SIDE3 Loader
============

Copyright (c) 2019-2021 Jonathan Halliday <fjc@atari8.co.uk>

Please read LICENSE for licensing details. Visit atari8.co.uk/firmware/ for updates.


CONTENTS
========

In this archive, you will find the self-flashing loader update for the SIDE3 cartridge and the flasher ATR for the SpartaDOS X update (version 4.49e).

S3LOADER.XEX		Loader update
SDX449e_side3.atr	SpartaDOS X update disk image


INSTALLATION
============

The SIDE3 loader update (S3LOADER.XEX) should be copied to a FAT partition on your SD card and launched directly from the existing loader. The flashing tool should identify the SIDE3 hardware and report the version number and revision date of the currently installed loader, as well as the same details for the incoming update. If you do not see meaningful data for the hardware of currently installed loader, do not proceed.

The SpartaDOS X update disk image (SDX449e_side3.atr) may be mounted using SIO2PC or similar serial-based peripherals. Enable SDX on your SIDE3 cartridge (move the switch to the loader position and ensure there are no conflicting ROMs on the machine), power-on the computer, and the update should begin automatically.


INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
=====================

Note that while the this firmware is closed-source freeware (as described in LICENSE), it includes a modified version of the GPL licensed High-Speed SIO driver by Matthias Reichl. Special permission was sought and granted to incorporate Matthias' code into this closed-source project. Matthias deserves creadit and recognition for his remarkable work in the area of high-speed SIO on the 8-bit Atari, and the 'alt' U1MB firmware is richer for the inclusion of his driver.

Aside from the aforementioned high-speed SIO driver and the customised SpartaDOS X ROMs included in the archive, all components are the wholly original work of the author and consititute a 'ground-up' rewrite of the original firmware. See the user manual and developers' technical documentation for further details.


ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
================

As well as the aforementioned Hias, thanks to Micheal St Pierre, Marlin Bates, and everyone in the 1088XEL beta testers discussion. Thanks to Avery Lee, Marius Diepenhorst, tf_hh, Lotharek, Candle O'Sin, TheMontezuma, and many others for your vital contributions and support.


DONATIONS
=========

Since the amount of time required to develop and maintain this firmware is considerable (and at times unmanageable), donations are most welcome and may be made via www.paypal.me/flashjazzcat.


FEEDBACK
========

The author welcomes feedback, suggestions and bug reports.

Enjoy!



FJC June 2021

