Bubble memory stores non-volatile bits in a grid as magnetized spots (bubbles), basically something in between a floppy and flash storage, to which its stored data gets copied over to volatile memory (RAM) for active use during uptime. It does take a while to warm up before copying the data from it after powering the system on from a cold state, hence the countdown display. Silicon ROMs had quite a significant cost hike during the 1980s and took a while to wind down, so this solution was used in the interim. Konami used it as a cost-saving measure, much in the same way Nintendo released the Famicom Disk System. Silicon prices did come down eventually, so the need for those solutions started becoming irrelevant.
Where is the GitHub link? The boot screen mentions a GitHub page, but it's hard to read. It's very interesting you got those old modules up and running.
It's GitHub.com/evilwombat, but I haven't posted the code yet. I'm planning on writing this up when I have a proper PCB made. Currently about halfway though the layout - just finished the drive circuit and power section, but still need to clean up the logic side. Then, actually wait for PCB fab
I posted the code (after bringing up a PCB version of this design) but beware - it still needs a fair amount of cleanup. github.com/evilwombat/stm-bmc/
Nice Konami easter egg while it's warming up.
Presented by Konami. Getting Ready!
totally fascinated. thanks for the extensive ecplanation.
Loved it! Thanks for making it like this! :D
brilliant work
What a bizarre combination, I love it.
I dont know quite what it is or what it's doing but I like it.
Bubble memory stores non-volatile bits in a grid as magnetized spots (bubbles), basically something in between a floppy and flash storage, to which its stored data gets copied over to volatile memory (RAM) for active use during uptime. It does take a while to warm up before copying the data from it after powering the system on from a cold state, hence the countdown display. Silicon ROMs had quite a significant cost hike during the 1980s and took a while to wind down, so this solution was used in the interim. Konami used it as a cost-saving measure, much in the same way Nintendo released the Famicom Disk System. Silicon prices did come down eventually, so the need for those solutions started becoming irrelevant.
@@jacknettube I'm all for replicating outdated but clever solutions.
this rules so much
This is pretty neat. Say, where do you get the bubble memory modules from? eBay? Junkyard parts? Local enthusiast?
Thanks! Yeah, it was ebay. They were around $25 each. Part number is TIB-S0004.
Neat
Where is the GitHub link? The boot screen mentions a GitHub page, but it's hard to read. It's very interesting you got those old modules up and running.
It's GitHub.com/evilwombat, but I haven't posted the code yet. I'm planning on writing this up when I have a proper PCB made. Currently about halfway though the layout - just finished the drive circuit and power section, but still need to clean up the logic side. Then, actually wait for PCB fab
I posted the code (after bringing up a PCB version of this design) but beware - it still needs a fair amount of cleanup.
github.com/evilwombat/stm-bmc/
Posted the schematics / CAD files too, for the PCB version :)
Music for Russian Hacking :D