FPGATED: A Revolutionary Commodore 8360 TED Chip Replacement

Details: Category: New for the Old; By İlker Fıçıcılar; 24.Feb; Hits: 493

In the realm of vintage computing, enthusiasts and purists alike seek solutions that honor the legacy of iconic systems while seamlessly integrating modern functionality. Enter FPGATED, an innovative prototype by István Hegedűs poised to redefine the experience of owners of Commodore 16, Commodore 116, and Commodore Plus/4 computers by serving as a drop-in replacement for the 8360 TED chip on the 264 series machines.

İlker Fıçıcılar

Let's delve into the notable features of this groundbreaking TED chip replacement:

Cutting-Edge FPGA Technology: FPGATED leverages the power of the Xilinx Spartan 7 XC7S15CSGA225 FPGA, ensuring unparalleled performance and adaptability in the vintage computing landscape.

Versatile Video Output: Embrace the nostalgia of original analog Chroma and Luma output for RF modulator setups, or opt for the modern convenience of the onboard RGB header, offering software programmability between 15KHz SRGB and 31KHz VGA output.

Seamless Digital Connectivity: With an integrated HDMI connector, FPGATED facilitates seamless digital output at 720x576/50Hz or 720x480/60Hz, enabling users to effortlessly connect their Commodore 16 or Plus/4 to contemporary flat-screen TVs.

Enhanced Audio Experience: Experience pristine digital audio output via the HDMI connector, enriching your vintage computing sessions with immersive sound quality of the new TED chip.

Customization and Flexibility: Tailor your visual experience with software-switchable scanline effects on both HDMI and VGA outputs, alongside four software-selectable color translation tables catering to diverse output preferences. Additionally, FPGATED offers one software-programmable custom color table out of the four available, empowering users to fine-tune RGB colors to their exact specifications.

Potential for Firmware Upgradability: While theoretically firmware upgradeable from the Plus/4 side, it's important to note that a single floppy disk may not provide sufficient storage for firmware updates, thus warranting further consideration for future enhancements.

Enhanced Protection Features: FPGATED prioritizes the safeguarding of your investment with ESD protection on both the HDMI connector and VGA header, ensuring reliable performance and longevity.

For the latest developments and insights into the FPGATED TED Chip project, we invite you to explore the project log at https://hackaday.io/project/11460-fpgated and repository at https://github.com/ishe/plus4 . Join us as we embark on a journey to elevate the vintage computing experience through innovation, versatility, and a deep appreciation for the timeless appeal of classic systems.

FPGATED represents more than just a technological advancement; it symbolizes a commitment to preserving the rich heritage of vintage computing while embracing the possibilities of modernization. With FPGATED TED Chip replacement, the future of Commodore 264 series is brighter than ever before.