Atari ComputersA personal computer history

Hardware / Upgrade directory

Old machines.
New possibilities.

More storage, more memory, and new ways to connect. A guide to upgrades you can buy or build for Atari computers, starting with the hardware in my own 130XE.

On my workbench

My Atari 130XE

These are the seven upgrades and modifications in my 130XE setup. Each has an entry in the 8-bit list below.

Listings reviewed . The retail entries link to current seller listings; stock, options, shipping, and prices can change. Personal modifications are documented separately from retail purchase options within the list.

01 / 400 · 800 · XL · XE

Atari 8-bit upgrades

External devices are an easy starting point. Internal memory and video upgrades depend on the motherboard, sockets, and other modifications already fitted.

Cartridge / Storage

A8PicoCart

In my 130XE setup

A Pico-based multicart for loading cartridge images and Atari executables. Copy files onto its built-in flash storage over USB, then select them from a menu on the Atari. ATR disk-image support is limited, so an SIO device is useful alongside it.

Compatibility
400/800, XL, XE, and XEGS; software still needs the appropriate RAM and OS. The 400/800 may need a reset after power-on.
Installation
External cartridge; no internal modification.
Buy / Details
Retro Lemon — A8PicoCart · Project files and manual

Disk / Tape emulation

SDrive-MAX

In my 130XE setup

A touchscreen device that loads software from a microSD card through the Atari’s SIO port. It supports ATR disk images, XEX executables, ATX images, and CAS cassette files.

Compatibility
Atari 8-bit computers with SIO, including the 130XE. Check the unit’s SIO interface and power arrangement when sharing a chain with other peripherals.
Installation
External SIO device. The linked assembled version draws power from the Atari; other builds may use external power. A microSD card is required.
Buy / Details
Sordan — assembled SDrive-MAX · Firmware and DIY project

Memory / Personal build

320 KB RAM upgrade

In my 130XE setup

My 130XE has a home-grown, Rambo XL–style 320 KB memory upgrade. It is a custom build, rather than an original commercial Rambo XL board.

Compatibility
This entry describes my 130XE. The exact wiring and banking arrangement determine which expanded-memory software it supports.
Installation
Internal DIY modification requiring electronics and soldering work.
Availability
Personal build; no retail listing for this exact upgrade. Ultimate 1MB — a retail alternative with a 320 KB Rambo mode.

Power

USB power cord

In my 130XE setup

A USB-to-Atari cable lets a compatible computer run from a modern 5 V USB supply. I have a USB power cord for my 130XE; the link below is a currently sold equivalent, not an identification of my particular cable.

Compatibility
600XL, 800XL, 65XE, 130XE, 800XE, and XEGS with the matching power connector. Not for the original 400/800 or 1200XL.
Installation
External cable. Use a regulated 5 V supply with enough current for the computer and attached upgrades; the seller lists 1.5 A for a 130XE and offers a 2 A supply.
Buy / Details
8-Bit Classics — XL/XE USB power cable

Video output

UGV-II Ultimate Gated Video Board

In my 130XE setup

My 130XE has MyTek’s UGV-II Ultimate Gated Video Board installed. It provides improved composite and S-Video output and blanks the overscan areas that older CRT televisions normally hid, keeping unwanted edge graphics out of view on modern displays.

Compatibility
Atari 8-bit computers using an original GTIA chip, including the 130XE. Not compatible with Sophia 2 or 3; fitting requirements vary by model.
Installation
Internal board fitted with the GTIA, plus video-output connections. An unsocketed XE requires GTIA desoldering and a socket; all chips in my 130XE are already socketed.
Build / Details
MyTek’s AtariBits — UGV-II specifications, installation guide, and DIY files · PCBWay — alternative surface-mount PCB design. These are build resources; availability of a complete assembled UGV-II has not been confirmed.

Hardware modification

RF modulator removed

In my 130XE setup

The RF modulator has been removed from my 130XE. The machine no longer uses the original RF television output.

Machine
My Atari 130XE.
Modification
Internal removal of the RF modulator.
Availability
A modification to the computer; there is no product to purchase for this entry.

Serviceability

All chips socketed

In my 130XE setup

All chips in my 130XE have been socketed. This makes them easier to remove for troubleshooting or replacement without repeatedly desoldering them from the motherboard.

Machine
My Atari 130XE.
Modification
Chip sockets fitted throughout the motherboard.
Availability
Board-level work using sockets matched to each chip, rather than a single retail upgrade.

Networking / Storage

FujiNet

Adds Wi-Fi networking and emulated peripherals to an Atari. Load disk images from network servers, use supported online applications, and explore virtual modem and printer functions.

