In the latest episode of The 8 Bit Theory, the topic of memory expansion for Commodore 8-bit computers is explored in depth. The episode, titled More Basic Memory on the X16, C128, C64, Mega65, demonstrates how even BASIC programs can take advantage of memory expansions to reduce loading times and create larger, more complex game worlds.
The discussion covers various memory expansion technologies, including GeoRAM, REU (RAM Expansion Unit), the Mega65’s DMA (Direct Memory Access), and the Commander X16’s memory_copy KERNAL function. These features enable developers to optimize performance and make more efficient use of extended memory on their systems.
For those interested in experimenting with the concepts discussed in the episode, the source code for the featured programs is available on GitHub:
https://github.com/The8BitTheory/reu_georam
Additional resources include:
- GoDot’s Projects: A collection of tools and projects for Commodore systems.
https://www.godot64.de/german/welcome.htm - C64 KERNAL Routine for Copying 256 Bytes: A fast memory copy routine discussion.
https://www.forum64.de/index.php?thread/80064-schnelles-speicherkopieren/&postID=1229765#post1229765 - C64-Studio: A powerful IDE for C64 development.
https://www.georg-rottensteiner.de/en/index.html - Commander X16 Documentation: Detailed technical reference for the system’s KERNAL.
https://github.com/X16Community/x16-docs/blob/master/X16%20Reference%20-%2005%20-%20KERNAL.md - GeoRAM Replica: A project for building a custom GeoRAM memory expansion.
https://github.com/hackup/NeoRAMremix
By leveraging these memory expansion techniques, Commodore enthusiasts can unlock new potential for their projects, making use of larger data sets, reducing lag, and expanding the possibilities of their 8-bit creations.
