Editing Atari 65XE

{{Infobox computer
| name         = Atari 65XE
| image        = [[File:Atari 65XE computer at Play Expo 2013 (retouched cutout) (white bg).jpg|250px]]
| caption      = Atari 65XE Home Computer
| manufacturer = Atari Corporation
| type         = Home Computer
| release date = 1985
| discontinued = 1992
| price        = US$120 (1985)
| cpu          = MOS Technology 6502C @ 1.79 MHz (NTSC) / 1.77 MHz (PAL)
| memory       = 64 KB RAM, 16 KB ROM (BASIC, OS)
| storage      = External cassette tape (410/1010), optional 5.25" floppy disk drive (1050/XF551)
| display      = 320×192 pixels, 40×24 text, 16 colours (ANTIC/GTIA)
| sound        = POKEY: 4 voices, 8-bit, noise, envelope, keyboard scan
| dimensions   = 34 cm × 24 cm × 7 cm
| weight       = 1.7 kg
| os           = Atari BASIC (in ROM), Atari OS
| predecessor  = [[Atari 800XL]]
| successor    = [[Atari 130XE]]
| codename     = Sweet-16
| model        = 65XE
}}

The '''Atari 65XE''' is an 8-bit home computer introduced by Atari Corporation in 1985 as part of the XE ("XL Enhanced") series. It maintained compatibility with the Atari 8-bit family while featuring a redesigned case and revised electronics, targeting the home computing and gaming market during the mid-1980s.

== Architecture and Processor ==
At its core, the 65XE uses the '''MOS Technology 6502C''' microprocessor, a variant of the classic 6502, running at:
* '''1.79 MHz''' (NTSC systems)
* '''1.77 MHz''' (PAL systems)

The 6502C coordinates system operations and interfaces with Atari’s custom chips, including ANTIC (video), GTIA (graphics), POKEY (sound and I/O), and PIA (peripherals).

== Memory and Storage ==
The Atari 65XE is equipped with:
* '''64 KB RAM'''
* '''16 KB ROM''', comprising:
** 10 KB for the operating system (OS)
** 6 KB for Atari BASIC (Revision C)

Storage options include:
* '''Cassette tape drive''' (Atari 410/1010)
* '''5.25" floppy disk drive''' (Atari 1050, XF551)
* Cartridge slot for instant program loading

== Display and Graphics ==
Video output is managed by the '''ANTIC''' and '''GTIA''' chips, providing:
* Resolution up to '''320×192 pixels'''
* Text display: '''40 columns × 24 rows'''
* '''16 colours''' (palette from 256 possible hues/luminances)
* Multiple graphics modes (ANTIC modes 2–15), hardware vertical/horizontal scrolling
* Hardware sprites ("player/missile graphics") for smooth animation

The XE series supports composite and RF video output for connection to TVs and monitors.

== Sound Capabilities ==
Audio is generated by the '''POKEY''' chip, offering:
* '''4 independent audio channels''' (voices), each 8-bit
* Programmable frequency, noise, and envelope control
* Keyboard scanning and serial I/O support
* Capable of complex sound effects and simple music synthesis

== Input/Output and Expansion ==
The 65XE provides a range of I/O ports:
* '''Cartridge slot''' – for software and hardware expansions
* '''SIO (Serial Input/Output) port''' – connects to disk drives, printers, modems, and other peripherals
* '''Two joystick ports''' – compatible with Atari-standard controllers
* '''Composite and RF video outputs''' – for TV/monitor connection
* '''Parallel bus''' (internal, not user-accessible) for memory upgrades and peripherals

The XE series dropped the XL’s parallel bus connector, limiting some expansion options compared to earlier models.

== PCB Schematics & Service Manual ==
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The Atari 65XE features a compact mainboard integrating the 6502C CPU, ANTIC, GTIA, POKEY, and RAM/ROM ICs. Service documentation and schematics are essential for repair and restoration.

{| class="wikitable styled-table" style="width:80%; text-align:center;"
! style="background-color:#f2f2f2;"| Logic Board
! style="background-color:#f2f2f2;"| Schematic Diagrams
|-
| [[File:Atari65XE_Mainboard.jpg|thumb|center|300px|Atari 65XE Logic Board]]
| [[File:ATARI65XE-SCHEMATIC.pdf|center|thumb|Atari 65XE Mainboard Schematic]]
|}
''For full service documentation, see the [[Atari 65XE Service Manual]]''

== Gallery ==
<gallery mode="packed" heights="180">
File:Atari 65XE computer at Play Expo 2013 (retouched cutout) (white bg).jpg|Atari 65XE front view
File:Atari65XE rear.jpg|Rear panel with I/O ports
File:Atari65XE Mainboard.jpg|65XE motherboard (top view)
</gallery>

== Related Pages ==
* [[Atari 65XE General Maintenance]]
* [[Atari 65XE Troubleshooting Guide]]
* [[Atari 65XE Capacitor Replacement Guide]]
<templatestyles src="Template:StyledTable/styles.css" />
[[Category:Atari Systems]]