64C Ultimate Utility Buttons (Slimline)

Please note that this fits the "slimline/64C" style case only and is not for the original "breadbin" style case.  To get buttons for the breadbin case, see here.

This module adds dedicated utility buttons to your Commodore 64C Ultimate for convenience and functionality. With a quick reach to the back of the computer you no longer have to remember special presses of the multi-function power switch to access the Menu, Reset, or Special functionality. (The latter is used by cartridge images where the physical cartridge had a button, notably "freezer" cartridges such as Super Snapshot or Action Replay.)

Installation

The module installs with no drilling, fasteners, or adhesives. Refer to Appendix G of the C64U User's Guide for connector locations as needed.

1. Disconnect the power cable (and probably all others) from the computer.
2. Open the computer case by removing the three screws along the front of the bottom. They can be tight from the factory. Use the appropriate size screwdriver to avoid damage.
3. Disconnect the keyboard and LED cables to remove the top of the case.
4. Place the buttons device on the table behind the computer.  One at a time, pass its two-pin connectors through the L-H opening in the back of the computer case between the audio (No. 5) and cartridge (No. 4) connectors.  Routing the connectors and wires under the audio daughterboard is recommended.
5. Gently pull/push the wires all the way throug the opening and slide the buttons device into it.  There is a small slot in the top of the mount which should face upward.
6. Place the flat side of the U-shaped locking tab inside the computer case above the L-H opening, with the flat side against the case wall.  Slide it down over the buttons device mount until it engages the slot.
7. Connect the buttons device to the four-pin "Buttons" connector on the mainboard, to the left of the FPGA board (No. 16 in the user's guide). Orient the connector with the black or red wire so that it connects to the pin labeled GND.
8. Orient the second connector in the same direction (referring to the metal terminals visible from one side of the housing) and place it on the other two pins.  (If the second connector is reversed, the functions of two of the buttons will be swapped.)
9. Replace the top of the case, reconnecting the LEDs and keyboard.
10. Replace the three case screws.
11. Reinsert the power and other cables.
12. Power on and enjoy!

Functions

The mainboard connector labels the button connections as "Left", "Middle", and "Right", and this is how they map to the physical buttons. In the normal/default configuration these correspond to:

Thanks

Special thanks to MonroeWorld for the video review of the original breadbin device!