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The "Not Quite Amiga but still computer related category" => Alternative Operating Systems => Topic started by: redrumloa on November 11, 2010, 05:37:35 PM

Title: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: redrumloa on November 11, 2010, 05:37:35 PM
http://www.c64scene.com/c64/?p=2408
 
Quote
Finally,  Indivision’s Chameleon cartridge will be released before Christmas … Chameleon has entered production.
This month the first 50 units of batch 0 will be shipped to  hardcore users to iron out the last glitches.
The expectations are that batch 1, the first regular customer batch will be delivered before Christmas, there is no data available about the planned number of units.

Must... find... money... somewhere...
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: amiga92570 on November 11, 2010, 05:49:07 PM
Already ordered two, can't wait.
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: nicholas on November 11, 2010, 06:04:14 PM
Quote from: redrumloa;590973
http://www.c64scene.com/c64/?p=2408
 

 
Must... find... money... somewhere...


Ditto, been waiting too long for this.

£170 is a lot this time of year, damn strong Euro exchange rate!

Any one want to buy my Grandmother? 83yrs on the clock, one previous owner. ;)
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: spihunter on November 11, 2010, 07:00:22 PM
Good lord! That's pretty cool!. I had know idea such a thing was even in the works?
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: Iggy on November 11, 2010, 09:26:06 PM
Any idea how fast the 'Turbo' mode is?
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: amiga92570 on November 11, 2010, 09:28:06 PM
Turbo last I heard was 4mhz.
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: Belial6 on November 11, 2010, 09:49:48 PM
Quote from: spihunter;590986
Good lord! That's pretty cool!. I had know idea such a thing was even in the works?


I didn't know that the sale of Nicholas' grandmother was in the works either, but I'm not sure I would say it was "cool".

;)
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: save2600 on November 11, 2010, 11:18:00 PM
Indivision frick'n rocks. I want one of these, but will wait for batch 1 since I don't have a PC to update the firmware if needed. 16mb of RAM too...  :lol:
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: Darrin on November 11, 2010, 11:24:20 PM
Cheers Jim.

My cash is on standby.  This looks like a great year for me:  Minimig AGA and Chameleon.  Woot!
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: tone007 on November 12, 2010, 12:34:01 AM
I just spent the cost of the Chameleon at the bar today!
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: Dragster on November 12, 2010, 12:44:23 AM
Oh my freaking god! I do *need* one of those toys!!!!!!!!!
 
I guess I'll have to start saving for one!
 
Cheers,
 
Dragster
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: LoadWB on November 12, 2010, 12:50:43 AM
O M FFFFFFF G

That is really damn cool.  If I had only spent my TI budget more smartly... maybe I will dig out my StarBoard :)

Edit: Any love for the 128?

Edit2: You know, the only thing this is missing is a ROM socket for JiffyDOS and a power supply -- you could do without the actual C64!!
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: redrumloa on November 12, 2010, 01:50:26 AM
Quote
Edit: Any love for the 128?

No, I hope Jens changes his mind in the future.

Quote
Edit2: You know, the only thing this is missing is a ROM socket for  JiffyDOS     

I'd assume it will take advantage of JiffyDOS when plugged into a real C64 equiped with JiffyDOS.

Quote
and a power supply -- you could do without the actual C64!!

It can be powered by it's USB connector. Yes, it can be used without an actual C64.
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: tone007 on November 12, 2010, 01:52:45 AM
Quote from: LoadWB;591054

Edit: Any love for the 128?!!

Nope, Jens said 64 only (unless that's changed in the last couple of months.)

Quote from: LoadWB;591054

Edit2: You know, the only thing this is missing is a ROM socket for JiffyDOS and a power supply -- you could do without the actual C64!!

The JiffyDOS can probably be done a different way...  Who knows.
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: runequester on November 12, 2010, 01:52:50 AM
So is this basically the C64 counterpart to the minimig ?
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: redrumloa on November 12, 2010, 01:53:51 AM
Quote from: amiga92570;591023
Turbo last I heard was 4mhz.

I think I heard between 2.5Mhz and 4Mhz depending on what you are doing. That could have changed.The nice thing is the Turbo function has full 6510 processor compatibility (incl. illegal opcodes). This means in theory just about everything can be sped up, including games! I love my 20Mhz SuperCPU, but very few games get a boost.
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: Franko on November 12, 2010, 01:56:07 AM
Quote from: runequester;591064
So is this basically the C64 counterpart to the minimig ?


I was wondering that too, if it is basically a standalone C64 emulator then I'm having one... :)
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: redrumloa on November 12, 2010, 01:57:54 AM
Quote from: runequester;591064
So is this basically the C64 counterpart to the minimig ?

