry to build and install in the upper part of the case, which connects to the Q68 Expansion port by a 3 pin connector.