COMMODORE 64 EPYX FAST LOAD CARTRIDGE with ON/OFF SWITCH

(An ON/OFF switch has been added so that Commodore 128 users can use C128 mode without having to remove the cartridge.)

Hello,

This is a tested and working circuit. This cartridge has been tested on C64 and C128DCR

Commodore 64 Epyx fast Load Cartridge is an easy DIY project, all components are through hole, marked on the PCB, easy to solder, easy to make ;)

This cartridge is designed to be plug-and-play, user-friendly, and does not require any hardware or jumper adjustments. Just insert the cartridge and turn on your Commodore.

A lot of experienced Commodore 1541, SD2iEC, Pi1541 users prefer EPYX FASTLOAD, because of its high compatibility with Commodore hardware and software.

Every moment of your life is valuable, money can't buy time. I am sorry that; this is not a Time Travel Machine, but I hope this will help you to save a few valuable seconds of your life :)

While working with Commodore's original Disk Operating System, Commodore Disk drives (1541, 1571...) or disk drive emulators (SD2iEC, Pi1541...) loading is slow. Epyx Fastload Cartridge increases the loading speed remarkable rate.

Average Loading Speeds Comparison:

Normal C64 Loading: 500 bytes per second

Epyx Fastload (1541): 2500 bytes per second

Epyx Fastload (SD2iEC): 8000 bytes per second

Here is; 180 blocks (45KB) loading video, from SD2iEC, with using Epyx Fastload:

COMPONENTS:

27c64 or 27c128 or 27c256 or 27c512 (DIP28) (Requires Programming)

DIP28 wide IC socket

74LS07

DIP14 IC socket

100nf CAPACITOR

0.47 μF CAPACITOR

2.7K 1/4 WATT RESISTANCE

RIGHT ANGLE TACTILE BUTTON (For optional RESET)

3pin 2.54mm SPDT slide SWITCH (for ON/OFF switch)

You can download ROM files from the bottom of this page.

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

If you need Epyx Fast Load without ON/OFF switch, you can find it here:

https://www.pcbway.com/project/shareproject/C64_EPYX_FASTLOAD_CARTRIDGE_1.html

+5v- connection is for optional power source out for "Pi1541 ZERO" or "SD2iEC". (+5V 450mA)

If you need; You can find "C64 Pi1541 ZERO HAT" (Pi Zero size) PCB from this link.

https://www.pcbway.com/project/shareproject/RASPBERRY_Pi1541_ZERO_HAT_COMMODORE_64_DISC_DRIVE_EMULATOR_1.html

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

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

Gerber files and component list are subject to change without notice. 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.

C64iSTANBUL