Tag: internal upgrade

Upgrades an Atari 1050 disk drive for divisor-6 high speed, 180 KB per side, and flashable firmware slots.

Lotharek marks 1050E discontinued. The seller calls installation solderless, but it still requires opening the drive, removing three chips, moving the 6507 CPU, and preserving socket orientation. Confirm that a used kit is complete, that all original chips and sockets are healthy, and that suitable 1050E firmware and host software are available.

Replaces the Atari 1200XL memory subsystem with 1088 KB of SRAM.

The maker publishes a schematic, Gerbers, and the programmed-logic JED file but no bill of materials. The installation removes twelve socketed chips from the motherboard and transfers four original chips to the upgrade. The RF choke may need to be bent or removed for clearance. Install the 1 mm board only with the motherboard out of its case and supported on a solid surface because the stacked machine-pin sockets require substantial insertion force.

Replaces the Atari 400's internal RAM board with either 48 KB or 1056 KB of modern memory.

Both product pages reported five boards in stock on 2026-07-27. Either installation requires disassembling the computer and soldering four jumper wires beneath the main board. A machine previously fitted with Atari's 48K RAM Expansion Kit may already have those jumpers. The 1056K board does not require the plastic-housing modification described in the older Atari kit instructions.

Replaces the CPU in Commodore 264-series computers and can add 512 KB of Hannes-compatible expanded memory.

Lotharek marks the module discontinued. CPU-only use requires correct pin-1 orientation and a compatible socket or safe desoldering. Enabling the 512 KB expansion is invasive: remove the original DRAM and connect CAS to pin 15 on an eight-chip, 1-bit layout or pin 16 on a two-chip, 4-bit layout. Confirm the exact motherboard, CPU package, memory layout, and software's Hannes banking support before buying or installing a used module.

Retains the original POKEY while adding FPGA stereo POKEYs, Covox channels, digital mixing, and a high-rate stereo DAC.

The product exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-27. It requires a working original POKEY and can be installed in stages: basic stereo output, a second POKEY through an A4 connection, Covox through D6xx or D7xx decoding, and full internal-audio mixing. The approximately 1 mm PCB intentionally leaves pin 31 unconnected; verify that it remains isolated from the motherboard. Only the basic stage uses a single address jumper, while the expanded functions require additional signal and audio wiring.

Upgrades a Revision 8A Amiga 500 motherboard to 2 MB of Chip RAM with a soldered internal module.

The product page exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-27. It is only for Amiga 500 Revision 8A motherboards, requires soldering, and makes the trapdoor RAM expansion unusable. The current Revision 3 no longer needs the LSP connection shown on page 6 of the older fitting manual, so follow the current seller note rather than that obsolete step.

Replaces the Atari XL or XE operating-system ROM with a switchless 32-image OS selector and high-speed SIO features.

The official page showed self-installation and professional-installation options in stock on 2026-07-25. The generic kit is for XL and XE computers except XEGS; the special 1200XL kit includes an XE MMU and internal BASIC upgrade. The 1200XL procedure is an advanced modification that can require desoldering and replacing ROM sockets, moving jumpers, adding wires and a resistor, and modifying or omitting the RF shield.

Selects between two programmed Atari operating-system ROM banks according to the Reset key state at power-on.

Lotharek's version 2 page exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-27. It arrives flashed with Atari OS and QMEG 4.04, and a small onboard switch selects the default bank. A socketed OS ROM makes installation simple; otherwise the original ROM must be desoldered and a socket should be fitted. The page markets the device for Atari 8-bit computers but illustrates only an 800XL connection, so broader target relationships remain withheld. Do not use it with Ultimate 1MB.

Adds an internal AY or Yamaha sound generator and stereo output to a ZX Spectrum through a CPU adapter.

