20MHz 65C816 (IIGS CPU) in production: used in C= accelerator

[pubpc1@library.ucla.edu]

Recently, someone announced on the Commodore C64/128 scene that they
were coming out with a new accelerator for their platform.  Now,
normally this type of news is nothing exciting for us Apple users.
What's it got to do with us?  Well, first of all, the Commodore
computers have been "orphaned" longer than we have and to see that
developers are still working on new products for them...that gives
us hope.  Hey, maybe a couple of years down the road, we'll still be
active like they are now.

But this is of special interest to us for another reason.  This company
is using the 65C816 CPU, the same one used in the Apple IIGS, as the
processor for the board.  There will be two models: one with a 10MHz
part, and the other with a 20MHz CPU.  Both will come with 64K of fast
static RAM...which for the C64, unlike the IIgs, is not a cache (the C64
has but 64K of memory).

This was taken out of a 1995 issue of an Amiga magazine.  I wonder if
the 20MHz 65C816 used in this Commodore accelerator would function in
an Apple GS?


 [No, it's not directly relevant to the usual sort of thing that goes
  on here, but I think that it's interesting to keep abreast of these
  sorts of developments in the sister market to the IIGS.  A show of
  support and interest in such a product can't hurt the Apple
  community.]

 CMD is pleased to announce that we are developing a new line of
 accelerators for the Commodore 64 and 128 computers.  The Super64CPU
 series design is based on the Western Design Center W65C816S
 microprocessor which was used in the Apple IIGS and is currently
 employed in the SNES (Super Nintendo Entertainment System).  The new
 series is scheduled to debut in February 1996 with two models: the
 Super64/10 (10 MHz) and Super64/20 (20 MHz).

 Both accelerators will operate on Commodore 64 and 64c computers, as
 well as in 64 mode on Commodore 128 and 128D models.  Acceleration
 will be switch-selectable as well as software-selectable.  An
 additional switch will allow you to completely disable the accelerator
 or select between Standard and JiffyDOS operating modes.  Other
 announced features include 64K of fast static RAM, 64K ROM, and a
 built-in pass-through port for connecting compatible cartridges and
 RAM devices.

 Devices that will be compatible with the Super64CPU's include:

      * Commodore 17xx series RAM Expansion Units
      * CMD RAMLink
      * Berkeley Softworks' GEORAM
      * Commodore 15xx series drives
      * CMD HD & FD series drives
      * CMD SwiftLink

 Super64CPU accelerators will provide high-speed with many software
 applications including GEOS, telecommunications & BBS programs,
 productivity and utility software, as well as most BASIC programs.
 Retail prices are estimated to be $149.95 for the Super64/10, and
 $199.95 for the Super64/20.

       Creative Micro Designs, Inc.
  P.O. Box 646, E. Longmeadow, MA 01028
          Orders: 1-800-638-3263
      Info & Support: 1-413-525-0023
            Fax: 1-413-525-0147
 Online Contact: cmd-doug@genie.geis.com