Are You Keeping Up With The Commodore?
Originally known as a manufacturer of typewriters, mechanical calculators and other office equipment, Commodore became one of the most wildly-successful computer companies in the world through the 1980’s and early 1990’s.
The Commodore 64 was a runaway smash hit, and remains one of the best-selling computers of all time. Featuring advanced color graphics and powerful audio capabilities, the C64 remains the focus of a highly-dedicated global enthusiast community, who continue to find new ways to push the hardware. The Retro Roadshow's C64 is one of the most popular exhibits and is a frequent attraction for visitors of all ages.
In 1986, Commodore began to standardize their design language between the "classic" line of 8-bit computers and the emerging Amiga series. As a result, the Commodore 64 was re-released as the "64c" (marketed as the "Commodore 64-II" in some regions). Despite its sleek new appearance, the 64c maintained 100% compatibility with its predecessor, making it a worthy addition to the Commodore family.
Hoping to capitalize on the smash-hit 64, Commodore's engineering team set about converting the system into a portable format. The resulting machine is the Commodore SX-64, a 23lbs block of advanced 1980's technology. Featuring a surprisingly-sharp full-color 5" CRT monitor and integrated 5.25" floppy drive, the SX-64 is a full-featured desktop computer that just happens to be shaped like a suitcase. These machines were not especially durable and (as a portable computer) were subject to significantly more "wear and tear" than comparable desktop setups, so we are very pleased to have a fully-functional example available for Retro Roadshow attendees.
The Commodore 128 was a strange computer, which combined compatibility with the original "C64" with a range of updated and enhanced capabilities. While not nearly as successful as the C64, the C128 was nevertheless an influential and interesting machine. Its sophisticated hardware design allowed it to run several operating systems, including Commodore BASIC, Digital Research CP/M and GEOS, an early mouse-drive Graphical User Interface.