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{{Infobox computer
{{Infobox computer
| name = Commander X16
| logo = CommanderX16 logo rainbow darkgrey.svg
| logo = CommanderX16 logo rainbow darkgrey.svg
| logo_size = 250px
| logo_size = 250px
| photo = X16 promo1.png
| photo = X16 promo1.png
| caption = Commander X16 in official case with keyboard, mouse and [[SNES controller]]
| caption = Commander X16 in official case with keyboard, mouse and SNES controller
| type = [[Personal computer]]
| developer = David Murray (The 8-Bit Guy) and team
| released = October 12, 2022
| manufacturer = TexElec (Gen 1)
| processor = [[WDC 65C02]]
| type = [[Home computer]]
| memory = 512 KB or 2 MB banked RAM<br>512 KB ROM<br>(Up to 3.5 MB of RAM/ROM)
| release_date = October 12, 2022
| OS = Custom version of [[KERNAL]]
| cpu = [[WDC 65C02]], 8 MHz
| memory = 512 KB or 2 MB banked RAM<br>512 KB ROM<br>(up to 3.5 MB RAM/ROM combined)
| storage = SD card
| os = Custom OS based on Commodore KERNAL and BASIC
| graphics = VERA video controller
| graphics = VERA video controller
| display = Up to 640×480 resolution; 256 colors from 4096-color palette; 128 sprites
| display = Up to 640×480; 256 colors from 4096; 128 sprites; VGA/NTSC/RGB
VGA, NTSC and RGB output
| sound = Yamaha [[YM2151]] / YM2164: 8 channels, FM synthesis<br>VERA PSG: 16 channels, 4 waveforms<br>VERA PCM: 48 kHz, 16-bit stereo
| sound = Yamaha [[YM2151]]/YM2164: 8 channels FM synthesis<br>
| compatibility = Partial compatibility with Commodore BASIC
VERA PSG: 16 channels, 4 waveforms<br>
| website = {{url|https://www.commanderx16.com/|commanderx16.com}}
VERA PCM: 48 kHz, 16-bit stereo
| memory_card = SD card
| cpuspeed = 8 MHz
| predecessor =
| units_shipped =
| discontinued =
| website = {{URL|https://www.commanderx16.com/|commanderx16.com}}
}}
}}


The '''Commander X16''' is an [[8-bit computing|8-bit]] [[home computer]] introduced in 2022. Initially conceptualized by [[The 8-Bit Guy|David Murray]] as his "dream computer", the project was developed by a small team aiming to deliver a modern yet retro computer kit using off-the-shelf parts and familiar 8-bit architecture.<ref name="faq">[https://x16community.github.io/faq/faq.html Commander X16 Community FAQ], accessed May 4, 2024.</ref> The project gained traction through Murray’s YouTube channel, attracting retrocomputing enthusiasts and developers.<ref name="hackaday2021">{{Cite web|url=https://hackaday.com/2021/08/18/commander-x16-a-dreamy-8-bit-computer-comes-closer-to-reality/|title=Commander X16: A Dreamy 8-Bit Computer Comes Closer to Reality|website=Hackaday|date=August 19, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite AV media|url=https://www.ign.com/videos/the-commander-x16-is-a-brand-new-computer-built-from-1980s-technology|title=The Commander X16 Is a Brand-New Computer Built From 1980s Technology|date=April 9, 2024|via=IGN}}</ref>
The '''Commander X16''' is a modern [[8-bit computing|8-bit]] [[home computer]] designed by [[David Murray]], also known as ''The 8-Bit Guy'', in collaboration with a small team of hardware and software developers. It was conceived as a "dream computer" that could replicate the experience of 1980s home computers while using mostly [[commercial off-the-shelf]] components.
 
The Commander X16 gained popularity through Murray’s YouTube channel and attracted a community of [[retrocomputing]] enthusiasts and independent developers. The system features a physical design reminiscent of classic microcomputers, custom video and sound hardware, and support for Commodore BASIC.


