The MiniITX-MiniMig project did generate some cashback for me as I was able to sell off two of the prototypes. I also got requests to make more of them. But as the the prototypes does contain some errors I have started to correct these and do some major changes at the same point, making a version 2 of the board, suitable for production. For the original design, please have a look at my web page (
www.illuwatar.se).
This thread is about asking for interest to make a larger run of boards. To create an order, at least 10 boards must be ordered to keep the price at a decent level. A initial run of 10 boards will cost at least €250, going for 25 boards will be €345.
Above corrections, following things will be modified or changed:
* The PIC18LF452 will be changed to a DIP-version, making it easier to reprogram in case of failed bootloader (or own development). The ISP-connector will be removed as it is useless when the PIC runs at 3.3V (it can't be erased and reprogrammed). The PIC18LF452 is a larger but 100% compatible version of the 18LF252 used in Dennis design, adding more I/O-pins for future enhancement.
Maybe even change to a PIC18LF4520 as the 452 is marked as "Mature Product" by Microchip.
* All connectors will be moved to the rear of the PCB as it should on a MiniITX. I managed to source what I need to pull this off at DigiKey.
* The LCD-connector will be removed - it was just that stupid idea I got sometimes. A generic header will be available for access to the added ports from the larger PIC. They are free for whatever fun You can think of.
* SD-slot moved to the board front. For off-board connection of a SD-holder, a pin-header will be available to connect to a break-out board with a SD-holder. Nothing should be at the board sides that needs external access.
* Changed several 1206 to 0805 - they aren't much harder to solder but it is easier to optimize the design with smaller parts.
* Improved ESD-protection at joysticks and PS/2-connectors.
What will NOT be changed:
* The form factor - it is still MiniITX.
* The color (of course it will be flat black).
* The core functions - it will still be 100% compatible with the Original MiniMig and it uses the same core parts (memories, FPGA, CPU & clock generator).
* 2-layer board, basically if you are skilled and have the tools, you can make one yourself.
* Integrated regulators - no need for a hard-to-find 5V PSU. Take whatever you have that gives out 9 - 15V DC.
* The S-Video/C-Video outputs and the buffered line-out audio. The buffered VGA contains a flaw in the current design that will be corrected. When done, three video outputs are available in the 15kHz mode (in VGA-mode/31kHz, the converter does not work - it is a limit in the AD724), showing the same picture simultaneous (good for demos at gathering).
Please note that this is not a build for a future MiniMig (there are others doing that) so I will not implement features like USB or larger FPGA. I will just take the nice design made by Dennis and move it into the easy accessible world of PC by using the MiniITX form factor.
