CRX 2024: TeensyROM Feature Demo

TeensyROM Dazzles Retro Computing Fans at CRX 2024

CRX 2024 brought Commodore computing enthusiasts together to celebrate creativity and classic tech, and one presentation stole the spotlight: Travis Smith’s demonstration of his TeensyROM cartridge. Known in the retro tech scene as “Sensorium,” Travis showcased a groundbreaking device that bridges the gap between vintage Commodore 64/128 systems and modern technology.

The Power of TeensyROM

Travis began by introducing the compact yet powerful TeensyROM cartridge. Designed to connect seamlessly through the Commodore’s expansion port, the device is packed with modern features, including USB ports, an RJ45 Ethernet jack, and an SD card slot. This unique combination lets users easily extend their Commodore systems, providing a bridge between the 1980s and today’s cutting-edge possibilities.

With three primary storage sources—microSD cards, USB drives, and internal flash memory—the TeensyROM simplifies setup. Preloaded with over 70 applications, it allows users to explore its capabilities right out of the box.

Blazing Speeds for Retro Fun

Travis demonstrated the TeensyROM’s impressive loading speeds. ROM emulation, powered by optimizations from Statmat of “OneLoad64,” loaded games like Jupiter Lander in seconds, making cartridge swaps a thing of the past.

For program files, the TeensyROM’s efficiency shone brightly. Travis loaded a massive 48KB Super Mario Bros. clone in just two seconds, a feat unimaginable with floppy drives. Music enthusiasts weren’t left behind, as he demonstrated the SID file loader, turning the Commodore into a retro jukebox. While navigating menus, chip tunes like The Beatles played effortlessly, enhanced by integrated metadata.

A Fusion of NFC and Retro Charm

One of Travis’s most innovative features was the NFC launch system. With the TeensyROM, users can program NFC tags to launch files with a simple tap, blending the tactile appeal of cartridges with the convenience of modern file access. This feature offers a faster, more versatile alternative to physical media swapping.

Retro Meets Networking

TeensyROM’s Ethernet interface supports BBS browsing, file downloads, and even web surfing. Travis demonstrated the built-in web browser and FrogFind, a nostalgic yet functional text-based search engine, emphasizing the cartridge’s versatility in both retro and modern contexts.

Cutting-Edge User Interface

Another standout feature was the TeensyROM UI, designed by MetalHexx. This Windows-based tool allows remote control, file transfers, and multimedia enhancements, transforming the Commodore into a retro multimedia powerhouse. Travis teased a command-line version in development for cross-platform users.

Limitless Possibilities

TeensyROM caters to retro fans of all kinds. Whether supporting MIDI controllers, enabling SID music development, or cross-assembly programming, it has something for everyone. Future updates promise even more features, including support for additional file types, visualization tools, and potential Bluetooth integration.

For gamers, musicians, and tech enthusiasts alike, TeensyROM offers endless possibilities. As Travis concluded his presentation, it was clear that this cartridge represents the perfect fusion of past and present, redefining what retro hardware can achieve.

Learn more about TeensyROM by visiting Travis’s GitHub, Discord community, or Tindie store.