Dragon's Lair strange sound coming of game speakers on start

[Crocodilian]

I received Dexter a couple of weeks ago and have been busy, but finally got around to installing it yesterday.

I think I was an early order and also told you about Shaun Wood's Merlin project back in the day...

Good news is that it worked right out of the game (granted, I only tested it for a couple of minutes, but it emulated the LD-V1000 no problem).

Background:

Installed into standard machine (no Merlin board, had reverted back to original ROMs) with original LD-V1000 (bought a new one off ebay awhile back) - so original, standard DL machine.

I bought Dexter w/DL, SA, and Thayer's Quest images.

Questions:

1. When I powered up DL it made a rising pitch (do-do-do-do) sound out of game speakers. Clearly generated by GI sound chip. Sounded like a board error message (altering me). Never heard it before. It went away after sounding for a bit and machine booted up and worked. But this worried/worries me? Insights into what error it is flagging and whether this is normal would be appreciated.

2. I own a Merlin 8000 board and saw you a video on your FB page showing DL and SA running from same cabinet. I own both (as well as Thayer's Quest) and would like to do instant switching without having to go through Dexter Manager to manually do so. Do I just need to get a ROM update from Shaun for Merlin or is there more to it than that?

3. Is the DL image the one from the remanufactured disc with the added scenes? I also own that disc as well.

[Matt Ownby]

1. When I powered up DL it made a rising pitch (do-do-do-do) sound out of game speakers. Clearly generated by GI sound chip. Sounded like a board error message (altering me). Never heard it before. It went away after sounding for a bit and machine booted up and worked. But this worried/worries me? Insights into what error it is flagging and whether this is normal would be appreciated.

Does it sound like a loud buzzing? I am getting that on my cab too with Dexter. It buzzes after the first beep but goes away after the second beep. I think it's harmless. I don't yet know what causes it.

2. I own a Merlin 8000 board and saw you a video on your FB page showing DL and SA running from same cabinet. I own both (as well as Thayer's Quest) and would like to do instant switching without having to go through Dexter Manager to manually do so. Do I just need to get a ROM update from Shaun for Merlin or is there more to it than that?

Unfortunately, this feature isn't yet available to the public. It will require a Merlin and Dexter update when it's finished.

3. Is the DL image the one from the remanufactured disc with the added scenes? I also own that disc as well.

yes, it is the 2002 limited edition disc.

[Crocodilian]

No, the sound is not a buzzing.

It is generated by the motherboard as it happens without audio Jack's plugged into Merlin.

It is a tonal - tones of ascending pitches - repeated multiple times.

The LED score panel does seem to work properly - counting down.

The standard beeps also work.

I'm wondering what the error tone is caused by and if it signifies a larger issue that needs correcting?

Thanks

[Shaun Wood]

What you describe sounds like the diagnostics test for the sound chip.
But if you're using Merlin as your ROM board, that code has been removed, unless you actually have a LaserCon MultiROM board.
You should check the label on the EPROM.

If you do have a Merlin, and it can't be diagnostics, then the sound may be due to a failing GI Sound chip.

I recommend that you remove and re-set your sound chip (U19), and then toggle all of your dip-switches. A7, which controls diagnostics may not be making good contact.

If it is an issue with the ROM, just wait until Merlin-Dx is ready. You will be getting a new ROM when we do the upgrade.
Be sure to remind me of this issue when you order the Dx upgrade.

[Crocodilian]

Thanks, Shaun.

I bet you are right on the dip switches as mine are a bit loose.

When I get some time, I will try that before unseating the GI chip - and let you both know.

Thanks