Commodore SX-65 Portable User manual

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1. ^ I ~
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■ i ■ m i - m m ■ l iTi i "J ■ i ■ 3 -
4 Friendly Introduction to Your SX-64 Portable Color Computer
\ commodore
COMPUTER

USER'S GUIDE STATEMENT
"This equipment generates and uses radio frequency energy. If it is not pro
perly installed and used in strict accordance with the manufacturer's instruc
tions, this equipment may interfere with radio and television reception. This
machine has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
computing device in accordance with the specifications in Subpart J of Part 15
of FCC Rules, which are designed to provide reasonable protection against
such interference in a residential installation. If you suspect interference, you
can test this equipment by turning if off and on. If you determine that there is in
terference with radio or television reception, try one or more of the following
measures to correct it:
• reorient the receiving antenna
• move the computer away from the receiver
• change the relative positions of the computer equipment and the receiver
• plug the computer into a different outlet so that the computer and the
receiver are on different branch circuits.
If necessary, consult your Commodore dealer or an experienced radio/televi
sion technician for additional suggestions. You may also wish to consult the
following
booklet, which was prepared by the Federal Communications Com-
mission:
"How to Identify and Resolve Radio-TV Interference Problems" This booklet
is available from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington. D.C. 20402.
Stock No. 004-000-00345-4."
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USER'S GUIDE STATEMENT
"This equipment generates and uses radio frequency energy. 11 it is not pro-
perly install
ed and used in strict accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions, this eq ui pment may interfere with rad io and television reception. This
machine has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
computing device in accordance with the specifications in Subpart J of Part 15
of FCC Rules, which are designed to provide rea sonable protection against
such interference in a residential installation. If you suspect inte rf erence, you
can test this equipment by turning if off and on. 11 you determine that there is in·
terference w ith radio or television reception, try one or more of the followi ng
measures to correct it :
• reorient the receiving antenna
• move the computer away from the receiver
• change the relative positions of the computer equipment and the recei ve r
• plug the computer into a different outlet so that the computer and the
receiver
are on differe nt branch circuits.
If necessary, consult your Commodore dea ler or an experienced radio/televi-
sion technician for additional suggestions. You may also wish to consult the
following booklet, which was prepared by the Federal Communications Com-
mission:
"H ow to Identify and Res ol ve Radi o· TV Interference Pr ob lem s" Th is booklet
is available from the
U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D .C. 20402 ,
Stock No. 004-000·00345·4."

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THE INFORMATION IN THIS MANUAL HAS BEEN REVIEWED AND IS BELIEVED TO BE ry
ENTIRELY RELIABLE. NO RESPONSIBILITY, HOWEVER, IS ASSUMED FOR fNACCURACIES.
THE MATERIAL IN THIS MANUAL IS FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY, AND IS SUBJECT
TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. __
THIS MANUAL IS COPYRIGHTED AN D CONTAINS PROPRIETARY INFORMATION. NO PART OF
THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE REPRODUCED, STORED IN A RETRIEVAL SYSTEM, OR TRANS
MITTED IN ANY FORM OR BY ANY MEANS. ELECTRONIC, MECHANICAL, PHOTOCOPYING,
RECORDING OR OTHERWISE. WITHOUT THE PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION OF COMMODORE
BUSINESS MACHINES. INC ^
Copvrigh!©1983 by Commodore Business Machines. Inc
All rights reserved.
THE I NFORMATION IN THIS MANUAL HAS BEEN REV I EWED AND IS BELIEVED TO BE
ENTIRE L Y R ELI ABLE , NO RESPONSIBI LI TY, HOWEVER, IS ASSUMEO FOR INACCURACIES.
THE M AT ERIA L IN TH IS MAN UA L IS FOR I NFO R MA T ION PURPOSES ONLY, AND IS S UB J EC T
TO CH ANGE WITHOUT NOTICE
TH IS MANUAL IS COPYRIGHTED AND CONTA INS PROP RIETARY INFORMAT ION. NO PART OF
THIS P
UB LICA TION MAY BE REPR OD U CED, STORED IN A RE TRI EVA L SYST EM, OR T RANS ·
M
ITT ED IN ANY FORM OR BY ANY ME ANS, EL ECTRON I C, MECHANICA L, PHOTOCOPY ING,
RECORDING OR OTHERW ISE. W IT HOU T THE PR IOR WRITTEN PERMISSION OF COM!\10DORE
BUSINESS t\. l ACHINES, I NC
CoPVr ighl© l g83 bv Commodore Bu sine ss Ma c hi ne s, Inc
All ngh !s reserved.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1
SETTING UP
Unpacking and Setting Up the Executive 64 Computer 3
Transporting
the Executive 64 5
Troubleshooting chart: Executive64 6
Color Adjustment 7
Expanding Your System With Optional Peripherals 9
CHAPTER 2
GETTING STARTED
Communicating with your64: The Keyboard 12
Loading and Saving Programs 17
How to Load Prepackaged Software 18
How to Format a New Disk 19
How to Save Programs 19
Listing a Directory of Programs on a Disk 20
Files 20
Sequential Files 21
Relative Files 24
Random Access File 26
Chart of BASIC Commands for Disks and Printers 30
CHAPTER 3
BEGINNING BASIC
Printing and Calculating 32
Mathematical Functions 33
Multiple Calculations on One Line 35
Execution Order in Calculations 36
Combining PRINT'S Capabilities 37
CHAPTER 4
WRITING SIMPLE PROGRAMS IN BASIC
Line Numbers 39
The GOTO Statement 40
Using the LIST Command 40
Editing Tips 41
How to Use Variables 42
Using FOR...NEXT Loops I...... 45
v
v
v TABLE OF CONTENTS
v CHAPTER 1
v SETTING UP
v
v
v
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v
v
Unpacking and Setting Up the Executive 64 Computer. . . . . • . •. . . . . . . . .. 3
Transporting the Executi
ve 64 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . 5
Troubleshooting chart: Executive
64 . . . . . . . .. ......... ... .•.• ...... 6
Color
Adjustment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. ...........•. • . . .. 7
Expanding Your System With Optional Peripherals . . . . . . . • . • . • . . . . . . . 9
CHAPTER 2
GETTING STARTED
Communicating with your 64: The Keyboard . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . • . • . . .. 12
Loading and Saving P rograms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . .. 17
How to Load Pr epackaged Software . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . • . • . . . . . . .. 1B
How
to Format a New Disk. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 19
How to Save Programs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . • . • . . .. 19
Li sting a Directory of Pr ograms on a Disk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 20
Fil es. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . •... . . ...• . • . . . . . ... 20
Sequential Files ............................•......... .. . .. .... . 21
Relative Files ...........................................•.•.... 24
Random Access File ...................... . . . . . . . . . . • . • . • . . .. 26
Chart of BASIC Commands for Disks and Printers. .. . . • .• ... •. .• . . .. 30
CHAPTER 3
BEGINNING BASIC
Printing and Calculating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . .. 32
Mathematical Functions ........... ... ... .. . .. .. ..•...... . ... . ... 33
Multiple Calculations on One Line .............. ..... •.. . . ... .• .•... 35
Execution Order in Calculations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . • . • . 36
Combining PRI N T' s Capabilities .....• . . . . ... . ....•. •. .... . ........ 37
CHAPTER 4
WRITING SIMPLE PROGRAMS IN BASIC
Line Number s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 39
The GOTOStatement . . . . . . . . . . . . •. . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . • . • . .. 40
Using the LIST Command ... ....... .. . . ... . . . . • . .. ... •.• . ........ 40
Editing Tips. . . . . . . .......•..............•....... ... . ....... 41
How to Use Variables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . • . .. 42
Using FO R. .. NEXT Loops .. ...• . . . . .... . .• .•.• ... ...... . • . .... .... 45

