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{{Infobox computer
{{Infobox computer
| name   = Atari 1040STE
| name = Atari 1040STE
| type   = Computer
| image = [[File:Atari 1040 STE.jpg]]
| released= 1989 (Europe); June 1990 (United States)<ref>“STE‑Serie (520STE, 1040STE …)”, Atari‑Museum. Timeline lists first public showing at CeBIT (March 1989), Atari Messe (August 1989), retail availability in West Germany from September 1989, and U.S. availability on 2 June 1990. ([atarimuseum.info](https://www.atarimuseum.info/1040ste.htm))</ref>
| manufacturer = Atari Corporation
| cpu     = Motorola 68000 @ 8&nbsp;MHz<ref>Atari 520/1040 STe Field Service Manual: “The STE uses the Motorola MC68000 …” (Section 2.4). ([manualslib.com](https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html))</ref>
| type = Home computer
| memory = 1&nbsp;MB standard, expandable to 4&nbsp;MB via 30‑pin SIMMs (early units sometimes used SIPPs)<ref>Atari‑Museum technical section notes SIMM/SIPP memory and 4&nbsp;MB maximum; also lists model distinctions (520/1040/4160). ([atarimuseum.info](https://www.atarimuseum.info/1040ste.htm))</ref>
| caption = 1040STE with SC1224 RGB monitor
| release date = {{Start date|1989|11}}
| discontinued = 1992
| price = C$999 (Nov 1990, Canada); reduced to C$699 (Dec 1990, Canada).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.atarimax.com/freenet/freenet_material/6.16and32-BitComputersSupportArea/8.OnlineMagazines/showarticle.php?106= |title=Z*Net: 15-Dec-90 #549 |publisher=Atari Explorer, Z*Net & ST Report (archived at AtariMax) |date=1990-12-15 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.atariarchives.org/cfn/12/03/0021.php |title=Time Capsule: News - Jan.90 - Mar.90 |publisher=AtariArchives.org |date=1990 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| cpu = Motorola MC68000FN8 @ 8 MHz (PLCC‑68)<ref>{{cite web |url=https://mikrosk.github.io/doitarchive/doit_st/0303.htm |title=DOIT_ST: Parts (IC cross‑refs) |publisher=DOIT_ST (archived) |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| memory = 1 MB RAM standard; expandable to 4 MB via 30‑pin SIMMs (or early SIPP)<ref>{{cite web |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST |title=Atari ST – STE section |publisher=Wikipedia |date=2025 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| storage = Internal 3.5″ DS/DD 720 KB floppy (WD1772 controller); external 14‑pin DIN floppy; ACSI (DB‑19) hard‑disk port.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://temlib.org/AtariForumWiki/index.php/WD1772 |title=WD1772 |publisher=AtariForumWiki |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST |title=Atari ST – Ports |publisher=Wikipedia |date=2025 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| display = 320×200 (16 colors from 4096) at 50 Hz PAL / 60 Hz NTSC; 640×200 (4 colors from 4096); 640×400 mono (SM124, ~71.2 Hz).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST |title=Atari ST – STE |publisher=Wikipedia |date=2025 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| sound = Yamaha YM2149F PSG (3 voices + noise) + 8‑bit stereo DMA PCM at 6.258/12.517/25.033/50.066 kHz; LMC1992 analog audio mixer.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://bus-error.nokturnal.pl/atari_compendium/html/chap5.htm |title=The Atari Compendium – STe/TT DMA Sound |publisher=Bus Error mirror of Atari Compendium |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST |title=Atari ST – STE |publisher=Wikipedia |date=2025 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| model = 1040STE
| os = TOS 1.06 (1.60) or TOS 1.62 in ROM; user‑upgradable to TOS 2.06.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://home.deds.nl/~dwvdburg/atari/tos.html |title=TOS: The Operating System |author=Dirk van den Burg |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_TOS |title=Atari TOS |publisher=Wikipedia |date=2024 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| dimensions = 475 mm W × 290 mm D × 70 mm H (18.7 × 11.4 × 2.8 in).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://forums.atariage.com/topic/134542-atari-520-ste-dimensions/ |title=Atari 520/1040 STE dimensions (user measurement) |publisher=AtariAge Forums |date=2008 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| weight = ≈4.3 kg (≈9.5 lb).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://myoldcomputers.com/museum/computers/atari_1040st.htm |title=Atari 1040STe exhibit |publisher=MyOldComputers Museum |date=1999 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| predecessor = [[Atari 520ST|Atari 520ST]]
| successor = [[Atari TT030]]
}}
}}


