Vic SuperExpander: Is it really that super?

PaulQ · Post by **PaulQ** » Sun Jan 14, 2007 7:43 pm

I noticed a Vic Superexpander for sale, part number VIC-1211A. It only adds 3K of RAM. Does it do anything else for the Vic?

Tepic · Post by **Tepic** » Sun Jan 14, 2007 8:54 pm

Yeah, it gives you access to "high res" graphics from basic.

It also has some sound commands, and a simple way to read the joystick.

Well worth it

PaulQ · Post by **PaulQ** » Sun Jan 14, 2007 9:06 pm

I'll have to pick that up, then. Thanks!

eslapion · Post by **eslapion** » Mon Jan 15, 2007 12:56 am

The super expander cannot work well without at least "some" expansion because it requires more RAM for the graphics modes it provides.

The resolution provided by the super expander is really 160x160 pixels, back then considered "HiRes" but the coordinates sytem internally is addressed as 1024x1024.

The super expander provides even more power and functionnality if you use it with in conjunction with more expansion or with the Programmer's Aid and/or VICMON, the VIC's machine language monitor.

You can use VICMON to add ML routines to your programs and Programmer's Aid to rapidly debug or restructure your programs.

However, programs created with SE require SE to be run.

ral-clan · Post by **ral-clan** » Mon Jan 15, 2007 9:13 am

The SuperExpander is well worth owning, but because the programs you make with it can only be used on VICs with a SuperExpander, it is slightly limiting.

The Programmer's Aid cartridge is really a must have. Incredibly useful features like renumbering lines of code, autonumbering, find and merge.

Alan · Post by **Alan** » Mon Jan 15, 2007 9:16 am

One problem I always had with the Super Expander is that it is supposedly able to play music in the background while the rest of the BASIC program carries on. At least that's what the manual claims. I've never been able to get this to work. Is there a way to make this happen with the S.E.?