Commodore 65: Difference between revisions

From RetroWikipedia
Jump to navigation Jump to search
← Older edit
VisualWikitext
No edit summary
No edit summary
 
(4 intermediate revisions by the same user not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Short description|Prototype successor to the Commodore 64}}
{{Short description|Unreleased 8-bit home computer developed by Commodore in the early 1990s}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=August 2025}}
{{Use British English|date=August 2025}}


{{Infobox computer
{{Infobox computer
| name         = Commodore 65
| name             = Commodore 65
| Photo        = [[File:C65alleine (no bg) (balance).jpg|300px|A Commodore 65 prototype]]
| logo              = Commodore logo 1980s.svg
| Type        = [[Home computer]]
| logo_size        = 100px
| Released    = Never officially released
| caption          = Commodore 65 prototype (C65)
| Discontinued = 1991 (cancelled prototype)
| developer        = [[Commodore International]]
| Processor    = [[MOS Technology|CSG]] [[MOS Technology 4510|4510 R3]]
| manufacturer      = Commodore
| Memory      = 128 KB (expandable to 8 MB)
| type              = [[Home computer]]
| OS           = Commodore BASIC 10.0
| release_date      = Unreleased (prototype developed 1990–1991)
| graphics     = VIC-III (CSG 4567 R5)
| discontinued      = 1991
| display     = 320×200×256; 640×200×16; 640×400×16; 1280×200×4; 1280×400×4; palette of 4096 colors
| cpu              = [[MOS Technology 4510]] @ 3.54 MHz (based on the 65CE02)
| sound       = 2× [[MOS Technology SID|CSG 8580R5 SID]], stereo output
| memory            = 128 KB – 1 MB RAM (expandable to 8 MB)
| storage      = Internal 3½" DSDD floppy disk drive (880 KB)
| storage           = Internal 3.5″ floppy disk drive, cartridge slot
| CPUspeed     = 3.54 MHz
| os                = [[Commodore BASIC]] 10.0
| predecessor = [[Commodore 64]]
| graphics         = VIC-III graphics chip
| units shipped= Estimated 200–250 prototypes
| display           = 320×200, 640×200, 640×400; 256 colors from 4096
| website     = N/A
| sound             = 2× [[MOS Technology 8580]] SID chips (stereo output)
| compatibility     = Partial [[Commodore 64]] software compatibility
| predecessor       = [[Commodore 64]], [[Commodore 128]]
| successor        = Unofficially succeeded by the [[Amiga]] series
| website           = <!-- No official website -->
}}
}}


The '''Commodore 65''' (also known as '''C64DX''') was a prototype 8-bit computer developed by [[Commodore Business Machines]] in 1990–1991. It was intended to be a successor to the aging but immensely popular [[Commodore 64]], offering improved graphics, sound, and BASIC capabilities, while maintaining backward compatibility.
The '''Commodore 65''' (also known as the '''C65''' or "C64DX") was a prototype [[8-bit]] [[home computer]] developed by [[Commodore International]] in the early 1990s. Designed as an enhanced successor to the [[Commodore 64]], it combined backward compatibility with new hardware capabilities such as improved graphics, expanded memory, and a built-in 3.5″ floppy drive. Although the system never reached commercial release, it is considered one of the most advanced 8-bit computers ever created.


== History ==
== History ==
The Commodore 65 project began internally at Commodore around 1990, under the name "C64DX." The goal was to provide a high-end 8-bit system for home users—retaining C64 compatibility while offering features comparable to early 16-bit systems. At the time, Commodore's more powerful [[Amiga]] series had already been released, but management hoped the C65 could fill a transitional role for existing 8-bit users.


Originally envisioned as a bridge between the C64 and Commodore’s [[Amiga]] line, the C65 featured a significantly enhanced chipset, a built-in 3.5" floppy disk drive, and a new BASIC 10.0. Development began around 1990 under the direction of engineers such as Fred Bowen and Bill Gardei. Prototypes were produced in small quantities through 1991 before the project was abruptly cancelled by Commodore chairman [[Irving Gould]].<ref name="kaiser_secret">{{cite web|title=Secret Weapons of Commodore: The Commodore 65|url=http://www.floodgap.com/retrobits/ckb/secret/65.html|access-date=2024-07-26|last=Kaiser|first=Cameron}}</ref>
The C65 featured a redesigned motherboard, new video and sound chips, and the advanced [[Commodore BASIC]] 10.0. Despite nearing completion, the project was discontinued in 1991 as Commodore faced worsening financial problems and shifted focus entirely to the Amiga product line.