== Overview ==
The Atari 1040STE (often stylized 1040STe) is the enhanced 1 MB member of Atari’s ST^E series, adding a 12‑bit (4096‑color) palette, stereo 8‑bit DMA audio, BLiTTER support, two enhanced joystick/analogue ports, and SIMM‑based RAM, while retaining full ST compatibility. Introduced in late 1989 and sold through the early 1990s, it was popular in Europe for music production (built‑in MIDI), DTP, and gaming.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST |title=Atari ST – STE |publisher=Wikipedia |date=2025 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.atariarchives.org/cfn/12/03/0021.php |title=Time Capsule: News - Jan.90 - Mar.90 |publisher=AtariArchives.org |date=1990 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
The Atari 1040STE (often styled 1040ST^E or simply STE) is an enhanced member of the [[Atari ST]] family introduced in 1989 as a mid‑life update to the original ST platform. “STE” denotes “ST Enhanced.” Compared with the [[Atari 1040ST]]/STFM, the 1040STE adds a larger 4096‑color palette, a built‑in BLiTTER graphics coprocessor as standard equipment, hardware fine scrolling, stereo 8‑bit PCM “DMA sound,” two enhanced joystick/joypad ports, and easier memory expansion via SIMMs—while retaining the ST line’s familiar wedge case, TOS + [[GEM]] desktop, and hallmark MIDI I/O.<ref>General STE feature set and differences vs. ST summarized in the Atari ST article; see “ST^E” section. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST?utm_source=chatgpt.com))</ref><ref>Atari 520/1040 STe Field Service Manual, chapters “Audio/Video Subsystem,” “Digitized Sound,” and “Input/Output Subsystems.” ([manualslib.com](https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html))</ref> The model designation “1040” indicates a base RAM configuration of approximately one mebibyte; the STE implements this as 1&nbsp;MB on SIMM modules and can be upgraded to 4&nbsp;MB.<ref>Memory configuration and expansion via 30‑pin SIMMs/SIPPs; 4&nbsp;MB limit. ([atarimuseum.info](https://www.atarimuseum.info/1040ste.htm))</ref>


In Europe, the 1040STE was on sale by September 1989 following unveilings at CeBIT (March) and Atari Messe (August). U.S. retail availability followed in mid‑1990, alongside various regional bundles and price promotions.<ref>Release timeline and regional availability. ([atarimuseum.info](https://www.atarimuseum.info/1040ste.htm))</ref><ref>Contemporary report on early North American pricing/availability, “Time Capsule: News — Jan.90–Mar.90.” ([atariarchives.org](https://www.atariarchives.org/cfn/12/03/0021.php?utm_source=chatgpt.com))</ref>
== Architecture and Processor ==
The 1040STE uses a 16/32‑bit CISC CPU and a small set of Atari and third‑party support ICs:
* CPU: Motorola MC68000FN8 (PLCC‑68) clocked at 8 MHz; 16‑bit data bus, 24‑bit address bus (16 MB address space).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://mikrosk.github.io/doitarchive/doit_st/0303.htm |title=DOIT_ST: Parts (C398061 68000FN8 PLCC MPU, STE) |publisher=DOIT_ST |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* MFP: Motorola MC68901 (interrupt controller, timers, RS‑232 control).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://lynn3686.com/mfp.html |title=Atari ST MFP (MC68901) |publisher=Lynn3686 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* ACIAs: 2 × MC6850 (keyboard/IKBD and MIDI serial links).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://info-coach.fr/atari/hardware/STE-HW.php |title=Atari STE Hardware (translated ST Mag. No. 44) |publisher=Info‑Coach.fr |date=2021-08-16 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bighole.nl/pub/mirror/homepage.ntlworld.com/kryten_droid/Atari/ST/spg/st_prog_guide_1.htm |title=Concise Atari ST Programmer’s Guide – IKBD interface |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* PSG: Yamaha YM2149F programmable sound generator (3 tone channels + noise).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://temlib.org/AtariForumWiki/index.php/Yamaha_YM2149 |title=Yamaha YM2149 |publisher=AtariForumWiki |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* DMA sound: 8‑bit PCM stereo using dedicated DMA audio hardware; sample rates 6,258 / 12,517 / 25,033 / 50,066 Hz.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://bus-error.nokturnal.pl/atari_compendium/html/chap5.htm |title=Atari Compendium – STe/TT DMA Sound |publisher=Bus‑Error mirror |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* Audio mixer/EQ: National (TI) LMC1992 (Microwire‑controlled volume/bass/treble/balance).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST |title=Atari ST – STE |publisher=Wikipedia |date=2025 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* Video: GST Shifter (STe variants C300588‑001 / C301712‑001) with 12‑bit palette; hardware fine scroll; BLiTTER support via discrete PLCC‑68 BLiTTER or integrated MCU (see below).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.atari-forum.com/viewtopic.php?t=29116 |title=Atari‑Forum: STE shifter & MCU part numbers |publisher=Atari‑Forum |date=2016 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* MMU/GLUE: STe “GST MCU” (C300589 without BLiTTER; later C302183 with BLiTTER integrated, 144‑pin QFP).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://forums.atariage.com/topic/263950-missing-blitter-from-ste/ |title=Missing BLiTTER from STE (IC IDs) |publisher=AtariAge Forums |date=2017 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* Floppy disk controller: Western Digital WD1772 (most commonly WD1772‑02‑02).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://temlib.org/AtariForumWiki/index.php/WD1772 |title=WD1772 |publisher=AtariForumWiki |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* ACSI/DMA disk interface: early STE boards use DMA IC C025913‑38; later boards use C398739‑001A with timing fix (see Troubleshooting).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.chzsoft.de/site/hardware/new-atari-ste-bad-dma-investigation/ |title=A new Atari STE bad DMA investigation |author=Christian Zietz |date=2023-04-22 |publisher=CHZ‑Soft |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>


