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Epson HX-20 loading software over serial...

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spiderx

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Dec 1, 2023
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So, I made a serial null modem cable for my HX-20, as I wanted to test if the serial port was working. It seems like it is.
Here's how I did that...

I basically got a DIN-8 (full size) cable (I think they sell these for midi) and cut it in the middle, then stripped the wires back and used one of those DB9 serial with the screw for the pins, so no need for soldering anything.

On the modern computer, I set it for 8-N-2 and 4800, and installed coolterm. Even though I made a full duplex cable, it doesn't seem to work with CTS / DTR / XON, I just leave checked the 'software supported flow control' and in the 'transmit' I set the 'transmit character delay' to 5ms, and turn on 'local echo' in the 'terminal options' and that's it. I can then paste or upload the file, and when the local echo gets to the last line of the program, I know its done.

On the HX-20, I just have to LOAD "COM0:" and then on the modern computer, paste the file, and wait for it to finish. Then, I hit BREAK, and I can list/run the program.

It's kind of slow, about 30 seconds to send 2600+ characters, are my settings wrong? Does the HX-20 support RTS/DTR? Is the delay too long?

Either way, I hope this helps someone else. At least it does transfer data across!
 
Just an update, I can set the 'transmit character delay' to 1ms, and enable DTR, and on the HX-20 use LOAD "COM0:68N1F" and that will transfer a bit faster, though it seems slower than 4800 imho, it works.
 
Yes, the serial port can go at 38400, but I'm interested in using the RS232C port because I have some older devices that I'd like to try connecting it to (like a Tandy Model 100).
 
spiderx said:
I did get one, but it looks like it takes a mini din not a din, so back to square one. I might be able to wire one up with those breadboard jumper cables, at least temporarily.
Click to expand...
Jeff just came out with a uBPD - Universal BACKPACK Device that works with Model 100, 102, 200, NECs, EPSON PX-8, HX-20, Cambridge Z88, and more - also most anything with XMODEM support to. FYI.
With regard to above, doesn't he sell the correct connection cables/adapters too?
 
Fezzler said:
doesn't he sell the correct connection cables/adapters too?
Click to expand...
Not for the HX-20, but at least he does state "For the HX-20 you will need an 8-pin DIN to 8-pin Mini DIN cable." However no such cable exists, you have to make that yourself.
 
spiderx said:
Not for the HX-20, but at least he does state "For the HX-20 you will need an 8-pin DIN to 8-pin Mini DIN cable." However no such cable exists, you have to make that yourself.
Click to expand...
Just buy an 8 pin mini din cable.. cut off one end and solder a full size din cable on(using the trusty potato din soldering tool) Soldering mini din is very annoying.
 
If there is enough interest, I will add the matching cables so you can pick them up with the Backpack and adapter.

I know it is a bit frustrating at times trying to get a Backpack as they tend to sell out quickly. There was a bit more of a delay this time between batches as we moved to the Universal Backpack. Both of us involved in production are doing so as a hobby basis so production has to fit into other life activities too.
 
Jeff, actually, I think I can just use a DB25 gender changer since I have the #706 and #715 cables for the HX-20. I appreciate the work you both do, and I wasn't complaining. Just trying to collect the best info for making serial connections to the HX-20 here. I could also use a DB9-DB25 but because the connector on the BPD is a plug (normally called male) instead of a socket (normally called female) it's not that simple.
 
spiderx said:
Jeff, actually, I think I can just use a DB25 gender changer since I have the #706 and #715 cables for the HX-20. I appreciate the work you both do, and I wasn't complaining. Just trying to collect the best info for making serial connections to the HX-20 here. I could also use a DB9-DB25 but because the connector on the BPD is a plug (normally called male) instead of a socket (normally called female) it's not that simple.
Click to expand...
No worries. It is hard to know what or how much of something folks will need so feedback is always welcome. The choice of the male connector on the BPD was to mate with the female on the Model 100 (the original target of the BPD.) Since the BPD has grown to work with so many other devices it can sometimes seem an odd choice though. Happily, it does allow the BPD to also mate with the CE-158(X) without a gender bender.
 
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