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INTRODUCTION
In the 1980s, Diamond Computer Systems produced the Trackstar series of Apple
II compatibles. What sets these clones apart from the rest of the pack, however,
is the fact that each Trackstar is a complete Apple II computer shrunk down to
fit on a single 8-bit ISA card for use with IBM PCs and compatibles.
That's right! Just install the Trackstar into a free slot, and your IBM PC instantly
becomes two computers in one. You can even switch back and forth between Apple II and
PC modes at any time! It's pretty wild. And since the Trackstar essentially is,
for all intents and purposes, a “real” Apple II, there is a very high degree
of software compatibility.
In its heyday, the Trackstar was a big deal: it increased the number of software
packages available to PC owners, from business applications, to educational programs,
to games, by the thousands. Since the advent of software-based Apple II emulators, the
Trackstar has become more of a novelty – but what a novelty! – and
collector's item.
As a “collect to use” kind of guy, I get a lot of mileage out of
my Trackstars. With the help of this website, you'll have a head start on
following suit. As well, you'll be introduced to a few other devices in the
same vein: the Quadram Quadlink and Cordata WPC Bridge.
WEBSITE UPDATES
May 25, 2023
Today I've finally finished & released Trackstar games pack #1, which is
a hard drive image containing 180 unique games: each of which has been
compatibility tested. If you're tired of mucking about with floppy disk images,
this is your chance to go gonzo! Simply load up this pack on your Trackstar E
or Plus, and have a great time!
I've also added a pinout for the Trackstar Plus VGA cable to the scans page,
courtesy of Korrey Moore. If you need to build a custom cable, look no further!
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