== Technical Specifications ==
Clocks and regional timing
The 1040STE maintains broad software compatibility with earlier STs, but exposes additional hardware for STE‑aware software. The following summarizes core specifications.
* CPU clock: nominal 8 MHz.
* Video timing: 50 Hz PAL / 60 Hz NTSC in color modes; ~71.2 Hz vertical in high‑resolution mono (SM124).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST |title=Atari ST – Models/Video |publisher=Wikipedia |date=2025 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>


{| class="wikitable"
Bus architecture and DMA
! colspan="2" | System
* Data bus: 16‑bit; address bus: 24‑bit; flat memory model (0–4 MB ST‑RAM typical). BLiTTER and DMA arbitrate memory with the GST MCU; DMA channels for floppy and ACSI hard disk; separate audio DMA engine for stereo PCM.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://info-coach.fr/atari/hardware/STE-HW.php |title=Atari STE Hardware |publisher=Info‑Coach.fr |date=2021-08-16 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://bus-error.nokturnal.pl/atari_compendium/html/chap5.htm |title=Atari Compendium – STe/TT DMA Sound |publisher=Bus‑Error mirror |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
 
== Input/Output and Expansion ==
All connectors (by physical type):
* Video: 13‑pin Atari DIN (RGB analog, mono, H/V sync, audio in/out, +12 V sense). Pinout widely documented for ST/STE.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://temlib.org/AtariForumWiki/index.php/Atari_ST_VGA_Cable_Procedures |title=Atari ST 13‑pin video pinout |publisher=AtariForumWiki |date=2006 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://info-coach.fr/atari/hardware/interfaces.php |title=Atari ST Interfaces / Connectors / Cables |publisher=Info‑Coach.fr |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* Television RF (region dependent): present on NTSC “W/MOD” assemblies (onboard modulator).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html?page=57 |title=Atari 520/1040STE Field Service Manual – Parts List |publisher=ManualsLib |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* Audio out: 2 × RCA (Left/Right) stereo line outputs (rear panel).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://info-coach.fr/atari/hardware/interfaces.php |title=Atari STE Stereo Audio Interface |publisher=Info‑Coach.fr |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* MIDI: 2 × 5‑pin DIN (MIDI IN/OUT), 31.25 kbit/s via 6850 ACIA.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bighole.nl/pub/mirror/homepage.ntlworld.com/kryten_droid/Atari/ST/spg/st_prog_guide_1.htm |title=Concise Atari ST Programmer’s Guide – IKBD/MIDI |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* Serial (modem): DB‑25 male RS‑232C; printer: DB‑25 female Centronics‑compatible parallel.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST |title=Atari ST – Ports |publisher=Wikipedia |date=2025 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* Joystick/mouse (legacy): 2 × DE‑9 male under keyboard (Port 0 mouse/joystick; Port 1 joystick). Pinout is standard Atari/Kempston.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://trumouse.com/atari-st-joystick-pinout/ |title=Atari ST 9‑pin joystick/mouse pinout |publisher=TruMouse |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* Enhanced joystick/analogue: 2 × DA‑15 (DB‑15F) “Enhanced Joystick Ports” (supporting extra buttons, paddles/light pen).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://allpinouts.org/pinouts/connectors/input_device/joystick-atari-enhanced-15-pin/ |title=Atari Enhanced 15‑pin joystick (STE/Falcon/Jaguar) pinout |publisher=AllPinouts |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://info-coach.fr/atari/hardware/STE-HW.php |title=Atari STE Hardware – New Joysticks/Paddles/Pen |publisher=Info‑Coach.fr |date=2021-08-16 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* External floppy: 14‑pin round DIN.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST |title=Atari ST – Ports |publisher=Wikipedia |date=2025 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* ACSI (DMA hard‑disk/laser printer): 19‑pin D‑sub (DB‑19).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST |title=Atari ST – Ports |publisher=Wikipedia |date=2025 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* Cartridge: 40‑contact card‑edge slot (128 KB ROMs typical).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST |title=Atari ST – ST cartridge port |publisher=Wikipedia |date=2025 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
 
I/O controller devices on the mainboard commonly include MC68901 MFP, MC6850 ACIAs (2×), RS‑232 line drivers/receivers (e.g., SN75188/SN75189 or MC1488/MC1489 on some revisions).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://mikrosk.github.io/doitarchive/doit_st/0303.htm |title=DOIT_ST: Parts |publisher=DOIT_ST |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
 
