BYTE: Part 9 - Another Moldovan Speccy Clone (Power supply)
15There are two versions of the BYTE computer from Moldova: one that looks similar to the ZX Spectrum and the Red model.
The date stamps I have are:
[1] Red: 02/92 (serial 246)
[2] ZX Spectrum clone: 05/93 (serial 2378)
[3] Red: 07/94 (serial 2687)
So I'm totally confused about why there are two models apparently being made concurrently. The Red model is simpler (using a ULA) whereas the Spectrum look-a-like has more discrete logic and a "better" keyboard.
The Red model also uses 7-pin DINs for video output (RGBS + audio) and joystick whereas the Spectrum model has a more familiar 5-pin DIN for both ... so there's that incompatibility.
{Disclaimer: Yes, I know this is post-Soviet ... just preferable/easier to refer to the parts as Soviet rather than Russian as the Soviet sphere of influence was more than just Russia ... okay?}
Anyway, this episode is purely about the power supply. It does look well built, utilising a toroid. It appears to have a pair of Taiwanese capacitors (Jamicon) plus a pair of more typical Soviet-style ... including one with handwritten information. It uses a Soviet KREN5A (КРЕН5А) linear regulator.
I converted the PSU to an Aussie plug and powered it on - outputs 5V (1.3A) on pins 1 and 3 ... appears to be running well. It also includes a fuse! But that is more likely due to there being a toroid rather than any other safety concern ... ?