This is starting to sound like a blog! Ok, I’ve cut the acrylic parts for the prototype VCSp Phoenix:

1) Front of the case. It has a fake wood grain layer over the buttons, and a fake brushed aluminum thing around the screen (They’re technically fake but look quite real)

2) This is the “control board” Right now it’s got the tact switches for the controls, the paddle dial and a audio amp (since the screen module is video only) A temporary volume control, speaker and battery to test it are shown. I considered having circuit boards made but I think I can just “point to point” solder the boards and be OK. This also lowers the overhead cost.

3) I’m pretty proud of this – The battery pack is (2) 3-cell pieces from Digi-key. These screws to a plate which then screws into the back of the control board, simplifying construction (The old VCSp’s had these bent prong things and were a pain) The power leads coming off the battery pack also go right to the control board and regulator(s).

4) Rear of the case. The final production model may have small holes in the back into which a screwdriver can be inserted to adjust color, tint, etc. (Although that stuff will likely be preset)

I’ve ordered the first screen module to try out in this portable. Everything hinges upon it. I designed this unit using the screen’s mechanical drawings so it SHOULD fit. The 2 caveats are a) powering the screen with 12 volts using a step-up switching regulator and b) will it accept the Atari video signal (Some screens don’t, though the ones that don’t all seem to be Sony in origin, such as Vegas or PSone screens). Still, fingers are crossed. If the screen works it’ll be awesome.

Assuming I get some parts from Digi-key and the screen this coming week the prototype should be done sometime next weekend, at which time this site will have an update. From there I will pursue molds (for the case) and other things required for a mass production. So keep those “emails of interest” coming, and check out the Phoenix page for more info on the unit itself and some FAQ’s.

Man, second headline in a week using a question mark… weird… Anyway, I’ve got an idea to make a bunch of Atari 2600 portables, which would be a unit called the “Phoenix” (the name I’ve wanted to use for mass-produced VCSp’s for a long time now) It’s been almost 2 years since I’ve built any one unit in large quantities so it’s about time for some more!

Since some cost is involved to get started I’m looking for interest and input first. I’ve set up a page right here that displays the design and specs of this proposed portable. Take a look, then email me if you think this is of interest. I’ll use this to gauge if I should proceed or not – would probably be later this spring if I did.

If I did this, my goal would be 5 units a week – more than I’ve ever pumped out. That would be neat, eh?

Ha! I bet you never thought I’d make THIS!

   

Yes, it’s a one-of-a-kind combo Atari 2600 and Playstation 2 system – a perfect conversation piece for your home entertainment center! Note the PS2 disc tray in the lower right corner of the vintage Atari case. The old silver switches control both the Atari and the PS2 (power on, disc eject etc)

Grand Theft Auto and Pac-Man… together at last!

As per usual I’ve prepared a “Making Of” page for this thing that also explains WHY I made it! (the real question on people’s minds!) Click here to check it out, and enjoy!

In other news I’m probably gonna take a short break from portables for a while… I’ve been working on them non-stop since last May and need a breather. Of course kits for my book will still be available, and I’ll update the site with tidbits as well.

And don’t worry – while I’m taking a break I’ll be hatching up NEW schemes and things!

I finally broke down and ripped up my old N64. Over one month later…

…out comes this thing, with 5″ screen, stereo speakers and lots of battery power. For the full story (along with the obligatory “N64p -VS- Nintendo DS” article) click the above photo or right here.

As for selling it, this unit has already been spoken for. But maybe if I get emailed enough I would consider making a case kit… (You’d be on your own for stuffing it, though)

And don’t worry, I’ve got a few more tricks up my sleeve to show you soon, even if I am wearing a T-shirt! Stay tuned!

Well it would appear my book is out on shelves and available for purchase! I got my copies last week – kind of strange to look at a print version of something I worked on for the better part of last year, but I guess the initial disorientation will pass in time 🙂

Also on that note I’ve made kits available for the projects in the book. For info on them and the book just click here!

In other news I’m working on another portable which hopefully will be done soon – then I’ll be taking a break for a bit (to allow my soldering iron burns to heal and stuff)  In the meantime, enjoy my book!

Just today I started getting a good deal of email from people wanting kits for the projects in my book. I’m still nailing down the pricing (and getting the files ready) but there is a temp page for it on my website for the book. Click here for the book’s website and select “Buy Kits for the Project” It has price estimates and a link to email me if interested.

I’m going to try and get detailed package lists and easy Paypal ordering buttons up on that page ASAP. In the meantime I’ll collect your emails and use those.

So please “pardon my mess” as I work to get this ready and thanks for your patience! And hey – enjoy the book!