CHAPTER 5
ADVANCED BASIC
Introduction 46
Simple Animation 47
INPUT 49
Using the GET Statement for Data Input 51
Using GET to Program Function Keys 52
Random Numbers and Other Functions 53
Guessing Game 55
Your Roll 56
Random Graphics 57
CHAPTER 6
COLOR GRAPHICS
How to Use Colorand Graphics on YourComputer 58
Printing Colors 59
ColorCHRS Codes 61
How to Use PEEKS and POKEs 63
Screen Graphics 64
Screen Memory Map 65
Color Memory Map °6
More Bouncing Balls 67
CHAPTER 7
INTRODUCTION TO SPRITES
Bits, Bytes and Sprites 69
Creating Sprites 7?
More on Sprites: Colors and Extra Movement 78
CHAPTER 8
MAKING MUSIC ON YOUR COMPUTER: FOR
NON-PROGRAMMERS
Structure of a Sound Program 79
Sample Sound Program °^
Playing a Song on Your 64 87
Creating Sound Effects "
CHAPTER 9
ADVANCED DATA HANDLING
READ and DATA Statements 91
Calculating Averages 93
Subscripted Variables 95
Dimensioning Arrays 96
Simulated Dice Roll with Arrays 97
Two-dimensional Arrays "
CHAPTER 5
ADVANCED BASIC
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . 46
Simple Animation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
INPUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . 49
Using the GET Statement for Data I nput. . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . 51
Using GET to Program Function Keys ................•. • ....•. • ..... 52
Random Numbers a nd Other Functi on s ..... ... ..•.. . ... . .• . •. . . .... 53
Guessing Game . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............ 55
Your Roll .. . ...... ... ..... .. ..... . ...... • . ... .. .. ... .•... . ..... 56
Random Graphics. . . . . . . • . • . .. . . .. . . . . . • . • . . . .. . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . .. 57
CHAPTER 6
COLOR GRAPHICS
How to Use Colorand Graphics on Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . 58
Printing Colors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Color CHR$ Cod es. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. ....... . • . . . . . 61
How to U se PEEK s a nd POKE s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . • . . . . . . . . . . 63
Screen Graphics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . .
64
Screen Memory Map. . . . . . . . . . . • . . . • . • . . . . . . • . . . • . . . . . . . . . . 65
Color Memory Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . .. 66
More Bouncing Balls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . 67
CHAPTER 7
INTRODUCTION TO SPRITES
Bi ts, Bytes and Sprites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . • . • . . . . . . . . . . .. 69
Creating Sprites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .... ........• . •. . ......• . • . .. 72
More on Sprites: Colors and Extra Movement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . • . . . .. 78
CHAPTER 8
MAKING MUSIC ON YOUR COMPUTER: FOR
NON·PROGRAMMERS
Structure of a Sound Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . .. 79
Sample Sound Program . . . . . . . . . . .• . . . • . . . . . . . . • . • . . . . . 85
Playing aSong on Your 64 .. .. .. .. . .. .... .. .. . .. .... .. . 87
Creating Sound Effects . . . . . . . . . . • . • . . . . . . . . • . . . • . . . . . . • . • . • .. 89
CHAPTER 9
ADVANCED DATA HANDLING
READ and DATA Statements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . 91
Ca lculating Average s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . •. . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Subsc
ri pted Variab le s ............ .. . . . ........•. . ............ 95
Dimensioning Arrays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • .
96
Simulated Di ce Ro ll with Arrays . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . 97
Tw o- dimensional Arrays . . . .... ..... ..... .. . • . •. .. . .. . . • . •. .... 99

