Modern 8-bit computer platform
X65 is a new 8-bit computer built around the WDC 65C816 CPU.
It combines the spirit of 1980s microcomputers with modern hardware, open design, and native software.
- 16 MB flat memory, DVI-compatible video, and Yamaha SD-1 FM audio
- Custom CGIA graphics subsystem with 256-color modes and sprites
- USB, Wi-Fi, and expansion bus through RP2040 / ESP32-C3 bridge
- Native operating system OS/816 and open-source emulator Emu
- Designed for education, retro development, and creative experimentation
| Repository | Description |
|---|---|
| firmware | Firmware powering the MCU bridges |
| emu | Full software emulator with debugger and VS Code integration |
| examples | Demo and test programs for real hardware and Emu |
| os-816 | Native multitasking operating system for X65 |
“A computer you can understand.”
X65 is built for clarity and openness—every subsystem is documented, inspectable, and modifiable.
It’s both a learning platform and a serious tool for retro-style software and hardware creation.
- 🌐 x65.zone — main site and technical overview
- 📰 News — development updates
- 💾 Online Emulator — run X65 software in your browser
- 📡 RSS Feed — project announcements
Proudly supported by PCBWay, which provided build services for DEV-board r1 and sponsored manufacturing of the first test batch of PCB.
© X65 Project – open hardware and software for modern 8-bit computing