(DIY) COMMODORE VIC-20 GAME CARTRIDGE 4x 16KB

You can make your own custom Commodore VIC-20 Multi Game Cartridge. (16KB 4 games) (Total 64KB)

Hello,

This is a tested and working project. (Tested on a NTSC Commodore VIC-20 plugged to a C64 PSU)

COMMODORE VIC-20 Cartridge is an Easy DIY project, all components are through hole, marked on the PCB, Easy to solder, Easy to make ;)

Select 4 of your favorite 16Kb games and make your own custom Commodore VIC-20 Cartridge. This Commodore VIC-20 cartridge can be used for only 16KB ROMs, or 2pcs. 8 KB [multipart] ROMs.

 This is a simple, DIY multi game Commodore VIC-20 cartridge. It has 4 games capacity each 16 kilobytes, total 64KB.

This PCB is also suitable for making 16 KB single-game cartridges. DIP switch is not used when using as a single-game cartridge.

There is sample 27C512 binary eprom image file to test the cartridge, you may find the file on bottom of this page.

 You can find many different ROM files on the internet by searching "Commodore VIC-20 ROMS" or "Commodore VIC-20 Tosec"

 ROM files bigger than 16 kilobytes are not suitable for this cartridge, you can use only 16 kilobytes (16.384 bytes) ROM files or 2pcs. 8.00 KB (8,192 bytes) [multipart] games.

If your ROM file is 2 bytes more than 8.00 KB (8,192 bytes) or more than 16 kilobytes (16.384 bytes), it has an Address header for loading. you should cut (remove) these first two bytes from the ROM file, usually like "00 A0" or "00 60" or "00 20" or "00 40". These two bytes indicate the start of loading the memory address. You can do this using a "HEX Editor" program.

If your ROM files are two files [multipart], then you need to append the 8 Kilobytes to other 8 Kilobytes part. fist low then high like; first [6000] then [A000] parts.

You should append the 16 Kilobytes 4pcs. ROM files each other, reaching to the size of EPROM capacity, by using a "HEX Editor" program. EPROM must be fully filled from $0000 to $FFFF

It will be easier to make and use the cartridge if you choose all 4 ROMs with the same starting address like [6000][A000]. you won't need to solder the male headers, just short High Block-5 and Low Block-3 for [6000][A000].

short Block-5 for A000

short Block-3 for 6000

short Block-2 for 4000

short Block-1 for 2000

Note-1: Depending on whether your VIC-20 computer is NTSC or PAL, you should choose the appropriate games.

Note-2: Some ROMs do not start automatically. You have to use the SYS.... command to run the game on such ROMs.

Please choose: Edge connector YES and Bevelling Yes (45°)

COMPONENTS:

27c512 (W27C512) DIP28

74LS00 DIP14

2 Row 4 Pin 2P Positions 2.54mm Pitch DIP Switch

2PCS. 100nf Ceramic Capacitor (104)

2pcs. 10K 1/4 Watt Resistors

DIP28 WIDE IC SOCKET (optional)

DIP14 narrow IC SOCKET (optional)

2PCS. 2x4pin 2.54mm pitch Male Header

2PCS. Jumper Cap

Right Angle Tactile Button (For Optional RESET Button)

You will need a programmer for EPROM

If you have a programmer capable of testing IC chips, such as the 74LS series, you should remember to test 74lS00 before soldering. Some chips may be defective. (TL866 Minipro Programmer can test some logic ICs and static RAM chips)

In order to protect your electronical devices, always turn off your Commodore before connecting or disconnecting the cables or any other device.

Gerber files can be changed at any time. Before paying for the PCBs, be sure to update your orders!

As you can see I have uploaded many projects and I am still working on new projects. If you have any questions, please look for answers online. Unless I specify explicitly, all my projects are tested and confirmed to work under normal circumstances before being shared. I'm sorry I didn't have enough time to answer all the questions.

Use this PCB at your own risk !

Have fun

Thank you.