APPENDICES
Available Software 103
Description of DOS Error Messages 112
Executive 64 BASIC 116
Abbreviations for BASIC Keywords 128
Screen Display Codes 130
ASCII and CHR$ Codes 133
Screen and Color Memory Maps 136
Deriving Mathematical Functions 138
Pinouts
for Input/Output Devices 139
Programs to Try 143
Converting Standard BASIC Programs to Executive 64 BASIC 146
Error Messages 147
Music Note Values 149
Bibliography 152
Sprite Register Map 154
6566/6567 (VIC-II) Chip Register Map 157
Executive 64 Sound Control Settings 158
6581 Sound Interface Device(SID) Chip Specifications 161
Disk and Printer Commands and Statements 163
INDEX
no
v
APPENDICES
Available Softwa re ..................•......... .•.•.. ...... . . . ... 103
Des cription of DOS Error Messages .....•. •. • . •.• .. . . .. •. • .. ... .... 112
Executive 64 BASiC ...... ......... . ............ . ..... 116
Abbreviations for BASIC Keywords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 1 28
Screen Display Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . • . . . . . .... 130
ASCII and C HR$ Codes ......... ... ......... • .•... . ........ . ..... 1 33
Screen and Color Memory Maps ...... . .. . •.• .•. •. •. . •...•.. . •.. ... 136
De ri ving Mathemalical Funclions ....•.......................•..... 138
Pin outs for Input/Output D ev ices ......... ....... ........ ..... . ..... 139
Programs to Try ..................... .... . ........ ...... .. 143
Converting Standard BASIC Programs to Executive 64 BASIC ......•. .... 146
Error Messages .............. .... ............................... 147
Music Note Va l ues. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...... 149
Bibliogr ap hy. . . . . .............. .. • .• .•.• . •.. ..•.• .•.• .. . .... 1 52
Sprite Register Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . • . •. . . . ...•... . ... 1 54
6566/6567 (V I C-II) Chip Register Map . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . ........•..... 157
Executive 64 Sound Control Se ttings ................. . ..... • .•• . ... 158
6581 Sound Interface Device (SID)Chip Specifications ... . . . . • . •. . • .. .. 161
Di sk and Printer Commandsand Statements . . .. . .. . ......... • ..... 16 3
INDEX .... .. ........... ... .... .. ....... .. .. . .. ....... .... .. 170

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INTRODUCTION
The Commodore Executive 64 is one of the best values in the home com
puter industry. You can use your 64K color computer for everything from
business applications to household paperwork to exciting games. The 64 offers
you lots of memory (64K), lots of color(16 different colors), lots of sound (music
and sound effects), and lots of fun and practical uses. You can use prepackag
ed software, or you can write your own programs in easy-to-learn BASIC. All
software designed for the Commodore 64 on disk or cartridge also runs on the
Executive 64.
The Executive 64 models (the SX-64 and the DX-64) have all the capabilities of
the best selling Commodore 64, plus one or two disk drives and a 5" color
monitor built-in. The Executive 64 snaps together to form its own carrying case,
and it's light enough to carry and use anywhere.
This easy-to-read user's guide contains all the information you need to set up
your equipment properly, understand how to operate your new SX-64 or DX-64.
and learn how to create your own simple BASIC programs.
This user's guide is intended to introduce you to computers, but it is beyond
the scope of this manual to tell you everything you need to know about com
puters or about BASIC. However, this guide does refer you to a variety of
publications that explain the topics we present here in more detail. These
publications include the Commodore 64 Programmer's Reference Guide and
our Introduction to BASIC series.
For those of you who don't want to learn how to program, you won't have to
search through the whole book to learn how to use Commodore prepackaged
programs and games, or other prepackaged, third party software. We've put all
the information you need to know right up front in Chapters 1 and 2.
SPRITE GRAPHICS
Many exciting features are waiting for you inside your Executive 64. Your
new computer gives you the microcomputer industry's most advanced
graphics, which we call SPRITE GRAPHICS. Sprite graphics let you:
• Design your own pictures in different colors, just like the ones you see on
arcade-type video games.
Animate as many as 8 different overlapping sprites at once.
Double a sprite's size.
Move your creations anywhere on the screen.
Pass images in front or behind each other.
Use automatic collision detection that tells the computer to do whatever you
want when sprites touch each other.
You can use these features to write games and educational software. In addi
tion, you'll see sprites used in the preprogrammed software you buy from Com
modore.
v
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v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
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INTRODUCTION
The Commodore Executive 64 is one of the best values in the home com·
puter industry.
You can use your 64K color computer for everything from
business applications to household paperwork to exciti
ng games. The 64 offers
yo u lots of memory (64K), lots of color (16 different colors), lots of sou nd (m usic
and sound effects), and lots of fun and practical uses. Yo u can u se prepackag·
ed software, or you can write your own programs in easy·to·learn B AS I C. All
software designed for the Commodore 64 on disk or cartridge al so runs on the
Executive 64.
The Executi ve 64 models (the SX-64 and the DX-64) have all the capabilities of
the best selli ng Commodore 64, plus one or two disk drives and a 5" color
monitor bu ilt·in.The Executive 64 snaps together to fo rm its own carrying case,
and it's light enough to carry and use anywhere.
This easy·to·read user's guide contains all the information you need to set up
your equipment prope
rl y, understand how to operate your new SX-64 or DX-64 ,
and learn how to create your own simple BASIC programs.
This user's guide is intended to introdu ce you to computers, but it is beyond
the scope of this manual to te ll you everything you need to know about com·
puters or about BAS IC. However, this guide does refer you to a variety of
publications that explain the topics we present here in more detail. These
publications include the Commodore 64 Programmer's Reference Guide and
our Introduction to BAS IC series.
For those of you who don't
wan t to l ea rn how to progr am , you won't have to
search through the whole book to learn how to use Commodore prepackaged
programs and games, or ot
he r prepackaged, third party software. We've put all
the information you need to know right up front in Chapters 1 and 2.
SPRITE GRAPHICS
Many exciti ng features are waiting for you ins i de your Executive 64. You r
new computer gives you the microcomputer industry's most advanced
graphiCS , which we call SPRIT E GRAPH ICS . Sprite graphics let you:
• Design yo ur own pictures in different co lor s, just like the ones you see on
arcade·type video games.
o Animate as many as 8 different overlappi ng sprites at on ce.
• Double a sprite's size.
• Move your creations anywhere on the screen.
o Pass images in front or behind each other.
• Use automatic collision detection that tells the computer to do whatever you
want when sprites touch each other.
You can u se these feat u res to w rit e games and educa ti onal softwar e. In addi-
tion, you'll see sprites u sed in the preprogrammed software yo u buy from Com·
modore.

