Filter

TS Pico

Name: TS Pico
SKU: 1415
Availability: InStock

The TS-Pico transforms your Timex Sinclair 2068 into a modern computing platform while preserving everything that makes vintage computing special. If you've ever waited five minutes for a program to load from cassette tape, or lost data to a tape failure, you'll appreciate what the TS-Pico brings to your computing experience.

Beyond Cassette Limitations

Your TS 2068 was designed in an era when cassette tapes were the most practical storage medium. The TS-Pico replaces that bottleneck with instant digital storage while keeping the authentic computing experience intact. Mount a TAP file once, then load any program from it in seconds using the same LOAD commands you've always used.

The difference is immediately obvious. Programs that took minutes to load now appear instantly. Complex software that required multiple tape sides becomes accessible with simple directory navigation. Your entire software collection fits on a single micro SD card, organized however you prefer.

The TS Pico

Powered by a Raspberry Pi Pico (the green module on the left), it has 512k of static RAM (big chip in the middle), 512k of flash ROM (big chip on the right), and SD card.

TS Pico and Expansion Board

The TS Pico connects to your T/S 2068 via a 2 or 4 slot expansion board.

What You Get

At its core, the TS-Pico is a Raspberry Pi Pico processor with 512KB Flash ROM, 512KB static RAM, and micro SD storage. But the real value is in how these components work together to enhance your TS 2068 experience.

The Flash ROM contains a custom version of the TS 2068 ROM that adds new BASIC commands while maintaining full compatibility with existing software. These commands let you navigate directories, mount TAP files, and manage your digital software collection using familiar LOAD and SAVE syntax.

The static RAM provides high-speed storage for frequently accessed programs and data. Combined with intelligent caching in Flash ROM, this creates a storage hierarchy that automatically optimizes performance based on your usage patterns.

How Digital Storage Changes Everything

Loading software becomes a completely different experience. Instead of fumbling with cassette tapes and hoping they haven't degraded, you browse organized directories of TAP files. Instead of waiting for programs to load, you have instant access to your entire collection.

Mount and load a game

LOAD "tpi:games/arcade/spacewar.tap"
LOAD ""

Browse your collection

LOAD "tpi:dir"
SAVE "tpi:cd utilities"
LOAD "tpi:dir"

Quick access by index

LOAD "tpi:&003"

The system remembers where you are and what you were doing. Switch between programs, load different files, experiment with new software - all without the friction of physical media.

Organized Computing

The directory system transforms how you organize and access software. Create folders for games, utilities, programming tools, or personal projects. Navigate through your collection logically instead of searching through stacks of unlabeled tapes.

Your software becomes truly portable. Copy TAP files between computers, share collections with other users, back up everything to modern storage. The days of losing irreplaceable programs to tape failure are over.

Two Modes, Complete Flexibility

The TS-Pico operates in two distinct modes, each optimized for different tasks. SD card mode gives you full access to digital storage and the complete TS-Pico command set. Tape mode preserves traditional cassette functionality and enables TS 2040 printer operations.

Switch modes instantly:

SAVE "tpi:tape"    # Enable cassette and printer functions
SAVE "tpi:sdcard"  # Return to digital storage

This flexibility means you never lose functionality. Use your cassette deck for archival purposes, connect your TS 2040 printer for hardcopy output, then return to fast digital operations when needed.

Extended Computing Platform

The ZX Spectrum compatibility mode effectively gives you two computers in one. Load Spectrum software using the built-in TC2048 ROM, accessing a vast library of programs.

SAVE "tpi:zx48"    # Prepare for Spectrum mode
OUT 244, 3         # Activate Spectrum ROM

This isn't emulation - it's native hardware compatibility that runs Spectrum software at full speed with authentic behavior.

Programming and Customization

The Raspberry Pi Pico runs MicroPython firmware, making the TS-Pico a programmable platform rather than just a storage device. Add custom commands, create specialized utilities, or modify system behavior to match your specific needs.

Communication between your TS 2068 programs and the Pico processor uses simple OUT and IN statements. This opens possibilities for custom interfaces, data processing, and system extensions that go far beyond storage.

The firmware source code is openly available, encouraging modification and community development. Regular updates add new features and capabilities, ensuring your investment continues to grow in value.

Installation and Setup

The TS-Pico connects through your TS 2068's standard expansion bus. No modifications to your computer are required.

What This Means for Your Computing

The TS-Pico removes the frustrations around cassette-based computing while preserving the authentic experience you value. Your programs load instantly and reliably. Your software collection becomes organized and accessible.

For casual users, this means more time enjoying classic software and less time fighting with tapes. For serious enthusiasts, it enables complex projects that were impractical with cassette storage. For developers, it provides a modern foundation for vintage computing projects.

Note

You'll need an expansion slot board to use the TS-Pico with your computer.

Check out the Expansion Board

Price

$69.00

1 in stock