NOTE:- Now with grey 3D printed enclosure!

After sell-out the success that was that retroNET we knew we had to make another batch, however, rather than just more of the same we wanted to turn it up to 11, introducing to you, the retroNET v4!

We listened to your feedback and incorporated a lot of your requests to ensure that the v3 was the simplest, easiest, most configurable and most HACKABLE retroNET yet!

We have coupled our “Mother Brain” software stack to the rock solid 32bit ESP8255 Microcontroller. Running at a whopping 160Mhz the retroNET v3 has all the power needed to get your RS-232 retro or USB based computer onto those BBS systems they have been craving!

The retroNET provides your computer with a whole host of features to communicate on the internet, not just to remote BBS services and telnet systems, but between themselves. That is right, your retroNET can function as a server in its own right and accept connections straight to your retro computer.

Here is a list of some of the features:

• Fully built in command interface with help, status information and pinout diagram. You need never consult a manual!

• Wifi configuration menu featuring a handy scanning function

• Ping utility to test for remote servers and latency

• Flexible baud rates from 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600, 115200

• Simple connection, retroNET requires only a 3 wire serial connection (when no on USB) rx, tx and ground, 8 bits, no parity

• Full echo configuration for local, remote and command mode

• Configurable terminal/command mode escape sequences and telnet command byte handling

• 20 entry completely configurable built in phonebook and dialler

• Autodial modes - including both phonebook and server modes

• telnet and telnetd commands for interacting with remote servesr

• OLED output for SSD1306 128x32 screens - information screens + a user configurable screen (set via OLED command - can be set from your retro system to display messages)

• LED interfaces should you wish to add an RX and TX LED - handy if you intend to build your retroNET v3 into an old modem shell

• Button interfaces, 1x Terminal / Command mode button - this allows you to disable all software mode switches if desired and 1x Function button - this allows you to scroll through the pages on your OLED and if held down at boot resets your unit to default values

• DB25 Plug - Yes, we swapped this from the DB9, I know some of you might not be happy with this, but the overwhelming consensus was to include this for direct use on Atari’s, Amigas, PCs etc. It does make your Amstrad PPC setup a lot neater when you sit down to do some BBS browsing in your favourite coffee shop!

• FUTURE PROOF, if we make any firmware updates you can install them from your own PC with no extra hardware other an a USB Micro cable (which we are sure you already have TOO many of!)

• You can use retroNET v3 on modern PC hardware via USB and a suitable serial terminal programme such as Tera Term, Procomm, Putty etc..

Finally the retro enhancement you have been waiting for has arrived! 3D printing case designs will be coming along shortly, these are usually community submitted and will come in shapes and designs to suit various retro computers! In addition to the retroNET unit you will need a suitable USB power supply. We recommend an older mobile phone charger or similar. It is possible to power the unit from your computer itself with a suitable 5v power supply or for AtariSTs, via our cartridge slot adaptor.

Please be careful when you are hacking, unfortunately we cannot accept any returns or replacements if you blow up your unit or connected equipment. Be sensible, take a little care and it should be fine :)

Micro USB Cable and power adaptor required (not supplied)