What is it?

OpenC16JoyAdapter is an Open Hardware Joystick Adapter for C-16, Plus/4 and the rest of the Commodore 264 family.

It is based on work by Levente Hársfalvi.

Why did you make it?

OpenC16JoyAdapter allows using a Commodore 64/Amiga joystick on a C-16, Plus/4 and the rest of the Commodore 264 family.

These machines had a different connector and use a slightly different protocol that needs some conversion. OpenC16JoyAdapter was designed to address these issues in the best possible way, which means you can use "advanced" joysticks with autofire capabilities and that it tries to protect the TED chip by using a buffer IC and limiting the current on the joystick lines as was done in the official Commodore joysticks of the time. This is in contrast with simpler adapters that are merely connector adapters.

Please keep in mind that the TED chip inside your C16/+4 is still very fragile and it gets damaged very often by somewhat improper joystick usage, thus I decline any responsibility if you destroy it even while using the adapter. At the very least, never plug/unplug any joystick (or adapter) while the machine is powered on, always turn it off first. Also, even if they work, try not to use the autofire capabilities some joysticks have.

What makes it special?

OpenC16JoyAdapter is Open Hardware. If you make any modifications to the board, please contribute them back.

What's included?

If you buy the component kit, this is what you will get:

• 1xDB9 Male Connector
• 2x2-pin Header Strip
• 1x8-pin 90-degree Header Strip
• 2xJumper Cap
• 1x5x10k Resistor Array
• 1x100nF Ceramic Capacitor
• 1x74LS244 IC
• 1x20-pin DIL Socket
• 1x5x100k Independent Resistor Array

Note that to complete this adapter you will need to make a 8-wire cable cable that goes from the 8-pin header to the Mini-DIN connector. Mini-DIN connectors are not included in the base kit but rather sold as an option, and they are quite tricky to solder. On the other end, you can solder the cable directly to the board, if you prefer.

Disclaimer

OpenC16JoyAdapter is provided to you 'as is' and without any express or implied warranties whatsoever with respect to its functionality, operability or use, including, without limitation, any implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose or infringement. We expressly disclaim any liability whatsoever for any direct, indirect, consequential, incidental or special damages, including, without limitation, lost revenues, lost profits, losses resulting from business interruption or loss of data, regardless of the form of action or legal theory under which the liability may be asserted, even if advised of the possibility or likelihood of such damages.

Get Help

If you need help or have questions, you can join the official Telegram group.