SID TEST: The Ultimate Auto-Running Diagnostic Cartridge | Keep Your Commodore Singing

The SID TEST is a specialised diagnostic cartridge designed for both the Commodore 64 and Commodore 128. Built for collectors, enthusiasts and repair technicians, this cartridge provides a rigorous, hands-free evaluation of the MOS 6581 and 8580 SID (Sound Interface Device) chips.

Whether you've just picked up a "tested" machine from an auction or you’re troubleshooting a silent voice in your favourite game, SID TEST gives you the answers without the guesswork.

Key Features

Fully Automated Diagnostics: Once inserted and powered on, the cartridge initiates a comprehensive testing sequence immediately. No keyboard input or joystick interaction is required.
Continuous Loop Testing: The program cycles through all three audio channels indefinitely. This is perfect for "burn-in" tests to see if a chip fails only after reaching operating temperature.
Multi-Model Compatibility: Works seamlessly on the Commodore 64 (all revisions) and the Commodore 128 (in C64 mode).
Triple-Channel Verification: Systematically tests the oscillators, filters, and ADSR envelopes of all three voices to ensure every part of the silicon is functioning within spec.
Visual & Audio Feedback: Features a clean, high-contrast interface that displays the current status of each voice, making it easy to identify exactly which channel—or which specific feature—is malfunctioning.

Why You Need It

The SID chip is one of the most famous parts of the Commodore architecture, but also one of the most fragile. Over decades, individual voices can fail, or filters can become "stuck."

SID TEST is essential for:

Sellers: Prove your hardware is 100% functional before listing it.
Buyers: Verify the "as-is" machine you just bought actually works.
Repairers: Quickly identify a faulty SID without the loading of numerous software application.

Specifications