== Display and Graphics ==
Video subsystem (GST Shifter, STe variant):
* Resolutions and color depths:
** 320×200 pixels, 16 colors chosen from a 12‑bit (4096‑color) palette.
** 640×200 pixels, 4 colors from 4096.
** 640×400 pixels, 1‑bit mono (SM124 monitor at ~71.2 Hz).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST|title=Atari ST – STE and video modes|publisher=Wikipedia|date=2025|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* Palette: 16 registers, 12‑bit RGB (4‑4‑4). Raster tricks permit more onscreen colors.
* Scrolling and BLiTTER: hardware fine horizontal/vertical scroll; BLiTTER accelerates block moves, line fills, and masked ops (PLCC‑68, or integrated in later GST MCU).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://mikrosk.github.io/doitarchive/doit_st/080104.htm|title=DOIT_ST: BLiTTER|publisher=DOIT_ST|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* Sprites: none (implemented in software with BLiTTER or CPU).
* Outputs: 13‑pin DIN RGB/mono; optional RF modulator on “W/MOD” assemblies for TV display; SCART compatible with passive cable (resistor recommendations vary by model).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://info-coach.fr/atari/hardware/interfaces.php|title=Atari Video cables and SCART mapping|publisher=Info‑Coach.fr|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
 
== Memory and Storage ==
RAM organization and expansion
* Stock RAM: 1 MB ST‑RAM using 30‑pin SIMMs (some early boards used SIPPs). Configurations of 0.5/1/2/4 MB supported officially; 4 MB max via 4×1 MB or 2×2 MB depending on socketing; 2.5 MB is not officially supported.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST|title=Atari ST – STE memory (SIMM/SIPP)|publisher=Wikipedia|date=2025|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* Addressing: contiguous ST‑RAM in the lower 4 MB of the 24‑bit space; DMA sound fetches must reside in first 4 MB.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bus-error.nokturnal.pl/atari_compendium/html/chap5.htm|title=Atari Compendium – DMA sound register map|publisher=Bus‑Error mirror|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
 
ROM
* TOS 1.06 (1.60) or 1.62: 256 KB (two 128 KB ROMs in most STEs). 1.62 fixed desktop medium‑resolution boot bug in 1.60; users often upgrade to TOS 2.06 (256 KB) for enhanced desktop and 1.44 MB floppy support in Mega STE class machines.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://home.deds.nl/~dwvdburg/atari/tos.html|title=TOS versions overview|author=Dirk van den Burg|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_TOS|title=Atari TOS|publisher=Wikipedia|date=2024|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
 
Floppy and mass storage
* Floppy: 3.5″ DS/DD 720 KB internal; WD1772 controller (many -02‑02 variants). Stock STE units are DD; later HD support requires “AJAX” controller (C302096) not normally fitted to 1040STE (standard on Mega STE).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://temlib.org/AtariForumWiki/index.php/WD1772|title=WD1772|publisher=AtariForumWiki|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* ACSI hard‑disk: external via DB‑19; common modern replacements include UltraSatan/ACSI2STM. Early DMA IC C025913‑38 can cause write corruption on some STE boards; later C398739‑001 fixes timing (see Troubleshooting).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.chzsoft.de/site/hardware/new-atari-ste-bad-dma-investigation/|title=STE bad DMA investigation|author=Christian Zietz|date=2023-04-22|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
 
*
 
== Sound Capabilities ==
Programmable sound and PCM playback:
* YM2149F PSG: three independent square‑wave tone channels plus white noise; 4‑bit per‑channel volume and envelope generator; routed through LMC1992 mixer.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://temlib.org/AtariForumWiki/index.php/Yamaha_YM2149|title=Yamaha YM2149|publisher=AtariForumWiki|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* DMA PCM: 8‑bit mono or stereo, sample rates ≈6.258/12.517/25.033/50.066 kHz; memory‑mapped control registers at $FF8900–$FF8924; addresses must be even, and buffers must reside within first 4 MB of ST‑RAM.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bus-error.nokturnal.pl/atari_compendium/html/chap5.htm|title=Atari Compendium – STe DMA sound|publisher=Bus‑Error mirror|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* Outputs: rear L/R RCA line out; mono audio is also available on the 13‑pin monitor connector (pin 1).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://info-coach.fr/atari/hardware/interfaces.php|title=Atari ST Interfaces – Video/Audio pins|publisher=Info‑Coach.fr|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
 
== PCB Schematics & Service Manual ==
Atari provided an official field service manual covering both 520STE and 1040STE with schematics and parts lists.
* Core documents:
** [[Atari 520STE/1040STE Field Service Manual|520/1040STE Field Service Manual]] (81 pages), includes: CPU/BLiTTER/ROM/CLK; RS‑232/Parallel/MIDI/PSG; DMA/FDD; MCU/SHIFTER/Video; Stereo Sound/Enhanced Joystick; RAM; PSU; Test fixture.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html|title=Atari 520STE / 1040STE Field Service Manual|publisher=ManualsLib|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
** 1040STE schematic set (assembly C300780‑001 Rev. A).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://elektrotanya.com/atari_1040ste_c300780-001_rev.a_sch_1986.pdf/download.html|title=ATARI 1040STE C300780‑001 Rev.A – Schematics|publisher=Elektrotanya|date=1986|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://archive.org/details/Atari_1040STe_Schematic_1986_Atari|title=Atari 1040STe Schematic|publisher=Internet Archive|date=1986|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
 