MUSIC SYNTHESIS
The Executive 64 also has built-in music and sound effects that rival many
well known music synthesizers. This part of your computer gives you:
• 3 independent voices, each with a full 9 octave piano-type range.
• 4 different waveforms (sawtooth, triangle, variable pulse, and noise).
• A programmable ADSR (attack, decay, sustain, and release) envelope
generator.
• A programmable high, low, and bandpass filter that you can use for each
voice.
• Variable resonance and volume controls.
If you want your music to play back with professional sound reproduction,
the 64 computers let you connect your audio output to almost any high-quality
amplification system.
LOW-PRICED PERIPHERALS
As your computer needs grow, so can your system. You can expand your
system by connecting your Executive 64 to other pieces of equipment, known
as peripherals, which include accessories like these:
• The VIC-1541 disk drive (as many as five at a time).
• The VIC 1525, 1526, and MPS-801 dot matrix printers, and the 1520
printer/plotter, for printed copies of your programs, letters, etc.
• The 1600 VICMODEM for access through your telephone to the massive
databases of larger computers, and the services of hundreds of specialists
and a variety of information networks.
• The Commodore 1701/1702 color monitor.
• The Z-80 microprocessor, for access to CP/M * *, which offers a variety of ap
plications software.
Commodore wants you to really enjoy your new Executive 64. As you learn,
bear in mind that programming takes time to learn. Be patient with yourself as
you go through the USER'S GUIDE. Before you start, please take a few minutes
to fill out and mail in the owner/registration card that came with your computer.
This will ensure that your new computer is properly registered with Com
modore Headquarters and that you receive the most up-to-date information
regarding future enhancements for your system.
NOTE: Many programs are under development while this manual is being pro
duced. Please check with your local Commodore dealer and with Commodore
User's Magazines and Clubs, which will keep you up-to-date on the many ap
plications programs being written all over the world for the Commodore 64 and
Executive 64.
•Commodore 64 and Executive 64 are trademarks of Commodore Electronics
Ltd.
**CP/M is a registered trademark of Digital Research, Inc. Specifications are
subject to change.
MUSIC SYNTHESIS
The Executive 64 also has built·in music and sound effects that rival many
well known mu sic synthesizers. This part of your computer gives you:
• 3 independent vOices, each with a full 9 octave piano-type range.
• 4 different waveforms (sawtooth, triang le , variable pulse, and noise).
• A programmable
ADSR (attack, decay, sustain, and release) envelope
generator.
• A programmable high, low, and bandpass filter that you can use for each
voice.
• Variable resonance and vo lume controls.
If yo u want your music to play back with professional sound reproduction,
the
64 computers let yo u connect your audio output to almost any high·quality
amplification system.
LOW·PRICED PERIPHERALS
As your computer needs grow, so can your system. You can expand your
system by connecting your Execu
ti ve 64 to other pieces of equ ip ment, known
as p erip her als , which include accessories like these :
• The
VIC·1541 disk drive (as many as five at a ti m e).
• The VIC 152 5, 1526 , and MPS·801 dot matrix printers, and the 1520
printer/plotter, for printed copies of yo ur programs, letters, etc.
• The
1600 VICMODEM for access through your telephone to the massive
databases of larger computers, and the selVices of hundreds of specialists
and a va ri ety of informati on networks.
• The Commodore
1701 /1 702 color monitor.
• The
Z·80 microprocessor, for access to CP/ M" ,which offe rs a variety of ap·
plications software.
Commodore wants you to really enjoy your new Executive 64. As you learn,
bear in mind that programming takes time to learn.
Be patient with yourself as
you go through the USER 'SGUIDE. Before you start, please take a few minut es
to fill out and mail in the owner/registration card that came with yo ur computer
This will ensure that your new computer is properly registered with Com·
modore Hea dq uarters and that you r ece i ve the most up-ta-date information
regarding future enhancements for your system.
NOTE: Many programs are under development while this manual is being pro·
duced.
Pl ease check with your local Commodore dealer and with Commodore
User's Magazines and Clubs, which will keep you up·to·date
on the many ap·
plications programs being written all over the world for the Commodore 64 and
Executi
ve 64.
·Commodore 64 and Executive 64 are trademarks of Commodore Electronics
Ltd.
.. CP/M is a r eg istered trademark of Di gital Research, Inc. Specificatio ns are
subject to change.

