Sinclair ZX80 / ZX81 / Z88 Forums

Is it possible to get sockets for various of the ZX81 components? ICs are well catered for but what about the 6.5 MHz regulator and the transistors?

It would be useful to be able to test them in situ without having to solder and then remove them. Especially given that they can be trashed while being removed (especially by me! )

I can imagine that it would be easy enough to use a turned pin socket (once chopped up) to go into the motherboard but then the component wire may well not be a snug fit.

I did see this one eBay but have not had chance to measure up to see if it would fit.

https://m.ebay.co.uk/itm/TRANSISTOR-SOC ... %7Ciid%3A1

Edit - the issue one motherboard has the transistors with three pins in a row so no it won’t.

Sockets did exist for the metal cased transistors (TO5 type cases). But for modern TO92 cases (where there are various pin-outs) I'm not sure if there are any specific sockets. I use either single in line turned pin sockets, cut-down turned pin IC sockets, or sometimes "stamped pin" sockets.

As far as I know, there used to be sockets for the very large crystals. But again, I'm not sure about the size of crystal used in Sinclair and other 1980s to 1990s computers. Not seen any crystal sockets for sale for years...

Link to transistor sockets at RS components

Mark

Thanks. I had a quick look at the underside of an issue one PCB and it looks like the three crystal pins are more or less 2.5mm apart and in a straight line so it may be possible that I can cut down some turned pin header socket connector.

Be aware that crystals are a bit finicky about poor connections...

Thanks. Mine seem finicky in general.