Can you build a brand new Commodore 64 from (nearly) 100% new parts?
The Retro Shack・2 minutes read
A Commodore 64 is successfully built from scratch using modern components, with initial challenges overcome for a successful boot-up, hinting at potential future projects and encouraging viewer engagement and support.
Insights
- The channel faced delays due to chip shortages, leading to a shift from a ZX Bear emulator project to building a Commodore 64 from scratch, showcasing adaptability and problem-solving skills in the face of supply chain challenges.
- The successful assembly of a Commodore 64 from new components, including original Commodore ICs and modern replacements, demonstrates the meticulous process of building a retro computer, highlighting the intricate attention to detail required for a functional and authentic recreation.
Get key ideas from YouTube videos. It’s free
Recent questions
What components are needed to build a Commodore 64?
Various components like logic ICs, RAM, resistors, diodes, capacitors, connectors, and more.
Related videos
Summary
00:00
Building a Retro Commodore 64 from Scratch
- The channel has previously built a ZX Spectrum and ZX80/81, as well as an Omega home computer, all with 3D printed cases and retro designs.
- Due to chip shortages, a ZX Bear emulator project has been delayed, prompting a return to building a Commodore 64 from scratch.
- PCB Way is thanked for sponsoring the video and providing a replica C64 main board from 1983, which arrived promptly.
- The Retro 8-Bit Shop offers a complete component kit for building a C64, including logic ICs, RAM, resistors, diodes, capacitors, connectors, and more for 100 euros.
- Original Commodore ICs, an ARM SID, a replacement PLA chip, and a modern modulator replacement circuit are gathered for the build.
- The silk screen on the board lacks detailed part placement information, necessitating reference to the bill of materials for component placement.
- Resistors, ceramic capacitors, ferrite beads, and power circuit components are soldered onto the board, with attention to correct orientation and placement.
- Logic and RAM sockets are soldered in place, followed by larger sockets, choke, electrolytic capacitors, and connectors like the cartridge port, power connector, and video out socket.
- The board is populated with components, including a crystal, and a modern modulator replacement is added for video output.
- Initial power-up issues are resolved by correcting a grounding error and replacing a misfitting chip, leading to a successful boot-up with a Commodore 64 boot screen displayed.
18:53
"Building a Commodore 64 with upgrades"
- A Commodore 64 was built from around 100 new parts, including a Kung Fu Flash and a joystick, with everything functioning well despite minor revision differences and initial board issues. The builder contemplates adding a new case in the future, hinting at upcoming episodes, and encourages viewers to subscribe, comment, donate, or support through Patreon or Buy Me a Coffee, signing off from the retro shack.