CHAPTER 1
SETTING UP
• Unpacking and Setting Up the Executive 64 Computer
• Transporting the Executive 64
• Troubleshooting Chart: Executive 64
• Color Adjustment
• Expanding Your Systems With Optional Peripherals
GAME CARTRIDGE AUDIO/VIDEO SERIAL USER
PORTS PORT CONNECTOR PORT PORT POWER SOCKET
FUSE
RELEASE
BUTTONS
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GAME
POR TS
CHAPTER 1
SETTING UP
• Unpacking and Setting Up the Executive 64 Computer
• Transporting the Executi
ve 64
• Troubleshooting Chart: Executive 64
• Color Adjustment
• Expandi
ng Your Systems With Optional Peripherals
CARTRIDGE AUD IO/ VIDEO SERIAL
US ER
PORT CONNECTOR PORT
PORT POWER SOCKET
FUSE
POWER
SWnCH
n
()

HANDLE
LOCK
STORAGE ISX-64 ONLY}
MONITOR
CONTROL PANEL
KEYBOARD-TO-BASE
CONNECTOR
v
v
HANDLE
lOCI(
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S"
COLOR
MONITOR
KEYBOARO-TO_BASE
CONNECTOR
BASE_TO.
KEYBOARD
CONNECTOR
2
HINGE
STORAGE
I
SX-64
O.'#L"
I
MONITOR
CO
NTROL
PANEL
DISK
DRIVE
aiSK
DRIVE
LIGHT

UNPACKING AND SETTING UP THE EXECUTIVE 64
COMPUTER
Remove your Executive 64 carefully from its packaging. Inside you should
find these items:
• The Executive 64 computer
' A black carrying case that contains two white boxes. One box contains a
power cord: the other contains a smaller cable for connecting the keyboard.
If any of these items is missing when you first unpack your Executive 64,
contact your dealer immediately for replacement.
Before you begin setting up your Executive 64 for the first time, take a few
minutes to examine the diagrams in this section. Look over your computer,
noting the locations of the outlet, called ports, where peripheral devices are
plugged into the computer. Note the ON/OFF switch, the power cord outlet,
and the handle locks. This examination will simplify the set up procedure.
Follow these instructions each time you set up your Executive 64:
1. Stand the Executive 64 on its end so that the front of the computer and the
handle are on top.
2. Unlock the handle. The locks are located at the base of each side of the
handle, just under the circular blue hinges. Note that there are three dots
on each hinge just above the lock tabs. Move both lock tabs to the center
position.
3. Move the handle down towards the side with the four rubber feet. Set the
handle so it is perpendicular to the sides of the computer. You may wish to
readjust the handle later.
4. Relock the handle lock tabs so the handle is stable. Make sure both lock
tabs are locked and that the handle is secured.
5. Set the computer down carefully so that the handle serves as the front sup
port.
6. Remove the front cover of the Executive 64 by pushing down the dark grey
buttons at the top of the cover. Hold down the buttons while you ease the
top of the cover towards you. Lift out the bottom of the cover and place the
keyboard on the table in front of the computer base.
7. Connect the keyboard to the base with the short, dark grey cable you found
in the separate carrying case when you first checked the contents of the
Executive 64. The larger, angled end of the cable goes into a slot on the
bottom of the computer located just under the disk drive. You should lift up
the computer base to see how this plug connects. Note the corresponding
2 rows of holes where the plug goes. Hold the plug with the rows of pins
perpendicular to the computer base. In other words, the pins don't go in
first; they should be on the side facing the back end of the computer. Push
the plug up and in until it is securely installed.
8. Plug the other end of the cable into the port in the back of the keyboard.
Note that the plug goes in only one way. Make sure the plug is secure.
9. Make sure your Executive 64 is turned OFF. The power switch is on the far
left top of the back end as you face the monitor. Look at this end of the
computer, and move the switch back and forth until you see the white cir
cle on one side of the switch. When the computer is OFF. the circle is
SHOWING.
10. Plug in the power cord. This cord goes in the back near the power switch.
Note that the plug goes in only one way. Make sure the cord is secure. Plug
the other end into a standard 120 volt outlet for three prong plugs.
UNPACKING AND SEITING UP THE EXECUTIVE 64
COMPUTER
Remove your Executive 64 carefully from its packaging. Inside you should
find these items:
•
Th e Executi ve 64 computer
• A black carrying case that contains
two white boxes. One box contains a
power cord; the other contains a smaller cable for connecting the keyboard.
It any
of these items is missing when you first unpack your Executive 64,
contact your dealer immediately for replacement.
Before you begin setting up your Executi ve 64 for the f ir st time, take a few
mi nutes to examine the diagrams in thi s section. L ook over yo ur computer,
noting the locations of the outlet, call ed ports, where peripheral devices are
plugged into
th e co mp uter. Note the ON /OFF switch, Ihe power cord outlet,
and the handle locks.
Th is examination will simplify the set up procedure.
Follow these instructions each time you set up your Executi
ve 64:
1. Stand the Executive 64 on its en d so that the front of the computer and the
handle are on top.
2. Unlock the handle. The locks are located at the base
of each side of the
handle, just u
nd er the circular bl ue hinges. Note that there are three dots
on each hinge just above the lock tabs. Move both lock tabs to the center
position.
3. Move the handle down towards the side with the four rubber feet. Set the
handle so it is perpendicular to the sides
of the co mp uter. You may wish to
readjust the handle later.
4. Relock the handle lock tabs so the handle is stable. Make sure both lock n
tabs are locked and that the handle is secured.
5. Set the computer down carefully so that the handle serves as the front sup-
por
t.
6. Re move the front cover of the Executive 64 by pushing down the dark g re y
buttons at the top of the cover. Hold down the buttons while you ease the
top
of the cover towards you. lift out the bottom of the cover and place the
keyboard on the table in front
of the computer base.
7. Connect the keyboard to the base with the short,dark grey cable you found
in the separa
te carrying case when you first checked the contents of the
Executi
ve 64 . Th e larger, angled end of the cable goes into a slot on the
bottom of the computer located just under the disk drive.You should lift up
the
co mputer base to see how this plug connect s. Note the corresponding
2 rows of hol
es where the pl ug goes. Hold the pl ug with the rows of pins
perpendicular to the computer base. In other wo rds , the pins don't go in
first; they should be on the side facing the back end of the computer. Push
the plug up and in
unlil it is securely installed.
8. Plug the other end of th e cable into the port in the back of the keyboard.
Note that the plug go
es in only one wa y. Make sure th e plug is se cure.
9. Make sure your Executive 64 is turned OFF. The power switch is on the far
left top
of the back end as you face the monitor . Look at this end of the
computer, and
mo ve the switch back and forth until you see the white cir-
cle on one
si de of the switch. When the computer is OFF, the circle is
SHOWING.
10. Plug in the power cord. This
co rd goes in the back near the power switch.
Note that the plug goes
in only one way. Make sure the cord is secure. Plug
the other end into a standard
120 volt outlet for three prong plugs.
3

