Re: CBM's CP/M, Z-80 carts for the 64

On Thu, Dec 20, 2012 at 2:29 AM, Anders Carlsson
<anders.carlsson@sfks.se> wrote:
> Bil Herd wrote:
>
>> So while it was known that [some] 257's didn't work well
>
> Am I understanding this correct that whether a C64 (or C128, or other C64
> related computer) will operate with the CP/M Z80 cartridge to a big part is
> due to which vendor(s) of the 257's and perhaps other 74 series chips are
> installed in the computer? If so, those who have the cartridge and a
> selection of machines could try to verify if it generally holds true. In the
> rare case those chips are socketed, perhaps they could be substituted for
> another brand if a dog slow, 40 column CP/M or other Z80 application is
> desired to run on a C64 in the 21th century.

I don't think those parts are socketed on any stock C-64 (I have a
test machine from a former CBM dealer that had every part removed and
sockets installed), but it would be a good reason to install sockets
for a test.  I would do it myself but I don't own a CP/M cart.  Never
had a reason to get one, so I didn't (I have a Kaypro 2 for "real"
CP/M work - only for demos at Vintage Computer shows in recent years).

My personal interest in CP/M applications is pretty much limited to
running Infocom games (Zork I et al.), and Scott Adams adventures.
Back around 1985, I had occasion to use CP/M machines at work and in
the field while studying archaeology (before PCs completely took
over), but even that was mostly entering text and simple database
stuff that fit on a floppy.

It would be entertaining to see CP/M running on a C-64, but I would
consider it much like the dancing bear at the circus - it's not how
well the bear dances, it's that the bear can dance at all.  Back in
the day, C-64s were derided for not running whatever the speaker's
favorite app was on their favorite platform (Apple II, PC, etc)... it
would be interesting to see a C-64 do something it didn't normally do
(and I did happen to have one of those Spartan "Mimic" Apple II
emulators - essentially a headless Apple II that stuck out the back of
the C-64).

-ethan

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