C64 cables...

[Tupin]

Okay, a few questions about hooking up a C64. First, what is the exact type of cable I need to connect the computer to the 1541 drive? Secondly, can I use a mono video cable made for a model 1 Genesis for video? Lastly, what is the type of plug that fits into a 1541 drive? I know it's built in, but the cord part looks standard.

Sorry, I'm a bit of a noob, I'm getting my first C64 on Saturday. LOL

[izarate]

Secondly, can I use a mono video cable made for a model 1 Genesis for video?

No. Although the connectors are similar they are not the same, C64 uses a C type DIN8 port, while the Genesis uses a U type DIN8 port. Even if they were the same, the pinout is different.

You can make your own cable by buying a DIN5 and a mono audio cable. Just follow this diagram:

Pinouts at the console:
http://img300.imageshack.us/img300/4218/terminalestd2.gif
Key:
yellow - composite video
red - audio right / audio mono
white - audio left
black - ground

You'll have to cut the plugs in one end and strip the cable:

http://img211.imageshack.us/img211/7339/genesisav02tj5.jpg

The loose filaments are ground. The little cable inside the cable carries the signal.

Disassemble the DIN5 connector and solder in the specified terminals:

http://img359.imageshack.us/img359/9233/genesisav07yj8.jpg

Make sure that there are no shorts and use some hot glue to secure connections and prevent the cables from moving inside the connector and produce a short:

http://img48.imageshack.us/img48/3972/genesisav10af4.jpg

[Tupin]

I have a 5 pin Genesis AV cable here, I also have an 8 pin one. They both fit on a Model 1 Genesis, which looks like it has the same AV out as the C64.

I don't know, I heard it would work. At worst, I guess I'll have to buy a bunch of cables. What is the kind used on a 1541-C64 connector cable?

[Bratwurst]

It does work, I've used a C64 cable on a Genesis 1 before, but I remember you had to leave one of the cable ends unplugged or you'd get noise in the signal to the television.

[Tupin]

Ok, thanks. What is the kind of cable I need to connect a disk drive to a C64?

[Bratwurst]

Haha, I wasn't paying attention, you're not going to get a C64 running with a Genny 1 cable. I thought your question was the other way around.

[Tupin]

Oh, okay. What about my other question?

Also, where can I buy these cables?

[Tupin]

Okay, another question. I got a 1541 drive with my C64, and no data cable. However, when I turn it on, the green light comes on, the red light blinks, and the drive continues going.

I looked in the manual, and it said it was broken, and needed repair by an authorized Commodore personnel, but I don't think it's that serious...