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Amiga computer related discussion => Amiga Hardware Issues and discussion => Topic started by: Epyx on October 18, 2003, 03:46:36 AM

Title: A520 Question
Post by: Epyx on October 18, 2003, 03:46:36 AM

I bought an A520 from the UK for an NTSC Amiga. As far as my understanding goes...the A520 will work for both PAL and NTSC amigas correct? IE they only made one A520 not a PAL and an NTSC one correct?

Title: Re: A520 Question
Post by: iamaboringperson on October 18, 2003, 03:55:50 AM

Quote

correct?

correct

Title: Re: A520 Question
Post by: Epyx on October 18, 2003, 04:59:29 AM

Thanks!

Title: Re: A520 Question
Post by: Oldsmobile_Mike on October 18, 2003, 06:57:57 AM

Quote

correct

Eh?  Wouldn't there be one 520 that would output a PAL signal, and another that would output NTSC?  :-?

 I would think if he's planning on using his Amiga in North America, he would need the NTSC model.  A Fact:  the PAL RF output on my A1200 (a European model) doesn't show up at all on a NTSC standard TV.

Title: Re: A520 Question
Post by: Epyx on October 18, 2003, 07:35:13 AM

Hmm...okay doesnt the Amiga itself determine whether it is PAL or NTSC and the A520 just converts RGB into RF?

As in doesn't the A520 just take whatever signal the Amiga it is hooked up to regardless of whether it is PAL or NTSC and you just have to make sure you have the appropriate TV?

At least that was my understanding...

Title: Re: A520 Question
Post by: JimS on October 18, 2003, 08:14:45 AM

The Amiga determines the scan frequencies for NTSC or PAL.  But there's more to converting RGB to composite than just the scan rates. The color subcarrier is different, as is the way the color itself is encoded. So, no, you need the proper 520..

Title: Re: A520 Question
Post by: Oldsmobile_Mike on October 18, 2003, 08:24:52 AM

Quote

Hmm...okay doesnt the Amiga itself determine whether it is PAL or NTSC and the A520 just converts RGB into RF?    As in doesn't the A520 just take whatever signal the Amiga it is hooked up to regardless of whether it is PAL or NTSC and you just have to make sure you have the appropriate TV?

Most Amigas (ie., all but the very first models, with only the standard Agnus) can switch between NTSC and PAL video modes, either through early startup control, or by using a program like degrader.

HOWEVER, getting the actual video output is a little more tricky.  Obviously if you're using something like a 1084S monitor, it will detect and sync automatically to either 50Hz (PAL) or 60Hz (NTSC) video modes.  But your TV isn't so smart.  If you're in North America, you'll need the NTSC version of the A520 to hook up to your TV.  If you're anywhere else where they use Amiga's, you'll need the PAL version.

Take a look here (http://amiga.resource.cx/exp/search.pl?product=520&company=), here (http://www.amiga-hardware.com/), and here (http://www.starnet.com.au/davem/overclock/A520.html) for more info on the A520.

Regards,
Mike

Title: Re: A520 Question
Post by: Epyx on October 18, 2003, 08:30:04 AM

Thanks...guess i bought a PAL one for nothing then :(

hehe oh well.

Title: Re: A520 Question
Post by: iamaboringperson on October 18, 2003, 09:19:38 AM

Ah, ####. The A520!! I was thinking of the A570! :crazy:

I need some rest....

Title: Re: A520 Question
Post by: Oldsmobile_Mike on October 18, 2003, 09:36:03 AM

Quote

I need some rest....

I hear ya, boringperson.  It's 4am where I am!   :-o