11, Turn the computer on with the power switch discussed in step 9. When the
computer is on, the red disk drive light (or lights, if you have two drives)
come on and in a few seconds the screen displays the power-on message:
SX-64 BASIC V2.0 *""
64K RAM SYSTEM 38911 BASIC BYTES FREE
READY.
12. Adjust the picture, if necessary. The background color should be white, the
border should be cyan flight blue-green), and the characters should be blue.
The picture controls are behind the small door with the Commodore logo.
This door is on the right front as you face the monitor. Use the button to
open the door. The control knobs are identified inside the door. Use them
as you would use the adjustments on a TV set. Note that the top knob con
trols the volume for your Executive 64.
Now you're ready to begin using your Executive 64. If you have any problems,
consult the trouble-shooting chart. Before you use the disk drive, be sure to
consult Chapter 2.
v
v
v
v
v
11. Turn the computer on with the power sw itch discussed in step 9. When the
computer is on, the
red disk drive light (or lights, if you have two d ri ves)
come on and in a few seconds the sc r een di splays the power-on message:
SX-64 BASIC V2.0
64K RAM SYSTEM 389
11 B AS IC BYTES FR EE
RE ADY.
12. Adjust the pict u re , if necessary. The background color should be white, the
border should be cyan (li
ght blue·green), and the characters should be blue.
The
pict u re controls are behind the small door with the Commodore logo.
This
door is on the right front as you face the monitor. Use the button to
open the door. The control knobs are identified inside the door. Use them
as you would use the adjustments on a TV set. Note that the top knob con·
trois th e vo lume for yo ur Executi ve 64.
Now you're ready to begin using your Executive 64. If you have any problems,
consult the trouble'
shoot ing chart. Before you use the disk dr i ve , be sure to
consult Chapter
2.
4

TRANSPORTING THE EXECUTIVE 64
The Executive 64 is easy to pack and carry with you. Follow these steps to
prepare your Executive 64 for carrying:
1. Remove any disks from the disk drives and turn the computer OFF. If you
have an SX-64, do not carry disks in the computer's storage slot.
2. Remove any cartridges.
3. Turn off and disconnect any peripheral devices that are attached to your
computer.
4. Remove the power cord from the back end of the computer.
5. Unplug the keyboard connection cable from the keyboard, and then remove
the other end from the base of the computer.
6. Pack the cables in their boxes, and put the boxes in the carrying case. Note
that the smaller cable goes in the smaller box.
7. Place the metal strip at the top of the keyboard into the long slot at the bot
tom of the computer's front, just under the monitor and disk drive.
8. Push the keyboard on the slot until the keyboard clicks into place in the
buttons above the monitor and disk drive. Make sure the keyboard is
securely attached.
9. Lift the computer up to stand on its back end.
10. Unlock the tabs on each side of the handle's base. The tabs are unlocked
when they are in the center position. Make sure both tabs are unlocked.
11. Move the handle up to the top of the computer so the handle rests in the
carrying position. The handle should be parallel to the sides of the com
puter's base.
12. Relock the tabs. The tabs are locked when they are in the side positions,
not in the center position. Make sure both tabs are locked and that the han
dle is secure.
13. Attach the carrying case containing the cords to the Executive 64's handle.
The Executive 64 is now ready to be carried wherever you go. Be sure to han
dle the Executive 64 carefully when you transport it.
TRANSPORTING THE EXECUTIVE 64
The Executive 64 is easy to pack and carry with you. Follow these steps to
prepare your Executive 64 fo r carrying:
1. Remove any disks from the disk dri ves and turn the computer OFF. If you
have an SX-64 , do not carry disks in the computer's storage slot.
2. Remove any cartridges.
3. Turn off and disconnect any peripheral devices that are attached to your
computer.
4. Remove the power cord from the back end of the computer.
5. Unplug the keyboard connection cable from the keyboard,and th en remove
the other end from the base of the computer.
6. Pack the cables in their boxes, and put the boxes in the carrying case. Note
that the smaller cable goes in the smaller box.
7. Place the metal strip at the top of the keyboard into the long slot at the bot·
tom of the computer's front, just under the monitor and disk drive.
8. Push the keyboa rd on the slot until the keyboard clicks into place in the
buttons above the monitor and disk drive. Make sure the keyboard is
securely attached.
9. Lift the computer up to stand on its back end.
10 . Unlock the tabs on each side of the handle's base. The tabs are unlocked
when they are in the center position. Make sure both tabs are unlocked.
11. Move the handle up to the top of the computer so the handle rests in the
carrying position. The handle should
be parallel to the sides of the com-
puter's base.
12 . Relock the tabs. The tabs are locked when they are in the side positions,
not in the center position. Make sure both tabs are locked and that the han-
dle is secure.
13. Attach the carrying case containing the cords to the Executive 64 's hand le.
The Executive 64 is now ready to be carried wherever you go. Be sure to han-
dle the Executive 64 carefully when you transport it.
5

