The Cody Computer Is an Accessible Gateway to 8-Bit Computing
100% open source 8-bit computer with 65C02 CPU, 64kb RAM, an expansion port, BASIC built-in, and 3D-printed keys.
A Frederick John Milens III project seamlessly merges modern technology with vintage computing. The Cody Computer is an entirely open source, 8-bit retro-modern computer developed as an accessible design. It targets electronics hardware enthusiasts, Arduino coders, and users familiar with command-line utilities on modern operating systems.
The Cody Computer is an 8-bit computer dedicated to the memory of One Good Little Dude.
The Cody Computer's central processing unit (CPU) is the esteemed 65C02 from Western Design Center (WDC). The CPU's core is the same as that found in 8-bit computers from the late 1970s and 1980s, such as the Apple II and Commodore 64 (C64). (The C in the part number stands for CMOS, which later models used.) Like its predecessors, The Cody Computer runs at 1 MHz and has 64 kilobytes of RAM. A modern Parallax Propeller microcontroller provides the 120 x 200 resolution analog NTSC-compatible video mode, inspired by the C64's VIC-II multi-color mode.
Cody BASIC, a modern interpretation of the classic BASIC programming language, greets the user when the computer boots. This interactive programming language is clearly inspired by the C64's version of BASIC. It even includes a set of 'CODSCII' characters that emulate the PETSCII characters, or semi-graphics, found in the C64's ROM. Aspiring programmers interested in maximizing performance can use the 64tass cross compiler to write assembly on a modern PC to run on The Cody Computer.
Milens has also published a PDF titled The Cody Computer Book. This comprehensive guide, reminiscent of the user guide originally provided with the C64, is an invaluable resource for understanding the hardware schematics and detailed firmware listings. It features plain-language descriptions and BASIC programming examples, making it an excellent tool for learning and getting started with the computer.
A 20-pin port expands the computer's capabilities or allows code to run from an external flash memory device. The slot is a single-row 0.100" (2.54 mm) header. Milens provides examples of what the plug-in card design would look like.
The case and keyboard keys are 3D-printable, and the keys are fully functional! The design uses real key switches with 3D-printable keycaps. You can download everything needed to build one using the KiCad design files, OpenSCAD scripts, and Tass code from the Cody Computer GitHub repository. Milens licensed the work using the permissive GPL version 3.
On the computer's homepage, codycomputer.org, you can learn more about it, find helpful links, and watch several video demonstrations.
