Using a Commodore 64 on the modern internet!
Veronica Explains・15 minutes read
Veronica Explains details ways to connect a Commodore 64 to the internet for retro gaming and online experiences, showcasing methods like using a Wi-Fi modem and network cartridges. The setup process involves loading specific programs, setting up network configurations, and accessing BBSes for a nostalgic online journey.
Insights
- The Commodore 64, a popular computer from 1982, could access online experiences through dial-up modems like BBSes, enabling remote connections for gaming and file sharing.
- Connecting a Commodore 64 to the internet today involves using modern tools like the C64 Wi-Fi Modem and Contiki OS, along with specific commands for setting up network configurations and accessing retro websites through a web browser.
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Recent questions
How can I connect a Commodore 64 to the internet?
Connecting a Commodore 64 to the internet can be achieved through various methods. One way is by using the C64 Wi-Fi Modem from Retro Rewind, which emulates classic modems and connects to the internet via the user port. Another option is to utilize the 64nic+ cartridge from RETRO Innovations, which is compatible with the open-source OS Contiki for modern internet access on the C64. By following specific commands and loading necessary software like CCGMS, users can set up their C64 for online access and enjoy retro experiences on BBSes.
What are the key features of the Commodore 64?
The Commodore 64, released in 1982, was a popular desktop computer known for its 64 kilobytes of RAM. It featured joystick ports, power switch, power input, cartridge port, RF output, video and audio output, as well as various DIN connectors for peripherals. The machine was widely used for gaming and online experiences through dial-up modems like BBSes, allowing users to connect remotely for file sharing and games.
How do I load programs on a Commodore 64?
Loading programs on a Commodore 64 can be done through various methods, with the Pi1541 being a popular choice for floppy disk emulation. Users can connect the necessary hardware, such as a Wi-Fi modem or 64nic+ cartridge, and follow specific commands to load programs onto the C64. By utilizing tools like CCGMS and Contiki, individuals can access retro websites and enjoy online experiences on their Commodore 64.
What is Contiki and how is it used with the Commodore 64?
Contiki is an open-source OS designed for networking that is compatible with the 64nic+ cartridge from RETRO Innovations for modern internet access on the Commodore 64. Users can load Contiki onto their C64 by following specific commands like `LOAD"CONTIKI",8` and initiating the program with the RUN command. By setting up the network configuration and launching a web browser, individuals can navigate through the Contiki interface and visit retro websites like "Frogfind" for a nostalgic online experience.
What are the limitations of using BBSes on the Commodore 64?
BBSes, while popular for online experiences on the Commodore 64, had limitations compared to modern web servers. These limitations included text-based interfaces and difficulties in handling multiple connections efficiently. Despite these constraints, BBSes provided a platform for users to connect remotely, share files, and engage in online gaming experiences during the era of the Commodore 64.
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Summary
00:00
"Getting Commodore 64 Online: Retro Connections"
- Veronica Explains demonstrates two ways to get a Commodore 64 online, a departure from her usual Linux content.
- The Commodore 64, released in 1982, was a best-selling desktop computer with 64 kilobytes of RAM.
- The machine features joystick ports, power switch, power input, cartridge port, RF output, video and audio output, and various DIN connectors for peripherals.
- The C64 was popular for gaming and online experiences through dial-up modems like BBSes, allowing remote connections for file sharing and games.
- BBSes had limitations like text-based interfaces and handling multiple connections, unlike modern web servers.
- The C64 Wi-Fi Modem from Retro Rewind emulates classic modems, connecting to the internet via the user port.
- To connect to a BBS, commands like ATDT followed by the hostname and port are used, with examples like Particles BBS.
- Contiki, an open-source OS for networking, is compatible with the 64nic+ cartridge from RETRO Innovations for modern internet access on the C64.
- Loading programs on the C64 can be done through various methods, with the Pi1541 being a popular choice for floppy disk emulation.
- Setting up the C64 for online access involves connecting the modem, loading the necessary software like CCGMS, and connecting to Wi-Fi before accessing BBSes for retro fun.
15:04
Troubleshooting and Navigating Contiki for 64nic+
- The netconf program has a bug with 5 spaces at the front of the file name, making it unusable within Contiki. A specific command can be used to change the file name, which will be linked in the video description.
- Running SETMAC is necessary for setting a MAC address for the 64nic+ device to connect to a modern network. This can be done by executing `LOAD"SETMAC",8` and then RUN.
- Loading Contiki is the next step after setting the MAC address, which can be achieved with `LOAD"CONTIKI",8`. Once loaded, the program can be initiated with the RUN command.
- Navigating through the Contiki interface involves using F1 to access the menu, F5 and F7 to move up and down, and pressing Return to make changes. Setting up the network configuration and launching a web browser to visit retro websites like "Frogfind" are key activities in the process.
