26 January 2003
Mplane is a low profile backplane to allow three QL expansions and the original motherboard or Aurora to be fitted in a case. It has been designed especially for Qbranch's MinisQL, but can be used in any installation.
It is arranged two high and two wide, allowing the motherboard and first expansion (Gold Card, Super Gold Card or the new Goldfire) to be fitted side by side and firmly fixed to the case. Only light expansions (ie qubide) need be mounted above - no more flying Super Gold Card! Qbranch are designing Son of Braquet for use with mplane.
Also provided is a standard ROM slot as an alternative when using Aurora, which doesn't have the standard connector. When used with Aurora, this ROM slot is fitted facing towards the case back, allowing access through the back without opening the case. A re-designed back plate with cutouts for standard connectors and a hole for insertion of roms will soon be available.
A 4 layer circuit board with noise reducing internal power and ground planes is used. Extra smoothing capacitors are fitted, and all sensitive signal lines have pull up/down resistors as necessary.
It powers off a standard IBM style 4-way connector. +12v/-12v (nominal) are generated on board for mouse/serial ports. It can be used off 5v only if floppy/hard disk drives are 5V only. In a tower case, connection of the standard 4 way power connector will supply both 5v and +12v.
Size is 35 x 197mm
Prices: UK Europe Rest of world
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