Mockingboard

Korean Mockingboard clone

Mockingboard, also known as Sweet Micro Systems Mockingboard, is a sound card for the Apple II series of microcomputers. Introduced in the early 1980s, the Mockingboard became one of the most popular sound cards for the Apple II, providing advanced audio capabilities that were not available on the computer's motherboard. The device is notable for enhancing the auditory experience of software applications, particularly video games, with richer sound effects and music.

Overview

The Mockingboard is an expansion card that users could install in one of the slots of the Apple II computers. It was designed to overcome the limitations of the built-in speaker by offering polyphonic sound, multiple voice channels, and, in some models, speech synthesis capabilities. The card typically features several sound generators, such as the AY-3-8910 or AY-3-8913 programmable sound generator chips, which were capable of producing three voices or sound channels simultaneously. Some versions of the Mockingboard included two of these chips, effectively doubling its audio output capabilities.

History

Developed by Sweet Micro Systems, the Mockingboard was first released in the early 1980s. At the time, the Apple II's simple built-in speaker could only generate monophonic sounds, limiting the audio experience in games and other applications. The introduction of the Mockingboard allowed developers to create more immersive environments with complex soundtracks and sound effects, significantly enhancing the gaming experience on the Apple II platform.

Impact on Gaming

The Mockingboard had a profound impact on the Apple II gaming scene. Games such as Ultima IV: Quest of the Avatar, Ultima V: Warriors of Destiny, and The Bard's Tale were among the titles that offered enhanced audio experiences when played with a Mockingboard. These games, along with others, could utilize the card's capabilities to produce background music and sound effects that were far superior to what was possible with the Apple II's built-in speaker.

Technical Specifications

The Mockingboard contains one or more AY-3-8910 or AY-3-8913 chips, each providing three channels of sound. The card also includes an amplifier to boost the audio signal and, in some models, additional hardware for speech synthesis. The Mockingboard can be installed in any available slot of the Apple II, except for slot 0, which is reserved for the language card.

Legacy

The Mockingboard's legacy is evident in the continued interest and development within the retro computing community. Enthusiasts and hobbyists have created modern replicas and software emulators to preserve its functionality for contemporary users. The card's influence extends beyond the Apple II, as it set a precedent for the development of more advanced sound cards and audio processing units in later computer systems.

See Also

• Sound card
• Apple II series
• Video game music
• Computer hardware