C64 VIC-II Kawari Update

Hello. I just wanted to thank everyone who participated in the beta test and give an update on the status of the project.

I addressed a few hardware/gateware issues discovered during testing. The HDMI 5V back-feeding issue was resolved and my LUMA/CHROMA solution was also updated to fix a sync voltage level issue. There were no software incompatibilities reported. Some hardware incompatibilities were found. The Kung-Fu cartridge, for example, experiences intermittent issues. Also, the MK2 reloaded board does not detect the VIC model properly and displays signs of DRAM timing issues. However, the PCB appears to function properly on a variety of original C64 motherboards. Overall, testing went well.

Unfortunately, due to ongoing supply chain issues, I am unable to source essential components for a production run. When I started this project, I chose to design it around an older (but still in production) Spartan-6 FPGA. Xilinx has indicated recently that they do not have the capacity to fulfill orders. Deliveries will be delayed by at least two years by their estimate and supply from distributors has run dry. I'm seeing prices for Spartan-6 models up by as much as 10x since the beginning of the year.

I will put together a few more hand assembled boards to use up the little supply I have left. I will contact a random selection of people who signed up for the mailing list and offer them a device. Apologies to those in EMEA as shipping and import duties will likely not make it worth your while. I was in the process of establishing a partnership with a reseller in the EU but can't produce the boards due to component supply issues. I will continue to search for a supplier but given the global supply chain issues and current asking prices, I am not hopeful.

I am working on switching to a less expensive and more readily available FPGA. However, this will take more research/development time. I was planning on offering two models: One cost reduced version that acts as a replacement only and one full loaded version with all the extra bells and whistles.

Needless to say, I am very disappointed. I was really looking forward to getting at least one large batch of devices out. The timing just didn't work due to the COVID pandemic. This is a passion project for me and I was looking forward to getting this done and perhaps building a small community of 8-bit enthusiasts to play around with a new toy. I still plan on releasing all the IP eventually. For now, the project is on hold. Thanks for your support and stay safe.

Randy Rossi