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576NUC+ Keyboard Functions (Part 1)

2/3/2021

 
TKNUC V1.4 Firmware

I thought I'd cover where things are at with the PS/2 keyboard 'hot' keys, and how the 576NUC+ is controlled by them.

First of all there is no actual power switch on the NUC, so that function gets implemented via special key press combinations which can be seen in the table below. Primarily this consists of using the 'ALT' key simultaneously with another key. Normally that would be a number key, although in the case of booting without a built-in language or game selection, the 'tilde' (~) key would get used, with CTRL+ALT+~ allowing a boot with a stock XEGS OS. Although in most cases the High Speed SIO OS with Fast Math routines active would be the way to go, via an ALT+~ key press.

When not pressed with the ALT key, the tilde key functions identical to the Atari inverse key.


Main Selection and Power Control Keys

Picture
ACTION KEY(s)
Used in combination with the following keys

Picture
POWER-ON KEYS
Picture
POWER-OFF KEY
KEYS
OS
LANG/GAME
SLOT
POWER
ALT+~
HSIO + FAST MATH
X
ON
CTRL+ALT+~
STOCK XEGS
X
ON
ALT+1
HSIO + FAST MATH
ALTIRRA BASIC
ON
ALT+2
STOCK XEGS
ATARI BASIC
REV C
ON
ALT+3
NA
PAC-MAN
ON
ALT+4
NA
STAR RAIDERS
ON
ALT+0
X
X
OFF
Help, Console and Reset Keys

Picture
These have been mapped in a similar fashion to the Altirra Emulator, and also share the same functionality with the Dark AKI firmware on Lotharek's newest PS/2 Keyboard Adapter product.
F1 = HELP
F2 = START
F3 = SELECT
F4 = OPTION
F5 = RESET

If the NUC is in a powered down state, momentarily pressing any of the console keys will latch it so that the next time you power-up it will be as if that key is being held down. Following power-up, the latched key(s) will get cleared. Also if you change your mind, pressing ALT+0 will clear it as well.

I think that's a wrap for now. In my next post I'll cover some of the other 'hot' keys, addressing things like extended RAM control and attract mode defeat.

- Michael


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    Author

    My name is Michael St. Pierre and in the early 90's I was a part of a very substantial group of innovators creating uniquely useful upgrades for the Atari 8-bit computers.

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