Motherboard assemblies and identifiers (examples from parts list and service docs):
{| class="wikitable styled-table" style="width:100%; text-align:center;"
! Assembly/Part !! Description / Region !! Notable features
|-
|-
! CPU
| CA400339‑201 || Main assembly 1040STE W/MOD (USA) || NTSC unit with RF modulator (TV).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html?page=57|title=Service Manual – Parts (CA400339‑201)|publisher=ManualsLib|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| Motorola 68000 (16/32‑bit CISC), 8&nbsp;MHz (socketed PLCC on STE mainboard).<ref>CPU and packaging change noted in STE coverage; also see Atari‑Museum chip descriptions. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) [atarimuseum.info](https://www.atarimuseum.info/1040ste.htm))</ref>
|-
|-
! Chipset (selected)
| CA400340‑111 || PCB 1040STE USA W/MOD || Board assembly for NTSC with modulator.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html?page=57|title=Service Manual – Parts (CA400340‑111)|publisher=ManualsLib|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| • BLiTTER (block image transfer) coprocessor, standard on STE (max practical write rate circa 4&nbsp;MB/s).<ref>BLiTTER standard on STE and quoted fill rate. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST?utm_source=chatgpt.com))</ref><br>• Shifter video generator with extended 12‑bit palette (4096 colors).<ref>STE 4096‑color palette vs. 512 on ST. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST?utm_source=chatgpt.com))</ref><br>• GSTMCU (combined GLUE/MMU), DMA controller, WD1772 floppy controller, YM2149F PSG, LMC1992 analog audio controller.<ref>Chip set list and roles. ([atarimuseum.info](https://www.atarimuseum.info/1040ste.htm))</ref>
|-
|-
! RAM
| CA400329‑101 || PCB sub‑assembly STE NTSC W/MOD || Sub‑assembly with modulator, cabling.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html?page=57|title=Service Manual – Parts (CA400329‑101)|publisher=ManualsLib|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| 1&nbsp;MB standard; 30‑pin SIMM sockets (early SIPP), expandable to 4&nbsp;MB in paired modules.<ref>SIMM/SIPP arrangement and capacities. ([atarimuseum.info](https://www.atarimuseum.info/1040ste.htm))</ref>
|-
|-
! ROM / OS
| CA400366‑001 || TOS ROM set 1.62 (USA) || ICs C301163‑002 (HI), C301164‑002 (LO).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html?page=57|title=Service Manual – Parts (CA400366‑001)|publisher=ManualsLib|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| TOS 1.06 (“STE TOS”) initially, quickly superseded by TOS 1.62 (bug‑fix release); later upgrades to TOS 2.06 were possible.<ref>TOS version matrix listing 1.06 (ROM 29‑Jul‑1989) and 1.62 (1‑Jan‑1990) for 520/1040STE; 2.06 as later ST/STE upgrade. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_TOS?utm_source=chatgpt.com))</ref>
|-
|-
! Mass storage
| CA070059‑003 || PSU 110 V assembly (USA/CAN) || Region PSU module.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html?page=57|title=Service Manual – Parts (CA070059‑003)|publisher=ManualsLib|access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| Internal 3.5‑inch DS‑DD floppy drive (720&nbsp;KB nominal); external second floppy via 14‑pin DIN; hard disks via ACSI (DMA) port with appropriate host adapter.<ref>DS‑DD 720&nbsp;KB floppy and external drive; ACSI “hard disk” DMA port. ([atarimuseum.info](https://www.atarimuseum.info/1040ste.htm)) [en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST?utm_source=chatgpt.com))</ref>
|}
|}