Lotharek marks the interface discontinued. The AY chip and audio connector are not included. Plug-in installation assumes a socketed CPU; otherwise safe CPU desoldering and socket work are required. Preserve pin-1 orientation at the CPU adapter, ribbon cable, and sound-chip board, then provide the documented stereo and ULA-audio wiring.

VIC-II socket video coprocessor that adds programmable display effects, 512 KB of local memory, and integrated video cleanup to a C64.

The official project page remains online, but its Buy now area exposed no price, stock state, or working order destination on 2026-07-30. The last seller route found during this pass returned 404, and human review found no replacement seller, so confirm a current source before planning a purchase. BeamRacer also includes Lumafix Pro, software control of the HMOS-II gray-dot effect, a direct VideoMod connection, USB-C firmware updates, and the optional VBASIC development environment. Some narrow C64C boards may require a nearby capacitor to be resoldered for case clearance.

A newly made real-time-clock and nonvolatile-memory module for the Atari Falcon030.

The product page exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-27, but it provides only the product name, Falcon purpose, designer, price, and photographs. Human review found no further technical detail. Treat this as evidence that an RTC/NVRAM module is available, not as installation guidance; ask the seller about the replaced component, backup design, setup, and motherboard support before purchase.

Uses a PS/2 keyboard on supported Commodore computers or converts their original keyboards and optional joysticks for a PS/2-equipped host.

The RETRO Innovations store exposed a configuration selector and Add to Cart path on 2026-07-30, with the bare PCB listed at USD 6 and configured kits priced separately. Kits and assembled units are made after ordering and normally take four to five weeks. The maker explicitly treats C=Key as a project rather than a fully supported product because its firmware is not extensively tested or easily upgraded; an AVR programmer is strongly recommended. Use a true PS/2 keyboard because passive USB adapters may not work.

Socketed daughterboard that expands the C128 or plastic C128D from 16 KB to 64 KB of VDC video memory.

The maker's store exposed an active order path and reported stock on 2026-07-30. Installation requires removing the original metal heatsink and carefully extracting and reinstalling the MOS 8563 with the correct orientation. The maker recommends a modern low-profile heatsink because the daughterboard raises the chip. Reaching the VDC in some C128D systems may require removing the power supply, floppy drive, and drive controller.

Adds a buffered external C128D keyboard connection to a Commodore 64 while retaining the original keyboard.

The surviving workshop page provides a schematic, pin map, parts list, and verified build instructions, but no PCB files, kit, or explicit reuse license. It warns that a direct long-cable connection can overload and destroy the C64 CIA. The buffered design was intended for cables as long as 10 meters, although its troubleshooting section still recommends shortening a troublesome cable to about one meter.

Replaces the paired 41464 or 4464 DRAMs on later two-chip C64 boards with a modern SRAM module.

Jaystonian showed nine assembled modules in stock at USD 14.99 on 2026-07-29, and Retro Lemon exposed a GBP 17.50 product page without an out-of-stock marker. Assy 250469 is the well-tested target. Jaystonian reports mixed results on 250466, and the open project's author had only tested 250469. Original soldered DRAMs require careful desoldering and sockets before this becomes a plug-in repair.

Adds 1 MB of Chip RAM, a battery-backed clock, an Indivision ECS connector, and two A1200-style clock ports to an Amiga 600.

Lotharek marks eX601n discontinued. The archived page does not document installation order, motherboard revisions, backup-battery type, clock-port orientation, power budget, or clearance with all companion devices. Inspect those details and verify any used board for battery leakage before 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.

Upgrades an Atari 1050 disk drive with true double density, faster backup operations, and protected-disk support.

The 5cfab stand-alone Happy Warp 1050 v7.1 reproduction reported two boards in stock on 2026-07-27; Atarimax still provided a conditional add-on route on 2026-07-25. The 5cfab board includes its CPU and needs no soldering, but installation still requires opening the drive and carefully replacing internal hardware. Align the board's crystal with its clearance hole. The Atarimax guide also warns about static, alignment, and orientation.

