Image BBS
| Image BBS | |
|---|---|
| Developer(s) | Don Gladden, Ray Kelm, Fred Dart |
| Initial release | November 8, 1988 |
| Stable release | 3.0
|
| Repository |
|
| Written in | BASIC, 6502 Assembly |
| Engine | |
| Operating system | Commodore 64, Commodore 128 |
| Platform | Commodore 8-bit |
| Type | Bulletin board system |
| License | Freeware / Public domain |
| Website | cbbsoutpost.servebbs.com |
Image BBS is a family of bulletin board system (BBS) software originally developed for the Commodore 64 and later the Commodore 128. First released in 1988, it became one of the most popular BBS platforms on Commodore 8-bit computers, known for its PETSCII graphical interface, modular structure, and active sysop community.
History
Image BBS originated from internal development on C-Net BBS, a widely used system in the 1980s created by Ken Pletzer of Perspective Software. After multiple iterations of C-Net, programmer Don Gladden—originally tasked with developing version 11.0—was delayed due to personal setbacks. This led to a separate version being released by Jim Selleck, which was plagued by bugs. Subsequent development by Gladden and collaborator Ray Kelm resulted in C-Net 12.0, based on the earlier, more stable 10.0 version.[1]
Gladden and Kelm eventually left Perspective Software after disagreements during the development of version 12.1a. The unfinished C-Net 12.1a was rebranded and completed independently under the name Image BBS 1.0, with the newly formed New Image Software handling its release on November 8, 1988.[1]
Version 1.1 followed in early 1989 but was recalled due to drive compatibility issues. A substantially rewritten version 1.2 was released in November 1989, introducing improved BASIC and machine language routines, as well as support for networking and relative file message bases ("Turbo-RELs").[1]
Over time, enhancements for compatibility with CMD hard drives and SwiftLink cartridges enabled support for high-speed modems, leading to versions 1.2a and beyond. While Image BBS usage declined in the 1990s with the fall of Commodore platforms, it maintained a following within the retrocomputing community. The software's development was briefly revived in the mid-1990s as a potential version 2.0, but hardware failures and changing priorities prevented its completion.[1]
Features
- PETSCII-based graphical menus and interface
- Modular command shells and menu-driven navigation
- Message boards, private e-mail, file transfers
- Support for multiple user levels and security access
- Built-in support for door games and PFILES (add-on programs)
- Compatibility with 1541, 1571, 1581, and CMD storage devices
- SwiftLink cartridge support for high-speed modem access
- Native support for Commodore 128 memory and display modes (in compatible versions)
- BASIC scripting using the
&command for output and interface logic[2]
Modern Revival
In the 2010s, interest in Image BBS resurfaced, with hobbyists adapting the software for use with modern telnet-based connections through Wi-Fi modems and emulators. This effort culminated in the release of Image BBS v3.0, a community-led update preserving compatibility with earlier Image BBS versions while adding modern networking support.[1]
Several active boards remain accessible via telnet, running on either emulated or original Commodore hardware. These boards typically incorporate both original and modernized features, with new ANSI art, file libraries, and door game integration.
Active systems
A number of Image BBS installations remain active and are listed in retro computing directories. Notable examples include:
- The Wrong Number ][ – Historically significant board with deep ties to Image BBS development[1]
- Cottonwood BBS – Commodore 64 board with PETSCII interface
- Central Ontario Remote – Commodore 128 system
- Borderline BBS – Hosted on modern Wi-Fi modem configurations
- Bucko’s Den – A legacy system briefly revived in the late 2010s
Legacy
Image BBS was among the most customizable and resilient bulletin board systems of its time. Its legacy is preserved by projects like the Image BBS 3.0 GitHub repository and ongoing support communities such as the New Image SysOp Support Association (NISSA) and Image Network.
The BBS Documentary project and online archives such as C64-Wiki continue to preserve its technical and cultural impact on the Commodore scene.[3]
See also
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 Bucko. "The Wrong Number ][ BBS History – The Complete History" (PDF). Self-published historical document. Retrieved August 5, 2025.
- ↑ Dart, Fred. "IMAGE BBS: A Short History". Zimmers.net. New Image Software. Retrieved August 5, 2025.
- ↑ "Image BBS". C64-Wiki. Retrieved August 5, 2025.