{| class="wikitable"
== Technical Details ==
! colspan="2" | Video and Audio
{| class="wikitable styled-table" style="width:100%; text-align:center;"
! Subsystem !! ICs / part numbers !! Notes
|-
| CPU || Motorola MC68000FN8 (C398061) || 8 MHz PLCC‑68; 16‑bit data / 24‑bit address.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://mikrosk.github.io/doitarchive/doit_st/0303.htm |title=DOIT_ST: Parts |publisher=DOIT_ST |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
|-
|-
! Video modes
| System glue/MMU || GST MCU C300589 (no BLiTTER) or C302183 (with BLiTTER) || 144‑pin QFP on later boards; integrates address decode, DRAM timing, joystick A/D, BLiTTER (when C302183).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://forums.atariage.com/topic/263950-missing-blitter-from-ste/ |title=Missing BLiTTER from STE (IC IDs) |publisher=AtariAge Forums |date=2017 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| ST‑Low 320×200 (16 colors), ST‑Medium 640×200 (4 colors), ST‑High 640×400 (mono with SM124/SM147 monitor).<ref>Standard ST/STE resolutions and color depths. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST?utm_source=chatgpt.com))</ref>
|-
|-
! Palette
| Video (Shifter) || GST Shifter C300588‑001 / C301712‑001 || 12‑bit palette (4096 colors).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.atari-forum.com/viewtopic.php?t=29116 |title=Atari‑Forum: STE Shifter part numbers |publisher=Atari‑Forum |date=2016 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| 12‑bit RGB (4096 total), with the usual ST limits on simultaneously displayed colors per mode; hardware fine scrolling added on STE.<ref>4096‑color palette and hardware scrolling. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST?utm_source=chatgpt.com))</ref>
|-
|-
! Genlock support
| BLiTTER || PLCC‑68 Atari BLiTTER (various revs) or integrated in C302183 || Block move/line op accelerator.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://mikrosk.github.io/doitarchive/doit_st/080104.htm |title=DOIT_ST: BLiTTER |publisher=DOIT_ST |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| External sync support provided; STE allows clock injection without internal modification to facilitate genlock setups.<ref>Service manual section “Genlock and the STE.” ([manualslib.com](https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html?page=15))</ref>
|-
|-
! Sound (PSG)
| PSG || Yamaha YM2149F || 3 voices + noise; envelope generator.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://temlib.org/AtariForumWiki/index.php/Yamaha_YM2149 |title=Yamaha YM2149 |publisher=AtariForumWiki |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| Yamaha YM2149F/AY‑3‑8910 compatible, 3 tone + noise channels (as on earlier STs).<ref>PSG details. ([atarimuseum.info](https://www.atarimuseum.info/1040ste.htm))</ref>
|-
|-
! Sound (DMA)
| DMA sound || DMA engine in STe video/audio path; DAC‑08 class converters; LMC1992 mixer || Stereo 8‑bit PCM at 6.258–50.066 kHz; Microwire control.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://bus-error.nokturnal.pl/atari_compendium/html/chap5.htm |title=Atari Compendium – DMA sound |publisher=Bus‑Error mirror |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://mikrosk.github.io/doitarchive/doit_st/0303.htm |title=DOIT_ST: Parts (C398058 LMC1992; C398057 DAC‑0800) |publisher=DOIT_ST |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| Two‑channel 8‑bit PCM (“DMA sound”) at approx. 6.25/12.5/25/50&nbsp;kHz; stereo RCA line‑outs on rear panel; mixed with PSG and monitor audio. Samples are signed and may be mono or interleaved stereo.<ref>Sampling rates, signed samples, mixing path, and RCA outputs described in service manual and Atari Compendium. ([manualslib.com](https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html?page=15)) [bus-error.nokturnal.pl](https://bus-error.nokturnal.pl/atari_compendium/html/chap5.htm?utm_source=chatgpt.com))</ref>
|}
 
{| class="wikitable"
! colspan="2" | I/O and expansion
|-
|-
! Rear/side I/O
| Floppy controller || WD1772 (often ‑02‑02) || 720 KB DD; late HD requires AJAX (not stock on 1040STE).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://temlib.org/AtariForumWiki/index.php/WD1772 |title=WD1772 |publisher=AtariForumWiki |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| 13‑pin monitor (RGB/mono), stereo RCA audio out (L/R), 19‑pin ACSI/DMA (hard disks, laser printers), RS‑232C (DB‑25M), Centronics printer (DB‑25F), MIDI In/Out (5‑pin DIN), external floppy (14‑pin DIN), cartridge port, power inlet. Some regional units also provided TV output via internal modulator.<ref>Port roster; stereo RCA outputs; ACSI; monitor port; and note on television output in certain markets. ([atarimuseum.info](https://www.atarimuseum.info/1040ste.htm)) [manualslib.com](https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html?page=15))</ref>
|-
|-
! Input devices
| ACSI/DMA || C025913‑38 (early) or C398739‑001(A) (later) || Later IC fixes write‑timing corruption on some early STEs.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.chzsoft.de/site/hardware/new-atari-ste-bad-dma-investigation/ |title=STE bad DMA investigation |author=Christian Zietz |date=2023-04-22 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| Integrated keyboard; 2 standard DE‑9 mouse/joystick ports retained; 2 Enhanced Joystick Ports (EJPs) using 15‑pin “Jagpad‑style” connectors, supporting multi‑button pads, paddles, light pens; electrically compatible with later [[Atari Jaguar]] controllers.<ref>Enhanced 15‑pin joystick/joypad pinout and supported devices on STE/Falcon/Jaguar. ([allpinouts.org](https://allpinouts.org/pinouts/connectors/input_device/joystick-atari-enhanced-15-pin/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))</ref>
|-
|-
! Memory expansion
| I/O support || MC68901; 2× MC6850; RS‑232 line drivers/receivers || Timers/interrupts, MIDI/IKBD ACIAs; DB‑25 RS‑232/parallel.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://info-coach.fr/atari/hardware/STE-HW.php |title=Atari STE Hardware |publisher=Info‑Coach.fr |date=2021-08-16 |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
| User‑replaceable 30‑pin SIMMs (paired); typical configurations 1, 2, or 4&nbsp;MB. Early boards sometimes fitted with pin‑based SIPPs.<ref>SIMM/SIPP and upgrade options. ([atarimuseum.info](https://www.atarimuseum.info/1040ste.htm))</ref>
|}
|}
*


