RetroTechCollection

Atari 1040STE

Revision as of 20:20, 12 August 2025 by Josh (talk | contribs) (Updated by RetroTechWikiBot - Generated page content)

The Atari 1040STE (ST Enhanced) is an enhanced 1040ST-class system announced in late 1989 that added a 12‑bit color palette (4096 colors), a stereo DMA audio engine, fine hardware scrolling, and two “Enhanced Joystick Ports” (EJP, DB‑15), while retaining full ST compatibility. It shipped broadly through 1990–1992 and remained on price lists until the line’s discontinuation in 1993.[17] ([wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST))[18] ([atarimuseum.de](https://www.atarimuseum.de/1040ste.htm))

Atari 1040STE
File:Atari 1040STE.jpg
1040STE with color RGB monitor (SC1224) and mouse
Specifications
ManufacturerAtari Corporation
TypeHome computer / Personal computer
ReleasedNovember 13, 1989[1] ([myoldcomputers.com](https://myoldcomputers.com/museum/computers/atari_1040st.htm))
Discontinued1993 (end of ST line)[2] ([wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST))
Intro priceTypical street prices with color monitor: US$699 (June 1990) → US$599 (Feb 1991); UK £499.99 (June 1990) → £399 (May 1991); West Germany DM 1,598 (Sep 1989).[3] ([atarimuseum.de](https://www.atarimuseum.de/1040ste.htm))
CPUMotorola MC68000P8/MC68000FN8 @ 8.00 MHz (16/32‑bit)[4] ([doitarchive.github.io](https://mikrosk.github.io/doitarchive/doit_st/0303.htm))
Memory1 MB RAM standard, expandable to 4 MB via 30‑pin SIMMs (4× 256 KB or 4× 1 MB)[5] ([info-coach.fr](https://info-coach.fr/atari/hardware/memory.php))
StorageInternal 3.5" DS/DD 720 KB floppy (WD1772PH02‑02 FDC), external floppy via 14‑pin DIN; hard disks via ACSI (DB‑19) DMA port.[6] ([wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_Digital_FD1771))[7] ([mikrosk.github.io](https://mikrosk.github.io/doitarchive/doit_st/0f0a.htm))
DisplayRGB via 13‑pin DIN: 320×200 (16 cols), 640×200 (4 cols), 640×400 mono; PAL 50 Hz / NTSC 60 Hz color; mono 71.2 Hz.[8] ([exxosforum.co.uk](https://exxosforum.co.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?t=94))[9] ([old.pinouts.ru](https://old.pinouts.ru/Video/AtariStMonitor_pinout.shtml))
SoundPSG: Yamaha YM2149F (3 voices + noise) + STE DMA 8‑bit stereo PCM at 6.25/12.5/25/50 kHz; L/R RCA line‑outs; LMC1992 Microwire mixer/EQ.[10] ([wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST))[11] ([info-coach.fr](https://info-coach.fr/atari/hardware/STE-HW.php))
Dimensions475 × 290 × 70 mm (18.7 × 11.4 × 2.8 in)[12] ([atariage.com](https://forums.atariage.com/topic/134542-atari-520-ste-dimensions/))
Weight≈4.3 kg (9 lb 7 oz) typical for 1040ST/STE chassis[13] ([myoldcomputers.com](https://myoldcomputers.com/museum/computers/atari_1040st.htm))
OS / FirmwareTOS 1.06 (“1.6”) or TOS 1.62 in 2×128 KB ROMs; upgradable to TOS 2.06.[14] ([wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST))
PredecessorAtari 1040STF[15] ([wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST))
SuccessorAtari Mega STE[16] ([wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_MEGA_STE))

Architecture and Processor

At its core, the 1040STE utilizes the Motorola MC68000 microprocessor:

Major chipset and controllers (typical STE board):

Bus architecture and DMA:

Input/Output and Expansion

External connectors (model‑typical layout; see Field Service Manual for variants):

Pinout references:

Display and Graphics

Graphics are driven by the Enhanced GST Shifter and (optionally/integrated) BLiTTER:

PCB Schematics & Service Manual

Motherboard families and identifiers (representative):

PCB / Assy no. Approx. years Notable features
CA4003290 1989–1991 4× 30‑pin SIMM sockets; many units with discrete BLiTTER; early “bad” DMA C025913‑38A occasionally found; TOS 1.06 → 1.62.[49] ([milan.kovac.cc](https://milan.kovac.cc/atari/chipmunk/index.php))[50] ([atariage.com](https://forums.atariage.com/topic/211660-buggy-dma-chip/))
CA401177 1991–1992 Later STE board; MCU C302183 with integrated BLiTTER common; TOS 1.62; identical external I/O.[51] ([console5.com](https://console5.com/store/atari-520ste-1040ste-computer-cap-kit-main-ste-pcb.html))

Service documentation and schematics:

Memory and Storage

Main memory:

ROM:

Disk storage:

Mass storage:

Sound Capabilities

Programmable Sound Generator (PSG):

DMA PCM audio (STE‑only):

Analog path and mixing:

Connectors and levels:

General Maintenance

Basic, preventative tasks for reliability:

See the dedicated page: Atari 1040STE General Maintenance.

