A affordable retrocomputer compatible with the C64

[kappetrov]

I'm doing this Commodore-64 Compatible & Gameboy-compatible retro computer for retro gaming that is extremely affordable ($25, 50% off for early customers)

You can find details and how to pre order on the website: https://minicomputersoftware.netlify.app/

[rbanffy]

I’d love Apple II and Apple /// compatibility.

One thing I discovered with the C64 Maxi was how more important is the physical factor then the perfect emulation. The fact the thing has a C64 keyboard maintains the illusion it’s an authentic device.

[PaulHoule → rbanffy]

My only in-person memory of the the /// was that, circa 1981 or so, I went to a short-lived 'Computerland' store on the outskirts of town and they had one that they were too afraid to demo because they were afraid it would burn up. They sure were willing to demo the ][, I remember playing

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raster_Blaster

[rbanffy → PaulHoule]

Very few people experienced an Apple ///. The most interesting physical feature was the dual speed arrow keys. Press and hold, they auto-repeat. Press harder and they auto-repeat faster.

[kappetrov → rbanffy]

That is indeed quite interesting.

[kappetrov → rbanffy]

I could absolutely do Apple II & Apple /// Compatibility!

[rbanffy → kappetrov]

I’m looking for keyboard design tutorials to replicate some classic keyboards. Idea is for modern use, but replicating a /// would be an interesting project. Very few people had direct experience with those machines.

[kappetrov → rbanffy]

There's a very cool tutorial on YouTube on how to make a PS/2 Keyboard: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QN2XzY0KLII

Besides, I could probably make it work with the original Apple II/III keyboards.

[rbanffy → kappetrov]

Actual /// keyboards are rare, and it’d be a crime to dismantle a /// for that.

Now, putting the board inside the chassis of a dead ///, is an interesting idea.

[kappetrov → rbanffy]

Yeah, but it'd be harder to manufacture then.

[rbanffy → kappetrov]

And dead /// cases aren't abundant anyway.

[kappetrov → rbanffy]

I think a PS/2 Keyboard would go the best -- Still retro, but still easily buildable and findable today.

[kappetrov → rbanffy]

This computer can actually work with a PS/2 Keyboard. By the way, I emailed you if you want to continue further discussion :D

[rbanffy → kappetrov]

Cool, but I don’t know how to make a PS/2 keyboard either :-(.

[ferguess_k]

Sounds interesting. However, since the target audience is technical people, I suspect a lot of us would just do the emulation by ourselves.

It would be much more interesting (and more expensive) if it's native.

[kappetrov → ferguess_k]

I was also planning to make a native version as you described -- But still keeping it hackable (using off the shelf and easily findable parts like the WDC 6502), but still keep it around below $60. (Still cheaper than ones on the market.. $300 - $400...)

[ferguess_k → kappetrov]

Thanks, that would be fantastic. The current ones are a bit expensive for hobbies. I don't think it has to be as close to the original C64 as possible, either.

[kappetrov → ferguess_k]

I plan on posting updates on my twitter, (https://x.com/minicompsoft) but do suggest me other platforms :D