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{{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|Prototype Commodore 65]]
| logo              = Commodore logo 1980s.svg
| type         = [[Home computer]]
| logo_size         = 100px
| released    = Never officially released
| caption          = Commodore 65 prototype (C65)
| discontinued = 1991 (project cancelled)
| developer        = [[Commodore International]]
| processor    = [[MOS Technology|CSG]] CSG 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       = Dual CSG 8580 SID chips, stereo output
| memory           = 128 KB – 1 MB RAM (expandable to 8 MB)
| storage      = Internal 3½″ DSDD floppy (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 fewer than 200 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''' (C65, aka C64DX) was a prototype 8-bit personal computer developed by Commodore Business Machines in 1990–1991. Intended as a successor to the immensely popular [[Commodore 64]], it sought to combine enhanced graphics, sound, and disk functionality with full backward compatibility.:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
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.


The project began in 1989–1990 under the leadership of Fred Bowen, Bill Gardei, Paul Lassa, Victor Andrade, and others, aiming to revive the C64 line with modernized capabilities before the company shifted focus to the Amiga. In late 1990 the C65 entered full development, but Commodore chairman Irving Gould cancelled the project in 1991 amid internal conflict and financial pressure.:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
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.


After Commodore's liquidation in 1994, a small number of prototype units—estimated at fewer than 200—were sold to collectors.:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3} These rare machines have auctioned for tens of thousands of dollars, with documented sales exceeding €20,000.:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
== 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 (65CE02-based) running at 3.54 MHz 
=== Memory ===
* **Memory**: 128 KB onboard RAM; expansion to ~8 MB possible via bottom flap (similar to Amiga expansion):contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5} 
* 128 KB to 1 MB RAM (expandable up to 8 MB via memory banking)
* **Graphics**: CSG 4567 VIC‑III chip offering:
* 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 
  * Hardware blitter, DMA, and genlock support:contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6} 
* **Sound**: Dual CSG 8580 SID chips for stereo audio:contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7} 
* **Storage**: Built-in 3½″ DSDD floppy drive (880 KB) compatible with Commodore 1581 formatting:contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8} 
* **OS/BASIC**: Commodore BASIC 10.0 with full disk and graphics support


== Ports and expansion ==
=== 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


* Two DE‑9 joystick ports 
=== Display and Graphics ===
* 50‑pin expansion connector and Amiga-style RAM flap 
Graphics were handled by the **VIC-III** chip, offering significant improvements over the C64’s VIC-II:
* IEC serial port for external Commodore drives 
* RGB (DE‑9F), composite video, RF, stereo audio outputs 
* User port (parallel), DMA expansion, and built‑in floppy interface:contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}


== Legacy ==
* 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


The Commodore 65 remained a fascinating “what-could-have-been,” gaining legendary status among retro-computing enthusiasts. With fewer than 200 known working examples, it's one of the rarest Commodore prototypes.:contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
=== 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


=== MEGA65 ===
== Software ==


In 2015, the non‑profit Museum of Electronic Games & Art announced the '''MEGA65''' project: an open-source, FPGA-based re‑creation of the C65 and its intended enhancements.:contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
=== 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


Key modern features include:
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.
* HDMI video output and modern composite video support 
* microSD storage, Ethernet networking, USB (keyboard/mouse), and real‑time clock 
* FPGA‑implemented "45GS02" CPU core capable of up to 40.5 MHz 
* Optional “attic” RAM expansion up to 8 MB and accelerated DMA controller 
* Mechanical keyboard in authentic Commodore layout, functioning built-in floppy drive, and injection‑molded retro chassis:contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}


Initial developer kits (R3) shipped to early backers in late 2020, followed by production-ready machines in 2021. Early batches quickly sold out; as of 2024, the MEGA65 is available continuously.:contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
== 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.<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>


== References ==
== Emulation and Successors ==
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.


{{reflist}}
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>


== Further reading ==
== See also ==
* [[Commodore 64]]
* [[Commodore 128]]
* [[MEGA65]]
* [[Amiga]]
* [[VICE (emulator)]]
* [[Retrocomputing]]


* Kaiser, Cameron. “Secret Weapons of Commodore: The Commodore 65.” floodgap.com, accessed 2024.:contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14} 
== References ==
* Bagnall, Brian. *On the Edge: The Spectacular Rise and Fall of Commodore*. Variant Press, 2005. ISBN 0‑9738649‑0‑7 
{{reflist}}
* Zimmers, Bo. “Commodore 65 Computer.” zimmers.net, accessed 2024.:contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
* “The MEGA65: A Modernization…” Slashdot, 2021.:contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}


== External links ==
== External links ==
 
* [https://www.mega65.org/ Official MEGA65 website]
{{commons category|Commodore 65}} 
* [https://vice-emu.sourceforge.io/ VICE emulator homepage]
* [https://www.floodgap.com/retrobits/ckb/secret/65.html Secret Weapons of Commodore – C65 overview]
* [https://www.c64-wiki.com/wiki/Commodore_65 C65 article on C64-Wiki]
* [https://mega65.org Official MEGA65 site]
* [https://www.old-computers.com/museum/computer.asp?c=954&st=1 Commodore 65 on Old-Computers.com]
* [https://www.zock.com/8-Bit/D_C65.HTML 8‑Bit Nirvana – Commodore 65]
* [https://devilmaster.altervista.org/hi65.html Hi65 emulator] 
 
[[Category:Commodore computers]] 
[[Category:Home computers]] 
[[Category:Prototype computers]] 
[[Category:Commodore 64]]

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"