Commodore 64

Post by **SpongeBuell** » Thu Dec 30, 2004 10:18 pm

A few days ago, Sparkfist recommended that I did a Commodore 64 portable. I thought it would be fun to do, and maybe be the first to do it. In fact, it would probably be the first portable computer on the boards. (hey, it really is a computer technically) While Sparkfist said I should use a Commodore 64 joystick, I decided that I will most likely use a full C64 and do some hacks. The main reason for doing this is because there is one at my local gamestore for a whopping $10, though it doesn't come with any cords. I don't think that will be a problem, since it should be pretty easy to find some hacks for it (chances are it uses a 7805, otherwise I can make something up)

So, what do you guys think? I'm mostly doing the C64 since it's cheap, yet still has a lot of functions and possibilities.

Last minute notice: whoa, I just realized that I can make polls here! Yay! Now you don't have to hear me complain. I always thought there was a separate "new poll" button"

HK-47 · Post by **HK-47** » Thu Dec 30, 2004 10:24 pm

Sounds cool, but Id use a c64 in a controller thingie. Also Ben was making some veriety of classic computer laptop... I cant remember what it was... Maybe one of those atari computers... All I know is that Gannon suggested a CF to IDE converter for the project...

Post by **Sparkfist** » Thu Dec 30, 2004 10:24 pm

Well thanks for all the credit but the C64-on-a-chip was mentioned before and you were one of the people that said they'd use it to make a C64p.

And sorry to bust your bubble about it being the first but you might not win, Ben is only short a screen for his Atari 800 portable to be complete.

HK-47 · Post by **HK-47** » Thu Dec 30, 2004 10:25 pm

Ahhh... It was the atari 800... I though it was an atari computer...

Post by **SpongeBuell** » Thu Dec 30, 2004 10:32 pm

yeah, I suppose that's true about Ben's Atari 800 computer possibly coming first. Oh well, I'll probably be the first to have a C64p, unless Nin actually makes his.

someone · Post by **someone** » Thu Dec 30, 2004 10:50 pm

ben made the beer computer before you he wins!!!!!!

btw what cheap gamestore is it?

HK-47 · Post by **HK-47** » Thu Dec 30, 2004 10:57 pm

http://benheck.com/Games/MGD%20Start.htm
Its not in videogames section, but that didnt stop me...

Post by **SpongeBuell** » Thu Dec 30, 2004 10:57 pm

I think it's an independent one, not a chain. Rather not say where until after I get it

someone · Post by **someone** » Thu Dec 30, 2004 11:08 pm

why? do they have a website

? but you're safe, im hundreds of miles from you.

Post by **SpongeBuell** » Thu Dec 30, 2004 11:11 pm

yeah, I suppose, but there are others around. I'll spill the beans tomorrow. For those in the Twin Cities, it is an awesome store. For now, me and GibsonPlayer15 are probably the only ones here that know about it.

Post by **Sparkfist** » Thu Dec 30, 2004 11:18 pm

Well good luck on building it, maybe it can be your new years resoluton. Also when your building it be sure to include basic for the software, when your done I want to make one.

MM007 · Post by **MM007** » Fri Dec 31, 2004 2:00 pm

As the proud owner of a pair of Commodore 64s, let me suggest a few things.

1. (Removed, as I was incorrect)

2. The Commodore, unlike other game systems, uses text, blue background and white characters (those who have played GTA Vice City, that 80's computer in the intro is a C-64 reading from a tape drive.) The text colors and stuff can be changed by commands and keys, choosing from 16 colors.

Since it uses text, I suggest that you use a high resolution, high size LCD. I have doubts that even a PSOne screen would be quite enough to display it well, since you have to read the thing. Try a 7 inch LCD. You have to enter text commands to use the Commodore or get it to read and load drives. No way around it.

3. Atari controllers work with the Commodore quite well.

4. Try to find a "Fast Load" cartridge by Epyx. It increases the speed the Commodore reads disks at by a considerable margin. Trust me, it makes a difference.

5. The Commodore had several hard drives in 10MB, 20MB, and 30MB sizes. if you want that, look for them.

6. Commodore 64 also has a modem out there for it.

7. There was a magazine available called "RUN"(named for a Commodore command)available in the mid '80s dedicated solely to the Commodore. It even had code to type in that other people had submitted. Look for some back issues for various tips and to get an idea of what hardware there is out there for it.

8. Leave all the ports in.

If you need any other bits of advice, just ask.

BTW: Commodore Basic comes included in the ROM. No need to worry about that.

Post by **SpongeBuell** » Fri Dec 31, 2004 5:03 pm

well, I got it today. I't missing the Q key, but it's not used that often (I would think) and I can make a replacement fairly easily. After a look inside, I see that there is a 7805. I could just put in 9 volts to the input on that, couldn't I? Or do I need to power it in other places? If it is the latter, could someone post a pinout for the power?

Thanks,
SpongeBuell

HK-47 · Post by **HK-47** » Fri Dec 31, 2004 5:18 pm

Have fun.
http://www.funet.fi/pub/cbm/schematics/computers/c64/

MM007 · Post by **MM007** » Fri Dec 31, 2004 7:50 pm

Since the C-64 is an 8-bit computer, should this be moved to the NES 8-bit section?

BTW, I corrected my error.