Replaces an Atari ST or Mega ST memory subsystem with a 4 MB expansion and a motherboard-specific adapter.

The Heron board and three current adapters exposed order paths on 2026-07-27. A complete installation requires the Heron plus either the C070789-001 Revision F adapter, the C070523-001 Revision D adapter, or the universal socketed-MMU adapter. C070859-001 Revision 2.0 and C103414-001 adapters were still described as in development. The Shifter must be socketed or desoldered, the original RAM must be disabled, and A9 and WE wires must be connected. This is a skilled mains-exposed internal installation; disconnect power and choose the exact motherboard adapter before ordering.

Transforms an original Atari 800 with configurable memory, XL/XE operation, CompactFlash storage, flash firmware, SpartaDOS X, and a real-time clock.

Lotharek exposed a current login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-27 and describes Gold as a final 50-piece production run. Installation is an extensive internal modification: it removes the existing RAM cards and personality/ROM board, replaces the Z101 74LS42 with a ribbon connection, adds motherboard jumpers and auxiliary signal wiring, and optionally modifies the power board for an ATR button and activity LED. The installation procedure therefore makes Incognito an alternative to the 5cfab Atari 800 memory boards and RAMROM personality card, not a documented stackable addition. Retro Lemon warns that self-installation damage is not covered by its warranty.

Intercepts the C64 keyboard matrix to add programmable shortcuts, macros, remapping, remote control, and sixteen hardware-control lines.

The maker currently offers revision 4 assembly kits with a PCB, preprogrammed ATmega, and components except connection cables for EUR 30 by email. Kits are made in small spare-time batches and may require prepaid backordering. Version 1.6 firmware, configuration tools, Gerbers, KiCad design files, schematics, and source remain downloadable.

A newly made 1 MB SIMM for the Atari 520STE and 1040STE memory sockets.

The product page exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-27. It explicitly names the Atari 520STE and 1040STE and loosely says it works in many more systems; only the two named computers are indexed here. Check the computer's existing SIMM population and desired total memory before ordering modules.

Adds an internal PS/2 or USB keyboard interface to supported Atari 8-bit computers by interposing at the POKEY socket.

Both variants exposed login-or-register-to-buy paths on 2026-07-27. A non-socketed POKEY must be desoldered, four control wires are required, and installation calls for a new case opening for the supplied keyboard socket or cable. The PS/2 page says an original keyboard that stops working on a 600XL or 800XL requires removal of R2 and R3; XE and XEGS machines leave those resistors intact.

Replaces Atari 8-bit dynamic RAM with modern SRAM or configurable FPGA-managed PSRAM in three current versions.

All three memory variants exposed login-or-register-to-buy paths on 2026-07-27. Installation goes under the CPU and may require removal or isolation of the original DRAM, desoldering, new sockets, and EXT_SEL or CAS_INHIBIT connections. The Professional version also uses an MMU adapter and its page says to install the latest firmware before use. The optional Freddy Module v2 cannot operate alone: the seller requires the basic SRAM module first and says VBXE owners do not need the Freddy replacement.

Replaces the Z80 and upper 32 KB of DRAM in a ZX Spectrum 48K, Spectrum+, or Timex TC 2048 while adding AY sound.

The seller exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path for MAMLAS on 2026-07-27; its Z80SRAM predecessor is discontinued. MAMLAS installation is invasive: remove the original CPU and any socket, disable or remove the upper 32 KB DRAM, and solder the module directly at the CPU footprint with correct pin-1 orientation. The audio connector is not included, and a ZX Spectrum 48K heat sink may need to be bent for clearance. Do not install the module on top of its shipping or protective bottom socket. Used Z80SRAM boards should be treated as a distinct earlier revision and checked against their archived instructions.

Open dual-SID board with mixed 6581 and 8580 support, runtime address selection, channel mixing, paddle compatibility, and stereo output.

