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IDE64 V4.2 is the latest version in the IDE64 4.x hardware generation. It extends the Commodore 64 with storage and file-handling functions familiar from later computer platforms, including mass-storage support, data transfer with a host computer via PCLink, IDEDOS firmware, and file-management utilities.
IDE64 V4.2 includes a CompactFlash slot for the primary storage device and can handle up to three storage devices in total. With CompactFlash, the cartridge does not require an additional power supply; the complete IDE64/CF combination uses approximately 140 mA. Additional storage can be connected through the IDE/ATA interface, including compatible adapters for CompactFlash or SD-based media.
The cartridge firmware includes IDEDOS, system utilities, support for the native CFS filesystem, a Machine Code Monitor with freezer support, and the powerful IDE64 File Manager. Firmware updates are released from time to time and may include bug fixes, refinements, and new features.
IDEDOS 0.90 is the official stable release. IDEDOS 0.91 is a long-used beta release that includes later fixes, refinements, and development features, and is used by many active IDE64 users.
IDEDOS supports CFS partitions on high-capacity media, a CMD-compatible directory structure, and relative files in IDEDOS 0.90. The performance of the redesigned IDE64 architecture was demonstrated by “Rush” by Singular Crew, a 25 fps high-resolution video shown in the Console/Real Wild compo at Breakpoint 2008.
IDE64 is supported by C64 OS and can be used as storage for a C64 OS installation. This is one of the relevant current uses of the cartridge: IDE64 provides access to partitioned CFS storage, subdirectories, and file transfer between the C64 and a host computer through PCLink.
The C64 OS User's Guide includes an advanced IDE64 setup section covering IDE64 hardware configuration, CompactFlash partitioning, and transferring C64 OS installation files over PCLink.
In addition to original Commodore 64 hardware, IDE64 can be used with selected C64-compatible systems such as Ultimate 64 and Commodore 64 Ultimate when the correct Bus Operation Mode is configured. It can also be used on MEGA65 when running a C64 core with IDE64 support.
For data exchange between the C64 and a host computer, IDE64 includes a built-in USB PCLink system. Additional peripherals can be connected through the proprietary ShortBUS or the Amiga Clock Port. Legacy expansion options include the MP3@64 player add-on, the ETH64 10 Mbit Ethernet card with Contiki driver support, RR-Net, and DUART, an industrial dual-port RS-232 card.
IDE64 also has historical compatibility with alternative Commodore 64 operating environments such as GEOS and WiNGS. This remains part of IDE64's software history, while current C64 OS support is covered separately above.
IDE64 V4.2 can also work with older ATA/ATAPI and removable media devices such as DVD-ROM, CD-ROM, Zip drives, and LS-120 drives. This support mainly reflects the broader range of storage devices available during the IDE64 period, while current setups usually use CompactFlash or other solid-state media.
The first IDE64 controller, V1.1, became publicly available in December 1997, while the first development experiments date back to 1994. Since then, the hardware has gone through several major revisions, leading to the IDE64 4.x generation.
More info on the IDE64 page.
