I can't address some of your questions because you're non-specific about which device you're referring to.
vk4akp wrote:
On a personal note. I notice a lot of these projects opt for a cartridge port approach.
Some do, some don't. There are advantages and disadvantages either way.
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Another thing that I think would be really cool is to see some casing designs similar to the CMD range.
Designing and manufacturing enclosures is time consuming and costly. It's also boring. I think that explains why most hobbyist designed projects come bare.
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Has anyone thought about Doing a modern day version of the Vic-Switch?
I built a simple IEC switcher so that I could use my 1541 Ultimate with my 64 and VIC-20. I leave the 1541U plugged into the 64 so I have the benefits of the on-screen d64 selector. I found it a bit cumbersome to use in stand-alone mode and it robbed me of much of the functionality. I suppose I could make a few more for sale but there doesn't seem to be much demand.
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Is there any possibility of the developers applying their skills towards a similar Amiga project? Currently there is a gaping gap in the market for a board or device to offer A1000 / A500 expanded ram, storage & networking.
There's as much development going on in the Amiga world as there is in the 8 bit world. Perhaps you should have a look around and then we'll talk because listing all the various projects would be a huge task.
EAB and
A1K are two good places to browse about.