The recent firmware update for the Ultimate 64 brings an exciting feature: Hyperspeed loading. Highlander71’s latest video shows exactly what this means for Commodore 64 users, and the results are impressive. The focus here isn’t just on faster loading but on how the new Hyperspeed Kernal changes the everyday experience of running software on the Ultimate 64.
Anyone curious about how this update performs in practice will find the demonstration both detailed and engaging. From setup instructions to performance benchmarks, the video provides a clear look at what Hyperspeed loading delivers.
Installing the Hyperspeed Kernal
To use Hyperspeed loading, the first step is to install the Hyperspeed Kernal. The file is available through the 1541 Ultimate Facebook group. Once downloaded, it needs to be placed alongside other kernals on the Ultimate 64.
The setup process is simple:
- Select the Hyperspeed Kernal from the menu as an alternate kernal.
- Enter “C64 and Cartridge Settings” and activate the chosen kernal.
- Adjust the Cartridge Preference to “Internal” with no cartridge selected.
- Enable the Command Interface.
- Reboot, and the system should display “**** ULTIMATE 64 BASIC V2 ****.”
This process ensures the new kernal is properly active, ready to take advantage of Hyperspeed loading.
Using Hyperspeed Loading
Once installed, loading games or applications changes slightly. Instead of the traditional approach, users navigate to a disk image—whether D64, D71, D81, or DNP—and browse into it. By pressing F5, selecting “Software IEC,” and setting the directory, the software becomes available for loading.
One important detail: the device number assigned may vary. Checking the F2 settings under “Software IEC Settings” confirms which number is active. In Highlander71’s example, the system defaulted to device 10, so loading required LOAD"filename",10,1. Adjusting this to 8 is possible for those who prefer the standard setup.
Benchmarking the Performance
The real question is how much faster Hyperspeed loading actually is. Highlander71 puts the new kernal through a series of tests using different disk images. The results show a clear performance boost compared to standard loading methods. Games and applications start quicker, with less waiting between commands and execution.
For anyone accustomed to traditional C64 loading times, the difference is striking. It transforms the pace of interaction, especially when moving between software. Watching the benchmarks unfold gives a concrete sense of how this firmware update improves the Ultimate 64.
Why It Matters for Users
This update doesn’t just make software launch faster—it changes how the Ultimate 64 fits into daily use. The ability to reduce waiting times makes testing, developing, and gaming smoother. It’s particularly helpful for anyone regularly swapping between disk images or experimenting with multiple setups.
Highlander71’s video walks through all of this with clarity, showing both setup and results. For Ultimate 64 users, the demonstration is worth watching to see how the Hyperspeed Kernal works in action.