== History ==
== History ==
In 2018, David Murray published a blog post outlining specifications for his ideal 8-bit computer. The proposed system would use a [[6502]]-compatible CPU, static RAM, VGA or HDMI video, and intentionally avoid [[FPGA]]s or microcontrollers.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Guy |first=The 8-Bit |date=April 12, 2018 |title=What is my dream computer? |url=https://www.the8bitguy.com/2576/what-is-my-dream-computer/}}</ref>
In April 2018, David Murray published a blog post titled "What is my dream computer?" describing his vision of an ideal 8-bit computer: a system running [[Commodore BASIC]], with no FPGAs or microcontrollers, and using widely available parts such as the [[WDC 65C02]] CPU.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Guy |first=The 8-Bit |date=2018-04-12 |title=What is my dream computer? |url=https://www.the8bitguy.com/2576/what-is-my-dream-computer/ |access-date=2024-05-06}}</ref>


The Commander X16 project formally began with a series of YouTube videos detailing its development.<ref>{{Cite AV media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ayh0qebfD2g|title=Building My Dream Computer - Part 1|date=February 19, 2019}}</ref> Community engagement influenced its hardware and software design, with notable contributors such as Christian Simpson (Retro Recipes) and Kevin Williams (TexElec) joining the project.<ref name="faq" /><ref>{{Cite web |title=FAQ – Perifractic |url=https://www.perifractic.com/retrogaming/faq/}}</ref>
Murray began a video series in 2019 to document the design and development of the Commander X16.<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ayh0qebfD2g |title=Building my dream computer – Part 1 |date=2019-02-19 |via=YouTube}}</ref> The series sparked widespread interest, leading to the involvement of contributors from the retrocomputing community, including Christian Simpson of ''Retro Recipes'' and Kevin Williams of TexElec.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Commander X16 Community FAQ |url=https://x16community.github.io/faq/faq.html |access-date=2024-05-04}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Speakers 2023 |url=https://www.vcfsw.org/speakers2023 |access-date=2024-05-05}}</ref>


== Design ==
== Design ==
[[File:Commander-X16-Develper-Edition.jpg|thumb|left|Developer Edition board with VERA module]]
The X16 was designed using modern components wherever possible. It uses a [[WDC 65C02]] CPU running at 8 MHz and a custom FPGA-based video and sound chip known as VERA (Versatile Embedded Retro Adapter). The VERA module enables high-resolution graphics and rich audio synthesis, with additional sound generated by a Yamaha YM2151 or YM2164 chip.
The system is based around the [[WDC 65C02]] running at 8 MHz. Most components are off-the-shelf, including 512 KB RAM chips and an SD card slot for storage. The team designed an FPGA-based daughterboard called the '''VERA''' (Versatile Embedded Retro Adapter), which handles both graphics and sound.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Commodore 64 Upgrade In Modern Package |url=https://hackaday.com/2023/05/23/commodore-64-upgrade-in-modern-package/|date=May 23, 2023}}</ref> Sound support is further enhanced by a [[YM2151]] FM chip (or YM2164 in some units, due to part availability).<ref>{{Cite web|title=Yamaha YM2164 OPP|url=https://map.grauw.nl/resources/sound/yamaha_ym2164.php}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Jaroslav Sýkora Builds a Modern Equivalent to Yamaha's Classic YM2151|url=https://www.hackster.io/news/jaroslav-sykora-builds-a-modern-equivalent-to-yamaha-s-classic-ym2151-synth-from-an-ice40-fpga-af4ea3706c80}}</ref>


To support the C64-compatible experience, the OS is based on [[Commodore BASIC]] and [[KERNAL]]. Initially, permission to use Commodore's ROMs from Cloanto was uncertain, but a licensing agreement was reached.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/X16Community/x16-rom/blob/master/LICENSE.md|title=x16-rom LICENSE – GitHub}}</ref> Alternatively, users can load an open-source KERNAL from the Mega65 project.
To maintain the philosophy of "booting to BASIC," the operating system is based on [[Commodore KERNAL]] and [[Microsoft BASIC]]. Licensing for these ROMs was acquired from [[Cloanto]], allowing proprietary ROMs to be included with the system.<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ayh0qebfD2g |title=Building my dream computer – Part 1 |date=2019-02-19 |via=YouTube}}</ref>


