On Sunday evening, David Murray gave the Commander X16 Facebook community an exclusive preview of the upcoming Commander X16 GS console board during a livestream. This new iteration is a sleeker, more cost-effective evolution of the original X16, designed to streamline production while keeping the core features that made its predecessor a hit.
Prototype Status & Upcoming Changes
Currently, the X16 GS is still in its early prototype phase, meaning some key elements are expected to change before production begins. One of the biggest modifications is removing the ATX power connector, replaced by an onboard power supply with a simple barrel jack input. Additionally, the Yamaha sound chip will likely be integrated into the FPGA to keep costs down and ensure availability.
Hardware & Design Features
The board utilizes surface-mount technology, helping to reduce manufacturing costs without compromising performance. A bit of initial confusion surrounded the processor, but rest assured, the 65816 CPU is the real deal. This 16-bit processor starts in 8-bit emulation mode but can switch to full 16-bit mode, opening the door for more advanced software capabilities.
As for connectivity, here’s what you can expect:
- Cartridge slot for expanded functionality
- Two Super Nintendo-style controller ports
- Reset and power buttons
- Keyboard and mouse inputs
- An SD card slot for storage
- Multiple video outputs: VGA, S-Video, Composite, and HDMI (some may be optional in the final version)
Memory & Performance Boosts
One of the most exciting upgrades is the 16MB of RAM, a huge leap from the original design. When running in 16-bit mode, the CPU can access this memory without banking, creating a true flat memory addressing experience. While there’s still a lack of software that takes full advantage of this, the extra memory opens up opportunities for more advanced applications and potential ports from systems like the Super Nintendo and Apple IIGS.
Audio, Networking & Expansion
The sound system is getting an upgrade too, with an onboard MIDI chip alongside other audio components. Another major convenience is built-in Wi-Fi, eliminating the need for an external network card. The inclusion of a system bus interface also hints at possible future expansions.
Speed & Performance Expectations
The original development board ran at 8 MHz, but thanks to improved components, the X16 GS is expected to hit 12 MHz. There’s also a chance the final version will allow users to adjust the clock speed via software, offering flexibility depending on performance needs.
Pricing & Release Timeline
The target price is still around $200 (including a case), but this could change depending on production costs. As for availability, the current estimate is six months to a year, with further refinements expected before it officially launches.
Community Involvement & Next Steps
Since the board layout isn’t finalized yet, a case design hasn’t been completed. The development team is actively seeking community feedback to decide which features—such as video output options—should make the final cut. Meanwhile, developers are already testing software to ensure compatibility and optimize performance.
