Using a real Datasette

The Ultimate64 can make use of a real Datasette the same way a real C64 can. Just connect it to the tape port and apply the usual commands like LOAD, LOAD”” or shift-run/stop.

Wrong kernal

Please note that the wrong kernal, or an activated cartridge probably will cause errors.

If you get the “missing file name error” it will probably be caused by a wrong kernal. If you have doubts if you have flashed the wrong kernal it is recommended that you copy the kernal used by Vice and flash that as the kernal file on your U64.

Creating own .tap files

The Ultimate64 is able to make a .tap backup of your original C64 tapes. The U64 will use these .tap files to “emulate” the datasette.

  1. Open the file browser and select the folder where you want to save your .tap

  2. Hit F5 and select “tape”

  3. Select “sample tape to tap”

  4. Enter the filename you want to use and hit ENTER

  5. “Start tape when back in C64 screen” hit ENTER

  6. Exit the U64’s menu and press the PLAY button of your Datasette

  7. Wait until the tape is finished

  8. Go back into the U64’s menu and hit F5

  9. Select “Tape”

  10. Select “Finish Rec. to Tap”, your tap is complete

Tip:

If you use a USB stick with a read/write LED you can see when data from the tape is being written. This helps you to see when the data on your tape starts and when it is finished, the U64 has no kind of indicators for that.