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART: Executive 64
Symptom
Indicator Light
not "On"
No picture
Random pattern on
monitor when
cartridge is in
Picture with poor
or no coior
Excess background
noise
Picture OK, but no
sound
Disk won't LOAD
Cause
Computer
not
"On"
Power cable not
plugged in
Power supply not
plugged in
Bad fuse in
computer
Power not ON
Malfunction
Cartridge not
properly installed
Poorly adjusted
picture
Volume too
high
Volume too
low
Disk improperly
inserted
Drive door noi
closed
Bad disk
Malfunctioning
drive
Remedy
Make sure power switch
is in "On" position
Check power socket for
loose or disconnected
power cable.
Check connection
with wall outlet
Take system to
authorized dealer for
replacement of fuse
Check previous remedies
Take system to
authorized Commodore
dealer for repair
Turn off power and
reinsert cartridge
Adjust picture controls
Adjust volume control
Adjust volume control
Remove disk; insert
according to directions
(see Chapter 2)
Make sure door is
secure
Insert another disk
Take system to
authorized dealer for
repair
v TROUBLESHOOTING CHART: Executive
64
Symptom Cause Remedy
Indicator
Li ght Computer not Make sure power switch
not "On" "
On"
is in "On" position
Power cable not
Ch eck power so cket for
plugged in loose
or disconnected
v power cable.
Power supply not Check connection
plugged in with wall outlet
Bad fu se in Take system to
computer autho
ri zed dealer for
replacement of
fu se
No picture
Po we r not ON
Check pre vio us remed ies
Malfunction Take system to
authorized Co mmodore
dealer for
repa ir
Random patte
rn on Cartridge not Turn off power
and
monitor when properly installed rein se rt cartridge
cartridge is in
Pict ur e with poor Poo rl y adjusted Adjust pictu re controls
or no co lor picture
Excess background Volume too Adjust volume control
noise
high
v Picture OK, but no
Vo lume too Adjust volume control
sound low
Di sk won't LOAD Di sk improperly R
emove disk ; ins ert
in serted according
to directions
(see Chapter 2)
Dri ve door no t
Ma ke sure door is
v closed
secure
Bad disk In sert another disk
Malfunctioning Take system to
drive authorized dealer for
r epai r
v
6
v

CURSOR
The flashing square under READY is called the cursor. It's a marker that
shows where what you type on the keyboard will be displayed on the screen. As
you type, the cursor moves ahead one space as the original cursor position is
replaced with the character you typed. Try typing on the keyboard and watch
the cursor move while characters you type are displayed on the screen.
COLOR ADJUSTMENT
There is a simple way to get a pattern of colors on the monitor so you can
easily adjust the set. Even though you may not be familiar with the operation of
the computer right now, just follow along, and you'll see how easy it is to use
your computer.
First, look on the left side of the keyboard and locate the key marked
ISTI1 . This stands for ConTROL and is used, in conjunction with other
keys, to instruct the computer to do a specific task.
To use a control (unction, you hold down the »**<:;.* key while pressing a
second key. —■■■■ mm
Try this: hold the KUiil key while also pressing the Q key. Then
release both keys. Nothing obvious should have happened, but if you touch any
key now, the screen will show the character displayed in reverse type, rather
than normal type — like the opening message of anything you typed eariler.
Held down ;he HJ.mJ.U What happens9 If you did the above procedure cor
rectly, you should see a light blue bar move across the screen and then move
down to the next line as long as the fciJ.m-T.^ i ■ presse I
CURSOR
The flashing square under READY is called the cursor. It's a marker that
shows where what you type
on the keyboard will be displayed on the screen.As
you type, the cu r sor moves ahead o ne space as the original cursor position is
replaced with the character yo u typed. T ry typing on the keyboard and watch
the cursor move while characters you type are displayed on the screen.
COLOR ADJUSTMENT
There is a simple way to get a pattern of colors on the monitor so you c an
easily ad just the set. E ven though you m ay not be familiar with the operation of
the computer right now, just follow along, and you'll see how easy it is to use
your computer.
First, look on the left side of the keyboard and locate the key marked
II!iiDI .This stands for ConTROL and is used, in conjunction with other
keys, to instruct the computer to do a specific task.
To use a control function,
yo u hold down the II!iiDI key wh i le pressing a
second key.
T
ry this: hold the II!iiDI ke y while also pressing the D key. Then
release both keys. Nothing obvious should have happened, but
if yo u touch any
key now, the screen will show the character displayed in re verse type, rather
than normal type -like the opening message of anything
yo u typed earil er.
H old down the Mbai:!.,., . What happens? If you did th e above procedu re co r-
rectly, you sh ould see a light blue bar move across the screen and then move
down to the next line as long as the Mb3i : "\-) is pressed .
READY
-
7
(l
(l

