The Commodore 64, also known as the C64, is an 8-bit home computer introduced in January 1982 by Commodore International. It has been listed in the Guinness World Records as the highest-selling single computer model of all time, with independent estimates placing the number sold between 12.5 and 17 million units.
The C64 was powered by a MOS Technology 6510 microprocessor running at 1.023 MHz (NTSC) or 0.985 MHz (PAL). It had 64 kilobytes of RAM (hence the name), which was expandable to 256 KB. The C64 also had a VIC-II graphics chip that could display 320×200 pixels with 16 colors, and a SID sound chip that could produce three channels of sound.
The C64 was a huge success, and it quickly became the dominant home computer in the United States and Europe. It was popular with gamers, hobbyists, and programmers alike. The C64 had a large library of games, including classics such as "Commodore 64 BASIC", "Super Mario Bros.", and "The Legend of Zelda". It was also used to create many innovative programs, such as the first computer virus, the first graphical user interface, and the first digital synthesizer.
The C64 was discontinued in 1994, but it remains a popular platform for retro gaming and emulation. There are many active communities of C64 enthusiasts who continue to create new games and programs for the computer.
Here are some of the features of the Commodore 64:
- 8-bit home computer
- MOS Technology 6510 microprocessor
- 64 KB RAM (expandable to 256 KB)
- VIC-II graphics chip
- SID sound chip
- 320×200 pixels with 16 colors
- Three channels of sound
- Huge library of games and programs
- Popular with gamers, hobbyists, and programmers
- Discontinued in 1994
- Still popular for retro gaming and emulation