Compatibility
Choose an Atari SIO version for 400/800/XL/XE machines. FujiNet hardware for other computer families uses different connections.
Installation
External SIO device with network setup. FujiNet Prof requires a separate SIO cable; a 1200XL needs USB power.
Buy / Details
FV Research — FujiNet for Atari 8-bit · Official FujiNet documentation

Memory / System ROM

Ultimate 1MB

An internal RAM and ROM expansion with selectable memory modes, multiple OS slots, SpartaDOS X, and a battery-backed clock. Its configurable memory includes a 320 KB Rambo mode.

Compatibility
XL/XE family. A 600XL needs 64 KB base RAM. Plan how it will replace or coexist with any existing memory modification.
Installation
Internal board connected to the MMU and OS ROM sockets, plus signal connections. Soldering and possibly chip desoldering are required, depending on the machine and adapters.
Buy / Details
Retro Lemon — Ultimate 1MB and installation information

Video output

GTIA2RGB

Adds RGB video output with selectable 15 kHz RGB or 31 kHz VGA modes. It sits beneath the original GTIA chip and offers on-screen configuration and additional graphics features.

Compatibility
Atari 8-bit machines; confirm the fitting instructions, available clearance, and display connection for your particular model.
Installation
Internal GTIA adapter with video wiring and an output connector. A soldered GTIA must be desoldered. Match the output mode to the monitor or converter.
Buy / Details
Retro Lemon — GTIA2RGB and fitting guide

02 / ST · STFM · STE · Mega

Atari 16-bit upgrades

Options for the ST family, with model differences called out below. Check the exact motherboard revision before buying internal upgrades; ST and STE memory kits are different.

Hard-disk storage

UltraSatan Mini

Uses microSD storage as an Atari hard disk, providing a practical home for desktop applications and hard-disk-compatible games. This compact version plugs directly into the external ACSI port.

Compatibility
ST, STE, Mega ST, and Mega STE with ACSI; the seller also lists the TT. It is not a direct connection for the Falcon.
Installation
External device. Add a microSD card, 5 V micro-USB power, and a compatible hard-disk driver such as ICD Pro, HDDRIVER, or Pera Putnik’s driver. Check driver licensing and card setup.
Buy / Details
Retro Lemon — UltraSatan Mini

Floppy emulation

GOEX for Atari ST

A floppy-drive replacement that reads disk images from an SD card. It comes with FlashFloppy firmware and a mount designed for Atari cases, plus a thumb controller for selecting images.

Compatibility
STF, STFM, STE, and Mega ST chassis supported by the seller. Choose the correct short- or long-button bezel.
Installation
Replaces the internal floppy drive using its connections. Add an SD card; an optional display is sold separately. Some assemblies are built to order, so check the stated lead time.
Buy / Details
Centuriontech — GOEX for Atari ST

Memory / ST & STFM

4 MB ST RAM kit

Expands supported ST-family machines to 4 MB, with a 1 MB option for compatibility.

Compatibility
ST/STF/STFM and Mega ST; match the MMU kit and adapters to the motherboard.
Installation
Internal MMU board, Shifter adapter, and ribbon cable. Socket availability determines soldering work; check which parts are included.
Buy / Details
Exxos — 4 MB MMU kit · Fitting guide

Memory / STE

4 MB STE SIMMs

A set of four 1 MB, 30-pin SIMMs brings an STE to 4 MB of ST-RAM.

Compatibility
STE machines with SIMM sockets.
Installation
Internal socketed modules. Check socket condition and module thickness.
Buy / Details
Exxos — 4 MB STE SIMM set

CPU acceleration / STE

32 MHz STE booster

Accelerates the STE CPU; improvements vary with the application.

Compatibility
STE with a socketed 68000. Requires the matching fast-TOS kit; additional parts may be needed.
Installation
Internal board with minor soldering and prerequisite checks.
Buy / Details
Exxos — STE 32 MHz booster and requirements

The purchase links also provide specifications and fitting information. Check the selected hardware revision, included cables, firmware, and delivery destination before ordering.

03 / Repairs & restoration

Repairs & servicing

Places to turn for help with an Atari that needs repair, cleaning, or an upgrade installed. A8Renegade repaired my own 130XE.

Atari 8-bit / Repairs & upgrades

A8Renegade

Personally recommended

I had my Atari 130XE repaired by A8Renegade. They did an excellent job of fixing and cleaning it, and I’m very happy with their work.

They list repair services for the 130XE/65XE and 800XL/600XL, and also sell upgrades and accessories, including A8PicoCart.

Visit
A8Renegade — repairs, upgrades, and Atari hardware

Atari ST / Repairs & upgrades

Atari ST Sales

A repair and upgrade option for ST owners. Their services include floppy-drive, power-supply, keyboard, and video repairs, along with refurbishment and upgrade installation.

Contact them with your model and the problem first; they confirm availability, provide a quote, and give shipping instructions.

Visit
Atari ST Sales — repairs and upgrades

Service pages reviewed . Confirm current turnaround time, costs, and shipping arrangements with the provider before sending a computer.