Background to this project came about by the requirement to have a device that was able to convert a composite video signal from a SCART RGB source, primarily to a composite sync signal (CSYNC). This was to enable a retro RGB SCART device to be hooked up to something like the CGA2VGA scaler. Using this specific scaler would then enable a user to feed the line doubled image from the CGA2VGA scaler in to the SLG3000. The cut a long story short, enable a retro console to be displayed on a current gen screen.... but with appropriate scanlines.
The SLG3000 master thread can be found here -> http://shmups.system11.org/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=33454
The CGA2VGA discussion thread can be found here -> http://shmups.system11.org/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=35423
Few "off the shelf" devices exist that enable you to convert a SCART RGB connection to what is required for the CGA2VGA scaler. The SCART connection being one "crippler" and the actual sync cleaner circuit being the other. Getting this all in one device that you don't have to "build" yourself is the key here.
The Sync Strike also has some other things "tucked up it's sleeve".........
Sync Strike enables:
SCART RGB input
DSUB15 output
Breakout (via screw terminals) of R, G, B, HSYNC, VSYNC, CSYNC, L & R audio
L & R Phono breakout
Power (switchable) - By either SCART PIN8 (caveats apply) or EXT PSU via screw terminals
CSYNC or HVSYNC output (switchable)
Price and availability
28 euros (£24.50)
Order via http://www.arcadeforge.de/
Sync Strike has been handed out to a few "testers" to see how it performs.
Here are my current findings from my test unit based on connection to a Tri-Sync monitor:
First off unit is solid and very neat (that is fairly clear from the images).
The unit works well.... initally tested with a PS2 with SCART RGB (5v @ PIN8).
Using SCART PWR & CSYNC - Works
Using SCART PWR & HSYNC - No Sync (but only just)
Using EXT PSU @ 6v & CSYNC - Works
Using EXT PSU @ 6v & HSYNC - Works
Looking at the PS2 output it only provides +5v on PIN8, so I suspect the HSYNC IC needs that extra 1v.
This is all going in to a Tri-Sync CRT via the DSUB15 out.
Dreamcast is +12v on PIN8 so:
Using SCART PWR & CSYNC - Works
Using SCART PWR & HSYNC - Works
Pretty much a full success in my view.
Minimal 6v will provide both sync cleaner and HV output. Circuit will take at least 12v.
Since there is switchable PWR from PIN8 on SCART or EXT PSU capability I would suggest all bases are covered.
The circuit will provide bare minimum of clean sync (it's core purpose) at 5v+ via PSU or PIN8 and then gives you the choice of extracting HV Sync via either >6v (normally 12v) via PIN8, or EXT PSU @ 6v.
I will retest on the CGA2VGA scaler, but I don't see any reason why the core results will be any different as that basic test has already been done by the developers.
This device will not replace a line doubler / scaler, which will be required if you want to feed a non 15khz compatible screen. It will work in conjunction with a line doubler / scaler to feed a HD screen (for instance). However it will enable you to feed a 15khz device without the need for anything else (Arcade Monitor etc).
The uses are fairly wide reaching as I have just tried the Sync Strike with my EXTRON 580xi. Voila..... taking a SCART RGB from my Dreamcast (480i signal) routed through the Sync Strike, gives me the pseudo 240p image from the EXTRON to my CRT. So that's SCART RGB (480i) to Clean Sync DSUB15 to EXTRON to CRT for some sexy 240p video.
)
bencao74, as you're also selling the CGA2VGA as part of a complete solution, how about offering a case for that too, in the same 2 acryl layers style? Having all 3 devices in similar style cases would truly complete the chain.