Technical Details

Wikitable summary of key hardware

Subsystem IC / Part numbers (typical) Notes
CPU MC68000P8 (DIP‑64) / MC68000FN8 (PLCC‑68; C398061) 8 MHz; 24‑bit addr/16‑bit data bus[70] ([wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST))
MCU (GLUE+MMU) C300589‑001 (no BLiTTER); C302183‑002 (w/ BLiTTER) DRAM control, bus, EJP, DMA sound addressing[71] ([info-coach.fr](https://info-coach.fr/atari/hardware/STE-HW.php))
Video (Shifter) C301712‑001 / C300588‑001 (GST Shifter) 12‑bit palette (4096); fine scroll; mono detect[72] ([ataristsales.co.uk](https://www.ataristsales.co.uk/product/gst-shifter-chip-c301712-001-for-the-atari-ste-and-mega-ste/))
BLiTTER C101643 (discrete) or integrated in C302183 16‑bit internal; ~4 MB/s peak transfers (mem‑dependent)[73] ([wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_ST))
DMA (HDD/FDD) C398739‑001(A) good; C025913‑38A early/bad Drives ACSI DB‑19 and WD1772[74] ([atariage.com](https://forums.atariage.com/topic/211660-buggy-dma-chip/))
Floppy Ctrl. WD1772PH02‑02 (28‑pin DIP) DS/DD; basis for Ajax HD used later[75] ([wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_Digital_FD1771))
PSG Yamaha YM2149F 3‑voice + noise PSG; IKBD GPIP bits link to video port[76] ([polynominal.com](https://www.polynominal.com/atari-st/atari-st-ym2149f-yamaha.html))
DMA audio path DAC‑0800/DAC‑08x, LF347, MF4, LMC1992 Mixer/EQ via Microwire; stereo RCA outs[77] ([info-coach.fr](https://info-coach.fr/atari/hardware/STE-HW.php))
Interrupt/Timers MC68901 MFP System timers, serial support, interrupt controller[78] ([lynn3686.com](https://www.lynn3686.com/mfp.html))
UARTs 2× MC6850 ACIA MIDI and IKBD serial links[79] ([forum64.de](https://www.forum64.de/index.php?thread%2F3436-die-chip-nummern-und-was-dahinter-steckt%2F=))

System Architecture at a Glance

  • CPU: MC68000 @ 8 MHz; 24‑bit address / 16‑bit data.
  • RAM: 1–4 MB, 4× 30‑pin SIMM; 256 KB or 1 MB modules.
  • ROM: 256 KB (TOS 1.06/1.62 in 2× 128 KB).
  • Video: 320×200×16; 640×200×4; 640×400 mono; palette 4096 (12‑bit).
  • Audio: YM2149 PSG + 2‑ch 8‑bit stereo DMA at up to ~50 kHz; L/R RCA.
  • I/O: DB‑25 serial/printer; DB‑19 ACSI; 14‑pin DIN external FDD; 13‑pin DIN RGB; 2× DE‑9 joystick/mouse; 2× DB‑15 EJP; MIDI IN/OUT; 40‑pin cartridge.
  • Storage: Internal 720 KB DD; external floppy; ACSI HDD.
  • OS: TOS 1.06/1.62; GEM desktop.

Apple Service Manual

This device is an Atari system; see the official Atari 520/1040STE Field Service Manual (C302481‑001 Rev. A, Aug 1991) for all service procedures, adjustments, and schematics.[80] ([manualslib.com](https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2170364/Atari-520ste.html))

Logic Board & Analog Board Schematics

The STE uses a single main logic board and an internal switching PSU (no separate “analog board” as on compact Macs). Refer to:

Troubleshooting

Common field issues and tips:

🧠 Architecture and Processor

Exact components and frequencies recap:

