The Iconic Commodore 64 Returns, This Time Powered by Intel Atom CPU

Beloved by many, the legendary Commodore 64 computer has just came back to shape the future of a whole new generation of users as today Commodore USA has announced the availability of a new keyboard-type PC that closely resembles the original machine, although it features more up-to-date hardware parts.

The original Commodore 64 machine was launched almost 30 years ago and it has managed to reach cult status as it sold somewhere in between 12.5 to 30 million units (unfortunately, exact statistics aren't available).

Its success was attributed to a series of factors including price, performance and retail availability (most computers back then were sold only in electronics stores) and the unit packed an MOS Technology 6510 CPU, which worked at about 1MHz, as well as 64kB of RAM and 20kB of ROM memory.

These specifications are in stark contrast with the system that Commodore USA has released as the new C64x is powered by an Intel Atom D525 dual-core processor that works at 1.8GHz and can feature as much as 4GB of RAM and a 1TB hard drive.

Furthermore, graphics is handled by an Nvidia second-generation Ion core that's ages ahead of the VIC-II 320×200, 16 colors video interface chip used in the original Commodore 64.

The other systems specs vary according to the model purchased, and the most basic unit comes as a barebone system which is available for $250 US.

Next in line is the Commodore 64x Basic that adds 2GB of RAM memory, a 160GB hard drive and retails for $595 US, while opting for the Standard version will get you a 250GB HDD, WiFi connectivity, and a DVD-drive.

Even more powerful is the C64x Deluxe which raises the storage capacity to 500GB and doubles the amount of DDR3 memory.

Finally, the top of the line system is called the Commodore C64x Ultimate and packs a 1TB drive and a Blu-ray unit for 895 US. (via HardwareLuxx)