Introduction
The Cody Computer is an 8-bit home computer intended to be built as a DIY project. Inspired by
(but not compatible with) the Commodore home computers of the 1980s, it’s built around the
Western Design Center’s 65C02 and 65C22
and the
Parallax Propeller
microcontroller. It doesn’t compete with your modern computer or even the new incarnations of
old computers. Named in honor of a good little boy who preferred museums, rockets, and
computer chips to chew-sticks and squeak-toys, it’s just supposed to be simple, silly, fun,
and perhaps a little bit educational.
The electronics were designed using KiCad and the
mechanical components developed using OpenSCAD and
Inkscape.
The assembly-language software was written using the 64tass
assembler, while BASIC programs were written using the bespoke Cody BASIC interpreter.
All design files and software are released under the GPLv3 license. If you don’t build one
yourself, perhaps it’ll give you ideas for a work of your own.
Detailed project information is available in The Cody Computer Book, a
freely downloadable PDF currently available to review as a draft copy. Additional content
covering Cody BASIC programming, assembly-language programming, and electronics projects
for the Cody Computer will (hopefully) be available in the future. Any future content will also be
available online and without charge.
Features
- Easy-to-assemble computer built around the modern 65C02, 65C22, and P8X32A.
- 3D-printed mechanical components and keyboard with 3D-printed custom keycap set.
- Boots to “Cody BASIC” and supports assembly language cross-development using 64tass.
- 160×200 NTSC video graphics loosely inspired by the VIC-II’s multicolor mode.
- Audio peripheral implementing a limited subset of Commodore SID functionality.
- Expansion/cartridge port, two buffered UARTs, and Atari-style joystick connectors.
Gallery
Videos
- Starting the Cody Computer and booting into Cody BASIC.
- A quick teardown of the Cody Computer showing its internals.
- Reassembling the Cody Computer’s case.
- Jingle Bells playing in the CodySID music player.
- Balloon sprites inspired by an example in the C64 manual.
- A Lunar Lander game written in the built-in Cody BASIC.
- CodyTrek, another BASIC game inspired by the old Star Trek.
- Morse code generated using SID-style effects in Cody BASIC.
- Cody Bros, a demo inspired by Mario Bros or Giana Sisters.
Downloads
Questions? Comments? Email info at codycomputer.org.
