Computer Hook-Ups - Boss

GT-X Setup Manual

Cascade Cabling Scheme
The cascade scheme is a merging of the star and chain
concepts. The star configuration forms the heart of the
MIDI distribution system. The only gain here is that some
units can send MIDI they generate on to other units.
However, as it's a combination you get ALL of the cons of
both schemes. Where possible prefer the star configuration.
In the diagram below the oval once again represents a MIDI
splitter.
Pros
1. MIDI THRU features not required on ALL units –
various capabilities could be accommodated.
2. The splitter normally provides buffered outputs so
signal chain length is no longer an issue (except
where chains are used - cable length is still an issue
as ever).
3. No MIDI feedback loops.
4. Slaved units can transmit MIDI to other units.
Cons
1. Requires more hardware and money.
2. Failure of a single unit affects all subsequent units
used in a chain.
3. MIDI THRU features required on ALL mid-chain
units.
4. Failure of the splitter brings down the entire
system.
5. Long chains can cause signal loss issues and
message corruption.
© Copyright 2000-2002 Barry S. Pearce et al.
Section 28

Computer Hook-ups

As you may have gathered by now, the GT-3/5 is really a
computer in a stomp box's clothing. We can gain further
capability by connecting it to a computer as well.
Connecting to a PC is not too hard if you have a soundcard
with MIDI DIN (or Mini-DIN) connectors or a modern
USB capable system, but if not, there's also ways to use
other ports as well. You may be able to use one of several
types of connections; USB, joystick /game port and printer
parallel ports. It's important to note that USB only works
with Windows 98 and 2000. Although there is a Win 95
upgrade ('B") that allows for USB access, it is not reliable
enough for MIDI applications.
The first thing you need is a MIDI Interface or soundcard
that supports MIDI. How you connect the soundcard to your
MIDI device (GT-3/5) is where things diverge.
IMPORTANT!!! You MUST have the MIDI cables
hooked up correctly - the MIDI OUT from the GT-3/5
MUST go to the IN of the Computer interface, and the
MIDI IN of the GT-5/5 MUST be connected to the OUT of
the computer interface. If you do otherwise, nothing will
work. The diagram below should help.
MIDI Interface
MIDI OUT
MIDI
IN
Non-USB Computer Hook-ups
Most PC soundcards are MPU-401 compatible. As in
everything on the PC, "whatever became popular first,
dictates what user's will use in the future" The Roland
MPU-401 MIDI Interface is the de-facto standard. The
MPU-401 came on the scene in 1983, and the Soundblaster,
as well as most sound cards with either MIDI or Joystick
ports provide an "emulation" of this hardware.
Here are a few ways to get an MPU-401 MIDI interface
going with MS Windows (If you use DOS then most
methods below will work but much of the limitation comes
from available software – there are certainly no DOS based
patch editors for the GT-3/5).
All About MIDI
MIDI IN
MIDI
OUT
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