DEC VT240 terminal

[Tony Duell]

> 
> On 8/23/07, Tony Duell <ard at p850ug1.demon.co.uk> wrote:
> > I've just bought the base unit (VS240) for a VT240 terminal on E-bay and
> > know little about it (OK, I know it's a DEC graphics terminal). Perhaps
> > somebody can enlightent me
> 
> I can try.
> 
> > 1) One site i looked at said a VT240 is a monochrome unit, a VT241 is the
> > colour version. Is the only difference the monitor? Can I use a colour
> > monitor with my base unit?
> 
> Yes.  You just need the right cable.  You can use a VR241, if it's
> easier to find in the UK, or back in the day, many folks used an

I have a real DEC VR241 that I use with my Pros and 'Bow.

> NTSC-frequency Barco-brand monitor, of a variety that had four BNCs
> RGB + Csync).

I also have such a Barco. It's actually set up for UK TV rates, but 
according to the (excellent) manual, it can be twiddled for NTSC rates as 
well.

> 
> > 2) On the back are obvious connectors for an RS232 port (DB25), current
> > loop (8 pin mate-n-lock). There's a DE9 labelled 'PR', presumably a
> > printer port, also RS232.
> 
> I believe it's a printer port, but I am reasonably certain it's not
> the same pinout as a PC-AT.  It should be some DEC pinout.

I;'ve seen 9 pin serial ports on old DEC hardware before, and they're not 
PC/AT pinout. But it won't be much of a problem to make up a cable if I 
want to use the printer port.


> I don't recall that part, but I would expect the keyboard to work in
> either place.  I doubt anything will be harmed by trying.  Most of the
> time, DEC was good about that sort of stuff.

Indeed. It also won't be hard to see if the appropriate pins on the DA15 
connect to the RJ11, or indeed if they go anywhere.


-tony