Kerberos - C64 MIDI Interface
What is this project all about?
This project is about a MIDI interface in the form of a cartridge to fit the C64 expansion port. It is for connecting MIDI devices such as keyboard and synthesizers, as well as file transfers from a PC or Mac. Additionally the cartridge provides an internal flash memory chip with a menu system, for saving your own programs and games loaded from the internet to the C64. The interface provides MIDI-in, MIDI-out and MIDI-thru. The MIDI-thru connector can be c… Show more
What is the project goal and who is the project for?
The goal is a professional cartridge for the C64 with all required certifications, for C64 fans, who prefer to play with the real C64 instead of with an emulator. Besides the transfer of programs from a PC (only PRG files) and saving of up to 7 PRG files in the flash memory, this interface is very useful for retro musicians as well. There are already some pre-installed programs on the cartridge, with explicit permission of the authors and publishers. Other… Show more
Why would you support this project?
Many old MIDI interfaces for the C64 are not available anymore, or only provide limited functionality. This MIDI interface can emulate a lot of the old interfaces which are based on the 6850 chip, such as the ones from Sequential Circuits, Passport, Datel, Siel, JMS, C-Lab or Namesoft, just by changing some jumpers. This allows the use of old C64 software with MIDI functionality today.
How will we use the money if the project is successfully funded?
A prototype is developed and is working. The money will be used to finance the production of the PCB as I need a minimum number of PCBs to make it profitable, because I don't plan to solder it by hand.
There will also be software improvements, currently the menu system is running on the C64 with software for the file transfer from a PC (implemented with Qt). A test on the C128 was successful, but the menu system has to be ported for this platform, and the … Show more
Who are the people behind the project?
I'm behind the project, Frank Buss. I started with demo programming some 30 years ago on the C64 and after a break, I continued to develop software and hardware for the C64. In the time between I mainly earned a living as a freelance programmer, but I've done hardware development for clients as well.
Denis (co-founder of Startnext)