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Assembly guide (cartridge)

Since the Durango·X computer has no built-in ROM or any kind of firmware, it's essential to have at least one cartridge in order to boot the computer!

Many of these cartridges fit into a standard Commodore 64 cartridge shell for convenience.

Building options

There are several types of available cartridges:

  1. mini-cartridge allows simple, instant-on execution of stored software, much like a classic console cartridge. Note: you may need an EPROM/EEPROM/Flash programmer in order to store the software (The MiniPro TL866 is a popular choice).
  2. Development Cartridge includes 32 KiB of RAM which can emulate ROM, allowing the use of ROM images conveniently stored in an SD card. You still need at least an EPROM/EEPROM/Flash memory chip with a suitable bootloader installed, though.
  3. ShadowRAM is a more elegant, compact version of the Development Cartridge, suitable for larger bootloaders (32 KiB instead of 16).
  4. Bankswitching allows multiple ROM images on a single cartridge which may be switched via software (128K-1M) or the RESET button (multi-cartridge).
  5. Universal Cartridge (NEW) combines the functionality of the mini-cartridge, bankswitching cartridge and PSG riser boards, supporting almost all EPROM/EEPROM/Flash chips from 2 KiB up to 1 MiB with improved sound thru the SN76489 Programmable Sound Generator with a newly developed amplifier.
  6. Riser boards add extra capabilities which might be built in custom cartridges, like enhanced sound output. You still need another kind of cartridge (loaded with the desired software) plugged into the riser's top slot.

For starters, either the mini-cartridge or the original Development cartridge is recommended

BOM

Check any particular cartridge page (links above) for detailed component list and other advice.

Step by step

Note

Unlike most boards from the Durango project, cartridge boards intended to be fitted into a C64 cartridge shell will NOT accept IC sockets.

For generic advice, please read the common build procedures for any other boards. Detailed instructions are given on any particular cartridge page (links above).