# IDE64
**Wikidata**: [Q649146](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q649146)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IDE64)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ide64

## Summary
IDE64 is a ROM cartridge for the Commodore 64 and Commodore 128 that adds IDE hard drive support to these classic computers. Released in 1994, it allows users to connect external hard drives, enabling larger storage capacities and improved performance compared to floppy disks. The latest version, 4.1, was released in March 2009.

## Key Facts
- **Instance of**: Computer hardware, specifically a ROM cartridge.
- **Subclass of**: ROM cartridge.
- **Compatible with**: Commodore 64, Commodore 128, and GEOS.
- **Publication date**: 1994.
- **Latest version**: 4.1 (released in March 2009).
- **Website**: [ide64.org](https://ide64.org/).
- **Platform**: Commodore 64.
- **Image available**: [C64 IDE Flash](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/C64_ide_flash.jpg).
- **Wikipedia languages**: English, Hungarian, Polish.

## FAQs
### Q: What is IDE64 used for?
A: IDE64 is a ROM cartridge that adds IDE hard drive support to the Commodore 64 and Commodore 128, allowing users to connect external hard drives for larger storage and improved performance.

### Q: Which versions of the Commodore 64 and 128 are compatible with IDE64?
A: IDE64 is compatible with the Commodore 64, Commodore 128, and GEOS.

### Q: When was IDE64 first released?
A: IDE64 was first released in 1994.

### Q: What is the latest version of IDE64?
A: The latest version of IDE64 is 4.1, released in March 2009.

### Q: Where can I find more information about IDE64?
A: More information can be found on the official website, [ide64.org](https://ide64.org/), and on the C64 Wiki.

## Why It Matters
IDE64 was a groundbreaking solution for the Commodore 64 and Commodore 128, addressing the limitations of floppy disk storage. By enabling IDE hard drive support, it allowed users to store and access larger files, such as games, applications, and multimedia, with greater efficiency. This cartridge played a crucial role in extending the lifespan of these classic computers, providing a bridge between early home computing and modern storage technologies. Its compatibility with GEOS further enhanced its utility, making it a valuable tool for both casual users and developers. Today, IDE64 remains a significant piece of retrocomputing history, appreciated by enthusiasts for its technical innovation and practical benefits.

## Notable For
- **First IDE support for Commodore 64**: IDE64 was one of the first devices to bring IDE hard drive support to the Commodore 64, significantly improving storage capabilities.
- **Compatibility with GEOS**: It worked seamlessly with GEOS, a graphical operating system for the Commodore 64, enhancing its functionality.
- **Long-term support**: The latest version, 4.1, was released in 2009, indicating continued development and user support.
- **Widespread adoption**: Available in multiple languages, including English, Hungarian, and Polish, reflecting its global appeal.
- **Official website**: Maintained an active website ([ide64.org](https://ide64.org/)) for user support and updates.

## Body
### Overview
IDE64 is a ROM cartridge designed to add IDE hard drive support to the Commodore 64 and Commodore 128. It was first released in 1994 and has since been updated to version 4.1 in March 2009. The device allows users to connect external hard drives, overcoming the storage limitations of floppy disks.

### Technical Specifications
- **Type**: ROM cartridge.
- **Compatibility**: Works with Commodore 64, Commodore 128, and GEOS.
- **Interface**: IDE (Integrated Drive Electronics).
- **Latest Version**: 4.1 (March 2009).

### Historical Context
- **Release Year**: 1994.
- **Latest Update**: Version 4.1 in 2009.
- **Wikipedia Availability**: Available in English, Hungarian, and Polish.

### Media and Documentation
- **Image**: A photo of the IDE64 cartridge is available on Wikimedia Commons.
- **Website**: The official website, [ide64.org](https://ide64.org/), provides additional resources and support.

### Compatibility
- **Platforms**: Commodore 64, Commodore 128, GEOS.
- **Storage Solution**: Enables the use of IDE hard drives, which were not natively supported by these computers.

### Significance
- **Storage Expansion**: IDE64 addressed a critical limitation of the Commodore 64 and 128 by enabling larger storage capacities.
- **User Experience**: Improved performance and usability by allowing faster data access compared to floppy disks.
- **Legacy**: Continued development and support indicate its enduring relevance in retrocomputing.

## References

1. [C64-Wiki](https://www.c64-wiki.com/wiki/IDE64)
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013