{{clear}}
== Launch and Availability ==
The Commander X16 Gen 1 debuted on October 12, 2022, with the first 100 PCBs produced for early development boards.<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AcWqMGju7fk |title=The Commander X16 has finally arrived! |date=2022-10-11 |via=YouTube}}</ref> Early units were sold through [[TexElec]] at a price of $500, with future models planned to be more affordable.<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nyByDNQuMMI |title=Commander X16 2023 update |via=YouTube}}</ref>


== Debut and Release ==
As of late 2023, pre-orders for Gen 1 were priced at $349.99.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Williams |first=Kevin |date=2023-10-01 |title=Pre-Order the Commander X16 Developer Edition now! |url=https://texelec.com/2023/10/01/pre-order-the-commander-x16-developer-edition-now/ |access-date=2024-04-30}}</ref>
Commander X16 Gen 1 debuted on October 12, 2022, with the first 100 boards shipped to developers.<ref>{{Cite AV media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AcWqMGju7fk|title=The Commander X16 Has Finally Arrived!|date=October 11, 2022}}</ref> A pre-order campaign began on October 1, 2023, pricing units at $349.99.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Williams |first=Kevin |date=October 1, 2023 |title=Pre-Order the Commander X16 Developer Edition Now! |url=https://texelec.com/2023/10/01/pre-order-the-commander-x16-developer-edition-now/}}</ref> David Murray has stated the goal of reducing future generation pricing to under $100.<ref>{{Cite AV media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nyByDNQuMMI|title=Commander X16 2023 Update}}</ref>


== Hardware ==
== Hardware ==
The X16 is built around the W65C02 processor with 512 KB or 2 MB of banked RAM, an SD card slot for storage, and a real-time clock. The VERA module provides graphical output and PSG sound. Video capabilities include resolutions up to 640×480 and 128 hardware sprites. Audio features include FM synthesis (YM2151/YM2164) and 16-channel PSG.


=== CPU and Memory ===
The motherboard uses the MicroATX form factor with DIP socketed chips and no soldered components, enabling repairs and upgrades.
The system uses a WDC 65C02 CPU (optionally upgradeable to a 65C816) and includes 512 KB of RAM, expandable to 2 MB. ROM storage is 512 KB. A real-time clock is provided by the MCP7940N chip.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/X16Community/x16-docs/blob/master/X16%20Reference%20-%20Appendix%20C%20-%2065C02%20Processor.md|title=X16 Reference – 65C02 Processor}}</ref>
 
=== Graphics ===
The VERA controller provides resolutions up to 640×480 with 256 colors, 128 sprites, two tilemaps, and smooth scrolling.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/X16Community/x16-docs/blob/master/X16%20Reference%20-%2009%20-%20VERA%20Programmer's%20Reference.md|title=VERA Programmer’s Reference}}</ref> A demo resembling the [[Second Reality]] demo showcased the VERA’s 3D capabilities.<ref>{{Cite AV media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_67sF4onNQM|title=Second Reality Demo for Commander X16}}</ref>
 
=== Sound ===
Sound output is provided by the YM2151 or YM2164 chip (8 FM channels) and the VERA’s own PSG and PCM playback engine (16 channels and stereo output).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/X16Community/faq/blob/main/faq.md|title=X16 Community FAQ – GitHub}}</ref>


== Software ==
== Software ==
The Commander X16's firmware includes a modernized version of Commodore BASIC V2 with extended commands for graphics, I/O, and memory. It also includes an enhanced [[KERNAL]] compatible with both Commodore 64 and 128 APIs. The onboard ROM totals 32 KB, and the OS supports expansion via SD card and software loading.


=== Operating System ===
A built-in machine language monitor, modeled after the Final Cartridge III, supports low-level development. The system is supported by emulators for Windows, macOS, Linux, and web platforms.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Commander X16 Emulator |url=https://github.com/X16Community/x16-emulator |access-date=2024-06-24}}</ref>
Commander X16 runs a custom OS based on Commodore BASIC and KERNAL. An open-source KERNAL can also be substituted.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/X16Community/x16-rom/blob/master/LICENSE.md}}</ref> Emulators for Windows, macOS, Linux, and the browser are available.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/X16Community/x16-emulator|title=X16 Emulator Repository – GitHub}}</ref>
 
=== BASIC and KERNAL ===
The built-in BASIC is similar to that of the C64/VIC-20, with expanded commands for graphics and I/O. New keywords follow an extended token system to preserve compatibility.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/X16Community/x16-docs/blob/master/X16%20Reference%20-%2004%20-%20BASIC.md|title=X16 BASIC Reference}}</ref>
 
