Description

The Disk ][ ReInterface Card is a faithful recreation of the original Apple Disk ][ Interface Card, built using commonly available modern components while preserving the original design and behavior as closely as possible. The goal of this board was not to reinvent the Disk ][ controller, but to reproduce it properly for those who need a reliable replacement and still want something true to the original hardware. In place of the original P5 and P6 PROMs, the card uses two Atmel AT28C64B EEPROMs, supporting standard 16-sector operation as well as optional 13-sector mode through jumper selection.

Special attention was also given to the physical design. The card uses keyed connectors to help prevent incorrect cable insertion, including the classic Analog card misconnection that can cause serious damage. The connectors were positioned so the ribbon cables exit more naturally, without unnecessary twisting or sharp kinks. The PCB itself is built on a 6-layer stackup with dedicated ground and power planes for a clean, stable layout with minimized noise and crosstalk. At only 88mm deep, the card is also notably compact, with a clean, smooth backside and an overall finish that stays respectful of the original while taking advantage of modern board design and assembly.

This is not a reimagined Disk ][ controller with extra features added for the sake of change. It is a careful, faithful reproduction meant for those who want an original-style card built with modern manufacturing methods and thoughtful physical refinements.

Highlights

• Faithful recreation of the original Apple Disk ][ Interface Card
• Built with commonly sourced modern components
• Uses two Atmel AT28C64B EEPROMs in place of the original P5 and P6 PROMs
• Supports standard 16-sector operation
• Optional 13-sector support via jumper selection
• Keyed connectors help prevent incorrect cable installation
• Connector placement reduces cable stress, twisting, and sharp bends
• 6-layer PCB with dedicated ground and power planes
• Compact 88mm board depth
• Clean, smooth backside and refined physical layout
• Preserves the original logic and functionality rather than loosely approximating it

Installation

The Disk II ReInterface Card is designed as a drop-in replacement for your existing Disk ][ Interface Card, which is usually in slot 6. Be sure to turn off the computer. Disconnect your existing disk drives from the old card by pulling the connectors off the pins. Be sure to pull on the connectors rather than the ribbon cable. Then gently rock the old card front-to-back (not sideways) and slide the old card out of slot 6.

Insert the new card in the same way, paying careful attention to the “Towards Keyboard” message on the board. Be sure the pins are properly aligned before firmly seating the card in the slot. Reconnect your first disk drive by sliding the keyed 20-pin connector on your ribbon cable onto the “Drive 1” 20-pin connector on the board. The small white dot on the board marks “pin 1”. If you have a second disk drive, hook that up to the bottom “Drive 2” connector.

Turn on your computer (you did turn it off, correct?!) and verify that your disk drive turns on and boots normally. If nothing happens, turn off the computer and verify all connections, making sure that the card is pressed firmly into slot 6.

Disclaimer

This kit involves adding/removing a peripheral card on your Apple II computer. CT6502 and Karl ‘KKR75’ Asseily are not responsible for any damage to your Disk ][ drive, your floppy disks, or your Apple II computer or Applesauce unit from the installation or use of the Disk II ReInterface Card.