The complete GPL-2.0 hardware, GAL, Gerber, and build documentation remains available. A Tindie assembled listing reported out of stock since 2020 but says the seller may assemble a unit on demand; treat that as a contact route rather than stocked availability. SID chips are excluded.

Adds IDE hard-disk storage through cartridge, internal flash-OS, and original Atari 800 DIY implementations that predate MyIDE-II.

The official Atarimax page said the interfaces were in stock and extended its sale through 2026-07-31 when checked on 2026-07-27; verify that short-lived offer before ordering. The family has been superseded by MyIDE-II but remains functionally distinct because it accepts IDE devices rather than providing MyIDE-II's onboard CompactFlash and FAT32 loader. The cartridge requires a 64 KB XL or XE. Internal installation ranges from an OS-ROM socket plus three signal wires in an 800XL to extensive socket, jumper, MMU, BASIC, and wiring changes in a 1200XL. Mr. Atari's original 800 version is an advanced personal-use DIY design with schematic and firmware files but no complete build instructions or bill of materials.

Adds a vintage 1 MB banked-memory board to an Atari 800XL or 1200XL with several selectable PIA banking configurations.

Only archived installation instructions and the used market were verified. Installation requires the original Newell board or a faithful equivalent, memory devices, extensive motherboard wiring, isolated IC pins, and model-specific changes; a 1200XL also needs three address-trace changes. The recommended banking method preserves OS control and ANTIC banking but repurposes other PIA bits and may require BASIC and diagnostic switches. The top RF shield may no longer fit.

Replaces the 74LS08 clock logic in Atari XL and XE computers with four separately buffered O2 outputs.

The product exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-27. Installation replaces a 74LS08; a non-socketed chip must be desoldered and the required 14-pin socket is not supplied. The installer must identify the motherboard's actual CPU O2 connection by continuity rather than relying blindly on a model example. Three outputs carry 680 pF capacitors, while the uncapped top output is intended for Ultimate 1MB; remove a corresponding capacitor if a capped output causes instability.

Adds a four-channel discrete DAC beneath the PIA chip for higher-quality Atari 8-bit sample and module playback.

The product exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-28. The seller's demonstration shows an Atari 800XL, which is the only exact model established by human review. The published address table assigns both LS138 pin 9 and pin 10 to $D600, so verify the desired address against reliable board documentation rather than relying on that table. A non-socketed PIA must be desoldered and socketed.

A Xilinx CPLD module replacing specific failed gate-array chips in late ZX Spectrum 48K, 128K, and grey +2 computers.

The seller exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-27 and gives an unusually precise chip and host list. Neither the page nor human review supplies a removal, socket, orientation, or board-revision procedure. Treat this as skilled rework and obtain exact installation instructions before buying or disturbing the original gate array.

Adds a PS/2 or PS/2-compatible USB keyboard to a ZX Spectrum 48K or Spectrum+ through an internal keyboard-interface board.

The seller exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-27. It explicitly targets the 48K and Spectrum+ and warns that the original keyboard may stop working while the adapter is installed. The two signal modes use different motherboard signals; select the documented jumper state for the exact board and change hardware only with power removed. A USB keyboard works only if it supports the PS/2 protocol through its connector.

Corrects the color-phase error in the Apple III family's NTSC composite-video signal.

JCM showed 75 units in stock on 2026-07-24. Phase 3 affects only the NTSC-compatible color-composite signal on the 15-pin video connector. It does not add color to the rear black-and-white jack, alter RGB output, or work on PAL-coded systems.

Recreates the RAMBO 256 KB memory upgrade for Atari 800XL and 1200XL computers.

The maker publishes a schematic and Gerbers but no bill of materials, and recommends the 74LS logic shown in the schematic over the HCT parts pictured on one build. Installation is model-specific. A 1200XL also requires replacing its original 64K DRAM devices with 256K versions.