The KERNAL API preserves C64 and partial C128 compatibility while supporting modern features like timekeeping and expanded graphics.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/X16Community/x16-docs/blob/master/X16%20Reference%20-%2005%20-%20KERNAL.md}}</ref>
 
=== Binary Compatibility and Assembly ===
Binary programs typically require recompilation due to different addressing and hardware architecture.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/X16Community/x16-docs/blob/master/X16%20Reference%20-%2001%20-%20Overview.md}}</ref> A machine language monitor based on the Final Cartridge III is included in ROM.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/commanderx16/x16-docs/blob/master/Commander%20X16%20Programmer's%20Reference%20Guide.md#machine-language-monitor}}</ref>


== Community Software ==
=== Community Software ===
The Commander X16 community has produced both original software and demakes of classic titles. Notable examples include ''Planet X16'' (a remake of ''Planet X3''), ''Attack of the PETSCII Robots'', and ''Xixit''. There are also remakes of ''Super Mario'', ''Arkanoid'', ''Space Invaders'', and ''Mega Man'', as well as new applications like the Chinese word processor ''Living Type''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.commanderx16.com/forum/viewforum.php?f=29|title=Downloads – Commander X16}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.the8bitguy.com/35663/planet-x16-is-here/|title=Planet X16 Is Here!}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://cx16forum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=6267|title=Xixit – Commander X16}}</ref>
The X16 community has developed a variety of software including ports and remakes of games such as ''Super Mario'', ''Space Invaders'', and ''Mega Man'', as well as original titles like ''Planet X16'' and ''8-Bit Blocks''—a demake of [[Minecraft]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Commander X16 Software Downloads |url=https://www.commanderx16.com/forum/viewforum.php?f=29 |access-date=2024-06-02}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Guy |first=The 8-Bit |date=2023-12-09 |title=Planet X16 Is Here! |url=https://www.the8bitguy.com/35663/planet-x16-is-here/ |access-date=2024-06-02}}</ref>


== See also ==
== See also ==
 
* [[Mega65]] – modern remake of Commodore 65
[[Mega65]]
* [[Fantasy console]]
 
* [[Homebrew Computer Club]]
[[Arduboy]]
* [[Arduboy]]
 
* [[Telmac 1800]]
[[Telmac 1800]]
 
[[Homebrew Computer Club]]
 
[[Fantasy console]]


== References ==
== References ==
Line 88: Line 67:


== External links ==
== External links ==
 
* [https://www.commanderx16.com/ Official website]
[https://cx16forum.com/forum/ Commander X16 Forum]
* [https://cx16forum.com/forum/ Community forum]
 
* [https://github.com/X16Community/x16-docs Documentation on GitHub]
[https://github.com/X16Community/x16-docs X16 Documentation – GitHub]
* [https://texelec.com/product/cx16-devboard-bundle/ Commander X16 Developer Board (TexElec)]
 
* [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfABUWdDse7bKGFshxR0itdHBhjUj86SX Commander X16 YouTube series]
[https://texelec.com/commander-x16-developer-board/ TexElec product page]
 
[https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfABUWdDse7bKGFshxR0itdHBhjUj86SX Commander X16 YouTube Playlist]

Latest revision as of 17:58, 14 August 2025

Commander X16
Commander X16 in official case with keyboard, mouse and SNES controller
DeveloperDavid Murray (The 8-Bit Guy) and team
ManufacturerTexElec (Gen 1)
TypeHome computer
Operating systemCustom OS based on Commodore KERNAL and BASIC
CPUWDC 65C02, 8 MHz
Memory512 KB or 2 MB banked RAM
512 KB ROM
(up to 3.5 MB RAM/ROM combined)
StorageSD card
DisplayUp to 640×480; 256 colors from 4096; 128 sprites; VGA/NTSC/RGB
GraphicsVERA video controller
SoundYamaha YM2151 / YM2164: 8 channels, FM synthesis
VERA PSG: 16 channels, 4 waveforms
VERA PCM: 48 kHz, 16-bit stereo
Backward
compatibility		Partial compatibility with Commodore BASIC
Websitecommanderx16.com

The Commander X16 is a modern 8-bit home computer designed by David Murray, also known as The 8-Bit Guy, in collaboration with a small team of hardware and software developers. It was conceived as a "dream computer" that could replicate the experience of 1980s home computers while using mostly commercial off-the-shelf components.