Following Commodore’s bankruptcy in 1994, remaining prototype units—estimated between 200 and 250—entered the collector market. Today, working examples routinely sell for over US$20,000 at auction due to their rarity and historical significance.<ref>{{cite web|title=Rare Commodore C65 Hits eBay With Bidding Over $30,000|url=https://www.tomshardware.com/news/rare-commodore-c65-on-ebay|date=2022-01-14|access-date=2024-07-26}}</ref>
== Specifications ==


== Technical Specifications ==
=== CPU ===
The C65 used the **MOS 4510**, a custom chip based on the enhanced **65CE02** core, running at 3.54 MHz—more than three times faster than the 1.02 MHz **MOS 6510** used in the C64.


* ==CPU==: CSG 4510 R3 (an enhanced 65CE02 derivative) at 3.54 MHz
=== Memory ===
* ==Memory==: 128 KB onboard RAM (expandable to 8 MB); 128 KB ROM
* 128 KB to 1 MB RAM (expandable up to 8 MB via memory banking)
* ==Graphics==: CSG 4567 VIC-III graphics chip with:
* 128 KB ROM containing BASIC 10.0 and KERNAL
  * 320×200 with 256 colors
* 8 KB character ROM
  * 640×200 or 640×400 with 16 colors
  * 1280×200 or 1280×400 with 4 colors
  * 4096-color palette, hardware bit blitter, genlock support
* ==Sound==: Dual 8580 SIDs for stereo audio
* ==Storage==: Internal double-sided double-density 3.5" floppy (880 KB capacity)
* ==OS==: Commodore BASIC 10.0 with full support for graphics, sound, and disk access


== Ports and I/O ==
=== Storage ===
* 2× DE9 joystick ports
* Built-in 3.5″ double-density floppy drive (Commodore 1581-compatible, ~800 KB capacity)
* Expansion port (50-pin)
* Commodore 64-compatible cartridge port
* Serial IEC (for external Commodore drives)
* Serial IEC port for external drives
* RAM expansion flap (Amiga 500-style)
* User port (parallel 24-pin)
* Composite, RF, RGB, and stereo audio output
* DMA expansion and floppy interface


== Legacy and Influence ==
=== Display and Graphics ===
Graphics were handled by the **VIC-III** chip, offering significant improvements over the C64’s VIC-II:


The Commodore 65 was never publicly released, yet it inspired future projects and garnered a cult following. The prototypes are now among the most collectible vintage computers.
* Resolutions: 320×200, 640×200, 640×400 (interlaced)
* Colors: Up to 256 simultaneous colors from a 4096-color palette
* Text modes: 40 and 80 columns
* Enhanced scrolling, hardware sprites, and split-screen features


=== [[MEGA65]] ===
=== Audio ===
The C65 included support for **two** MOS 8580 SID chips, enabling stereo sound output. Each chip provided:
* 3 voices with multiple waveforms
* Filters, modulation, and envelope controls
* Compatibility with C64 SID-based software


In 2015, the Museum of Electronic Games & Art (MEGA) announced the '''MEGA65''', a modern open-source recreation of the C65 using [[FPGA]] technology. It is C65-compatible, C64-compatible, and expands upon the original's vision with new features like:
== Software ==
* HDMI output
* MicroSD storage
* Ethernet and USB support
* Modern peripherals
* Integrated development tools


After years of development, MEGA65 entered production in 2021, with batches distributed by [https://trenz-electronic.de Trenz Electronic]. As of 2024, the MEGA65 is available year-round without waiting for batch preorders.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://mega65.org|title=MEGA65 Official Site|access-date=2024-07-26}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://m65digest.substack.com|title=Dan's MEGA65 Digest|access-date=2024-07-26}}</ref>
=== Commodore BASIC 10.0 ===
The C65 shipped with **BASIC 10.0**, a major upgrade from the BASIC 2.0 used in the Commodore 64. It introduced:
* Structured programming (IF...THEN...ELSE, DO...LOOP)
* Advanced file handling and graphics commands
* Disk directory access and floppy formatting from BASIC


