A500+ Internet

[sim085]

So now I have an A500+ with 68000 processor, 8Mb FastRAM, 2Mb ChipRam and a GVP HD8+. I know that compared to what people have over here my specifications don't look so great (mostly from a processor perspective). However I have run out of things to do with the machine (playing does not feel the same nor have the time) and therefore was wondering if I can reach my long ago goal to make this machine browse the internet.

I found a good tutorial here:
http://peta.mobilserver.cz/amiga/

This tutorial seem to indicate that browsing the Internet on a stock A500 is possible.

Now my question is a little bit different. At home I have an ADSL connection and a Wireless Network that shares the ADSL connection with all the PC's. My laptop connects to the Wireless network and therefore can access Internet.

So what are my options to share these resources (ADSL) on my Amiga (if any)? Or the only way for an Amiga to connect to the Internet is through dial up?

Regards,
Sim085

[sim085]

Ok, Excluding the physical connection - what software do I need? I am asking this because I feel that some of the software mentioned in the tutorial (link above) is especially required for a dialup connection.

[sim085]

A good guide to installing/using AmiTCP:

http://www.acc.umu.se/~patrikax/amiga/guides/AmiTCP_Install/

Can the configurations defined here be changed at a later stage? Or I would need to re-install everything again? Also after I get AmiTCP to work, then it means I just need to install some form of browser and I am ready?

[sim085]

I am not really into connecting my A500+ to a PC (through a null modem) and then share Internet resources like that. I like the idea of connecing the A500+ to an 'old' hub more. However how would I connect my A500+ to the hub? As much as I know my A500+ does not have any place where to connect a telephone wire!

[sim085]

The only realistic option if you want to use ADSL/cable is a null modem cable. A500 networkcards are rarer than hen's teath.

I never saw any in fact. Do you know of any. I am just interested to see where they fit.

There are some (very) rare hubs with which you can use a null modemcable to connect to it.

Ok, I understand now - the null modem connects to the hub and the hub connects to the ADSL modem right? or?

Again, from a technical perspective it can be an interesting project, but I wouldn't call it fun to use in the real world. Browsing the web with an Amiga is a pain, even when heavily expanded. Let alone a humble A500(+) with a plain 68k @ 7 Mhz.

Otoh, you can also browse the web on a C64... ;-)

I do not know if i'll manage to do it. However I have my laptop to browse the internet. All I want is the see it work and maybe send some email or two ... with the title; I am sending this from my A500+

[sim085]

http://cgi.ebay.com/RS232-DB9-Serial-to-RJ45-Cat5-Ethernet-Adapter-Cable-DE_W0QQitemZ320414237516QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item4a9a2d434c&_trksid=p3286.m63.l1177

With such a cable why does it need to be an old hub and not a new one? Isn't that a normal RJ45!

[sim085]

wow Just out of curiosity. In this project would AmiTCP still be needed? Considering that data is passed through the serial port?

[sim085]

Hi again, I guess you are more on the hardware aspect however. Is this project only for Amiga's or it can surve other purpuses as well?

[sim085]

Well, my primal goal is to connect my A500+ (only 1,5Mb chip) to my ethernet network, but the device is designed to be multiplatform.
You can connect every computer you want, only a serial port and slip protocol is required (and tcp/ip over it, of course).
I don't know what could be the "top speed" of the serial link, but I think you can achieve 115000 bauds at least, better than a 56K modem.
I was thinking on include a plip port for higher speeds, but It would be less compatible, but It's still possible.

I also have another version with a wifi card, but It's a lot more complex, and It's not worth doing It.

When do you think you'll have a working version? You should keep the community informed when it is ready Depending on how much it costs I may considering buying one (if you ever decide to sell such units).

[sim085]

Well, I guess the hardware part should be finished on next weekend, but I don't know when the software will be running....
I'm not thinking on selling It. I prefer to make the software and hardware public available.
My hardware is being built with samples and spare parts. I only bought some passive components, such resistors, leds, connectors, and the prototype board... but I think the most expensive part is the LCD, and It's not essential. An especial configuration mode can be included for making the setup of the device through the serial port.
I guess you can build one for 35 euros or 30$, without the LCD, of course.

I wish you all luck with your project and hope to hear about it soon