MITS Altair Disk 88-DCDD rev 1
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MITS Altair Disk 88-DCDD rev 1 |
by Bill Degnan - 06/03/2010 18:23 |
 The MITS Altair Disk model 88-DCDD is a single 8" disk drive. Click image for larger view.
I finally found a source to purchase working disks. Now the long journey to making a bootable system begins. In addition to the drive, I have the dual-controller cards labeled MITS Disk BD 1 Rev 0-X3 and MITS DISK#2 REV 0-X2. more pics NEXT: Clean the drive, get a boot loader PROM and install in my turnkey system, which I believe is the best candidate for this drive. Reply |
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Altair Disk 88-DCDD Disk Buffer |
by Bill Degnan - 06/07/2010 22:43 |
 This is a cap on the disk buffer board with a leak. It still has proper voltages when tested, but should be replaced asap.
 This is a cap does not have any output voltage, it needs to be replaced? I need to check the schematic.
There are two voltage regulators on the disk buffer a 7924 and a 7905. They both output to normal negative voltage levels (-23.85 and -5.04 respectively). Drive spins when door is closed. Cleaned drive head, moderate cleaning throughout. New pics. Note the difference in the grime from pics taken on 6/4 vs 6/7. I also acquired docs with the disk boot loader code listing and schematic. NEXT: Replace bad caps, locate other bad components. Reply |
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Altair 88-DCDD Perhipheral Cable Repair |
by Bill Degnan - 07/19/2010 23:37 |
 The cable that connects the two 88-DCDD controller cards to the disk buffer of the drive has 4 broken wires that need to be mended. Click for larger image.
 Pic 2. Click for larger image.
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MITS 88-DCDD Testing |
by Bill Degnan - 09/24/2013 18:25 |
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The 88-DCDD boots a disk successfully using a separate set of drive controller cards. I cleaned the heads and exercised the stepper motor before attempting a read.
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Restoration complete |
by Bill Degnan - 09/25/2013 19:07 |
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Repaired the cable, the drive controller set works, boots CP/M. Done.
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