Replaces the Atari 8-bit CPU with a 20 MHz WDC 65C816 accelerator backed by fast SRAM, SDRAM, flash, and software-selectable modes.

Both Lotharek hardware packages are discontinued. The 800XL package includes two Adaptus boards and requires CPU and OS ROM removal, socket work, a correctly oriented ribbon cable, and EXTSEL, MPD, and ground connections that differ between Freddie and non-Freddie boards. Its page says replacing DRAM with the separate SRAM module is mandatory and records additional O2 timing workarounds for Ultimate 1MB. The XE package may need four or five precision sockets to clear the cartridge slot. The official Rapidus PDF remains unavailable to automated extraction under WF-001, so obtain complete documentation before installing a used board.

No-solder SRAM daughterboard that expands a Commodore 16 or 116 to 64 KB and can switch back to 16 KB.

Poly.play listed the board as out of stock on 2026-07-30. The earlier direct AmiBay sales thread is closed. Use PCB revision 1.4 or later: the maker reported an error in revision 1.2, refunded those boards, and said revision 1.4 was corrected and tested with Diag264. A reset is required after changing the 16 KB / 64 KB selection.

Compact, low-power C128 VDC video-memory expansion built around one 64 KB static RAM chip.

Poly.play listed the pxlmod board as out of stock on 2026-07-30. An older Protovision order link now reports that the product is not found, so check Poly.play for a restock. Current wording names the Commodore 128(D) without separating plastic C128D from metal C128DCR; the latter normally already has 64 KB of VDC memory.

Provides open internal and currently assembled external SD-based SIO disk-emulator variants for Atari 8-bit computers.

Lotharek exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path for SD Drive Mini on 2026-07-27, and Retro Lemon also listed it with pricing. It plugs directly into SIO, uses a FAT32 microSD card and SDRIVE.ATR, and provides two buttons plus LEDs for selecting four drive slots. The separate open SDrive-Simple-II build still requires PCB assembly, ATmega328P programming, and an internal SIO connection. Its documented firmware supports cards up to 32 GB and ATR and XEX files, but not CAR, ROM, ATX, XFD, or CAS files, and it has no control for swapping disks in a multi-disk title. The former SDriveXEL assembled source and exact public build package remain unavailable.

Partially assembled internal board for adding a second matching SID chip at $DE00 or $DF00.

The MSSIAH availability page reported the SID2SID circuit board in stock on 2026-07-28, and its order workflow includes SID2SID. SID chips, audio wiring, and an output jack are excluded. Shareware Plus separately advertises a parts pack without the PCB or SID chips while its remaining stock lasts.

Adds one or two original SID chips with automatic model detection, selectable mono or stereo addressing, protected power, and a dedicated stereo output.

The official site reported the SIDFX bundle sold out on 2026-07-27 and says no more modules will be manufactured after its limited stock is exhausted. The separate C64 Reloaded MK1 and MK2 adapters are accessories for this same family and do not replace the unavailable SIDFX module.

A revised CPLD ULA replacement for the original ZX Spectrum 128K and grey Spectrum +2.

The seller exposed a login-or-register-to-buy path on 2026-07-27 and explicitly limits this revision to the original 128K toastrack and grey +2. It does not support the black +2A or +2B. ULA removal and replacement is skilled board work; confirm socketing, orientation, current installation instructions, and motherboard condition before starting.

Replaces an Atari 8-bit computer's GTIA with a modern video board offering DVI output and selectable color palettes.

The Atari 8-bit collection did not mark Sophia 3 sold out on 2026-07-24. A non-socketed computer requires desoldering the GTIA and fitting a 40-pin socket. Regular installations otherwise need a case opening or an exposed connector; the 600XL and 800XL can instead use model-specific PBI covers.

Internal stereo SID card sold for several C64-family computers with a connection cable and configuration jumper.

poly.play and human review reported the card out of stock on 2026-07-28. HR-056 found no additional public setup information, so confirm the required SID chips, addressing, voltage configuration, and installation procedure before obtaining old stock.