== Further Reading ==
BASIC 10.0 was stored in ROM alongside an updated KERNAL. While the system retained some backward compatibility, software relying on specific memory addresses, timing, or the VIC-II graphics were often incompatible.
* [https://www.floodgap.com/retrobits/ckb/secret/65.html Secret Weapons of Commodore – C65 Overview]
* [https://mega65.org MEGA65 Official Site]
* [https://www.zock.com/8-Bit/D_C65.HTML 8-Bit Nirvana: C65]
* [https://devilmaster.altervista.org/hi65.html Hi65 – High-level C65 Emulator]
* Bagnall, Brian. ''On the Edge: The Spectacular Rise and Fall of Commodore''. Variant Press, 2005. {{ISBN|0-9738649-0-7}}


== External Links ==
== Legacy and Collectibility ==
{{commons category|Commodore 65}}
Although the Commodore 65 was never released commercially, an estimated **50 to 200 prototype units** were manufactured before the project was cancelled. In the mid-1990s, these were sold off as surplus during Commodore’s liquidation. Due to their rarity, C65 units have become highly valuable collector's items, with some selling for over **$30,000 USD** at auction.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Rare Commodore 65 fetches $30,000 on eBay |url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/2026818/rare-commodore-65-fetches-30000-on-ebay.html |date=2013-01-08 |access-date=2024-06-01 |website=PCWorld}}</ref>
* [https://www.retrothing.com/2008/08/commodore-65-it.html Commodore 65 at RetroThing]
* [https://www.theoldcomputer.com/roms/index.php?folder=Commodore/C65 ROMs and Utilities (The Old Computer)]


[[Category:Commodore computers]]
== Emulation and Successors ==
[[Category:Home computers]]
The C65 is supported in modern emulators such as [[VICE (emulator)|VICE]], and ROMs have been preserved for archival purposes. Due to the system’s unfinished status, emulation is incomplete but usable for testing.
[[Category:Prototype computers]]
 
[[Category:Commodore 64]]
The most notable legacy of the C65 is the creation of the [[MEGA65]]—a modern, open-source recreation of the Commodore 65 developed by the German non-profit [[Museum of Electronic Games & Art|MEGA Museum of Electronic Games & Art]]. Released in the 2020s, the [[MEGA65]] uses FPGA hardware to replicate and extend the C65’s architecture, and includes modern I/O such as HDMI, Ethernet, and SD card support.<ref>{{Cite web |title=MEGA65 Official Website |url=https://www.mega65.org/ |access-date=2024-06-01}}</ref>
 
== See also ==
* [[Commodore 64]]
* [[Commodore 128]]
* [[MEGA65]]
* [[Amiga]]
* [[VICE (emulator)]]
* [[Retrocomputing]]
 
== References ==
{{reflist}}
 
== External links ==
* [https://www.mega65.org/ Official MEGA65 website]
* [https://vice-emu.sourceforge.io/ VICE emulator homepage]
* [https://www.c64-wiki.com/wiki/Commodore_65 C65 article on C64-Wiki]
* [https://www.old-computers.com/museum/computer.asp?c=954&st=1 Commodore 65 on Old-Computers.com]

Latest revision as of 18:03, 14 August 2025

Commodore 65
File:Commodore logo 1980s.svg
DeveloperCommodore International
ManufacturerCommodore
TypeHome computer
Discontinued1991
Operating systemCommodore BASIC 10.0
CPUMOS Technology 4510 @ 3.54 MHz (based on the 65CE02)
Memory128 KB – 1 MB RAM (expandable to 8 MB)
StorageInternal 3.5″ floppy disk drive, cartridge slot
Display320×200, 640×200, 640×400; 256 colors from 4096
GraphicsVIC-III graphics chip
Sound2× MOS Technology 8580 SID chips (stereo output)
Backward
compatibility		Partial Commodore 64 software compatibility
PredecessorCommodore 64, Commodore 128
SuccessorUnofficially succeeded by the Amiga series

The Commodore 65 (also known as the C65 or "C64DX") was a prototype 8-bit home computer developed by Commodore International in the early 1990s. Designed as an enhanced successor to the Commodore 64, it combined backward compatibility with new hardware capabilities such as improved graphics, expanded memory, and a built-in 3.5″ floppy drive. Although the system never reached commercial release, it is considered one of the most advanced 8-bit computers ever created.

