To change the border colour, use the following command:
where 'n' is a number between 0 (black) and 7 (white).
As you may know, the 48k ZX Spectrum uses a command entry system where pressing a key or key combination enters a command word all in one go. So don't try to type the command words out letter by letter. BORDER is on the 'B' key.
(Link)
You can also write a program to cycle through all eight colours:-
Code: Select all
10 FOR a=0 TO 7
20 BORDER a
30 PAUSE 100
40 NEXT a
The ZX Spectrum will display horizontal coloured stripes when it detects a loud enough cassette data signal. It requires a audio source that has a very strong output signal. Which in practice means a mains powered mono "shoe box" recorder with the volume turned up to at least 3/4.
The leads should have 3.5mm mono jack plugs. Stereo jack plugs will not work, as the electrical contacts do not line up correctly. If using a stereo audio source, use only the left or right channel. Don't connect the channels together. So this means you need a 3.5mm stereo jack plug to two 3.5mm mono jack plugs. Connect one to the ear socket on the ZXSpectrum and leave the other loose and unplugged.
You should also be able to hear the tones via the ZX Spectrums internal speaker. If you don't hear any tones, the ULA in the ZX Spectrum has no chance of detecting the loading signal.
Mark