How does SuperAMS accomplish this feat?
SuperAMS has two (02) modes of operation. In PASS mode, the SuperAMS acts exactly as a 32k card, the 99/4A only "sees" 32k. Hence, all programs that require a 32k card, will run correctly and with no changes in performance. In MAP mode, the expanded memory takes effect. And programs written for this mode will be more powerful and capable than standard 32k programs.
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What are the technical specifications to the SuperAMS?

Obviously, such a response would be lengthy and in-depth. However, some fundamentals can be told here. The SuperAMS card:

• replaces any and all 32k cards in the PEB
• uses CRU address >1E00 to switch between MAP and PASS modes
• uses the >4000 space for memory mapperregister
• uses the 74HCT612 Memory Mapper for expanded memory (a one-chip solution
• uses the 74HCT612 is the low-power version fo the 741s612)
• uses 4k page segments (note! in manual programming the page size is that, 4k, with the Linker system program modules can be from 4k up to 24k in length.)
• is the first memory system to not utilize a DSR, Device Service Routine, for the expanded memory access
• the upper 24k of the 99/4A is mapped out (registers A-F)
• the lower 8k is mapped out (registers 23)

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What becomes of the 32K Memory Card?
SuperAMS both replaces and upgrades the 32k card. It is true that the 32k card and SuperAMS CANNOT exist in the Peripheral Expansion System, aka: PEB, at the same time.
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What does SuperAMS offer in expanded memory?
SuperAMS, by it's design, will allow from 128k all the way up to 1024k of memory. By using standard SRAM chips, the quality is as follows: 128k/256k using 128kx8 SRAM ships, or 512k/1024k using 512x8 SRAM chips.
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What is the "System"?

The system is a new program loader, a new Macro Assembler, and an Object Linker. With this, the programmer need only to assemble his modules, and link them together. And, never worrying about how to page the expanded memory! This is the "ease-or-use" concept. In addition to assembly, a small c compiler, c99, is available for use with the above programs.

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What is the SuperAMS, and how do I get my hands on one?

UPDATED: 8/22/98 SuperAMS is an expanded memory system for the TI 99/4A ONLY. It does not work with the Myarc computer or the old 99/4. The SuperAMS replaces the 32K card, and uses 4K banks of RAM in that memory space. The SuperAMS card works very differently than a RAMdisk card, it is designed to work as a pure memory expansion card rather than as a device for storing files. A macro assembler and a version of the small c compiler "c99" can be used to write programs which use this memory. The card is being sold by the SW99ers User Group in Tucson, Arizona. For more information, send e-mail to David Ormand.

Technical information is available from the designer, Jim Krych. If none of these e-mail addresses work, contact Tom Wills. You can also contact the user group via U.S. Mail at:

Southwest Ninety Niners User Group
6925 East Kingston Drive
Tucson, AZ
85710

NOTE: In January, 2000, the SW99UG disbanded as a formal User Group and this card is no longer available. However, you may be able to find in for sale by current owners.

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What is the SuperAMS?
SuperAMS is an expanded memory SYSTEM for the Texas Instruments 99/4A Home Computer ONLY! SuperAMS will not work of the 99/4A clone, Geneve, or the original home computer- 99/4. The system is stressed because the product is more than just a piece of hardware, but rather a full functioning system. Able to allow programmers and regular users to enjoy the enhanced and improved power of the 99/4A, through the use of expanded memory.
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Where can the SuperAMS be purchased?

SuperAMS, the second generation AMS, is available NOW from the SW99ers User Group, in Tucson, Az. Price for 128k is $85.00 U.S. and for 256k, $100.00. Plus, $5.00 S&H. The 512k and 1024k prices are not listed, due to price flucuations of the 512x8 SRAM chips. Each SuperAMS card is tested and subject to a 24hr burn-in before shipment. Problem cards are to be sent back for repair, to the SW99ers.

Each SuperAMS also comes with the current software on disks. (NOTE: As of 5/1/97, the prices have been lowered to $75 for the 128k version and $90 for the 256k version. Contact Jack Mathis for prices on larger models). Please see the AMS Order form for new pricing as of 8/8/98!

Please note: The SW99UG has stopped producing this card and the SW99UG exists only as a social group now!

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Will the SuperAMS in MAP mode allow me bigger TI-Writer files?
No! Programs need to be written to use the expanded memory. Nothing TI wrote, or for that matter, third-party software, will "see" this expanded memory, and adjust accordingly.
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