If, like me, you get slightly impatient with 1541 loading times, you will know that the IDE64 will make life a whole lot quicker and more convenient. Protovision have recently patched a version of Ice Guys (last issue's Game of the Month) to work from the IDE, which means no more waiting around for each stage to load! This version will now be given free for all of those who order the device from Protovision. See http://www.protovision-online.com

8-Bit designs are an American based company offering hardware for Commodore 8 bit computers, as well as the Tandy TRS-80, and replacement joypads (which are adapted from the Playstation) for all Atari-style joystick ports. Check out http://www.8bitdesigns.com/index.html

The first generation of this device will be very soon upon us. As I have said before, future generations will be generic, to work with many other classic systems. However, Allan and I are hopeful that the device will work with the Sinclair QL (and other systems with a composite output), as the video out on the GL's tested is already compatible with analogue Luma/Chroma Commodore monitors. To receive regular updates on this project, join the mailing list by contacting Allan.Bairstow@btintetnet.com

The Sinclair QL was never known as a games-machine in its day, with its integrated business packages and SuperBASIC. However, RWAP software offers a fairly extensive range of entertainment software for the black box. Rich Mellor, at RWAPR had this to say:

"I publish a wide range of games for the Sinclair QL, provide disk based upgrades to many of the older titles which were only released on microdrive cartridges (and remain popular), as well as various public domain adventures, which can be downloaded from my website.

"Nearly all of the old software remains playable once it has been converted to disk, using one of the various emulators, although probably the best emulator for playing games is QeMulator (see the RWAP website for details)"

He may be contacted at - Rich Mellor, RWAP Services, 35 Chantry Croft, Kinsley, Pontefract, West Yorkshire, WFS 5JH or see http://hometown.aol.co.uk/rwapsoftware

I have received a lot of news regarding the JagFest just lately, so without further ado, here is the latest. 16/32 Systems are now the main sponsor for the event, and will provide you with the opportunity to trade or swap your used Jaguar and Lynx software. There will be demonstrations of Jaguar, Lynx, ST, TT and Falcon software. There is good news for Atari 8-bit users, as MNX Crew will provide new software for you as well.

Also, RetroVision will be at the show, presenting their own mini area full of the usual games (obviously with an Atari theme). Rumours are also rife that the Yak himself will be there!

So, I bet that you are thinking, where and when? It will be held at the Medway Manor Hotel, Rochester, and on June 14/15 2003. For all of the latest, see www.1632systems.co.uk or contact nick@1632systems.co.uk

Allow me to keep the Retro Mart readers up-to-date by sending all retro related news direct to me at Shaun@MicroMart.co.uk