HD-64 from SPL – real HDMI for C-64 *new*

The SPL HD-64 is an RF modulator replacement for the Commodore 64 computer that features a full HD 50/60 Hz micro HDMI video and audio output. It is important to note that the HD-64 is not a replacement for the VIC-II, which still needs to be mounted on the motherboard.

Instead of digitizing the analog video signal of the VIC, the HD-64 “sniffs” the memory bus of the C64 and generates a pixel-perfect video output using an emulation implemented on FPGA. The reconstructed video is then upscaled to full HD resolution, merged with the digitized audio from the SID and output as HDMI.

Attention: Good to very good soldering and desoldering skills are required. The module is *not* “Plug&Play” and if you can only solder a little or are inexperienced, then it is better to have the module installed by us!

Here is a very nice video from FrankyByte on installation => https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KjwgQKW5zSw

Functions:

• Replaces the standard modulator.
• Micro HDMI output via RF opening in the housing
• Full HD HDMI output (50 for PAL, 60 for NTSC) with stereo audio
• < 1 ms latency
• Configurable color palette, scanlines, “blur” (or “anti-aliasing”), aspect ratio, mono stereo audio
• Analog-to-digital audio conversion for up to two SID channels
• Automatic PAL/NTSC detection
• Compatible with all original motherboards (including shortboard)
• The shortboard version is supplied with power via the original modulator pins, the longboard requires an additional cable.
• Analog video still available via AV connection, both composite and S-video
• S-Video voltage corrected to work on any standard CRT (that supports S-Video)
• Firmware updates via USB-C
• Future functions that are already being worked on: configurable scaling (integer scaling, overscan)

The HD-64 kit contains the following parts:

• 1x HD-64 motherboard
• 1x VIC-II interleaver (intermediate adapter)
• 4x 10mm M3 spacers (with nuts)
• 2x 4-pin male connectors (male)
• 2x 4-pin socket connectors (female)
• 1x flat VIC-II “sacrificial” base

Additional VIC sockets (2×20 turned machine pins) and interleavers can be ordered as an option.

If you want to install the kit in your C-64, it works as follows:

1. Please record a video of your working C-64 and take a few photos and send them to us by e-mail. Please note that the C-64 should preferably not be modified on the inside. If it has small flaws, be fair and include them in the photos.
2. You pack your C-64 safely and send it to us via DHL (important! no Hermes/UPS/DPD these shippers play soccer with the parcels). Please do not send any dirty laundry, food packaging or similar (yes, we have already received such things…)
3. As soon as it arrives, we will take photos and test it.
4. We install the extension, test it, take photos and make a video.
5. We will send the C-64 back to you via DHL. Please check the packaging for damage. We will do our best to use your packaging.
6. Duration depending on how much we have to do approx. 1 week + shipping.

After the purchase you will receive the instructions by e-mail from us.