The Commodore SX-64 (also spelled SX64 or Commodore 64 Executive) is a portable computer produced by Commodore from 1984 until 1986. It is equipped with a built-in monitor (5" color CRT), a floppy disk drive and a keyboard. It uses the same CPU and peripherals as the Commodore 64: it is able to run all the software of the Commodore 64.
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It is considered the first laptop with color monitor in history, although, with its 10 kg and having to power itself through the mains, some consider it a transportable and non-portable computer.
![Commodore SX-64 SX64 executive lit front view crt floppy, CBM, Commodore Business Machines, vintage retro computer collection](https://www.valoroso.it/wp-content/uploads/Commodore-SX-64-SX64-executive-acceso-vista-frontale-crt-floppy-1080x827.jpg)
In my personal opinion, it has a very pleasant line. Since I saw it, I immediately wanted to own one in the collection. I found this computer, without keyboard, at a good price. Unfortunately, at the purchase there was a big problem, which I showed in this article. Subsequently, I found an agreement with the seller and the computer is returned safe and sound.
![Commodore SX-64 SX64 executive side view handle](https://www.valoroso.it/wp-content/uploads/Commodore-SX-64-SX64-executive-vista-laterale-maniglia-1080x827.jpg)
Technical characteristics of the Commodore SX-64
CPU: MOS 6510, 0.985 MHz (PAL version) or 1.023 MHz (NTSC version)
ROM: 20 KB
![](https://www.valoroso.it/wp-content/uploads/PCBX-banner-ENG.jpg)
RAM: 64 KB
Video: Integrated 5" color CRT monitor
Graphics: MOS VIC-II
Text mode: 40×25 characters (PETSCII)
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Graphics mode: 320×200 at 16 colors
Audio: MOS SID, built-in speaker
Keyboard: 66-key QWERTY, with function keys
Software included in ROM:
![](https://www.valoroso.it/wp-content/uploads/PCBWay-eng.jpg)
- BASIC 2.0
- Machine Language Monitor
![Commodore SX-64 SX64 executive on top view expansion port](https://www.valoroso.it/wp-content/uploads/Commodore-SX-64-SX64-executive-acceso-vista-superiore-porta-espansione-1080x652.jpg)
Expansion ports:
- 1 IEC Serial
- 1 User Port
- 1 Expansion port (for cartridges, top)
- 1 Audio/Video (CVBS and S-Video composite video)
- 2 x DB9 joystick ports
- 1 x Keyboard connector (25-pin, bottom)
![Commodore SX-64 SX64 executive rear view connectors power ports, video, serial, control ports, fuse](https://www.valoroso.it/wp-content/uploads/Commodore-SX-64-SX64-executive-vista-posteriore-connettori-alimentazione-porte-1080x573.jpg)
Storage media: No. 1 internal floppy disk drive, 5.25", single sided 170 KB (internal Commodore 1541).
Dimensions: 37 cm wide x 37 cm depth x 13 cm height, 10.5Kg.
Emulation
It is possible to emulate the Commodore SX64 on a common Windows PC, through the VICE and the CCS64. In this way, it is possible to try to start programs and games, as well as program the retro computer, in a simple and convenient way... without even owning the Commodore Executive!
Commodore SX64 Power Supply
The power supply of the Commodore SX64 is internal, switching, 80W. There is a male IEC connector, rear, for the power cable. There is also a power switch. My specimen is powered at 220Vac 50Hz.
Commodore SX-64 boot screen
The startup screen of the vintage computer has a white background and a blue frame. It is different from that of the Commodore 64.
![Commodore SX-64 SX64 executive, home screen, boot screen](https://www.valoroso.it/wp-content/uploads/Commodore-SX-64-SX64-executive-home-screen-boot-screen.jpg)
Papers
1. Commodore SX-64 user's guide