It is really much more than that.

Quote
Technical data in short:      
  • VGA-output with 60 Hz refresh rate or more
  • Turbo function with full 6510 processor compatibility (incl. illegal opcodes)
  • Cycle-exact REU (memory expansion) with 16 MB RAM
  • MMC/SD card slot with             MMC64             compatibility and 1541-emulation
  • Connector for PS/2 mouse and PS/2 keyboard
  • Freezer (compatible with             Retro             Replay)
  • Bright yellow case with blue buttons
  • Battery-backed real time clock
  • IR receiver for             CDTV remote control
  • Stereo audio out for stereo SID emulation
  • USB link to a PC for debugging and data transfer
  • Connector for             RR-Net (10 Mbit Ethernet)
Minimig is not an expansion for a real amiga, but solely a standalone that is pretty much a bone stock A500. While this is can used as a stand alone, it really shines when plugged into a real C64. Even as a stand alone it expands on the real C64. The video output can be programmed as with better video modes, think video card for C64.
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: runequester on November 12, 2010, 01:58:53 AM
Quote from: redrumloa;591067
It is really much more than that.



Minimig is not an expansion for a real amiga, but solely a standalone that is pretty much a bone stock A500. While this is can used as a stand alone, it really shines when plugged into a real C64. Even as a stand alone it expands on the real C64.

So a standalone C64 (plus more) that also can plug into a real 64 as an expansion cartridge ?

Very neat :)
And providing VGA output means no messing around with obscure monitors or old TV's.
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: redrumloa on November 12, 2010, 02:03:21 AM
Quote from: runequester;591068
So a standalone C64 (plus more) that also can plug into a real 64 as an expansion cartridge ?

Yes.

Quote
And providing VGA output means no messing around with obscure monitors or old TV's.

Right! I wonder how advanced the floppy emulation will be with the built in SD adapter. The MMC64 and MMC Replay were a bit lacking, this says 1541 emulation. It should handle D64s with custom loaders a lot better than most solutions if that is the case.

I certainly will be getting one, the question is when. My financial situation is putrid atm. :rant:
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: runequester on November 12, 2010, 02:05:02 AM
Quote from: redrumloa;591071
Yes.



Right! I wonder how advanced the floppy emulation will be with the built in SD adapter. The MMC64 and MMC Replay were a bit lacking, this says 1541 emulation. It should handle D64s with custom loaders a lot better than most solutions if that is the case.

I certainly will be getting one, the question is when. My financial situation is putrid atm. :rant:


Certainly being able to use an SD card, and not worry about PAL / NTSC issues would be an amazing solution.

I've really wanted a 64 but I had enough trouble getting my amiga hooked up, that I don't want the hassle of a real 64 (and getting a PAL one at that)
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: haywirepc on November 12, 2010, 02:15:05 AM
Wow nothing like paying 200$ for an upgrade for a 20$ computer... haha but I have to admit I'd buy one, just for the vga output.
 
I still have a c64c that I'd like to learn to program the sid chip in basic on, but I've never gotten around to it. Does anyone know any guides to programming the sid in c64 built in basic? I'd like to make arpeggiated synth loops to them sample with my pc...

Steven
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: Franko on November 12, 2010, 02:16:53 AM
On the MMC64 that I use with my real C64, I rewrote the ROMS to allow full loading and saving of the entire memory for the whole of the C64s memory (including reading/writing under the roms) execpt for the zero page... :)

I haven't found one single game that doesn't work with this rewrite (they even work on the Frodo emulator) :)
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: redrumloa on November 12, 2010, 02:21:43 AM
Quote from: haywirepc;591075
Wow nothing like paying 200$ for an upgrade for a 20$ computer... haha but I have to admit I'd buy one, just for the vga output.

I paid $550 for my SuperCPU 128 in 2007, they are going for about $1,500 nowadays. Somewhat different beast than a Chameleon, but as a comparison the Chameleon is a screaming bargain!

Quote
I still have a c64c that I'd like to learn to program the sid chip in  basic on, but I've never gotten around to it. Does anyone know any  guides to programming the sid in c64 built in basic? I'd like to make  arpeggiated synth loops to them sample with my pc...
Check the Graphics and Sound section on DLH's site (http://www.bombjack.org/commodore/books.htm).
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: klx300r on November 12, 2010, 02:40:19 AM
another cool gem from Jens:afro:..but there's just something about that original 64 monitor along with a few 1541's and 1581's that make me smile every time I boot up Archon or Jumpman
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: Franko on November 12, 2010, 02:41:20 AM
Quote from: haywirepc;591075
Wow nothing like paying 200$ for an upgrade for a 20$ computer... haha but I have to admit I'd buy one, just for the vga output.
 
