Commodore 64

This device is in the WorkNeeded:OriginalParts category because it was flagged as missing information on the original parts. It may have replacement parts listed but those cannot be assumed to be identical to the originals. If you have a list of the original parts, please feel free to add them by copying the relevant table from EditorsToolbox:Tables

This device is in the WorkNeeded:ReplacementParts category because it was flagged as missing information on replacement parts. If it has the original parts listed you may be able to search for replacements using the parametric searches available from parts distributors. If you have or make a list of replacement parts, please feel free to add them by copying the relevant table from EditorsToolbox:Tables

This device is in the WorkNeeded:General category because it was flagged as missing general information about the device. The information may be incomplete, using default text, or inaccurate and should be verified with external sources if possible. If you can add or correct information on this page, please feel free to edit it and do so.

Commodore 64

Preliminary Information
Release Year	1982
Leak Risk	Low
Batteries	None
Mounting Technology	Through Hole, Sockets
Capacitor Types	Aluminum Electrolytic, Tantalum, Ceramic, Polymer
Destructive Entry	No

The Commodore 64 is an 8 bit computer sold by Commodore International, and the single highest-selling home computer of all time. It uses a keyboard-centric form factor, commonly referred to as the "breadbin".

Known Issues

Catastrophic Failure of Original Power Supply

Causes

On some models of the original external power supply (those models most common in North America) the voltage regulator on the 5V DC output fails routinely, producing a large voltage spike that fries the chips on the C64's mainboard.

Solutions

• Only use a modern aftermarket power supply at all costs (the original power brick is virtually impossible to repair on account of Commodore filling the housing with epoxy)
• If using an original power supply then an over-volt protector, such as a Commodore Saver from Ray Carlson, should be used.
• A new power supply can be built with minimal effort using a small prebuilt 5VDC supply and a 9VAC transformer. Dave Farquhar has an easy guide on how to do this.

Garbled or Otherwise Bad Display Output

Causes

Due to the way the C64's logic is structured, a fault in any of a number of chips can cause unusual display output. The Pictorial C64 Fault Guide is a great starting point for diagnosing these issues.

Solutions

If you are still unsure which chip is causing the problem, you can brute force a diagnosis by swapping chips from a donor machine until the problem is fixed. If you find a new fault/solution, consider adding it to the wiki or submitting it to the Pictorial Guide.

Disassembly Notes

Warnings or tips to disassemble then device

Original Parts

Basic PCB Name

Capacitor Specifications and Footprint Information

RefDes	Qty	Capacitance	Voltage	Mount	Diameter/Size	Temp	Type	Brand	Series

Note model numbers and board revisions down here

Replacement Parts

Individual Components

Capacitors

RefDes	Qty	Compatible Part Number	Order Links
			Digikey

If parts are not available or different selection is preferred, you can use the values in the Original Parts section to perform a parametric search.

Kits

• Digikey BOM: https://www.digikey.com/

Related Links

• The Pictorial C64 Fault Guide