64NIC+ Ethernet Cartridge

64NIC+

Introduction

Your Commodore 64/128 machine can join the growing ranks of Internet capable systems by installing the 64NIC+ Ethernet interface. 64NIC+ offers inexpensive Ethernet connectivity and more. Based on the Crystal CS8900 10 megabit Ethernet interface engine, the interface emulates the popular RR-NET solution as well as the NET64 and TFE systems.

Designed by RETRO Innovations initially as a fundraiser for the Cincinnati Commodore Computer Club (CCCC), 64NIC+ allows the Commodore user to experience online connectivity in true 8-bit glory.  Play online Ethernet games, telnet to your favorite BBSes, and tweet from your Commodore!

In addition to Ethernet capabilities, the system also includes an optional on board ROM socket that can be loaded with up to 16 cartridge images.   With the appropriate ROM, the 64NIC+ can autoboot and load your favorite games and utilities via TCP/IP, no disk drive required.

Main features include:

• Self contained functionality. No pieces to disconnect
• 10 Mbit Ethernet connectivity
• RR-NET compatibility
• NET64/TFE compatibility
• C64 and C128 compatibility

Technical Features include:

• The ubiquitous RESET switch!
• Onboard optional ROM socket for autoboot functionality
• ROM socket can accommodate up to 256kB ROMs
• Optional rotary switch can select 1 of 16 ROM images
• Cartridge can be configured to reside in either IO1 or IO2 address spaces
• Cartridge can be configured to reside in any 16 byte address bank within the IO address space.

Specifications

64NIC+ comes in 4 variations:

1. base unit without case
2. base unit with case
3. unit with ROM-selecting rotary switch and no case
4. unit with ROM-selecting rotary switch and case

Network operation remains the same in all variants.

Requirements

• 10Mbit capable Ethernet connection
• Ethernet cable
• C64/64C/C128/C128/C128DCR/SX64

Purchase

64NIC+ models can be purchased at the RETRO Innovations Online Store.

Support

Pre-production and productions unit photos are available at the 64NIC+ Photo Gallery and more information is available at the CCCC Informational Page (Temp Non-US Page) and the Wiki Page.

Units come with a 30 days return policy and 1 year warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does 64NIC+ compare to RR-NET?

64NIC+ offers a low cost single board alternative to the RetroReplay/RR-NET combination for those enthusiasts interested in Ethernet functionality only.  As such, it does not attempt to replicate any non Ethernet functionality in RetroReplay.