Robert Zdunek recently introduced the BIT BOX cartridge, a custom-made accessory for the Commodore 64 computer. Zdunek developed and assembled this cartridge himself, aiming to simplify how users manage software directly from the cartridge.
The cartridge features a storage system created specifically for C64 software. Zdunek also crafted a Python script that edits the BASIC system image and incorporates a boot manager. This innovation allows software stored on the cartridge to execute directly upon startup.
To prepare the software, Zdunek extracts a BASIC system image using the VICE emulator. The extracted image then goes through his Python script, which processes and converts it into a format suitable for EPROM memory storage. The final binary image is then transferred onto the cartridge.
This practical solution simplifies running applications on the Commodore 64, providing users with direct access to programs without manual loading.
The full BIT BOX cartridge project details and resources are available on GitHub at: https://github.com/r06ert/bit_box/