Replaces the ULA, video RAM, upper RAM, and RF modulator in Issue 2 through 6 ZX Spectrum 48K boards while adding modern video, sound, memory, and machine modes.

The seller listed availability after 2026-08-31 and exposed a preorder path on 2026-07-27. Installation is invasive: remove the ULA and RF modulator, disable or remove the original DRAM, connect M1, RESET, IORQ, and RFSH at the Z80, and install the supplied RGB adapter and ribbon cable. The output is digital RGB only, not composite or YUV. Verify board issue, pin 1, wiring, case clearance, display compatibility, and the current installation guide before work.

Lets Atari 8-bit computers use an external PS/2 keyboard through a POKEY-based internal adapter.

The Brewing Academy versions were sold out on 2026-07-24, while MyTek publishes schematics, board files, firmware, parts information, and bare-PCB order links. A 600XL or 800XL uses the TK-II-PB-R installation. Expect soldering and possible case modification; an unsocketed POKEY must be desoldered and fitted with a 40-pin socket. The Stereo version needs a second genuine POKEY and external amplification for its line-level output.

Replaces the C16's original DRAM and multiplexers with a socketed SRAM module that can select 16 KB or 64 KB operation.

The maker's 2024 article still links a SellMyRetro offer and says kits are available, but current stock was not independently established on 2026-07-29. This is explicitly an expert installation: four ICs must be removed without damage, four sockets fitted, and A14, A15, and phi-0 signals connected. The maker warns that it is not a beginner project.

Replaces or diagnoses PET system ROM and RAM, expands 8 KB or 16 KB machines to 32 KB, and offers selectable BASIC and display ROM sets.

The current Tindie page instructs international buyers to contact Tynemouth with their address and requested options. A separate TFW8B listing was out of stock. Confirm the five- or nine-switch version, keyboard and display ROM set, shipping, and current fulfillment before ordering. The board does not replace video RAM or character ROM.

Adds configurable expanded memory, flashable operating-system slots, SpartaDOS X, and a battery-backed clock to Atari XL and XE computers.

The Brewing Academy collection marked its 2026-version package sold out on 2026-07-24. Lotharek still exposed a login-to-buy path for a closely related regular-firmware version. The TBA package includes the board, MMU and OS ROM adapters, a four-wire cable, and mounting parts, but no printed manual. A board without socketed MMU and OS ROM chips needs desoldering and new sockets; those sockets are not supplied.

Improves Atari 8-bit analog video and corrects overscan for modern displays.

The Brewing Academy configurations were sold out on 2026-07-24. MyTek publishes the current UGV-II schematic, bill of materials, PIC firmware, and Gerbers. The 0.8 mm main board requires assembly and PIC programming. A normal installation is nearly solderless at the GTIA, but routing video to the stock DIN connector can require a few motherboard solder points.

Adds RGB output, enhanced graphics modes, a blitter, and true 80-column text to supported Atari 8-bit computers.

The XL and XE product pages both exposed login-or-register-to-buy paths on 2026-07-27. Choose the machine variant deliberately: both storefront descriptions say an XE adapter is included, but the installation manual explicitly says the XL and XE ANTIC adapters differ. Installation requires ANTIC removal, an adapter soldered to the motherboard, several model-specific signal connections, and an EXTSEL safety check that may require modifying a Freddie pin. The current manual documents 800XL, 800XLF, XE, and XEGS paths, not 600XL or 1200XL.

Expands an Atari Falcon030 to 14 MB with a dedicated board populated by 50 ns DRAM.

Lotharek marks the Vulture board discontinued. Its page establishes the Falcon030 and 14 MB purpose but provides no written installation, board-revision, clearance, diagnostic, or original-memory requirements. Compare a used board against the archived photographs and obtain experienced Falcon installation guidance before fitting it.