Building a VIC-20 Kit Computer and X16 Update.
The 8-Bit Guy・14 minutes read
The Commodore VIC-20 computer kit is assembled using off-the-shelf parts, including the crucial 6560 VIC chip for video production. Despite improvements such as extra memory and an S-Video port, the computer lacks a power switch and reset button, utilizing DIP switches for configuration changes, and faces potential chip shortages for crucial components like the VIC chip.
Insights
- The Commodore VIC-20 computer kit is assembled using off-the-shelf parts, with a custom keyboard version, enhanced RAM configuration, and additional memory capabilities, impacting software compatibility.
- The upcoming Commander X16 prototype is in its final hardware stages, addressing minor adjustments, while software bugs related to keyboard recognition and SD card file system detection remain unresolved before public release.
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Recent questions
What components are used in the computer kit?
Off-the-shelf parts, 6560 VIC chip, 6502 CPU.
How is the computer kit powered on?
Successfully, displaying video in black and white.
What additional features does the computer kit have?
S-Video port for improved video output.
How can extra memory be accessed on the computer kit?
Utilize DIP switches, inaccessible once case is closed.
What is the status of the Commander X16 prototype?
Nearly complete hardware-wise, software bugs need resolving.
Related videos
Summary
00:00
"Custom VIC-20 Computer Kit Assembly"
- The computer kit being unboxed is a Commodore VIC-20 made from off-the-shelf parts, except for the 6560 VIC chip.
- The PCB for the computer kit is called the VIC-2020, Fichter Edition, and assembly begins with soldering components onto the board.
- The 6502 CPU from Mouser Electronics is used in the assembly, and the VIC chip is needed for video production.
- After assembly, the computer is powered on successfully, displaying video in black and white initially.
- A game cartridge and joystick are tested successfully on the computer, showcasing its functionality.
- The keyboard PCB is assembled, and a custom keyboard version is built instead of using a real VIC-20 keyboard.
- The RAM configuration of the computer allows for more memory than a stock VIC-20, affecting compatibility with certain software.
- Additional RAM can be added to the computer, but it may impact software compatibility due to memory configuration changes.
- The computer features an S-Video port for improved video output, but lacks user and cassette ports due to power source compatibility issues.
- The computer lacks a power switch, requiring it to be unplugged to turn off, and also lacks a reset button, similar to Sinclair products.
13:23
"Computer memory, VIC chip scarcity, X16 prototype"
- To access extra memory on the computer, one must utilize the DIP switches, which become inaccessible once the case is closed, requiring frequent RAM configuration changes depending on software needs.
- The computer necessitates a VIC chip from a real VIC-20 to function, a part in short supply, potentially leading to the depletion of original VIC-20s for these chips.
- The Commander X16 prototype is nearly complete hardware-wise, with upcoming revisions focusing on minor adjustments, while software bugs like keyboard recognition and SD card file system detection still need resolving before it's ready for public use.
