> >> - ICE on ROM (how do I start that up then, and do I need a mouse?)
The mouse, if it has one, is connected directly to the ROM cartridge. If it
doesn't then it must be an early, pre-mouse version.
> >Type ICE :-) (I have that too... you'll also need the utilities... mine are
> >already dust :-(
>
> I tried that, nothing happened... Maybe the EPROM is a goner :( Is it
> supposed to show anything at the F1/F2 screen?
Top of F1/F2 screen should say summat loike:
ICE v2.1 EIDERSOFT (C) 1985 D. Jones
[well mind does - I've got a mouse version - followed on the next line by
'Gold Card V2.49']
If this is missing it may be because the ROM isn't found during reset...I have
this problem from time to time and found 2 solutions:
a) try re-seating the cartridge: by unplugging-replugging, and/or jiggling it
in the socket (with power OFF/disconnected). If this failed,
b) [lasts longer] try lightly tinning all the connections on the ROM cartidge
with solder - making sure that NO two were accidently connected via solder
splats (a needle file between them works well) - and making sure that the edge
connector is clean (by using a little propan-1-ol [aka isopropyl alcohol] -
available from chemists, or [video] cassette tape [head] cleaning kits; which
also removes any filings). If re-tinning, having a desolder tool (solder
sucker) to remove old solder helps.
On boot-up, my ICE ROM takes control, unless the ALT key is pressed during the
reset process, when the normal MDV1_BOOT or FLP1_BOOT is run. At any time,
the ICE command allows access to the '"graphical" front-end'
>From November 1987 QL World ('Of Mice and QLs', pg 12-14):
"At present there are four brands of mouse available for the QL. The first
to make its appearance was the Eidersoft Mice system, released soon, after its
EPROM-based ICE front-end...
"The standard version of ICE relies on pressing a combination of cursor
keys to effect movement of a screen pointer which, in turn, accesses the
system commands. Command selection is made by either a single or double
pressing of the <SPACE> bar.
"The Eidersoft mouse system includes EPROM-based ICE and connects to the QL
through the ROM port. Command selection is made by pressing one of the three
mouse buttons."
I've got an ICE manual here sumwhere...I've found the "Mice MOUSE User's
Guide" which basically gives the mouse differences, plus describes ARTice, a
drawing program (that crashes on my GC). It mentions an optional ICE TOOLKIT,
but I can't remember what this is, but with ARTice did come a toolkit of sorts
(providing access to the mouse pointer and buttons).
