We take a closer look at the long forgotten Commodore computer, the MAX MACHINE. Step back in time and take a look at this pretty little thing in the below pics!
Before you do go wandering down below to check out the MAX, let’s just pause and reflect on this Japanese made Commodore computer that never really got any market traction. The Commodore MAX Machine (aka: Ultimax in the US and VC-10 in Germany) was a home micro computer designed and sold by Commodore International in Japan at the beginning of 1982. It was the C64’s predecessor, and hence it was swiftly discontinued when the Commodore 64 went gangbusters! Due to it’s low production run, it is now considered a rarity.
The MAX did share the same CPU (MOS 6510) and SID (sound) chip as the C64, but that is where the similarities stop. With only 2KB of RAM, the MAX Machine was severly handicapped when compared to it’s bigger and more successful brother. One saving grace of the MAX was its ROM cartridges – they worked on the C64, and it also paved the way to the ‘freezer’ carts (like the Action Replay) due to the MAX compatibility mode that was built into the C64.
For those technically minded, here are the specs to whet your MAX appetite:
Operating system: MAX BASIC (Cartridge), 2047 bytes to program in, LOAD/SAVE support
CPU: MOS Technology 6510 @ 1.02 MHz
Memory: 2.0 KB, 0.5 KB color RAM
Graphics: VIC-II 6566 (320 x 200, 16 colors, sprites, PETSCII keyset)
Sound: 3 / 4 channel 6581 “SID” chip
Ports: expansion port (cartridge), RF/TV port, audio port, cassette port, 2 joystick ports
The MAX♦Machine bundle!
Nothing too exciting on this side of the box!
The back of the box reveals something out of this world!
Not to be outdone, the sides are look lovely!
Not sure about those keys, but it’s still beautiful
Taking closer look at the membrane keyboard…
The MAX does have a few interfaces to insert bits into them!
Not matter which way you look at it, the MAX Machine has gorgeous curves
Aha, so the model reveals itself, it’s the MAX-04!
Even the MAX requires power! Oh, and it’s all RF baby!
No gaming computer is complete without a killer game! 
Hook us up to the MAX!
image source: eBay