to many types of computers and peripherals. The MODEM, a device which
permits computer data to be sent over telephone lines, is a common RS232
device as are line plotters which produce hard-copy graphical output.
The RS232 socket accepts a '5-pin Domino DIN' plug, whose connector pin-out
is illustrated in Appendix 10. Your Acorn dealer will be able to supply you with
the interface itself and also with most readily available RS232 devices,
including MODEMs.
Connecting a Joystick, Mouse or Trackball
Many computer applications require two-dimensional input from the user of
greater precision than, say, the cursor keys can conveniently provide. In such
cases it is common to employ a 'pointing device' such as:
-- a joystick, named after the aircraft pilot's control;
-- a mouse, being a device held under the hand which may be moved about
freely;
-- a trackball, which is similar to a mouse but has a larger ball facing upwards
which may be spun with the hand.
Any of these pointing devices may be plugged into the 'Joystick/Mouse'
connector on the rear panel. This is a 9-pin D-type plug, and should thus
accomodate any Atari-compatible joystick and most other devices which
conform to this standard.
The Econet Network
Your computer may optionally be fitted with an interface to enable it to act as a
terminal on an Acorn Econet local area network. The Econet can interconnect
up to 250 computers, facilitating the sharing of expensive resources such as
very large fixed disc drives and high quality printers. The Econet can also
provide a path from desktop terminals to faster commercial networks and
thence into the international data transmission services.
The Econet interface is supplied as a plug-in circuit board which is fitted inside
the keyboard case; connection is then made to the network cable by means of a
flying lead from the 'Econet' socket on the rear panel. Consult the appropriate
documentation for further information.
Your Acorn dealer can give you further details on the advantages offered by
the Econet network, as well as supplying interfaces and other supporting
products.
G 4