I still have a c64c that I'd like to learn to program the sid chip in basic on, but I've never gotten around to it. Does anyone know any guides to programming the sid in c64 built in basic? I'd like to make arpeggiated synth loops to them sample with my pc...

Steven


This site's got quite a bit of stuff about the SID & programming it... :)

http://c64music.blogspot.com/
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: haywirepc on November 12, 2010, 03:28:27 AM
Wow thanks what a fantastic reference. I have to get some printer cartridges thats awesome. I mean pdfs are fine but I prefer to print out books like this so I can sit in front of the thing and bang away.

What a motherloard of c64 info, THANKS alot! Now I really need a chameleon to go with my c64c!

Steven
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: Darrin on November 12, 2010, 04:15:14 AM
Quote from: haywirepc;591075
Wow nothing like paying 200$ for an upgrade for a 20$ computer... haha but I have to admit I'd buy one, just for the vga output.


Considering my original C64 new cost me UKP200 and another 50 for the cassette deck.

Actually, I tell I lie, my VIC-20 cost me 200 quid and the cassette deck was passed down from that.  :)
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: XDelusion on November 12, 2010, 04:29:41 AM
So what is this exactly? A C64 clone that plugs into the C64 cart slot?!?

I'm confused. Also, where is the order link?
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: Retro_71 on November 12, 2010, 08:57:23 AM
WOW! ok i got to save for it since i just bought a 1541ultimate (its ok i have more then one c64.. :)) and my new house! dam i knew i should have waited on buying the house.... :D
But the Cameleon came as a complete surprise to me.... I wonder just how many other projects are out there.
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: Hattig on November 12, 2010, 11:01:56 AM
This is a nice project, if a little pricey (but hey, Jens has to cover his dev costs). Does it have an option to come in a case that isn't a bright yellow cartridge?

Will there be updates for the FPGA to add new features?

Will the core be ported to Minimig / FPGAArcade, so that a single bit of hardware can handle both the C64 and the Amiga cores?
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: rvo_nl on November 12, 2010, 11:22:19 AM
Good! I've been waiting for years. Time to bring out the c64!
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: jj on November 12, 2010, 12:37:39 PM
Quote from: haywirepc;591090
Wow thanks what a fantastic reference. I have to get some printer cartridges thats awesome. I mean pdfs are fine but I prefer to print out books like this so I can sit in front of the thing and bang away.
 
What a motherloard of c64 info, THANKS alot! Now I really need a chameleon to go with my c64c!
 
Steven

 
Ahh the art of "banging away" in front of your computer.  Sorry seem to have gone all beavis and butthead this week :)
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: redrumloa on November 12, 2010, 12:51:57 PM
Quote from: haywirepc;591090
Wow thanks what a fantastic reference. I have to get some printer cartridges thats awesome. I mean pdfs are fine but I prefer to print out books like this so I can sit in front of the thing and bang away.
 
What a motherloard of c64 info, THANKS alot! Now I really need a chameleon to go with my c64c!
 
Steven

It is very good indeed! Everyone reading this should check their collection and see if they have anything not included yet on that site. If you have anything not included, please consider donating it to the project. I've donated 13 books and I think others have donated more than that.
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: redrumloa on November 12, 2010, 12:57:11 PM
Quote from: XDelusion;591095
So what is this exactly? A C64 clone that plugs into the C64 cart slot?!?

When plugged into a C64 cart slot it is a monsterous expansion with all features listed. It may also be used as a stand alone device, you would just lose the estras of having a real C64 (using real floppy drives and pheripherals, real C64 keyboard etc)
 
Quote

I'm confused. Also, where is the order link?

The link was a news item. AFAIK only Vesalia (http://www.vesalia.de/e_chameleon.htm) has them for sale atm.
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: redrumloa on November 12, 2010, 12:58:57 PM
Quote from: Hattig;591139
This is a nice project, if a little pricey (but hey, Jens has to cover his dev costs). Does it have an option to come in a case that isn't a bright yellow cartridge?
 
Will there be updates for the FPGA to add new features?
 
Will the core be ported to Minimig / FPGAArcade, so that a single bit of hardware can handle both the C64 and the Amiga cores?

