Tag Archives: c64

Commodore 64C Beige Paint Lets You Go Crazy with a Classic Computer Color

Posted on by

Back in the 1980s, computers were largely shades of beige or grey plastic. While this look might seem dated by today’s standards of slim, glass and metal devices, there’s no question that these retro color schemes immediately bring back fond memories of the early days of personal computing. Well, now it turns out that you can paint whatever you want in the color of the classic Commodore 64.

Polish company Retrohax sells this spray paint that’s aptly named “Commodore 64C Beige.” It’s actually the color of the C64C, which came out in 1986, rather than the exact color of the original 1982 C64, but it’s close enough for me. The spray paint produces a nice satin beige finish, though priming is recommended to ensure good adhesion.

Retrohax also offers classic computer paints in Atari XE/ST Grey and Amiga 500 Beige. Unfortunately, due to flight restrictions, the paint is currently only available in Poland, but its makers hope to ship it to other countries at some point. For now, maybe we can find some off-the-shelf beige paint that’s similar in color.

I think this stuff would look great on all kinds of modern devices. I’m considering painting the aluminum parts of my iMac with this, or maybe the back of my iPhone. What would you paint with this stuff?

[via CoolMaterial]

The C64 Mini brings its nostalgia to the US on October 9th

Posted on by
You no longer have to toy with importing The C64 Mini if you just have to relive a childhood spent mashing on a Commodore 64's keys. Retro Games has announced that its '80s revival will reach North American retail stores on October 9th. This versio...

These Raspberry Pi Cases Make Tiny Retro Computers

Posted on by

If you’re a fan of classic computer systems from the 1980s, then check this out. These custom-made cases let you build a working Raspberry Pi computer system that looks like a mini version of iconic retro systems.

RetroPiCases makes miniature cases based on the Commodore 64, VIC-20, Amiga 500, BBC Model B, and my personal favorite, the Atari ST – which was the last great computer system that didn’t run either Windows or Mac OS if you ask me.

Each 3D-printed case perfectly fits a Raspberry Pi board (be sure to read the descriptions on Etsy to see which board it requires), and provides proper access to its ports, and some cases include an LED power light as well.

The cases sell for about $20 to $35 (USD) each, not including the cost of the Raspberry Pi board itself. Naturally, I think these would be best when loaded up with Emulation Station and system appropriate software so you can use it to run classic computer software.

 

More Awesome Stuff for You to Click On:

These Commodore 64 Necktie Are BASICally Awesome
T. Rex Shower Head: Dinoshower
Micro Versions of Classic Consoles and Computers: Micro Machines
Building a Tiny Commodore PET
D20 Storage Box Ups Your Storage Ability +10

Commodore 64 Mini Slated for Release in 2018

Posted on by

Between the Nintendo Classic Mini, SNES Classic Mini, Atari Flashback, and Sega Mega Drive Classic, there’s a clear miniaturization trend when it comes to retro gaming systems. The next system to go in front of the shrink ray? The Commodore 64.

The 1982 8-bit system is getting a mini version, scaled down to 50% of the size of the original. The new version looks exactly like the real deal, though it does away with the original 9-pin joystick connectors, replacing them with USB ports. Those USB ports will likely come in handy if you want to use the C64 Mini as a full computer, rather than just a gaming system, since the mini keyboard is just for show, and you’ll need to plug in an actual keyboard if you want to type and run programs in BASIC. If you prefer your systems full-sized, the company says they’re working on a 100% scale version of the updated Commodore 64, which will have an actual working keyboard built in.

While some retro emulators aren’t perfectly accurate, the makers of the C64 Mini say that their system provides “Accurate 64 operation.” Hopefully, that means the emulation is spot on. There are also some modern upgrades, including an HDMI video output, pixel filters for emulating CRT and scanline effects if you want, and the ability to save game states. The system also includes one classic C64 style joystick, and comes pre-loaded with dozens of classic (and not so classic) C64 games.

The C64 Mini is expected to ship in early 2018, and will sell for just $69.99(USD) – which is a bargain if you ask me.

[via SlashGear]

More Awesome Stuff for You to Click On:

Retro-Bit RES+ NES Console Review: HDMI Adds Sharp Visuals to Classic Nintendo Games
This Mario Fidget Spinner is Animatedly Awesome
These Commodore 64 Necktie Are BASICally Awesome
Micro Versions of Classic Consoles and Computers: Micro Machines
DIY Tiny Famicom Console: For Your ’80s-Themed Dollhouse

These Commodore 64 Necktie Are BASICally Awesome

Posted on by

Man, I miss playing around on my old Commodore 64 computer. I never really knew how to code or anything, but with the help of popular computer magazines I could type in one of the many fun programs within the pages. Plus the games were awesome for the time. I’m almost nostalgic enough to wear one these cool Commodore 64 Neckties from Cyberoptix.

