gonzalez@bbn.com (Jim Gonzalez) (04/12/90)
Thanks to those who responded to my inquiry about the No-Slot Clock. Armed with the information received, I made a few phone calls. The No-Slot Clock is a device designed to be inserted between a ROM and its socket. It is distributed by SMT, which bundles the device with software for use on PC's and Apples. The device is, in fact, a Dallas Semiconductor SmartWatch, sold under an agreement with the manufacturer. The SMT package includes the documentation needed to write one's own driver. They know of people getting it to work on Commodore and Atari computers. It is a 28-pin device, but is meant to be work in 24-pin sockets as well with some simple jumpering. I contacted two suppliers of the SMT package: Carlisle Computer Central Computer Products 959 Hill Road 330 Central Avenue Las Cruces, NM 88005 Fillmore, CA 93015 800-333-2566 805-524-4189 The man I spoke to at Carlisle seemed to have a little more on the ball. They advertise the package in the Computer Shopper for $39 plus $7 s&h. Anticipated cost: $46. The man I spoke to at Central guessed that they charged $69. According to Chuck Fuller's recent posting, they last advertised it for $49. The March Computer Shopper has an ad from Central, but no mention of the NSC. They indicate, however, that shipping is $4.50. Anticipated cost: $53.50 Based on price and responsiveness, I am leaning toward Carlisle. Has anyone dealt with them before? Did I catch Central on an "off" day? By the way, the number for Dallas Semiconductor is 214-450-0400 (I can't wait to see my long-distance bill :-). They are sending me a catalog, which includes details on the various SmartWatch devices (they have RAM and ROM versions). -Jim.