Technical Documentation

References

  1. ↑ Contemporary summary noting the 1040STE introduction in late 1989.
  2. ↑ Overview of Atari ST line and discontinuation in 1993.
  3. ↑ Documented regional price history for 1040STE.
  4. ↑ MC68000 used in STE; PLCC variant commonly C398061 marking in parts lists.
  5. ↑ STE SIMM configurations and limits.
  6. ↑ WD1772PH02‑02 and Ajax lineage; ACSI/DMA interface overview.
  7. ↑ DMA/ACSI port pinning and cautions.
  8. ↑ ST/STE display modes and 13‑pin video connector.
  9. ↑ DIN‑13 pinout and signal summary.
  10. ↑ STE audio: DMA rates and LMC1992 role.
  11. ↑ Hardware description of DMA sound, LMC1992 and Microwire control.
  12. ↑ Measured 1040STE case dimensions.
  13. ↑ Approximate physical specs for 1040ST-class chassis.
  14. ↑ STE shipped with TOS 1.06/1.62 in two 128 KB ROMs; 2.06 upgrade common.
  15. ↑ STE as an enhanced evolution of the STF.
  16. ↑ Mega STE as faster, cache-equipped successor retaining STE multimedia.
  17. ↑ STE feature set and timeframe.
  18. ↑ Price history snapshots for 1989–1991.
  19. ↑ STE parts list including 68000FN8 PLCC reference.
  20. ↑ ST family timing: CPU fixed at ~8 MHz; video at 50/60/71.2 Hz depending on mode.
  21. ↑ 68000 architecture overview and 24‑bit physical addressing.
  22. ↑ STE GST MCU merges GLUE/MMU; address bus 23 bits inside MCU; 4 MB DRAM limit remains; later revisions integrate BLiTTER.
  23. ↑ MCU part numbers with/without integrated BLiTTER.
  24. ↑ STE GST Shifter part numbers.
  25. ↑ Alternate STE shifter p/n list.
  26. ↑ BLiTTER presence and integration into later MCUs.
  27. ↑ MCU C302183 integrates BLiTTER.
  28. ↑ Good vs. bad DMA part numbers; STE requires C398739‑001(A).
  29. ↑ WD1772 derivatives and WD1772PH02‑02 used by Atari.
  30. ↑ MFP role and registers in ST/STE.
  31. ↑ Presence/role of 6850 ACIAs in ST/STE.
  32. ↑ IKBD microcontroller part used across ST/STE.
  33. ↑ GST MCU responsibilities; BLiTTER offloads block operations.
  34. ↑ ACSI/DMA pinout and cautions.
  35. ↑ STE EJP introduction and DB‑15 analog capability.
  36. ↑ Pinouts for Atari Enhanced Joystick Port.
  37. ↑ STE retains two DE‑9 ports for mouse/joystick.
  38. ↑ RS‑232 transceivers on ST/STE (MC1488/1489 family typical).
  39. ↑ Rear port inventory incl. RCA audio and TV/RF; STE review.
  40. ↑ Field Service Manual overview and back panel callouts.
  41. ↑ DIN‑13 pinout and SCART wiring.
  42. ↑ EJP pin map.
  43. ↑ ACSI pin map.
  44. ↑ STE shifter p/ns and 12‑bit palette.
  45. ↑ STE overview with 4096‑color palette.
  46. ↑ Mode table and scan rates.
  47. ↑ STE scrolling and BLiTTER; sprites not present.
  48. ↑ DIN‑13 signals and behavior.
  49. ↑ CA4003290 sightings and timeframe.
  50. ↑ Bad DMA identifier.
  51. ↑ Cap kit compatibility list including CA401177.
  52. ↑ 520/1040STE Field Service Manual C302481‑001 Rev. A.
  53. ↑ Atari 1040STE C300780‑001 schematic set.
  54. ↑ Alternate posting of Rev. A schematic scans.
  55. ↑ Archive listing for 1040STE schematic set.
  56. ↑ STE SIMM support, timing and configuration matrix.
  57. ↑ Reports of early SIPP‑equipped STE units.
  58. ↑ STE TOS ROM organization and versions.
  59. ↑ WD1772PH02‑02 background and Ajax HD controller lineage.
  60. ↑ External FDD connector pin list for ST/STE.
  61. ↑ ACSI DMA connector details.
  62. ↑ ST/STE PSG characteristics.
  63. ↑ STE DMA PCM rates and arrangement.
  64. ↑ STE analog chain components (LMC1992, LF347, MF4, DAC0800 family).
  65. ↑ STE parts index including audio devices and 68000FN8.
  66. ↑ Video connector audio pins.
  67. ↑ PSU set‑point and service notes.
  68. ↑ STE DAC noise and LMC1992 mix‑level fixes.
  69. ↑ Bad vs. good DMA identification.
  70. ↑ 68000 specs in ST family.
  71. ↑ MCU consolidation and functions.
  72. ↑ Shifter p/ns for STE.
  73. ↑ BLiTTER presence and rate.
  74. ↑ DMA ASIC variants.
  75. ↑ WD1772 family.
  76. ↑ YM2149 in ST/STE.
  77. ↑ Audio analog chain references.
  78. ↑ MFP overview.
  79. ↑ ACIA presence (part enumerations).
  80. ↑ STE Field Service Manual.
  81. ↑ STE schematics bundle.
  82. ↑ Alternate Rev. A scan.
  83. ↑ Archive schematic entry.
  84. ↑ Service flowcharts and symptom tables.
  85. ↑ WD1772 context and replacements.
  86. ↑ Good vs. bad DMA and ACSI notes.
  87. ↑ ACSI electrical caveats.
  88. ↑ Audio fixes roundup.
  89. ↑ STE 68000 PLCC part code and speed.
  90. ↑ Video timing by region/mode.
  91. ↑ MCU variants.
  92. ↑ Shifter p/ns.
  93. ↑ BLiTTER part index.
  94. ↑ DMA identification.
  95. ↑ WD1772 details.
  96. ↑ Peripheral controller set.
  97. ↑ ACIA/IKBD references.
  98. ↑ Field Service Manual.
  99. ↑ STE Schematics.
  100. ↑ STE Hardware Description.
  101. ↑ Interfaces & pinouts.
Retrieved from "https://wiki.retrotechcollection.com/index.php?title=Atari_1040STE&oldid=4545"