Mega65
The Mega65 is an extremely fast and powerful 8-bit home computer designed with both modern and retro computing enthusiasts in mind. Built on the Commodore™ 65 (C65) architecture, this FPGA-based system offers full compatibility with the legendary Commodore™ 64 (C64) while pushing the boundaries of 8-bit computing. Developed since 2014 by a dedicated community of talented engineers and developers, the Mega65 is open-source, constantly evolving, and built for both hardware enthusiasts and software developers.
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Key Features
FPGA-Based Design:
The Mega65 uses an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) designed with the powerful AMD/Xilinx Artix™ 7 200T chip.
The FPGA design eliminates the need for closed-source ARM™ cores, ensuring an open-source ecosystem for users.
This architecture allows for hardware flexibility and the gradual development of additional cores, such as AMIGA™, ATARI™ ST, and more, all developed in-house or ported by the community.
Commodore™ 65 Architecture:
The Mega65 is based on the Commodore™ 65 architecture, a successor to the C64, with highly enhanced features and improved compatibility.
It offers better-than-original compatibility with the Commodore™ 64 and C65, allowing users to enjoy software and peripherals from both platforms seamlessly. In addition to this, the Mega65 supports numerous Commodore™ 64 modules via its internal expansion port. Internal and External Storage:
The Mega65 is equipped with an internal 3.5" floppy drive and dual SDHC™ card slots, providing flexibility in file storage and transfer. Users can also connect external floppy drives via the IEC port, supporting real Commodore™ drives (1541, 1571, 1581) for authentic experience.
Powerful Audio and Video Capabilities:
The Mega65 is designed for great chiptune potential, with support for 4 SIDs (Sound Interface Devices), an OPL2™ sound chip (work-in-progress), and 4-channel 16-bit DMA-based audio in FPGA. The video system is powered by the VIC-IV video controller, offering VGA™ and digital video output, with the ability to output both digital and analog video simultaneously. The system also includes a 3.5mm 4-pin stereo audio jack, with audio output through both the analog and digital video connectors.
Advanced Hardware Features:
Equipped with a 40+ MHz 8-bit CPU, the Mega65 offers fast and responsive performance for both retro software and modern applications.
It includes 384 KB of fast RAM, 8 MB of serial RAM, and 64 MB of SDRAM, providing ample memory for a wide range of computing tasks.
The system also supports modern features such as 100 Mbit fast LAN and various expansion options via internal Pmod™ connectors (e.g., tape, user port, additional memory, real SIDs).
Keyboard and Housing:
The Mega65 features a high-quality, retro-style keyboard based on CherryMX™ switches, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
The keyboard also includes durable "Double Shot" keycaps and is mounted on a robust metal frame.
The system’s professionally manufactured C65-style plastic housing includes support for additional interfaces and modifications.
Extensive I/O and Expansion:
In addition to the Pmod™ connectors, the Mega65 includes internal JTAG™/FTDI™ interfaces for fast testing, flashing, debugging, and programming of bitstreams.
The system supports full connectivity for external devices and peripherals, ensuring a seamless integration into existing computing setups.
Software Features
Pre-Installed Software:
The Mega65 comes with various classic games pre-installed, allowing immediate access to some of the best 8-bit experiences right out of the box.
A greatly improved version of the GEOS™ operating system is included, offering enhanced functionality and usability (work-in-progress).
Built-In Utilities and Development Tools:
The Mega65 includes a built-in freezer menu with countless memory locations for easy program management and fast access (depending on SDHC™ card size). It offers cross-platform support for programming and file management, with tools and emulators available for Windows, Mac, and Linux.
The Mega65 supports multiple D81 disk images, with AutoBoot functionality for loading software effortlessly.
ROM and Core Support:
The Mega65 includes the licensed Commodore™ 65 ROM, ensuring authenticity and full compatibility with the original C65 software.
The system also supports a growing library of cores developed by the community, including C64, Gameboy Color, ZX Uno, and various arcade systems.
Development and Community:
As an open-source project, the Mega65 encourages contributions from the global developer community. New cores, software, and improvements are regularly added, ensuring the system’s continued evolution. The growing community also provides ample resources for users to get started with development or to simply enjoy the expanding library of software available.
Conclusion
The Mega65 is more than just a retro home computer – it’s a platform for innovation and creativity, merging the best of 8-bit computing with modern technology. With its powerful hardware, retro compatibility, and a thriving developer community, the Mega65 is positioned as a highly versatile tool for enthusiasts, developers, and hobbyists alike. Whether you're looking to relive the Commodore™ experience or explore new possibilities, the Mega65 is the ultimate 8-bit machine for the modern era.
