IIe or not IIe, that is the question!
Sorry about the title chaps, couldn't resist it!
The question is valid though, I have two IIe machines but only one of them will run ProDOS. The other states it will only run on an 'enhanced IIe'. I read that the 'e' referred to the enhanced model but ProDOS is looking for an enhanced enhanced computer!
What are the essential differences between these and is it possible to upgrade one to the other (by way of ROM replacement) or am I looking at a motherboard swap?
Cheers,
Richard.
Thanks for that,
That does not seem to much to upgrade, I suppose I could burn an updated ROM (If I ever find out how to use my ROM burning card!)and I'm sure I could source the processor, otherwise a motherboard swap could be a simpler solution.
Cherrs,
Richard
The earlier versions of ProDOS (I think up to version 1.9 ?) ran without the enhancement or 128k. I use it on my Apple ][+ with no issues.
The earlier versions of ProDOS (I think up to version 1.9 ?) ran without the enhancement or 128k. I use it on my Apple ][+ with no issues.
Exactly. You're probably booting 2.0.3; just boot 1.9 and you'll be fine. You'll lose some neat capabilities for SmartPorts, but if you only have one or two disk drives... it doesn't make a bit of difference.
That's great Guys, Thanks.
I guess the hardware can stay as it is for a while.
Richard,
Apple used to sell the "IIe Upgrade Kit" long ago that turned a regular IIe into the enhanced IIe. They are kind of hard to come by now.
I have one sitting on the shelf for a IIe upgrade project, brand new, sealed in the box.
Although there is another source for these kits: Reactive Micro
http://www.reactivemicro.com/
has them for $25.00 plus S&H
They are under new management and are closed for the rest of this year, but are supposed to open for business again in January,2012.
It would be worth waiting until then to get a kit.
Steven 
Superb website Mate, look forward to them trading again.
Thanks,
Richard.
Comment:
Lots easier to just change out a few socketed
ICs than try to source another motherboard!
Plus you have the old ICs as spares in event that
something fails. Just saying.
Changeout is less than 5 minutes of work and
does not require any other dismantling other
than opening the case top for access.
Motherboard swaps require complete dismantling
of the machine and re-installing all of the cards,
etc.
Just saying....
Briefly:
- the enhanced IIe contains a 65C02 microprocessor
- updated ROM with new Applesoft and improved IRQ support, among others
- MouseText
Apple sold a 65C02 enhancement kit the consisted of a new microprocessor, system ROM, and video ROM.
Mac GUI Vault: http://macgui.com/vault/