introduction to the c128
The Commodore 128 (aka C128) was Commodore Business Machines
final 8 bit computer (the C65 doesn't count as it was never
completed & never commercially released). Introduced at the January
1985 CES, it was the follow-up to the Commodore 64 & was a vastly
expanded & more poweful successor to that computer.
The C128 features :
- CP/M mode via a secondary Zilog Z80 CPU in 40 & 80 column
modes
- Enhanced & faster 6510 (the 8502) running at 2MHz
- Native 40 & 80 column modes in two speeds (1 & 2Mhz)
- Near 100% compatible C64 mode
- Basic 7.0 - more poweful & flexible than the limited C64's Basic 2.0
- Numeric keypad
- Burst mode disk access
- 128k of RAM with more available for programmers due to an MMU
The 128 was released in three models - the first looked like the a larger 64C (& the design was repeated in the later Amiga 500, 600 & 1200) - the "flat" 128. The second model was a rather nifty plastic box with a carry handle & slide in keyboard that allowed the machine to become a "luggable" (the 128D) & the last model was the metal cased cost-reduced variant (the 128DCR). The 128DCR also came with a 64k VDC as opposed to the earlier models 16k chip (they could be retrofiited).
Although the computer sold in excess of two million units during its lifespan, native software was thin on the ground due to the included 64 mode - developers didn't bother creating software that took adantage of the native modes. However, there are several fine business packages produced for the 80 column mode & due to the CP/M compatibility (& it's ability to handle multiple CP/M disk formats) a large library of software was available right from the start.
about our site
Mission statement :
To provide an active & vibrant community devoted to keeping the Commodore 128 alive (hence the name of the site) into the future.
To gather together in one place as much relevant material as possible & to provide a "one stop shop" for the C128 community.
To foster a friendly & sharing Commodore 128 community.
To provide accurate information & discussions about the Commodore 128.
To promote an active development scene for the Commodore 128.
To preserve & distribute Commodore 128 related software, manuals & code.
And above all - to have a good time while we're doing it!