LumaFix64

The LumaFix64 is a modification board that aims to reduce the vertical bars produced on screen by your Commodore 64. These artifacts will often be more pronounced on a modern screen, such as an LCD or newer, but is also often visible on old CRT screens, although to a less degree. The severity depends on both the screen, but also on the specific VIC-II graphics chip in your Commodore 64. The Lumafix64 is a completely non-destructive mod to your Commodore 64, as it goes in between the VIC-II socket and chip.

There are many articles and videos testing and explaining the workings of the LumaFix64, e.g. on Breadbox64, as well as how to adjust the POTs to achieve the best result. The artifacts will not disappear completely, but one may argue that they are a nostalgic part of using original hardware, as long as they are not too invasive. Making them not too invasive is what the LumaFix64 can do.

Sold as:

• Kit: Contains the PCB and all needed components to be assembled by buyer. There are both surface mount and through-hole components to be soldered. Some soldering experience required.
• Ready-to-use: Assembled and ready to insert into your Commodore 64.

The LumaFix64 was developed by e5frog at the Lemon64 forum and the specific version sold here is Sven Petersen's revision 1.2sp. Assembled by AutumnHippo.

Using the LumaFix64

After installing the LumaFix64, you will likely find that the picture is now much worse. That is completely normal. Now it's time to adjust the three small screws on the potentiometers. Start with the one closest to the edge of the board, and when you get the best picture possible, move on to the next one. Please note that each potentiometer screw may turn many, many times, and at first nothing may seem to happen. There are many descriptions of the process available online. For example from Lyonsden, Mark Fixes Stuff or Retr0rob.

Again, please be aware that we are working with analogue technology, and a perfect result is rarely possible. In fact, your results may vary (a lot!), depending on both the specific graphics chip in your C64, but also on your specific screen. Some people see a much more profound result than others.