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4 layers120.4 × 66 mmMSXCARD ext, the printed circuit board in 3D
Size
120.4 × 66 mm
Copper layers
4
Thickness
1.6 mm
Parts
9
Nets
51
Pads
108
Tracks, vias
359, 46
Pours
1
Routed
Yes
KiCad
KiCad 8.0 (file 20240108)
Created
24 Mar 2025
Updated
18 Apr 2026

Overview

MSXCARD ext is an open-source printed circuit board by leomanes, from the leomanes/msxbook repository on GitHub. It is a 4-layer board of 120.4 × 66 mm with 9 parts on 51 nets, routed with 359 tracks and 46 vias.

Its parts include 3 fuses and 2 connectors.

README

README.md

MSXBook Side Slot

(External Slot 2 Adapter for MSXBook)

External Slot

Can I sell this cart?

You are welcome to manufacture and sell this adapter to the MSX community, provided you adhere to the following condition:

  • Do not modify the original files in any way or form.

Parts List

Main PCB

ReferenceDescriptionRecommended Rating / Type
F1Fuse (-12V line)125mA – 375mA
F2Fuse (+5V line)800mA – 1A
F3Fuse (+12V line)400mA – 500mA
J1Pin Header2x25 Right-angle
J2SCSI Connector50-pin Right-angle Male

[!TIP] Fuses are optional but highly recommended. If you choose not to use them, replace them with a solid jumper wire.

External PCB

ReferenceDescriptionRecommended Rating / Type
C1, C2Capacitor (Optional)100µF – 220µF (25V)
C3Capacitor (Optional)220µF – 470µF (16V)
J1Edge Connector50-pin Right-angle
J2SCSI Connector50-pin Right-angle Female

3D Printed Brackets & Hardware

The following dimensions are critical for proper fitment:

  • Screws: M2.5 x 5mm
  • Threaded Inserts: M2.5 x 2.5mm x 3.5mm

Sourcing Links


Assembly Tips & Tricks

Soldering and Alignment

  • Pin Header Height: The distance between the bottom of the Main PCB and the top of the angled pin header must be 7.3mm.
  • Edge Connector Spacing: Ensure the distance between the PCB and the connector body is between 2mm and 3mm.
  • Squaring the Connectors: Ensure the pin header and edge connectors are soldered at a precise 90° angle.
    • Pro Tip: Solder only pins 1, 2, 49, and 50 first. Perform a fit test and verify the measurements above before soldering the remaining pins.

Final Enclosure Assembly

To install the PCB into the 3D-printed cartridge shell:

  1. Hold the board at a 45° angle.
  2. Insert the left side first (relative to the interior of the edge connector slot).
  3. Slide the board into place until it sits flush.

MSX FOREVER!

Parts

9
QtyValueFootprintReferences
3FuseResistor_THT:R_Axial_DIN0207_L6.3mm_D2.5mm_P10.16mm_HorizontalF1, F2, F3
12x25 pin headerDocuments:PinHeader_2x25_P2.54mm_Vertical_trimmed_2J1
1LOGODocuments:catG***
1LOGODocuments:cat_cut15G***
1SCSI 50 pinScSI:SCSI_50_FJ2

The 7 most common of 9 parts.

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Questions

How big is the MSXCARD ext PCB?

It measures 120.4 × 66 mm and has 4 copper layers, 1.6 mm thick.

What parts does the MSXCARD ext use?

9 parts. The full list of its parts is on this page, with links to each part's symbol and footprint where PCBKit's library has them.

Where can I download the MSXCARD ext KiCad files?

From the leomanes/msxbook repository on GitHub, at the commit this page was made from: the board is Kicad/Main board/MSXCARD_ext.kicad_pcb and its schematic Kicad/External board/MSX book_external_adapter.kicad_sch. PCBKit opens the board in the browser, with nothing to install.

Can I use the MSXCARD ext design in my own project?

Its repository states no licence, so its author keeps all rights: ask leomanes before reusing the design.