Loading... Please wait...Your Commodore 64/128 machine can join the growing ranks of Internet capable systems by installing the 64NIC+ Ethernet interface. 64NIC+ offers inexpensive Ethernet connectivity and more. Based on the Crystal CS8900 10 megabit Ethernet interface engine, the interface emulates the popular RR-NET solution as well as the NET64 and TFE systems.
Designed by Brain Innovations and previously sold as a fundraiser for the the Cincinnati Commodore Computer Club (CCCC), 64NIC+ allows the Commodore user to experience online connectivity in true 8-bit glory. Play online Ethernet games, telnet to your favorite BBSes, Twitter from your Commodore!
In addition to Ethernet capabilities, the system also includes an optional on board ROM socket that can be loaded with up to 16 cartridge images. With the appropriate ROM, the 64NIC+ can autoboot and load your favorite games and utilities via TCP/IP, no disk drive required.
Main features include:
Technical Features include:
Upgrade options include:
Units come with a 30 days return policy and 1 year warranty. More information on configuration and software downloads is available at www.go4retro.com/products/64nic/.
Posted by Tod on 6th May 2012
I bought this on a whim, I confess. I was more than pleasantly surprised when I received it. The hardware just works. The software available for download ranges from amazing (Contiki!) to OK (some of the chat programs). Here's the ting, though: You're not buying this expecting a huge load of 5-star software. You're buying it because you love hacking on the C64. This network cart is exactly what you need / want if you're going to be playing with the internet on a 64.
It can emulate both "standard" interfaces (RR-net and another one I can't remember), it can work on a 128 (I have not tested), you can map it to quite a few different memory locations, and you can install an option ROM if you so desire (Though you're on your own there - there are no pre-made cart ROMS for this).
If you buy the case, be aware that you will need to cut the holes out yourself. This isn't really an issue, but you will need a dremel or similar cutting tool.
Here's where things get REALLY interesting: There are two (2!) BASIC extensions available for download. KipperBASIC and BASIC on Bails. Bails allows you to write http-server BASIC programs, while KipperBASIC lets you easily write generalized client / server software. Fantastic way to get familiar with the hardware.
In short, this is a great network cart. It does exactly what it was meant to do, and then some. Community support for the RR-net standard is strong. More software is being developed / modified daily. You can easily write your own software.
Posted by Unknown on 31st Oct 2011
I observed Mr. Brain's work during the design process of the 64NIC+ and can say that he paid strict attention to detail and functionality.
I highly recommend the 64NIC+ if you are looking to add Ethernet capability to your Commodore.
Bil Herd
Commodore Engineer, Designer of the C128.
Posted by Alan on 1st Jan 2011
What a great device. Just plug it in and it works. Within minutes I was able to connect to telnet BBS systems, use IRC chat, even played a few MUDs... all from the C64. A fantastic product, I haven't had this much fun with my Commodore system in a long time.
Posted by Davoud on 28th Sep 2010
Finally some minuets ago I connected to the Internet by my C64c :)
Yeah 64NIC+ is perfect.