History

The Commodore 65 project began internally at Commodore around 1990, under the name "C64DX." The goal was to provide a high-end 8-bit system for home users—retaining C64 compatibility while offering features comparable to early 16-bit systems. At the time, Commodore's more powerful Amiga series had already been released, but management hoped the C65 could fill a transitional role for existing 8-bit users.

The C65 featured a redesigned motherboard, new video and sound chips, and the advanced Commodore BASIC 10.0. Despite nearing completion, the project was discontinued in 1991 as Commodore faced worsening financial problems and shifted focus entirely to the Amiga product line.

Specifications

CPU

The C65 used the **MOS 4510**, a custom chip based on the enhanced **65CE02** core, running at 3.54 MHz—more than three times faster than the 1.02 MHz **MOS 6510** used in the C64.

Memory

  • 128 KB to 1 MB RAM (expandable up to 8 MB via memory banking)
  • 128 KB ROM containing BASIC 10.0 and KERNAL
  • 8 KB character ROM

Storage

  • Built-in 3.5″ double-density floppy drive (Commodore 1581-compatible, ~800 KB capacity)
  • Commodore 64-compatible cartridge port
  • Serial IEC port for external drives

Display and Graphics

Graphics were handled by the **VIC-III** chip, offering significant improvements over the C64’s VIC-II:

  • Resolutions: 320×200, 640×200, 640×400 (interlaced)
  • Colors: Up to 256 simultaneous colors from a 4096-color palette
  • Text modes: 40 and 80 columns
  • Enhanced scrolling, hardware sprites, and split-screen features

Audio

The C65 included support for **two** MOS 8580 SID chips, enabling stereo sound output. Each chip provided:

  • 3 voices with multiple waveforms
  • Filters, modulation, and envelope controls
  • Compatibility with C64 SID-based software

Software

Commodore BASIC 10.0

The C65 shipped with **BASIC 10.0**, a major upgrade from the BASIC 2.0 used in the Commodore 64. It introduced:

  • Structured programming (IF...THEN...ELSE, DO...LOOP)
  • Advanced file handling and graphics commands
  • Disk directory access and floppy formatting from BASIC

BASIC 10.0 was stored in ROM alongside an updated KERNAL. While the system retained some backward compatibility, software relying on specific memory addresses, timing, or the VIC-II graphics were often incompatible.

Legacy and Collectibility

Although the Commodore 65 was never released commercially, an estimated **50 to 200 prototype units** were manufactured before the project was cancelled. In the mid-1990s, these were sold off as surplus during Commodore’s liquidation. Due to their rarity, C65 units have become highly valuable collector's items, with some selling for over **$30,000 USD** at auction.[1]

Emulation and Successors

The C65 is supported in modern emulators such as VICE, and ROMs have been preserved for archival purposes. Due to the system’s unfinished status, emulation is incomplete but usable for testing.

The most notable legacy of the C65 is the creation of the MEGA65—a modern, open-source recreation of the Commodore 65 developed by the German non-profit MEGA Museum of Electronic Games & Art. Released in the 2020s, the MEGA65 uses FPGA hardware to replicate and extend the C65’s architecture, and includes modern I/O such as HDMI, Ethernet, and SD card support.[2]

See also

References

  1. ↑ "Rare Commodore 65 fetches $30,000 on eBay". PCWorld. January 8, 2013. Retrieved June 1, 2024.
  2. ↑ "MEGA65 Official Website". Retrieved June 1, 2024.

External links

Retrieved from "https://retrowikipedia.com/index.php?title=Commodore_65&oldid=15447"