The Commander X16 gained popularity through Murray’s YouTube channel and attracted a community of retrocomputing enthusiasts and independent developers. The system features a physical design reminiscent of classic microcomputers, custom video and sound hardware, and support for Commodore BASIC.

History

In April 2018, David Murray published a blog post titled "What is my dream computer?" describing his vision of an ideal 8-bit computer: a system running Commodore BASIC, with no FPGAs or microcontrollers, and using widely available parts such as the WDC 65C02 CPU.[1]

Murray began a video series in 2019 to document the design and development of the Commander X16.[2] The series sparked widespread interest, leading to the involvement of contributors from the retrocomputing community, including Christian Simpson of Retro Recipes and Kevin Williams of TexElec.[3][4]

Design

The X16 was designed using modern components wherever possible. It uses a WDC 65C02 CPU running at 8 MHz and a custom FPGA-based video and sound chip known as VERA (Versatile Embedded Retro Adapter). The VERA module enables high-resolution graphics and rich audio synthesis, with additional sound generated by a Yamaha YM2151 or YM2164 chip.

To maintain the philosophy of "booting to BASIC," the operating system is based on Commodore KERNAL and Microsoft BASIC. Licensing for these ROMs was acquired from Cloanto, allowing proprietary ROMs to be included with the system.[5]

Launch and Availability

The Commander X16 Gen 1 debuted on October 12, 2022, with the first 100 PCBs produced for early development boards.[6] Early units were sold through TexElec at a price of $500, with future models planned to be more affordable.[7]

As of late 2023, pre-orders for Gen 1 were priced at $349.99.[8]

Hardware

The X16 is built around the W65C02 processor with 512 KB or 2 MB of banked RAM, an SD card slot for storage, and a real-time clock. The VERA module provides graphical output and PSG sound. Video capabilities include resolutions up to 640×480 and 128 hardware sprites. Audio features include FM synthesis (YM2151/YM2164) and 16-channel PSG.

The motherboard uses the MicroATX form factor with DIP socketed chips and no soldered components, enabling repairs and upgrades.

Software

The Commander X16's firmware includes a modernized version of Commodore BASIC V2 with extended commands for graphics, I/O, and memory. It also includes an enhanced KERNAL compatible with both Commodore 64 and 128 APIs. The onboard ROM totals 32 KB, and the OS supports expansion via SD card and software loading.

A built-in machine language monitor, modeled after the Final Cartridge III, supports low-level development. The system is supported by emulators for Windows, macOS, Linux, and web platforms.[9]

Community Software

The X16 community has developed a variety of software including ports and remakes of games such as Super Mario, Space Invaders, and Mega Man, as well as original titles like Planet X16 and 8-Bit Blocks—a demake of Minecraft.[10][11]

See also

References

  1. ↑ Guy, The 8-Bit (April 12, 2018). "What is my dream computer?". Retrieved May 6, 2024.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  2. ↑ Building my dream computer – Part 1. February 19, 2019 – via YouTube.
  3. ↑ "Commander X16 Community FAQ". Retrieved May 4, 2024.
  4. ↑ "Speakers 2023". Retrieved May 5, 2024.
  5. ↑ Building my dream computer – Part 1. February 19, 2019 – via YouTube.
  6. ↑ The Commander X16 has finally arrived!. October 11, 2022 – via YouTube.
  7. ↑ Commander X16 2023 update – via YouTube.
  8. ↑ Williams, Kevin (October 1, 2023). "Pre-Order the Commander X16 Developer Edition now!". Retrieved April 30, 2024.
  9. ↑ "Commander X16 Emulator". Retrieved June 24, 2024.
  10. ↑ "Commander X16 Software Downloads". Retrieved June 2, 2024.
  11. ↑ Guy, The 8-Bit (December 9, 2023). "Planet X16 Is Here!". Retrieved June 2, 2024.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)

External links

Retrieved from "https://retrowikipedia.com/index.php?title=Commander_X16&oldid=15445"