They come in several colors, including the classic blue Commodore monitor color, with BASIC code printed all over them along with the C64 start screen. They also have the “POKE” command which was used to control all three C64 voice oscillators.

These hand-printed ties are awesome and nerdy. Wear them with pride.

[via Internet vs Wallet]

More Awesome Stuff for You to Click On:

Death Star and TIE Fighter Tie is for the Well-dressed Sith
Space Invader Rings: Pew Pew Jewelry
ELLO 2M DIY Laptop: A BASIC Computer
Power Mac G5 Polished Case Mod: Shiny Apple
Hot Topic DC Comics Bombshells Collection: What is This? Clothing by Ant!?

Mini Atari 2600 and Commodore 64 LEGO Kits: 8-Bit Bricks

Posted on by

Now that he’s conquered the world of tiny LEGO Macintosh and iMac computers, LEGO builder Chris McVeigh (aka Powerpig) has headed further backwards in time to create LEGO kit versions of the Atari 2600 and C64 personal computer.

tiny lego atari 2600 620x410magnify

These awesome little kits accurately capture the spirit of these seminal parts of consumer electronic history. The Atari 2600 kit sells for $42.50(USD). It’s assembled from 130 pieces, and includes two tiny joysticks and three little cartridges. When complete, the console measures about 3.75″ wide x 1″ tall x 2.5″ deep.

The Commodore 64 kit (also $42.50) is a bit less complex, and is made from 82 bricks. But that doesn’t make it any less perfect. I can imagine connecting my 1530 C2N Datasette player and loading up a copy of Attack of Mutant Camels. The C64 is also a bit bigger than the 2600, measuring 5″ wide x 1″ tall x 2.5″ deep when assembled.

tiny lego commodore 64 620x449magnify

Great job, Chris! Keep ‘em coming. I’ll definitely bite when you make me an Atari 800 and an Apple ][.

Tiny Commodore 64 Computer: Way Better than My Tiny VIC-20

Posted on by

Looking for something to put on your desk alongside your tiny Atari 2600 and NES? Why not print out a miniature Commodore 64 computer, complete with 1541 Floppy Drive so you can load some tiny programs onto it?

tiny c64 1 620x387magnify

This miniature C64 model is yet another design from Dave Nunez – the guy behind the tiny 8-bit consoles, and I think he really nailed it yet again. This weensy version may not have every key on its keyboard, but it still captures the essential design attributes of the classic 8-bit computer. The two-inch-wide system includes joystick ports and function keys as well.

tiny c64 2 620x370magnify

I like how he even made a tiny little box and styrofoam insert for the computer too. If you’d like to print out your own miniature Commodore 64, head on over to Thingiverse to download the model. Great job again, Dave! Now all you need to do is hook up with Ben Heck and convince him to stuff functional systems inside of your models.

Metalab wires its Blinkenwall to run from Commodore 64, gives no word on the obligatory Tetris port (video)

Posted on by

Metalab wires its Blinkenwall to run from Commodore 64, no word on the obligatory Tetris port video

We've seen some ambitious Blinkenwalls in our time. Nearly all of the attention is unsurprisingly focused on the wall, however, and not on the often clever hardware and software behind it. Vienna's Metalab wants to shift the limelight by kicking it old school. Instead of the thoroughly modern Arduino and Fonera hotspot that normally light up Metalab's 45-block glass wall, the team's Blinken64 project swaps in a Commodore 64 with a cassette drive and the unusual Final Cartridge III feature extender. Getting lights to strobe requires dusting off more than just hardware -- all the animations have to be written in assembly-level MOS Technology 6510 code that even our nerdy parents might forget. The result you'll see in the video after the break is a far cry from the relatively easy, web-accessible hardware that normally powers such blinkenlight creations, but it's also a testament to how relevant classic technology can remain when it's in the right hands.

Continue reading Metalab wires its Blinkenwall to run from Commodore 64, gives no word on the obligatory Tetris port (video)

Filed under: ,

Metalab wires its Blinkenwall to run from Commodore 64, gives no word on the obligatory Tetris port (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Jul 2012 00:49:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink   |  sourceHack A Day  | Email this | Comments