== History ==
== Technical Documentation ==
Atari previewed the STE hardware to the trade press at CeBIT (Hannover) in March 1989 and introduced it publicly at the August 1989 Atari Messe in Düsseldorf. Retail sales began in West Germany in September 1989, followed by other European territories through late 1989 and early 1990. In the United States the 1040STE reached retail in mid‑1990, with typical bundles advertised below US$800 including a color monitor.<ref>Chronology and pricing indicators: Atari‑Museum STE page (CeBIT/Atari Messe dates; European and U.S. availability) and contemporary North American commentary on availability and “street price.” ([atarimuseum.info](https://www.atarimuseum.info/1040ste.htm)) [atariarchives.org](https://www.atariarchives.org/cfn/12/03/0021.php?utm_source=chatgpt.com))</ref>
* [[Atari 520STE/1040STE Field Service Manual|Atari 1040STE Field Service Manual]] (covers diagnostics, schematics).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html |title=Atari 520/1040STE Field Service Manual |publisher=ManualsLib |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* [[Atari 1040STE Schematics (C300780‑001 Rev.A)]] – full board interconnects.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://archive.org/details/Atari_1040STe_Schematic_1986_Atari |title=Atari 1040STe Schematic |publisher=Internet Archive |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>
* [[Atari ST Series Technical Reference Manual]] (general ST family hardware).
* [[TOS 1.6/1.62/2.06 notes]] (revisions and upgrade guidance).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://home.deds.nl/~dwvdburg/atari/tos.html |title=TOS: The Operating System |access-date=2025-08-12}}</ref>


The aim of the STE refresh was to shore up the ST’s multimedia credentials relative to rivals like the [[Amiga 500]], without breaking compatibility with the large installed base of ST software and peripherals. Accordingly, Atari kept resolution limits and screen formats unchanged, but expanded the palette to 4096 colors, standardized the BLiTTER, added hardware scrolling, and introduced stereo PCM audio and front‑accessible enhanced controller ports. Memory expansion moved to commodity SIMMs/SIPPs, making upgrades far simpler than on most STF/STFM boards.<ref>Hardware additions and palette; memory change; controller ports. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) [atarimuseum.info](https://www.atarimuseum.info/1040ste.htm))</ref>
== Related Pages ==
 
* [[Atari 1040STE General Maintenance]]
Initial STE units shipped with TOS 1.06 (also known as TOS 1.6), a ROM build specific to STE hardware. A widely encountered desktop bug in 1.06 led Atari to release TOS 1.62 in early 1990; many systems were updated in the field, and later runs shipped with 1.62 from the factory. Enthusiasts later upgraded many STEs to TOS 2.06, adding modest UI enhancements and better hard‑disk/HD‑floppy support.<ref>TOS 1.06/1.62 details, dates, and notes on 2.06. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_TOS?utm_source=chatgpt.com))</ref>
* [[Atari 1040STE Troubleshooting Guide]]
 
* [[Atari 1040STE Capacitor Replacement Guide]]
Atari produced the 520STE (512&nbsp;KB base RAM in some markets) and 1040STE (1&nbsp;MB) as the mainstream models; a 4160STE (4&nbsp;MB) existed in small numbers primarily for developers, and dealer‑labeled “2080STE/4160STE” bundles occasionally appeared to denote fitted RAM. Production of 1040STE continued into the early 1990s alongside the [[Mega STe]] (1991) and until the line’s effective replacement by the [[Atari Falcon030|Falcon&nbsp;030]] in 1992–1993.<ref>STE model variants and production notes. ([atarimuseum.info](https://www.atarimuseum.info/1040ste.htm))</ref>
* [[Atari ST Monitors (SM124/SC1224)]]
 
== Software ==
Like earlier STs, the 1040STE boots [[Atari TOS]] into the GEM desktop from ROM, with typical bundled tools and a “desktop accessories” mechanism. The principal STE‑specific OS releases were TOS 1.06 and 1.62, with the latter correcting early bugs; TOS 2.06, though not an original factory standard on most 1040STEs, became a popular end‑user ROM upgrade.<ref>TOS version timeline for STE models. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_TOS?utm_source=chatgpt.com))</ref>
 
Because the STE preserved the ST’s resolutions and per‑mode color limits, most general‑purpose ST applications ran unmodified. STE‑aware programs, however, could exploit the BLiTTER, hardware scrolling, extended palette, and DMA sound. A few notable commercial titles were written for or significantly enhanced on STE hardware:
* Obsession (1994) – a high‑end pinball simulation built specifically for the STe, often cited for its smooth scrolling and audio; later ported to the Amiga.<ref>Obsession development and reception; original release 2 December 1994 for Atari STe. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Obsession_%28video_game%29?utm_source=chatgpt.com))</ref>
* Substation (1995) – first‑person shooter for STe (and Falcon), among the platform’s late‑era 3D showcases.<ref>Substation platform and release information. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Substation_%28video_game%29?utm_source=chatgpt.com))</ref>
* Stardust (1994 STe release) – an STe‑targeted conversion of Bloodhouse’s Amiga blaster, distributed on the ST as an STe‑only title using the machine’s hardware features.<ref>Stardust STe release notes (1994/1995) and STe/Falcon targeting. ([mobygames.com](https://www.mobygames.com/game/13043/stardust/releases/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) [atariuptodate.de](https://www.atariuptodate.de/en/7098/stardust?utm_source=chatgpt.com))</ref>
 
