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Getting Started with Spectranext

Spectranext is a modern network cartridge for the ZX Spectrum that provides internet connectivity and file system access. It is 100% backwards-compatible with the original Spectranet while adding modern features like WiFi, TLS/SSL support, and improved performance.

What is Spectranext?​

Spectranext brings modern networking capabilities to your ZX Spectrum:

  • Wifi Connectivity: Connect to WiFi networks and access the internet
  • Secure Connections: Support for HTTPS/TLS encrypted connections
  • Development Tools: Debug your Spectrum programs with integrated debugging support
  • Backwards Compatibility: Works with all existing Spectranet software

Hardware Requirements​

  • ZX Spectrum (48K, 128K, +2, +2A, +3, or compatible)
  • Spectranext cartridge (inserted into expansion port)
  • USB-C cable for advanced communication with console interface (optional)
  • WiFi network for internet connectivity

Emulation

You can install FuseX emulator with Spectranext support from Emulation Page on the main site.

  1. Install FuseX emulator.
  2. Enable Spectranext cartridge if not already
  3. Enable Advanced debugger (gdb server)

Note: SDK can natively talk to FuseX emulator automatically, much like real hardware.

First Boot​

Spectranext is ready to use on first boot. After firsr boot, you would need to

  1. Connect to WiFi
  2. Access TNFS Resources

Loading a test program

This example will load a small demo program that makes an HTTPS request into CloudFlare:

%mount 1, "https://spectranext.net/test/web/"
%fs 1
%load ""

Programming for Spectranext​