Exploring the SuperCPU Accelerator for C64
8-Bit Show And Tell・2 minutes read
The Super CPU Accelerator by CMD improved existing software usability significantly but fell short in developing new exclusive software due to the lack of developer tools from CMD. Despite its enhanced capabilities, only one game, "Metal Dust," showcased the accelerator's advanced features.
Insights
- The Super CPU Accelerator by CMD, released in 1996, significantly boosted the speed and usability of existing Commodore 64 software like GEOS through improved communication and loading times.
- Despite its success in enhancing current programs, the Super CPU Accelerator failed to generate a new wave of exclusive software due to limitations in developer tools and technical issues, showcasing the importance of comprehensive support systems for innovative technology.
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Recent questions
What is the Super CPU Accelerator?
A 20 MHz 65816 hybrid processor for Commodore 64.
How did the Super CPU Accelerator enhance software?
Improved loading speed and operation of programs.
What exclusive game was released for the Super CPU?
"Metal Dust" in 2005.
What challenges did the Super CPU face?
Limited new software due to lack of developer tools.
What was the speaker's reflection on the Super CPU?
Success in enhancing old software, limited new software.
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Summary
00:00
Super CPU Accelerator: Enhancing Commodore 64 Speed
- The Super CPU Accelerator by CMD was made in 1996, containing a 20 MHz 65816 hybrid processor compatible with the Commodore 64 or 128.
- The accelerator has a switch to toggle between 20 MHz turbo mode and 1 MHz normal mode, with a reset required to activate it.
- The accelerator includes JiffyDOS, a speedy disk protocol, and can be used with a CMD FD 3.5-inch floppy drive.
- The Super CPU Accelerator aimed to enhance existing software like GEOS and promised potential for new software exclusive to the accelerator.
- Benchmark tests showed the accelerator improved Commodore 64 speed significantly, optimizing communication between the accelerator and the computer.
- The accelerator allowed for faster loading and operation of software like GEOS, demonstrating a substantial boost in usability.
- While the accelerator succeeded in enhancing existing software, it failed to usher in a new era of exclusive Super CPU software.
- Only one Super CPU game, "Metal Dust," was released in 2005, showcasing advanced features like digital sound and large objects.
- "Metal Dust" demonstrated capabilities beyond the stock Commodore 64, though some technical issues like NTSC compatibility affected its reception.
- The Super CPU Accelerator by CMD was a notable success in improving existing software usability, but its potential for new software development was limited.
20:36
Super CPU Game Development Challenges and Potential
- The speaker discusses a challenging three-way sheer haul game, finding the second section crowded but technically impressive, needing more time to determine personal enjoyment.
- They mention developing a super CPU game in the late 90s with interlaced FLI graphics, mouse pointer overlay, and digital audio, aiming for Mist-style adventure games.
- The speaker reflects on the success and failure of the super CPU, noting its revitalization of old programs but lack of new software due to the absence of developer tools from CMD.
- They highlight the need for better tools, like a standardized RAM and improved video, to enhance the super CPU's potential, comparing its add-on nature to the Sega Genesis' 32x.
