Contents |
Description
Computer
The HX-31 looks identical to the HX-30 with its black case, but it has more RAM and a built-in firmware. It is not possible to add an RS-232C interface. This machine was released for the Japanese market with the "Pasopia IQ" label.
Although it's a MSX1 computer, it can use a part of the MSX memory to create a Memory Disk (feature generally reserved for MSX2 and higher computers), just like the HX-32.
| Brand | Toshiba |
| Model | HX-31 |
| Year | 1985 |
| Region | Japan |
| Launch price | ¥49,800 |
| RAM | 64kB |
| VRAM | 16kB |
| Media | Cartridges |
| Video | ? Toshiba T6950 |
| Audio | PSG (YM2149F) |
| Chipset | ? Toshiba TCX-1012/TCX-1008 |
| Keyboard layout | QWERTY/JIS |
| Extras | firmware (Japanese Word Processor - Kanji-Kun v.2.2), MemoryDisk BASIC, Printer BASIC |
| Emulation | ROM dump needed. See this thread for details |
Firmware
The built-in firmware is a Japanese Word Processor. It is version 2.2 of the same software available in versions 2.0 and 2.5 on the Toshiba HX-2x series.
From BASIC, the word processor can be launched with _JWP or _JWPKAKU.
The firmware also includes the additionnal BASIC instructions for printer and Memory Disk.
However, you need to have a Kanji-ROM cartridge (eg. HX-M200 or HX-M201) in one of the cartridge slots. (Note that the corresponding machine in the blueMSX emulator includes this cartridge.)
If you use another Kanji-ROM, for exemple the Sony HBI-K16, CALL JWP can lead to a I/O device error. To bypass this problem, an addendum to the manual of the Sony cartridge gives the solution:
10 FOR I = &H9080 TO &H9120 : POKE I, &HC9 : NEXT I 20 CALL JWPKAKU
Only CALL JWPKAKU is generally enough.
The main menu includes 6 options:
- Japanese Word Processor - if you press twice on ESC, you can access many WP features
- Conversion Tools
- Load and Save
- Printer Settings and Print
- Full Book Deletion
- Tools for Idioms and Short Sentences
CTRL+STOP can be used to go back to the previous menu or the main menu, except if you are in the first option. You need to reboot to quit the Japanese Word Processor.
Pictures
Specifications
The HX-31 is a MSX1 computer with 2 cartridge slots (one at the top, one at the back) and a Z80A from Sharp (LH-0080A). The 2 joystick ports are located on the right side of the computer.
Connections
- RF output
- Analog sound & Composite video
- Data Recorder connector
- Centronics compatible Parallel port for a printer
- 2 general connectors (Joysticks, Mouse, Paddle controlers, etc)
- 2 cartridge slots
- Power plug male for main power supply (JIS C 8303 class, AC 100V +/-10% 50/60Hz)