Now. hold KUiil while pressing any of the other number keys. Each of
them has a color marked on the front. Anything displayed from this point will be
in that color. For example, hold E3 and the Q key and release both.
Watch the display. The bar is now in yellow! In a like manner you can change
the bar to any of the other colors indicated on the number keys by holding
EES and the appropriate,- key.
Change the bar to a few more different colors and then adjust the color and
tint controls on your monitor so the display matches the color you selected.
The display should appear something like this:
RED BAR
GREEN BAR
BLUE BAR
YELLOW BAR
At this point everything is properly adjusted and working correctly. The
following chapters will introduce you to the BASIC language. However, you can
immediately start using some of the many prewritten applications and games
available without knowing anything about computer programming.
Each of these packages contains detailed information about how to use the
program. It is suggested, though, that you read through the first few chapters of
this manual to become more familiar with the operation of your new system.
Now, hold EIilI while pressing any of the other number keys. Each of
them has a color marked on the front. Anything displayed from this point will be
in that color. hold EIilI and the D key and release both.
Now hold the
Watch the di
spla,y. bar is now in yellow! In a like manner you can change
the bar to any other colors indicated on the number keys by holding
EIilI and the appropriate key.
Change the bar to a few more different colors and then adjust the
colo r and
tint controls on your m
onitor so the displ ay matches the color you selected.
The display should appear something like this:
II RED BAR
D GREEN BAR
D BLUE BAR
D YELLOW BAR
At this pOint everything is properly adjusted and working correctly. The
following chapters will introduce you to the BASIC language. However, you can
immediately start using some
of the many prewritten applications and games
ava ilable without knowing anything about computer programming.
Each
of these packages contains detailed information about how to use the
program. It is suggested,though, that you read through the first few chapters
of
this manual to become more familiar wi th the operati on of you r new system.
8

EXPANDING YOUR SYSTEM WITH OPTIONAL PERIPHERALS
Commodore offers a variety of peripheral devices that expand the
capabilities of your computer. These peripherals include:
• storage devices
• printers and plotters
• monitors
• modems for telecommunications
• game attachments
• speech and graphics modules
• desktop controllers
STORAGE DEVICES
Disk Drives
Commodore's disk drives let you store large amounts of information on 5Va "
floppy diskettes. Diskettes offer fast storage and retrieval, and they
automatically keep track of all your files in a directory, or table of contents, that
you can display on your screen or print on a printer.
The SX-64 is equipped with one built-in disk drive; the DX-64 has two drives.
In addition, you can add extra disk drives by daisy-chaining them to your com
puter. Daisy-chaining means connecting one drive to the computer, and then
connecting additional drives to each other.
By acquiring the Commodore 64 IEEE Interface Expansion Card, you can also
attach any IEEE disk drive, such as Commodore's CBM 8050 or 4040 Dual Flop
py Disk Drives, to the Executive 64.
Chapter 2 contains detailed information on using disk drives.
PRINTING AND PLOTTING DEVICES
Printers
You can attach Commodore's 1525, 1526, or MPS-801 Printers to the Ex
ecutive 64. These models are inexpensive dot matrix printers. By acquiring the
Commodore 64 IEEE Interface Expansion Card, you can also attach any IEEE
printer, such as Commodore's 6400 letter quality printer, or the high speed 8023
dot matrix printer, to the Executive 64.
Printer/Plotter
Commodore's 1520 Printer/Plotter prints and draws graphics in four colors
(black, blue, red, and green). With the 1520, you can draw bar charts, pies, and a
variety of complex graphics.
THE 1701/1702 MONITOR
Commodore's 14" color monitor offers a superior color picture with high
resolution that enhances your computing experience. This monitor can be con
nected to the Executive 64. The monitor is connected to the computer by an
8-pin DIN cable. The 1701/1702 Color Monitor User's Guide that comes with the
monitor clearly explains connections. You can also consult Appendix I for infor
mation about the pinouts in the 8-pin connector.
NOTE: You can also use a 5-pin cable to connect a monitor to the Executive 64.
Just plug it into the 8-pin connector.
EXPANDING YOUR SYSTEM WITH OPTIONAL PERIPHERALS n
Commodore offers a variety of peripheral devices that expand the ,...,
capabilities of your computer. These peripherals include:
• stor age devices
• p ri nters and plotters n
• monitors
• modems for telecommunications r-.
• game attachments
• speech and graphics modules
• desktop controllers
~
STORAGE DEVICES
Disk Drives
Commodore's disk drives let you store large amounts of information on 5' A"
floppy diskettes. Diskettes offer fast storage and retrieval, and they
automatically keep track of all yo
ur fil es in a directory, or table of contents, that
you can display on your screen or pri nt on a p ri nter.
T he SX-64 is equipped with one built-in disk d ri ve ; the DX-64 has two drives.
In addition, you can add extra disk drives by daisy-chaining them to your com-
puter. Daisy-chaining means connecting one drive to the computer, and then
connecti
ng addition al drives to each othe r.
By acquiring the Commodore64 IEEE Interface Expansion Ca rd ,you can also
attach any IE
EE disk dr ive, such as Commodore's CBM 8050 or 4040 Dual Flop·
py Disk Drives, to the Exe cutive 64 .
Chapter 2 contains detailed information on using disk drives.
PRINTING AND PLOTTING DEVICES
Pr in ters
You can attach Commodore's 1 525 , 1 526 , or MPS·801 Printers to the Ex·
ecutive 64. These models are inexpensive dot matrix printers. By acquiring the
Commodore 64 IE EE Interface Expansion Card, you can also attach any I EEE
printer, such as Commodore's 6400 letter quality printer, or the high speed 8023
dot matrix printer, to the Executive 64.
Printer/Plotter
Commodore's 1520 Printer/Plotter prints and draws graphics in four colors
(black,
bl ue, r ed ,and green). With the 1520 , you can draw barc harts, pies, and a
va riety of complex graphics.
THE
17011 1 70 2 MONITOR
Commodore's 14" color monitor offers a superior color picture with high
reso
lu tion th at enhances yo ur computing experience. This monitor can be con-
nected 10 the Executive 64. Th e monitor is connect ed to the computer by an
8·pin D IN cable. T he 1 701 /1702 Color Monitor User's Guide that comes with the
monitor clearly explains connections. You can also consult Appendix I for infor-
mation about the pinouts in the 8-pin connector.
N
OT E: You can also use a 5-p in cable to connect a monitor to th e Executive 64.
Just p lu g it into the 8 ·p in connector.
9
n