Unlocking the Power of RAM: Upgrading the Amstrad CPC

💡The Amstrad CPC originally came with 64k of RAM, but it can be upgraded to 1MB using add-on cards and banking techniques.

🔍Amstrad CPC computers have a 16-bit data bus, which allows them to access memory addresses defined with 16 bits.

🏦RAM banking is used to access more than 64k of RAM in the Amstrad CPC. It involves swapping out different sections of memory.

🧩The Amstrad CPC uses a CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device) to handle the RAM banking logic.

💻You can easily build your own RAM expansion for the Amstrad CPC using open-source designs and readily available components.

How much RAM can be added to the Amstrad CPC?

—The Amstrad CPC can be upgraded from its original 64k of RAM to a maximum of 1MB using add-on cards and RAM banking techniques.

What is RAM banking?

—RAM banking is a technique used to access more than 64k of RAM in a computer. It involves swapping out different sections of memory to provide access to additional RAM.

What is a CPLD?

—A CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device) is a type of programmable chip that can be used to implement custom logic functions in hardware.

Can I build my own RAM expansion for the Amstrad CPC?

—Yes, you can build your own RAM expansion for the Amstrad CPC using open-source designs and readily available components.

Are there any limitations to RAM banking?

—RAM banking allows access to more RAM, but it can be more complex for software developers to manage due to the need to swap memory sections.

00:00The Amstrad CPC originally came with 64k of RAM, but it can be upgraded to 1MB using add-on cards and clever banking techniques.

01:20Amstrad CPC computers have a 16-bit data bus, which allows them to access memory addresses defined with 16 bits.

03:00RAM banking is used to access more than 64k of RAM in the Amstrad CPC. It involves swapping out different sections of memory.

06:00The Amstrad CPC uses a CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device) to handle the RAM banking logic.

07:30You can easily build your own RAM expansion for the Amstrad CPC using open-source designs and readily available components.