sd2iec 0.10.2 Now Available

Ingo Korb has recently released version 0.10.2 of sd2iec, which is the firmware that powers devices like the uIEC.  A list of enhancements is noted below.  Because the uIEC can auto-update itself, users need only download the ZIP archive, unpack the contents onto a partition 1 of their SD card, IDE HDD, or CF card, and reboot.

Changes in sd2iec 0.10.2:

  • Correct end of generated raw directory information
  • compiling with all fastloaders disabled should now work
  • ULoad M3 auto-exits when ATN becomes active
  • Improve code size (to free enough space for…)
  • Support new fastloader: ELoad Version 1 (the one used by EasyProg)

C=Key now Shipping

C=Key (PC KB to C64 configuration)
C=Key (PC KB to C64 configuration)

By popular demand, we’re now offering both kit and assembled versions of our C=Key Commodore Keyboard Dual Mode Interface.  This unit supports using a PS/2 keyboard to a VIC-20,C64,C64C,C128,C128D,C128DCR, or SX64 machine in one configuration.  It can also interface keyboards for those same machines to a PS/2-based PC (or USB PC via a PS/2 to USB adapter).   We’ve held off for years in offering this product, because PS/2 keyboards are getting scarce and we are redesigning the unit to work with USB keyboards.  That said, numerous enthusiasts convinced us there is enough interest to offer the product in the store.  Unlike our other offerings, we’re still considering this a “project” rather than a complete product offering.  If you are a tinkerer who doesn’t mind getting his/her hands dirty with microcontrollers, this might be of interest.  However, if you’re a fan of plug and play and easy upgrades, we encourage you to wait until a USB version is available.

EasyFlash 3 Introduction

EasyFlash 3 Prototype
EasyFlash 3 Prototype

In late 2010, a group of folks suggested the need for a KERNAL replacement cartridge.  This cartridge would allow those with socketed KERNAL ROMs to enjoy KERNAL upgrades like JiffyDOS and would also help KERNAL developers try out new ideas before committing them to EPROM.  Due to the complexity of “replacing” a ROM inside a machine without physically removing it, a Commodore Bounty was created to encourage someone to develop the solution.  Thomas Giesel took up the challenge, finding a novel solution to the complexity, and developing an economically viable solution.  Along the way, Thomas merged in some additional features, and the result is EasyFlash 3.

EasyFlash 3 offers a number of features:

  • 8 8kB slots for alternative KERNAL ROM images,
  • 7 EasyFlash I cartridge image slots.
  • Support for the following cartridge formats
  • Normal 8k
  • Normal 16k
  • Ultimax
  • Ocean Type 1
  • EasyFlash
  • EasyFlash xbank
  • USB support (for transfer of data to/from PC/Mac/Linux
  • Field upgradeable firmware and hardware configuration
  • Ability to replace/add/remove images from the C64

EasyFlash will soon be available from RETRO Innovations and can be used on the C64, C64C, and SX64.  C128/C128D use is not currently supported.