AFAIK it is only coming in yellow atm. You could buy another color case and mod it yourself... The other questions only Jens could answer.
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: yakumo9275 on November 12, 2010, 01:23:02 PM
hmm expensive. I'd love it for vga adaption alone but I think I'd rather spend money on fpgaarcade. I already have the u1541-ii cart for my c128dcr. I think If i was not going to use the real hardware I'd just plonk for using vice with my ps2 control pad :)

I would not turn it down if given it but hmm just seems uber expensive (in USD that is)
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: nicholas on November 12, 2010, 03:05:48 PM
Quote from: redrumloa;591077
I paid $550 for my SuperCPU 128 in 2007, they are going for about $1,500 nowadays. Somewhat different beast than a Chameleon, but as a comparison the Chameleon is a screaming bargain!

Check the Graphics and Sound section on DLH's site (http://www.bombjack.org/commodore/books.htm).



Oh the books on that place bring back some fond memories! :)

I've still got a few of them knocking around.
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: redrumloa on November 12, 2010, 03:17:26 PM
Quote from: yakumo9275;591166
hmm expensive. I'd love it for vga adaption alone but I think I'd rather spend money on fpgaarcade. I already have the u1541-ii cart for my c128dcr. I think If i was not going to use the real hardware I'd just plonk for using vice with my ps2 control pad :)
 
I would not turn it down if given it but hmm just seems uber expensive (in USD that is)

Keep in mind the USD price on Vesalia includes 19% VAT, which AFAIK you would not have to pay. The price should be 19% lower for US buyers.
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: amiga92570 on November 12, 2010, 04:10:29 PM
Quote from: redrumloa;591191
Keep in mind the USD price on Vesalia includes 19% VAT, which AFAIK you would not have to pay. The price should be 19% lower for US buyers.


Also be aware you will pay in Euro's even though in the US.
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: Retro_71 on November 13, 2010, 09:28:33 AM
hmmm I am in Australia and they still put down the 19% VAT. $285.00 without shipping is a bit steep, wonder if they will fix their website before December.
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: rvo_nl on November 13, 2010, 09:54:39 AM
you guys think it can properly handle FLI modes and the likes and display them on TFT screens?
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: Marcb on November 13, 2010, 11:13:43 AM
Quote from: Retro_71;591416
hmmm I am in Australia and they still put down the 19% VAT. $285.00 without shipping is a bit steep, wonder if they will fix their website before December.


The VAT gets deducted at checkout, or at least it did last time I bought from them...

I'm really considering one of these, reason my C64 is packed away is lack of space for it, tape deck , disk drive and monitor on my desk...

But I also want the Fpgarcade:lol:
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: Retro_71 on November 13, 2010, 11:34:23 AM
Yep Ultimate-II + FPGA Arcade + this + Minimig AGA + Natami = Wife will kill me :)
But what a way to go...... :D
Any other other project i am forgetting that i should save for or buy????
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: Marcb on November 13, 2010, 11:42:15 AM
Well, you could buy my CSMK II 060 that I can't get to run properly on my A4000:lol:
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: Retro_71 on November 13, 2010, 01:55:21 PM
i would but i bought one of those new GVP 4060 when software hut had them early this year (i think.. my mind is gong to mush sometimes). If only my wife knew exactly how much i buy (normal say it for my brother.... :D:D:D:D)
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: amiga92570 on November 13, 2010, 02:40:18 PM
Quote from: Retro_71;591425
Yep Ultimate-II + FPGA Arcade + this + Minimig AGA + Natami = Wife will kill me :)
But what a way to go...... :D
Any other other project i am forgetting that i should save for or buy????


What a way to go!
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: TheGoose on November 13, 2010, 04:14:14 PM
Oh mahhnn! But I can't use it with my Messiah cart !
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: Darrin on November 13, 2010, 06:10:51 PM
Can I just confirm that this cartridge will not work if plugged into a C128 (for access to the keyboard and ports)?
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: orb85750 on November 13, 2010, 08:06:13 PM
I wonder if there is any way to hack things so that you can use some other favorite cartridge at the same time (i.e. so that you can use any cartridge displayed in VGA).
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: vidarh on November 13, 2010, 09:05:37 PM
Quote from: Retro_71;591425
Yep Ultimate-II + FPGA Arcade + this + Minimig AGA + Natami = Wife will kill me :)
But what a way to go...... :D
Any other other project i am forgetting that i should save for or buy????


If you use it standalone it should be small enough to mount it at the back of the TV or hide it behind a set top box or DVD player. Same with the Minimig and FPGA Arcade.

Or just get a big old used PC box and mount them all inside and pretend you got a dirt cheap used desktop because you've decided to be frugal... :lol:
Title: Re: Cameleon is shipping
Post by: XDelusion on November 14, 2010, 11:04:58 AM
This company is going to be getting a lot of my money this and early next year. Sighh. :(