Commodore 128 Programmer's Reference Manual page 566

556 COMMODORE 128
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This chapter describes the Commodore C128 hardware, VLSI integrated circuit require- U
ments, and the relationship between the hardware configuration and the operating
system. {
The C128 personal computer is compatible with C64 software and peripherals. In J
addition to C64 compatibility, a C128 mode exists in which 128K of RAM is available
for system/user use. BASIC version 7.0 is the default language. The Commodore Kernal ,
is supported in a compatible fashion. (
The C128 also has a Z80 coprocessor that can make full use of system RAM and ^
Kernal utilities, intended for use with such powerful operating systems as CP/M version
3.0. The Banking ROM scheme allows function key software to be installed internal to j j
the system or added externally as an expansion cartridge. cJ
Another major feature is the 8563 80-column display capability, available in C128
mode as an addition to the 40-column mode. j I
Peripheral support includes the Commodore mouse, joystick, paddle, light pen M
interface (both 40- and 80-column light pens); the Commodore Datassette; the User Port,
which supports RS232; modems; the Expansion Bus, which supports external memory
expansion; and the Commodore standard Serial Bus, which supports all existing Serial j i
Bus components. There are also several features intended to reduce software overhead, W
such as relocatable zero page and system stack.
In C64 mode, the standard sixty-six keys are available. In C128 mode, twenty- J
six extra keys are available, including separate cursor keys, a HELP key, addi- [_
tional function keys, and a true CAPS LOCK key. The additional keys,
grouped into the alternate keypad, are user-definable, increasing the flexibility and user
friendliness of the system. il
The following is a summary of C128 features:
C64 compatibility j j
80-column display capability L~>
Z80 coprocessor (CP/M version 3.0 (2 MHz))
2 MHz 8502 operation in 80-column mode j (
128K standard system RAM [J
48K standard system ROM
32K internal function ROM (optional)
32K external cartridge ROM j
Fast serial disk drive interface ^J
Full keyboard, ninety-two keys with CAPS LOCK key, HELP key
and separate cursor-control keys.
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