Tag: chip replacement

FPGA-based AY-3-8912 replacement with the original Amstrad sound path and an optional separate three-channel stereo output.

The Lotharek page exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path, and Retro Lemon showed the module in stock on 2026-07-28. Retro Lemon identifies it as an AY-3-8912 replacement that auto-detects Amstrad or ZX operation and says normal installation is a no-solder socket swap. Optional CPC 6128 stereo output still requires removing or cutting resistors R117 through R120 and wiring AL and AR or a separate jack. Exact ZX models, other chip footprints, orientation, voltage, clock, and firmware remain undocumented, so no ZX target is attached.

Current hand-built replacement for the MOS 8701 clock generator in later PAL and NTSC Commodore 64 boards.

CBMretro exposed an in-stock add-to-cart path on 2026-07-30. The page says only that the board is for later C64 models and does not name assembly numbers or the C128. Confirm that the computer actually uses a socketed MOS 8701 and verify orientation before ordering or installation.

Replaces the Atari FREDDIE memory-management chip with a CPLD module.

Lotharek marks FreddieCPLD discontinued. It is a full replacement for a computer already fitted with a FREDDIE chip, unlike the current Freddy Module v2 companion clock board. Installation requires safe removal of the original chip and correct orientation. The supplied bottom socket can make the module too tall in XE cases; the seller recommends removing it after testing and soldering the module into place. Confirm that the exact motherboard actually uses FREDDIE.

Current FPGA replacement for MOS 6526 and 8521 CIA chips with selectable old- or new-CIA behavior.

The official project page links multiple current retailers, and AmericanRetro exposed a direct Buy Now route on 2026-07-30. The maker says the implementation passes its diagnostic and software suites but explicitly warns that a reproduction cannot be guaranteed identical under every hardware and software combination. Clockwork64's maker separately reports problems with J-CIA replacements.

Current FPGA replacement for MOS 6510 and 8500 processors, including the documented instruction set and cycle behavior.

The official project page links three current retail channels, and AmericanRetro exposed a direct Buy Now route on 2026-07-30. The retailer describes a same-size, no-soldering drop-in replacement; that assumes the original CPU is already socketed. A soldered CPU still requires proper desoldering and a suitable socket.

CPLD replacements for failed PLA chips, currently sold for Commodore 264-series computers and previously made for the C64.

The 264-series module exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-27, while the separate C64 version is discontinued. Human review says the module plugs into the original socket, but the seller does not establish that every supported motherboard is socketed or document the original MOS part, board revisions, orientation, removal, or clearance. Treat it as a plug-in replacement only after confirming a compatible socket and orientation. A used C64 module needs the same checks.

Tested period 6510 and 8500 processors for repairing a Commodore 64 with an original CPU.

Retroleum listed several tested 6510 and 8500 variants with stock on 2026-07-30, but the store was temporarily closed until approximately the beginning of August. These are finite harvested period parts. Confirm that ordering has resumed, whether the selected chip was socket-pulled or desoldered, its pin condition, and the return terms.

Tested period 6526, 6526A, and 6526B interface chips for repairing either CIA position in a Commodore 64.

Retroleum listed tested original CIA variants with stock on 2026-07-30, but the store was temporarily closed until approximately the beginning of August. These are finite harvested period parts. Confirm that ordering has resumed, the pin and test condition of the selected part, and the return terms.

Period original SID chips restore authentic 6581 or 8580 sound when matched to the computer's motherboard voltage and filter circuit.

AMI64 offered soak-tested original 6581 and 8580R5 chips from GBP 97 on 2026-07-28. These are finite period parts even when a dealer has stock. Confirm authenticity, revision, test history, socket condition, motherboard voltage, filter components, and return terms. Installing a 9 V 8580 in a 12 V 6581 board can destroy it.

Historical MOS 8701 replacement with automatic PAL or NTSC selection and an onboard switchable oscillator.

The maker's August 2021 AmiBay thread said that only a few units remained, and the thread is now closed. No current direct order path was verified. Inspect a used board for its solder-bridge configuration before relying on automatic motherboard selection.

Current Lotharek redesign of the compact AVR-based replacement for a Commodore 64 SID sound chip.

The Lotharek page exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-27. The independent nano SwinSIDb tutorial documents the reference design's settings: its J1 selects 6581 filtering when closed and 8580 when open, while J2 enables an output-load resistor for 8580 boards and is left open for 6581 boards. It also says the design lacks paddle analog inputs and external audio input. The seller does not state that its dual DIP switch maps identically, so obtain Lotharek-specific switch and orientation instructions before installation. The latest firmware identified by the tutorial is dated 2012; original development stalled, and the reconstructed archive warns that one unreleased firmware can glitch.

Historical low-power MOS 8701 replacement with separate PAL and NTSC versions and an onboard oscillator.

The original AmiBay sales thread is closed and its seller account has been deleted. No current direct order path was verified. TOLB was sold in separate PAL and NTSC versions, so identify the fitted variant and motherboard video standard before installing a used unit.

Replaces a breadbin C64 VIC-II with an FPGA implementation offering configurable video, extra VRAM, new graphics modes, and optional digital or RGB output.

Official distributor VideoGamePerfection offered Mini and Large boards for EUR 74.95 to EUR 103.95 with an Add to cart path on 2026-07-27. The maker warns that some Large boards shipped by VGP with firmware 1.17 contain a DVI-instability bug and should be reflashed with the corrected 1.17 image.