On the productivity side, the ST line’s most enduring cultural impact was in music. [[Cubase]] (Steinberg, 1989) debuted on the ST platform and remained a studio staple; many composers and producers adopted [[Atari ST]]s (and later STEs) for MIDI sequencing, taking advantage of the machine’s built‑in DIN MIDI ports and stable timing. [[Creator (software)|Creator]]/[[Notator]] from C‑Lab/Emagic likewise originated on the ST and evolved into Logic.<ref>Cubase history: first release on Atari ST (1989). ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cubase?utm_source=chatgpt.com))</ref><ref>Emagic lineage from C‑Lab Creator/Notator on Atari ST to Logic/Notator Logic. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emagic?utm_source=chatgpt.com))</ref>
 
Demoscene productions and public‑domain/shareware games often led the way in exploiting STE‑only features (e.g., DMA audio at 50&nbsp;kHz and extended palette tricks), and later “STE‑fix” patches for classic ST games became common community projects. Nonetheless, the number of commercial releases that required an STE remained modest compared to the broader ST catalog, reflecting the smaller installed base of STE machines relative to earlier STs.<ref>Assessment of STE‑specific commercial software volume relative to overall ST catalog. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST?utm_source=chatgpt.com))</ref>
 
== Legacy ==
The 1040STE occupies a distinctive place in Atari’s 16‑bit lineage. Technically, it is the most capable “classic” ST in the integrated keyboard case, with standard stereo DMA audio, BLiTTER, and the extended palette while remaining largely compatible with earlier software and peripherals. Its hardware served as a bridge toward the semi‑professional [[Mega STe]] and multimedia‑oriented [[Atari Falcon030]], both of which retained and expanded on STE concepts (e.g., DMA audio, enhanced controllers).<ref>Lineage from STE to Mega STe and Falcon 030; shared concepts and enhancements. ([bus-error.nokturnal.pl](https://bus-error.nokturnal.pl/atari_compendium/html/chap1.htm?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) [en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST?utm_source=chatgpt.com))</ref>
 
Within retro‑computing, the STE remains desirable for music sequencing (thanks to built‑in MIDI and stable timing), for STe‑targeted games and demos, and as a flexible base for upgrades. Common modern additions include solid‑state ACSI storage adapters, floppy emulators, and TOS ROM upgrades, as well as RAM and CPU accelerators; the SIMM‑based memory architecture makes maintenance comparatively straightforward.<ref>General legacy usage patterns; upgrade culture and storage adapters are widely documented across Atari community resources; SIMM‑based memory noted in contemporary and museum documentation. ([atarimuseum.info](https://www.atarimuseum.info/1040ste.htm))</ref>
 
=== Design assessment and compatibility ===
Atari’s choice to avoid new display modes helped preserve compatibility but limited visible differentiation in many titles versus earlier STs. Where developers took advantage of the BLiTTER, fine scrolling, and DMA audio, STE software could look and sound substantially better than ST‑only versions. Conversely, some early software that accessed ST color registers directly ran poorly on unpatched TOS 1.06 machines until either program updates or the TOS 1.62 ROM became standard.<ref>Compatibility considerations: unchanged resolutions, extended palette, and TOS 1.06 bugs fixed by 1.62. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST?utm_source=chatgpt.com))</ref>
 
== Notes on connectors and controls ==
The STE adds two Enhanced Joystick Ports using 15‑pin high‑density connectors, mechanically and electrically compatible with later [[Atari Jaguar]] “JagPad” controllers and supporting analog paddles and lightpen devices. Adapters allow two standard DE‑9 controllers per EJP, in addition to the two traditional under‑keyboard DE‑9 ports.<ref>Enhanced 15‑pin ports: presence on STE, Falcon, Jaguar; pinout and supported peripherals. ([allpinouts.org](https://allpinouts.org/pinouts/connectors/input_device/joystick-atari-enhanced-15-pin/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))</ref> Rear‑panel stereo RCA outputs carry the mixed DMA audio and PSG signals; audio processing (master/left/right volume, bass/treble EQ) is handled by a National LMC1992 under the GSTMCU’s Microwire control.<ref>Service manual description of audio path and LMC1992 role. ([manualslib.com](https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html?page=15))</ref> As with earlier STs, RGB/mono video is provided on a 13‑pin DIN, and hard‑disk peripherals connect via the 19‑pin ACSI/DMA port.<ref>Port descriptions. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST?utm_source=chatgpt.com))</ref>
 
== See also ==
* [[Atari ST]] • [[Mega STe]] • [[Atari Falcon030]]
* [[Atari TOS]] • [[GEM]] • [[Motorola 68000]]
* [[MIDI]] on the ST platform; [[Cubase]]; [[Notator]]


== References ==
== References ==
<references/>
<references/>
 
[[Category:Atari Systems]]
[[Category:Computers]]
[[Category:Home computers]]
[[Category:Motorola 68000-based computers]]
[[Category:Atari ST family]]
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